Posts

Showing posts from December, 2020

Wall Street to kick out Chinese telecom giants

The New York Stock Exchange will delist the three Chinese companies based on claimed military links. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2X2GQgN

See live cells with seven times greater sensitivity using new microscopy technique

Experts in optical physics have developed a new way to see inside living cells in greater detail using existing microscopy technology and without needing to add stains or fluorescent dyes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3pJqoyx

Spontaneous robot dances highlight a new kind of order in active matter

Researchers have proposed a new principle by which active matter systems can spontaneously order, without need for higher level instructions or even programmed interaction among the agents. And they have demonstrated this principle in a variety of systems, including groups of periodically shape-changing robots called 'smarticles.' from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/38U8Wk3

Moscow train carriage helps rehome stray pets

The Tails and Paws train features posters of dozens of animals in need of a new home. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3n3C90Q

US politics in 2021: What's in store for President-elect Biden?

A new president with an agenda that's already set - and an outgoing president who's not leaving quietly. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34XrnmC

Brexit: 'We welcomed the trade deal like a Christmas present'

Europeans in the UK, and British people around Europe, explain what Brexit will mean for them. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3858jVm

India's love affair with classic British motorbikes

BSA, Norton and Royal Enfield are all owned by Indian firms who want to kickstart the brands. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aV4mog

Why 2021 could be turning point for tackling climate change

This year could be a "make or break" moment in the fight against global warming. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/382ZTOi

Australia-China row: 'I'm Australian - why do I need to prove my loyalty?'

Many Chinese-Australians fear a "new McCarthyism" as Australia's values are tested by its China row. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hxtS48

Ten African music stars to look out for in 2021

Elaine, Fik Fameica and Omah Lay are among the stars who have impressed BBC Africa's music experts. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rMs4cb

MF Doom: Hip-hop star dies aged 49

A number of artists have paid tribute to the artist, real name Daniel Dumile. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3o8wVm2

Covid-19: China approves Sinopharm vaccine for general use

The Sinopharm vaccine is the first in China to be approved beyond emergency use. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pASnjO

Argentines on abortion legalisation: 'I felt relieved'

Pro-choice and anti-abortion activists give their views on the legalisation of abortion in Argentina. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3o50Ye2

New Zealand rings in 2021 with fireworks

The country is one of the few where New Year's Eve plans were held as usual. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KHsvEh

Covid: Pandemic dampens New Year celebrations around the world

As the virus continues to spread in many countries, governments are set to crack down on revellers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2X0xfr4

Giulio Regeni: Italy condemns Egypt for ruling out charges against police

Italian prosecutors had accused four Egyptian officers of the murder of a Cambridge student in 2016. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rHKyL3

Bosnia: Hundreds of migrants stuck at fire-gutted camp

About 900 migrants are stranded in the freezing cold after plans to relocate them are blocked. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hup3sg

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai ordered back to jail

The 73-year-old is the city's highest profile person charged under a controversial security law. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hu7atE

Tech 2020: Our biggest stories and what happened next

The most read BBC tech story of each month of the year, and how they panned out. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rDP50R

Vaccine and water unseats Mukesh Ambani as Asia's richest person

Nicknamed the lone wolf, China's Zhong Shanshan has unseated India's Mukesh Ambani. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37YDotU

Samuel Little: America's 'most prolific' serial killer dies

Samuel Little is thought to have killed 93 women, with his murders going undetected for decades. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3huyKHj

Wang Xiangjun: China's 'Glacier Bro' presumed dead

The Chinese influencer and environmentalist Wang Xiangjun was known for his love of glaciers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aVaVHf

Nashville explosion: Police probe conspiracy theory motive

Police are trying to determine if conspiracy theories motivated the suspect in the Nashville attack. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3n1Zgce

Zhang Zhan: The 'rebellious soul' jailed for filming Wuhan

Citizen journalist Zhang Zhan spoke about why she chose to cover the outbreak before her arrest. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2X0EHSI

Republican senator to dispute certification of Biden victory

The tactic is expected to change nothing, but will set the stage for what the Biden camp called "antics". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hventp

Deepening divisions: Venezuela's haves and have nots

A relaxation of economic restraints has some benefits - for those with access to US dollars. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aXftx4

Remembering the entertainment and arts figures we lost in 2020

Remembering some of the figures from music, film, TV, radio and literature who died in 2020. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pGbLvV

India's most uplifting social media moments in 2020

From a dancing doctor to a street food stall owner - people who gave hope in the pandemic year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pG9yAD

Syria attack: At least 28 killed in ambush on bus

A human rights monitor blamed Islamic State for the attack, saying all those killed were soldiers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aW1cAD

Penn Station: New train hall returns beauty to New York station

The newly-designed hall opens on Thursday after the original landmark was demolished in 1963. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3o6H2Yo

2020 through the lens of a photojournalist

Photojournalist Leah Millis recaps the year with her favourite images from 2020. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2LbP57u

Yemen war: Video shows moment Aden airport attacked

Television cameras were positioned for the arrival of the new government when the attack happened. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Jx6dEx

Four protests that triggered change - and one that didn't

The BBC looks at a selection of history's powerful protests and why only some achieved their goals. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hsiHtE

Norway mudslide: Aerial footage shows devastation

At least nine people are injured and houses have been buried in the Norwegian village of Gjerdrum. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hxgugg

Norway landslide: Houses buried in Gjerdrum village near Oslo

Ten people are injured and 21 unaccounted for in Gjerdrum, 25km from Oslo, authorities say. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3o2imA6

Argentina abortion: Activists celebrate Senate vote

Crowds from both sides gathered in Buenos Aires to hear the results of the vote. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34VCfSd

Croatia earthquake: Strong aftershocks hit after quake kills seven

The new 4.8 and 4.7 magnitude tremors cause further damage after seven people died on Tuesday. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34TbI7K

Jonathan Pollard: Israel spy greeted by Netanyahu after flying to Tel Aviv

The American, who was jailed for 30 years for selling US secrets, is welcomed by Israel's PM. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3b1sAwW

Coronavirus: Senate wrangles over boosting help for Americans

President Donald Trump's push for an increase in one-off payments to $2,000 stalls in Congress. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hsU1kE

Apple removes app promoting private parties in pandemic

US platform Vybe Together advertised "gatherings every weekend" to its thousands of users. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3o3N63K

Yemen war: Explosions at Aden airport as new government arrives

The explosions happened as cabinet ministers were getting off a plane from Saudi Arabia. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KLMVvG

Covid: What do we know about China's coronavirus vaccines?

Sinovac and Sinopharm's jabs are yet to finish final trials, but are already being shipped overseas. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2VUTX3m

China Covid-19: Nearly 500,000 in Wuhan may have had virus, says study

The study by Chinese officials suggests there were more positive cases in Wuhan than official figures suggest. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34WKEoa

Luke Letlow: Newly-elected US lawmaker, 41, dies from Covid

Luke Letlow, 41, was due to be sworn in as a Republican Representative for Louisiana on Sunday. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/390FHfB

China jails Hong Kong activists for between seven months and three years

The democracy activists were caught at sea as they tried to flee by speedboat to Taiwan. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rE8T4j

Covid: Sydney announces new restrictions ahead of New Year

The Australian city is battling a worsening outbreak after months of next to no cases. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Jx0kXW

North Korea defectors: Why it's getting harder to escape

Hundreds of defectors make the perilous journey every year, and now it's become even more arduous. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38Go5oW

Tamir Rice killing: US closes investigation into 2014 shooting

The death of the 12-year-old boy, who had been holding a toy gun, led to widespread protests. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nYA6g1

Iraqi interpreters 'stalked by death squads' for helping the British

Ali and Ahmed helped British forces but now they live in fear of being killed by death squads. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37XM9Va

Covid-19: Biden says Trump vaccine roll-out is 'falling behind'

The US president-elect calls for vaccinations to be ramped up as he warns of a "tough period" ahead. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rCXamt

2020 and me: 'We need to learn life lessons from this'

Mahnaz Rehman lost her husband during lockdown in Karachi, Pakistan. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rB0fU9

Belarus protests: The demonstrators speaking out in new and creative ways

Faced by a government crackdown, demonstrations over the disputed August election have been forced to evolve. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38Ir68h

Quarantine meals: The 2020 food trend no-one predicted

Across the world, people in quarantine facilities were treated to some weird and wonderful combinations. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KOthPJ

Iraqi interpreters 'stalked by death squads' for helping the British

Ali and Ahmed helped British forces but now they live in fear of being killed by death squads. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34WfxZZ

Fashion lookahead: Eight major 2021 looks from tie-dye to pastels

The patterns, prints, materials and accessories we're likely to be wearing this year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34Qh5ok

What my grandfather's life taught me about China and America

Vincent Ni reflects on the long life of his grandfather and a crucial choice he made as a young man. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37UEyql

Notable African deaths of 2020: From jazz legends to football heroes

A look back at some of the iconic figures on the African continent who we said farewell to this year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KBDcYX

Global trial reveals life saving drug for acute myeloid leukemia

Results from a global trial across 148 sites in 23 countries, showing a 30 per cent improvement in survival in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), significantly improving survival in older patients, over the age of 55, with the disease. AML is the most acute blood cancer in adults and its incidence increases with age, with a poor prognosis. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rBrttM

Surveys identify relationship between waves, coastal cliff erosion

Researchers have always known that waves were an important part of the cliff erosion process, but they haven't been able to separate the influence of waves and rain before. After decades of debate over the differing roles that both play, new findings provide an opportunity to improve forecasts. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2L04aJq

Common brain malformation traced to its genetic roots

Researchers have shown that Chiari 1 malformation can be caused by variations in two genes linked to brain development, and that children with large heads are at increased risk of developing the condition. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34SrG21

Pierre Cardin: French fashion giant dies aged 98

He helped revolutionise fashion with his futuristic designs in the 1960s and 70s. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aS8RQC

Ratatouille musical: Stars join show that was cooked up on TikTok

Adam Lambert and Tituss Burgess lead the cast for a show that was cooked up by fans on TikTok. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mSuq5D

Russian Covid deaths three times the official toll

The country's deputy prime minister reveals more than 80% of excess deaths are linked to coronavirus. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WUYset

Breonna Taylor statue smashed in California weeks after installation

The artist plans to rebuild the bust of Ms Taylor, a black woman killed by US police, in bronze. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38MqgHF

Hong Kong activist Tony Chung sentenced to four months

Tony Chung, 19, is also awaiting trial on a separate national security charge. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mUpCgk

Keyon Harrold: Jazz trumpeter says son assaulted after false theft accusation

Jazz trumpeter Keyon Harrold says the incident happened after a woman falsely accused his son of theft. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KYjmXw

Coronavirus: India confirms six cases of new Covid variant

India suspended all UK flights last week in response to the new more transmissible variant. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2MhoW87

Covid: Sydney beach party sparks UK backpacker deportation threats

The gathering of hundreds of young revellers on Christmas has prompted calls for deportations. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KC0EVY

Covid: US House votes to boost stimulus package payments

The chamber backs President Trump's call for $2,000 payments but the move could stall in the Senate.™ from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38HIAl9

Japan developing wooden satellites to cut space junk

A Japanese forestry firm has partnered with Kyoto University in what would be a world first. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nReSR3

Coronavirus: Spain to keep registry of those who refuse Covid vaccine

Vaccination will not be mandatory, officials say, and the register will not be made public. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mV7lj0

Zoom: All the times virtual meetings didn't go as planned this year

From animal interruptions to catching fire, here's a look back at the year we spent (badly) online. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aPE3ja

Australian Man and child saved after friends walk 12 hours for help

Their friends walked for 12 hours through the Australian desert to seek help after their car got stuck. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pnQuH8

India migrants: The tragedy of the tuk-tuk driver who fled Covid

Rajan Yadav is one of millions of migrant workers whose lives were destroyed by India's lockdown. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KH5ukE

Will concerts come back in 2021? And other music stories to look out for

How will live shows look when they resume in 2021, and other music stories to look out for. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mTx37d

China Covid-19: How state media and censorship took on coronavirus

We look back at how China's propaganda and censorship machine responded during a particularly dramatic year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WRkyi3

Seeking justice for Lion Sleeps Tonight composer

A music producer remixes an old classic to correct some injustices of the past. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hmCFGa

Covid in prison: 'We should be treated like humans'

Reports suggest one-in-five prisoners have tested positive for Covid in the US, and 1,700 have died. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3ryEFQj

When Greta Thunberg met Margaret Atwood... on Zoom

The teenage climate activist and veteran author and environmentalist were brought together by Radio 4's Today Programme. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mTqPVa

The big tech questions for 2021

After a year that saw tech companies prosper, we look ahead to what the coming 12 months could bring. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34Qgcfk

Discovery boosts theory that life on Earth arose from RNA-DNA mix

Chemists have made a discovery that supports a surprising new view of how life originated on our planet. They demonstrated that a simple compound called diamidophosphate (DAP), which was plausibly present on Earth before life arose, could have chemically knitted together tiny DNA building blocks called deoxynucleosides into strands of primordial DNA. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/38z6X4g

Study suggests link between word choices and extraverts

Psychologists have found a link between extraverts and their word choices. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rvQYga

High-speed atomic force microscopy takes on intrinsically disordered proteins

A pioneering high-speed atomic force microscope technology has now shed light on the structure and dynamics of some of life's most ubiquitous and inscrutable molecules - intrinsically disordered proteins. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nYY8Y7

Chemists develop a new drug discovery strategy for 'undruggable' drug targets

A research team has developed a new drug discovery method targeting membrane proteins on live cells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3aMXRDS

Switching DNA functions on and off by means of light

Biochemists have developed a new strategy for controlling the biological functions of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) by means of light and therefore provide a tool to investigate processes which take place in cells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nTUI9a

Do toddlers learning to spoon-feed seek different information from caregivers' hands and faces?

When toddlers begin to use a spoon to eat by themselves, what kind of interactions facilitate this behavior? To find out, an international research collaboration investigated the interactions between toddlers and their caregivers during mealtimes at a daycare center in Japan. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nZJC2k

New research makes strong case for restoring Hong Kong's lost oyster reefs

New research shows the enormous potential of restoring lost oyster reefs, bringing significant environmental benefits. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ry9ynV

Rare white kiwi Manukura that inspired book and toys dies

Manukura hatched in 2011, but the female North Island Brown Kiwi was born with white feathers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rJoaky

Loujain al-Hathloul: Saudi woman activist jailed for five years

Loujain al-Hathloul, 31, was prominent in the campaign to win the right for Saudi women to drive. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hlMSTh

Onega: Russian fishing crew missing after trawler sinks in Barents Sea

The fishing trawler sank in the Arctic waters of the Barents Sea with 19 people on board. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aQJDBU

Félix Vásquez: Honduran environmental activist killed

Félix Vásquez was shot dead in front of his family by masked gunmen who stormed into his home. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3o0K4O0

Johnny Mullagh: Australia's Cricket Hall of Fame inducts first Aboriginal player

Johnny Mullagh was one of the stars of the first Australian cricket tour of England in 1868. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mPCh3T

Nashville explosion: CCTV captures moment of blast

Police believe the incident in front of a telecommunications office was likely a suicide bombing. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WMsUYm

Hong Kong democracy activists caught at sea go on trial in China

The democracy activists were caught at sea as they tried to flee by speedboat to Taiwan. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37UNxI6

Dr Mahinder Watsa: India’s most famous ‘sexpert’ dies at 96

Dr Mahinder Watsa was 80 when he started his hugely popular column, answering people’s queries on sex. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mUgTL4

Zhang Zhan: China jails citizen journalist for Wuhan reports

Zhang Zhan, who reported on China's first coronavirus outbreak, has received a four year sentence. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nTvKqv

Chinese games billionaire poisoned to death

Lin Qi, 39, was the founder of Yoozoo which developed a popular Game of Thrones online game. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37S33o8

Covid: Trump signs relief and spending package into law

The measure restores unemployment benefits and averts a partial US government shutdown.™ from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hlHD5X

Maestro Dudamel takes virtual reality Symphony on tour

Conductor Gustavo Dudamel believes music can lead the way and wants to inspire young people. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rvzXCT

Tigray crisis: Eritrea's role in Ethiopian conflict

Ethiopia's leader says Eritrea armed his troops when they first came under attack in Tigray region. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rqNtHM

Covid-19: China's painful year fighting the coronavirus

From fear to freedom, we trace China's tumultuous year battling the coronavirus. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2L0sfja

'She is beautiful but she is Indian': The student who became a Welsh bard at 19

Dorothy Bonarjee was Indian by birth, English by upbringing, French by marriage - and Welsh at heart. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hnzpu0

2020 and me: 'I know the value of family more'

Despite the many challenges, Rula in Istanbul believes 2020 will benefit us in the future. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WRi8jz

Covid: South Africa passes one million infections as cases surge

The grim milestone comes after a new variant of coronavirus is identified in the country. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nX3pzi

Nashville explosion: Camper van blast suspect named by police

Investigators say Anthony Quinn Warner, 63, died in the powerful explosion on Christmas Day. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rxj4rq

New mammal reference genome helps ID genetic variants for human health

A new reference genome assembly identified more than 85 million genetic variants in the rhesus macaque, the largest database of genetic variation for any one nonhuman primate species to date. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2JtIi92

Boy Scouts of America accuse Girl Scouts of starting 'war'

The two organisations are caught in a legal battle after the Boy Scouts started recruiting girls. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mNOO7X

Seven killed in knife attack in China's Liaoning province

At least seven people are killed in a stabbing frenzy in the city of Kaiyuan, with a suspect in custody. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rtHl1r

Rahane gives India control of Boxing Day Test

Stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane's brilliant unbeaten century gives India control of the second Test against Australia on day two. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38BPXdP

US former wrestler Brodie Lee dies aged 41

The wrestling world pays tribute to Jon Huber, who was known to fans as Brodie Lee or Luke Harper. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38CIdYX

Dog invades football pitch in Bolivia

A dog paused a football game for three minutes, as it ran around with a football boot in its mouth. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aJOSTT

US presidents' pets: Biden dogs Major and Champ to restore White House tradition

From Socks the cat to Macaroni the pony, the US presidential tradition is returning with Joe Biden. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37OwF5Z

Central African Republic election: Polls open amid fears of more violence

Three UN peacekeepers were killed before the election, as tension grows between rebels and the state. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WPY3dr

Covid: EU launches mass vaccination in 'touching moment of unity'

Some member states jump the gun before Sunday's co-ordinated rollout of a coronavirus jab. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37PalsI

Nashville explosion 'probably suicide bombing'

Investigators conduct DNA tests after human remains are found and a house is searched. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rvCvAU

Why is India denying prisoners spectacles and straws?

Jail officials have been called out for being cruel to prisoners - especially the government's critics. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KujEFS

How Ugandan Nasa scientist Catherine Nakalembe uses satellites to boost farming

Catherine Nakalembe won this year's Africa Food Prize for pioneering work using satellite images. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2L1varO

How Covid-19 altered world events in 2020

The pandemic affected us all - and shaped global issues, with knock-on effects for millions. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mVgfge

Iran: Climbers die in blizzards and avalanche

At least 10 climbers are killed and seven others are missing in the Alborz mountains near Tehran. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KUHz10

Coronavirus: What has Covid done for climate crisis?

Lockdowns around the world have led to record falls in CO2 emissions. But will this lead to long lasting change? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3ry3Pyg

2020 and me: 'EndSARS was our Black Lives Matter'

After protests, a strike, and lockdown, Kiki, a student from Lagos, Nigeria, can’t wait for the year to be over. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mRK95d

Covid in the classroom: How the pandemic changed these three teachers' lives

Three teachers in the US reflect on how drastically their jobs have changed during 2020. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KtlruN

Coronavirus: EU countries begin mass vaccination

Countries across the EU received their first shipments of the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nQ4AR6

Covid: Biden urges Trump to sign coronavirus bill into law

The US president-elect calls for immediate action as millions of people face losing jobless benefits. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37O0q6Q

Novel method reveals small microplastics throughout Japan's subtropical ocean

Samples taken from the ocean surrounding the subtropical island of Okinawa have revealed the presence of microplastics in all six areas surveyed, finds new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37O1sj2

Discovery of aging mechanism for hematopoietic stem cells

By transferring mouse aged hematopoietic stem cells (aged HSCs) to the environment of young mice (bone marrow niche), it was demonstrated that the pattern of stem cell gene expression was rejuvenated to that of young hematopoietic stem cells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mRC4xk

Protein tells developing cells to stick together

Scientists have, for the first time, provided experimental evidence that cell stickiness helps them stay sorted within correct compartments during development. How tightly cells clump together, known as cell adhesion, appears to be enabled by a protein better known for its role in the immune system. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rrHdj4

Astrocytes eat connections to maintain plasticity in adult brains

Developing brains constantly sprout new neuronal connections called synapses as they learn and remember. Important connections -- the ones that are repeatedly introduced, such as how to avoid danger -- are nurtured and reinforced, while connections deemed unnecessary are pruned away. Adult brains undergo similar pruning, but it was unclear how or why synapses in the adult brain get eliminated. Now, a team of researchers has found the mechanism underlying plasticity and, potentially, neurological disorders in adult brains. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34NyiPf

Weedy Seadragon genomics reveal highly distinct populations

To describe weedy seadragons as unique is an understatement. With a fused, elongated jaw, body armor, leafy appendages and no pelvic fins, these fish are like no other. Found only along Australia's temperate coast, numbers have been declining. Now a landmark study using genomics reveals four distinct populations in south-eastern Australia. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mSZOB7

Turning the heat down: Catalyzing ammonia formation at lower temperatures with ruthenium

Scientists report that the metal ruthenium, supported with lanthanide oxyhydrides, can efficiently catalyze the synthesis of ammonia at a much lower temperature than the traditional approach. In their new study, they highlight the advantages of the oxyhydride support and its potential in becoming a feasible catalyst for low-temperature ammonia synthesis in the future. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3aHnXrN

Gingerbread monolith appears in San Francisco's Corona Heights

The tall, baked structure appeared in Corona Heights Park on Christmas Day, delighting locals. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37PrSAW

Pompeii: Ancient 'fast food' counter to open to the public

Newly unveiled bright frescos are believed to show the food that was available in the Roman city. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34G79hd

Nashville explosion: Businesses and celebrities pledge $315,000 reward

Three people were injured when a camper van exploded in the city centre early on Christmas Day from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WIQvJk

Chinese economy to overtake US 'by 2028' due to Covid

A UK-based think tank says the pandemic has caused economic momentum to shift further in favour of Asia. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37OdFUR

South Africa raise fists before cricket match

South Africa express their "ongoing commitment" to supporting the Black Lives Matter movement as players raise their fists before the first Test against Sri Lanka. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WL9gf9

Coronavirus: More cases of new Covid variant found in Europe

Spain confirms cases linked to the UK hours after France, as fears grow of the new variant's spread. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37PZDm0

George Blake: Soviet Cold War spy and former MI6 officer dies in Russia

Blake was one of the Cold War's most notorious double agents and betrayed dozens of MI6 personnel. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37LTSWd

Several injured after shooting in Berlin

Heavily armed police have been sent to the scene in the Kreuzberg district of the German capital. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38EQR9x

737 Max: Air Canada flight in unscheduled landing after engine issue

The plane with three crew landed safely after rerouting on a flight from the US to Canada. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rBSRYX

UN peacekeepers killed in Central African Republic on eve of election

The UN said three peacekeepers died in two separate attacks, as rebel and government forces clash. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34Mqr4B

Business review of 2020: Covid-19 and Trump

2020 saw countries grapple with coronavirus, balancing both public health and economic concerns. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37PUOsJ

What a pandemic Christmas looked like around the world

From masked mass to a socially distanced beach party, here's how Christmas looked in 2020. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aPWIv8

Letter from Africa: Somalia's Christmas birthdays and lost memories

A former refugee considers the importance of memory for those who lose everything in the chaos of war. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hj8Juj

The family with no fingerprints

A family in Bangladesh struggles with an extremely rare genetic condition, "immigration delay disease". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34Jj7q9

What a pandemic Christmas looked like around the world

From masked mass to a socially distanced beach party, here's how Christmas looked in 2020. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38yfpAZ

France finds first case of new coronavirus variant

The health ministry says an asymptomatic Frenchman who arrived from England tested positive. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mOmSB3

Uganda Lake Albert boat accident leaves many dead

Strong winds caused the boat to sink on the lake, which has a history of incidents, officials said. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3roW269

Nashville hit by deliberate explosion, police in Tennessee say

Three people have been taken to hospital after the blast on Christmas morning, police say. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aNZFwB

Boko Haram kill villagers in Christmas Eve attack

The Islamist group also burnt down the church in the Christian village in northeast Nigeria. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2JmTcgI

Covid: Millions of Americans face unemployment benefits lapse

Critical payments to 14 million people could stop from Saturday in a standoff over a stimulus bill. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rv6t8f

Russian historian jailed for dismembering partner

Oleg Sokolov, an expert on Napoleon, was sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KZ5QCP

Australian expeditioner evacuated from Antarctica in five-day mission

Australia, China and the US work together to medically evacuate the expeditioner. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37LyIro

Rags to riches for cat rescued by waste worker

A waste disposal worker rescues a cat from imminent death while sorting through rubbish at a plant in Russia. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2LZDusI

Pope urges coronavirus vaccine access for all

"We cannot erect walls" to its availability, he says, in his first online Christmas Day message. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mJTXOl

Alexei Navalny ally Lyubov Sobol 'held after raid'

Lyubov Sobol had earlier turned up at the home of an agent Alexei Navalny says helped poison him. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rAp9n9

Notre-Dame: Choir sings inside cathedral for first time since fire

Singers perform inside the Paris cathedral for the first time since the April 2019 fire. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37NdlG4

Ivry Gitlis: Celebrated Israeli virtuoso violinist dies at 98

Described as one of the modern greats of classical music, he was a hugely charismatic figure. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KrO23H

Covid: Mexico, Chile and Costa Rica begin mass vaccination

Mexico, Chile and Costa Rica become the first countries in Latin America to begin vaccination campaigns. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38xJ4Kr

Michael Jackson: Neverland Ranch 'sold to billionaire for $22m'

Billionaire Ron Burkle reportedly buys the estate for a quarter of its initial asking price. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34IMRDJ

Brexit: EU diplomats to get trade deal briefing

MPs are waiting to see the full text of the agreement ahead of a vote in Parliament on 30 December. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mN4cBM

How delivery drivers became vital in the pandemic

They made sure no-one had to leave the house but now they are taking on an even more important role. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hteSVb

The refugees feeding a nation

How did French Guiana come to rely on its Hmong citizens for food? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rri08h

In pictures: Christmas celebrations around the world

This year's services and events are being attended by far fewer people because of the Covid outbreak. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KRsEVl

A scene in The Pianist changed Arson Fahim's life

As a young boy, Fahim saw a piano on screen in a refugee camp. "What I saw captivated me," he said. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hiQgyb

Astronaut Scott Kelly: How to survive a year in space

Record-breaking astronaut Scott Kelly talks about living in space and his desire to go back. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hoUXGQ

Georgia climbers who risk their lives for Christmas trees

In the Republic of Georgia, workers harvest the seeds of Nordmann firs for export to Europe. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nPLRoK

Karima Baloch: Activist's family mourns a 'mountain of courage'

Karima Baloch was found dead in Toronto. Her family says she never stopped getting threats, even in exile. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nNFBxX

Portugal outrage after Spanish hunters massacre 500 wild animals

Officials seek a criminal probe after photos of 540 deer and boar corpses are shared on social media. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rsYxnZ

'Balloon boy hoax' parents pardoned in Colorado

The couple were convicted of the hoax in 2009 after saying their son was carried away by a balloon. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38vOwxr

The 101-year-old veteran with thousands of Christmas cards

John received mail from around the world after speaking about the loss of his wife on BBC Breakfast from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hdOC0R

California man 'kills fellow Covid patient with oxygen tank'

The victim, 82, was praying in his hospital bed when a patient in his room got upset, LA police say. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2LZK1nb

Chrissy Teigen 'sad she will never be pregnant again'

The US model lost the baby she was expecting with husband John Legend earlier this year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3plfE9o

Coronavirus mutes Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem

Celebrations will look very different in Jesus' birthplace this year as virus keeps visitors at bay. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kra1HY

Pete Evans: Facebook removes celebrity chef's page over conspiracies

Australian celebrity chef Pete Evans has been criticised for spreading misinformation to his followers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KPsbmo

Alibaba being investigated by China over monopoly tactics

The Chinese tech giant is face a probe by regulators into locking merchants into its platform. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kyo7XN

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks continue ahead of likely deal

Johnson and von der Leyen are likely to have another phone call after talks continued overnight. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34IV2Qy

Saumitra Khan: India MP threatens to divorce wife who switched party

Indian MP Saumitra Khan sent a divorce notice to wife Sujata Mondal Khan after she joined a rival party. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aCfZQH

Coronavirus: New York City orders international visitors to quarantine

Foreign travellers who break the new rules will be fined $1,000 a day, as cases surge across the US. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34HvFhP

Airline fires pilot blamed for Taiwan's first Covid case in months

A contact of the pilot tested positive, leading to the first local case since April. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38xNqBl

NBA game off as Covid depletes Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets' season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder has been postponed because the Rockets are unable to field enough players. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hd2Xup

Oscars 2021: What can we expect for the ceremony?

The film industry is hoping it will be high-profile rather than low-key after such a tough year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WJlCEw

India farmer protests: How rural incomes have struggled to keep up

Protests are continuing in India over new laws which farmers say will damage their livelihoods. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aKwqe5

EU to allow post-Brexit UK farm produce exports

While this is a "critical step forward" seed potatoes are not included due to EU regulatory fears. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KnhFmH

Five families, five Christmases: A festive season like no other around Europe

Families in five countries explain how their plans have changed and how they're staying upbeat. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hcYdoF

Muslim-Canadian's 'first Christmas' goes viral

As a Christmas first-timer, Mohammad Hussain shared his unique perspective on the holiday on Twitter. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aBOd6S

Trump pardons: Paul Manafort, Roger Stone and Charles Kushner granted clemency

Two key allies jailed over the Russia inquiry benefit from the latest wave of presidential pardons. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WGYTcn

Quantum wave in helium dimer filmed for the first time

For the first time, an international team of scientists has succeeded in filming quantum physical effects on a helium dimer as it breaks apart. The film shows the superposition of matter waves from two simultaneous events that occur with different probability: The survival and the disintegration of the helium dimer. This method might in future make it possible to track experimentally the formation and decay of quantum Efimov systems. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/38ANXCw

Scientists develop new gene therapy for deafness

A new study presents an innovative treatment for deafness, based on the delivery of genetic material into the cells of the inner ear. The genetic material 'replaces' the genetic defect and enables the cells to continue functioning normally. They maintain that this novel therapy could lead to a breakthrough in treating children born with various mutations that eventually cause deafness. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ayIYFc

Banjo Paterson: 120-year-old chocolate found in Australian poet's belongings

Remarkably well-preserved chocolate - found in Australia - gives a fascinating glimpse into history. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3hf0oI8

Model predicts where ticks, Lyme disease will appear next in Midwest states

By drawing from decades of studies, scientists created a timeline marking the arrival of black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks, in hundreds of counties across 10 Midwestern states. They used these data - along with an analysis of county-level landscape features associated with the spread of ticks - to build a model that can predict where ticks are likely to appear in future years. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3piAeHj

Birds: Competition for mates leads to a deeper voice than expected based on size

Competition for mates leads to a deeper voice than expected based on size. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34FOdiG

Mouse-controlled mouse helps researchers understand intentional control

Researchers have devised a brain machine interface (BMI) that allows mice to learn to guide a cursor using only their brain activity. By monitoring this mouse-controlled mouse moving to a target location to receive a reward, the researchers were able to study how the brain represents intentional control. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hddtSg

Chemists synthesize 'flat' silicon compounds

Chemists have synthesized extremely unusual compounds. Their central building block is a silicon atom. Different from usual, however, is the arrangement of the four bonding partners of the atom, which are not in the form of a tetrahedron around it, but flat like a trapezoid. This arrangement is usually energetically extremely unfavorable, yet the molecules are very stable. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nKZNAj

In shaky times, focus on past successes, if overly anxious, depressed

The more chaotic things get, the harder it is for people with clinical anxiety and/or depression to make sound decisions and to learn from their mistakes. On a positive note, overly anxious and depressed people's judgment can improve if they focus on what they get right, instead of what they get wrong, suggests a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WEkmm9

A powerful computational tool for efficient analysis of cell division 4D image data

A research team has developed a novel computational tool that can reconstruct and visualize three-dimensional (3D) shapes and temporal changes of cells, speeding up the analyzing process from hundreds of hours by hand to a few hours by the computer. Revolutionizing the way biologists analyze image data, this tool can advance further studies in developmental and cell biology, such as the growth of cancer cells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KnsF3s

Extracting energy from manure to meet peak heating demands

Cornell University is developing a system to extract energy from cattle manure to meet the campus's peak demands for heat in the winter months. Scientists involved with the project give a detailed analysis of the issues required to make this work, including scientific, economic, and energy policy considerations. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34yZOQo

How a large protein complex assembles in a cell

A team of researchers has developed a method that allows them to study the assembly process for large protein complexes in detail for the first time. As their case study, the biologists chose one of the largest cellular complexes: the nuclear pore complex in yeast cells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hdsl38

Trump urges Congress to amend 'wasteful' coronavirus aid bill

He asks lawmakers to "remove wasteful and unnecessary items", adding the package "really is a disgrace". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rj8kga

Messi breaks Pelé scoring record

Lionel Messi scores his 644th goal for Barcelona during his side's win over Real Valladolid to break Pele's record of the most goals for one club. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Jjr2TS

Trump pardons two convicted by Russia investigation

Ex-campaign aide George Papadopoulos is among 15 people to benefit from a wave of clemency orders. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pgAEhl

Fluvial mapping of Mars

It took fifteen years of imaging and nearly three years of stitching the pieces together to create the largest image ever made, the 8-trillion-pixel mosaic of Mars' surface. Now, the first study to utilize the image in its entirety provides unprecedented insight into the ancient river systems that once covered the expansive plains in the planet's southern hemisphere. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3aBhWwY

Scientists invent glue activated by magnetic field

Scientists have developed a new way to cure adhesives using a magnetic field. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mHIoY9

Droughts, viruses and road networks: Trends that will impact our forests

A new study assembled an array of experts to highlight major trends that will impact the world's forests, and the people living around them, in the decade ahead. These trends include drought, viral outbreaks and vast infrastructure expansions across the globe. According to the researchers, a global strategy for human-nature interaction must be developed if we intend on ensuring the survival of both. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3aNQ3C3

Brain gene expression patterns predict behavior of individual honey bees

An unusual study that involved bar coding and tracking the behavior of thousands of individual honey bees in six queenless bee hives and analyzing gene expression in their brains offers new insights into how gene regulation contributes to social behavior. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KPvBFS

Japanese art technique inspires new engineering technique

A team of engineers is using ideas taken from paper-folding practices to create a sophisticated alternative to 3D printing. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3pk3hdM

Dr Deborah Birx: White House virus expert quits over holiday travel

Dr Deborah Birx says the criticism she has faced for a family get-together is "very difficult". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pnzyAF

Covid-19: The Philippines and its lockdown baby boom

The Philippines is preparing for a surge in births which will overwhelm its already creaking systems. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rmb5xj

The pioneering lawyer who fought for women’s suffrage in India

Mithan Lam left an indelible stamp on the struggle for gender equality in India. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mMJC49

The Nigerian blogger scouring the past to inform the future

How a young man's passion for history may help future generations of Nigerians. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3phb3Vv

Covid-19: 'Losing Christmas is irreparable damage'

Foppolo ski resort in the Italian Alps is shut and will miss the all-important Christmas ski season. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37HQImt

Rohingya refugees' perilous journey in search of safety

More than 200 Rohingya refugees are believed to have died or gone missing at sea in 2020. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rhOLFb

Talking Movies: How documentary films flourished in 2020

Audiences embraced a wave of non-fiction films including several on the coronavirus pandemic. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h9TBQ7

Melody of an Alpine summit falling apart

The summit of the 2592 meters high Hochvogel is sliced by dangerous fracture which continues to open. It is difficult to judge when the summit might crack. Researchers are developing a new monitoring method. Seismic sensors measure the summit's natural vibration. The pitch of the mountain changes depending on the tension in the rock allowing unique conclusions about the development of a landslide. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2J9hb2H

Scientists complete yearlong pulsar timing study after reviving dormant radio telescopes

While the scientific community grapples with the loss of the Arecibo radio telescope, astronomers who revived a long-dormant radio telescope array in Argentina hope it can help compensate for the work Arecibo did in pulsar timing. Last year, scientists began a pulsar timing study using two upgraded radio telescopes in Argentina. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hd1Qe3

Ecosystem dynamics: Topological phases in biological systems

Physicists have shown that topological phases could exist in biology, and in so doing they have identified a link between solid-state physics and biophysics. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2JeIYyW

CRISPR helps researchers uncover how corals adjust to warming oceans

The CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system can help scientists understand, and possibly improve, how corals respond to the environmental stresses of climate change. New work details how the revolutionary, Nobel Prize-winning technology can be deployed to guide conservation efforts for fragile reef ecosystems. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Jb51Xf

Citizens versus the internet: Confronting digital challenges with cognitive tools

Researchers recommend ways that psychological and behavioral sciences can help decrease the negative consequences of Internet use. These recommendations emphasize helping people gain greater control over their digital environments. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hl6RBD

New phase for synthetic aperture microscopy

Although SAM is undoubtedly a promising approach, current implementations lack in both spatial resolution and frame rate to be useful for emerging applications. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3pfhGYt

Gene pathway linked to schizophrenia identified through stem cell engineering

Using human-induced pluripotent stem cells engineered from a single family's blood samples, a gene signaling pathway linked to a higher risk for developing schizophrenia was discovered. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37GZTUh

New model reveals previously unrecognized complexity of oceanic earthquake zones

Researchers constructed a state-of-the-art model based on seismic data from the January 2020 Caribbean earthquake. The model revealed considerable complexity in rupture speed and direction, related to a bend in the fault that triggered several rupture episodes. The analysis revealed previously unrecognized complexity of rupture processes and fault geometry in ocean faults that had been assumed to be simple and linear, with implications for future earthquake modeling and a possible interaction with seafloor evolution. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34zFej3

Fungal RNA viruses: Unexpected complexity affecting more than your breakfast omelet

Traditional approaches for studying fungal RNA viruses have relied upon sequence similarity, resulting in an underestimation of RNA viral genome diversity. Researchers have now used an advanced technological approach called Fragmented and Primer Ligated Double Stranded RNA sequencing, or FLDS, to identify viral sequences that were previously overlooked. They identified novel viruses and viral genome structures and show that FLDS is a powerful tool for understanding RNA viral genome diversity. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/38nUmRz

Leyla Güven: Turkey sentences Kurdish politician to 22 years in prison

Leyla Güven, an ex-MP for the opposition HDP party, is convicted of membership of a terrorist group. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3haAq8x

Light signal emitted during photosynthesis used to quickly screen crops

Researchers have revealed a new approach to estimate the photosynthetic capacity of crops to pinpoint their top-performing traits and speed up the plant screening process, according to a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nHjZTV

Antigen tests -- are self-collected nasal swabs a reliable option?

Under certain conditions, antigen testing using self-collected swabs from the anterior nose may constitute a reliable alternative to antigen testing using nasopharyngeal swabs collected by health professionals. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mAQIbX

New energy conversion layer for biosolar cells

A research team has produced a semi-artificial electrode that could convert light energy into other forms of energy in biosolar cells. The technique is based on the photosynthesis protein Photosystem I from cyanobacteria. The group showed that they could couple their system with an enzyme that used the converted light energy to produce hydrogen. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rjZMG0

NZ killer of British backpacker guilty of more attacks

Grace Millane's killer can now be named after he was convicted of sex attacks on two more women. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nAnFXr

SLS: Crucial test for Nasa's 'mega-rocket'

Part of a giant rocket that will send humans back to the Moon has undergone a critical test. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WE07ow

Will pregnant women receive the Covid-19 vaccine? It depends

Without pregnant women in trials for the jab, countries are taking different approaches. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h8jtf6

1,000 lost on one boat - this woman hopes to name them

An Italian pathologist is trying to identify the migrants on a boat that sank in the Mediterranean in 2015. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38tTMl4

Covid: Thanksgiving the cause of a spike in US infections?

Family reunions over the holiday period brought people together, but did they spread coronavirus? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h8jq2U

Tanzania 'using Twitter's copyright policy to silence activists'

The guidance meant to deal with rights infringements is being deployed to muzzle critics. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KG0SuJ

Biotech cotton key to eliminating devastating pest from US and Mexico

A collaboration between the University of Arizona, cotton growers, and government and industry partners eradicated the pink bollworm -- one of the world's most damaging crop pests -- from the United States and Mexico. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nF2UK5

Bats, roadblocks and the origins of coronavirus

The BBC came across roadblocks and checkpoints as they tried to report on a decade-long project into viruses that bats carry. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pdbz6X

How a young girl's fairy house sparked a magical friendship

When four-year-old Eliana created a fairy house at the start of the pandemic, she soon began finding notes and gifts from a fairy named Sapphire. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34yios3

When light and atoms share a common vibe

Scientists demonstrate a state of vibration that exists simultaneously at two different times. They evidence this quantum superposition by measuring the strongest class of quantum correlations between light beams that interact with the vibration. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3atOk4x

Covid: Regulator approves first vaccine for EU states

Some EU states could begin rolling out the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine as early as Sunday. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KqukoD

Lockerbie bombing: Alleged bomb-maker charged on 32nd anniversary of attack

The US attorney general announces charges for the alleged bomb-maker behind the 1988 disaster. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3pejzVq

Climate warming linked to tree leaf unfolding and flowering growing apart

Climate warming is linked to a widening interval between leaf unfolding and flowering in European trees, with implications for tree fitness and the wider environment, according to new research. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3pfkbdw

Halle synagogue attack: Germany far-right gunman jailed for life

The attacker tried to shoot Jewish worshippers - then killed two people outside a synagogue in Halle. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WvG9wi

Ariana Grande announces engagement to Dalton Gomez

The 27-year-old US singer and actress has been with her real estate agent boyfriend for about a year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3avYiSM

Essex lorry deaths: Two found guilty of killing 39 migrants

Prosecutors said the victims died in "unbearable" heat in a lorry container in October 2019. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nFXa2H

Mexico violence: Security raised in Puerto Vallarta after ambush

Extra police are sent to Puerto Vallarta after the killing of a former governor of Jalisco state. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aAcnPd

Al Jazeera journalists ‘hacked via NSO Group spyware’

NSO Group says a report that its software was used to target journalists “lacks evidence”. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KKB8gC

Kyle Rittenhouse: YouTube struggles with hero worship

Kyle Rittenhouse, awaiting trial for killing two protesters, is a hero on parts of YouTube. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KF0AEq

Rwanda bolsters force in CAR as rebels 'held back'

It has deployed what it calls a "protection force" after its peacekeepers there came under attack. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h4M1WI

Christmas star: Planets set to align in the night sky

Jupiter and Saturn - the Solar System's largest planets - are set to cross paths in the night sky. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nxtdC6

Covid-19: Couple holds 10,000 people drive-thru wedding in Malaysia

It took three hours for all guests to exchange a wave and smile with the newly-weds in Malaysia. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h6eqf1

Covid: Denmark to dig up millions of mink culled over virus

The animals will be exhumed from mass graves next year to prevent pollution, the government says. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mE9SxC

Covid: EU to discuss response to variant as travel bans on UK expand

European officials will discuss a co-ordinated travel response to a new coronavirus variant in the UK. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nCGDNh

Covid: Thailand tests thousands after virus outbreak in seafood market

Tens of thousands will be tested after hundreds of cases linked to Thailand's biggest seafood market. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mxQyC9

Covid: Australian states enforce travel bans amid Sydney outbreak

All states and territories have begun enforcing travel bans, upending Christmas plans for many people. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3peW9zh

European regulator says Boeing's 737 Max is safe

Executive Director Patrick Ky said his organisation had "left no stone unturned" in its review. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KnVLzx

The Belgian 'hero' who invaded UK fishing waters

The story of Victor Depaepe, who tested fishing rights in UK waters granted by King Charles II. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rfbrFM

'Yes, people have Zoom fatigue but it's not our fault'

Zoom director Aparna Bawa says video conferencing can tire people out, but her firm isn't to blame. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2JdditO

How should you talk to friends and relatives who believe conspiracy theories?

Advice from experts and those who used to believe conspiracy theories about how to avoid rows this festive season. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KnWgtp

Sudan-Israel deal fuels migrants' fears

Israel is supported by some Sudanese communities, yet restoring relations may not be good news from them. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34w0KFe

K2: 'Savage Mountain' beckons for unprecedented winter climb

Two European climbers set off this week in an attempt to scale the winter summit of K2. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nE48VZ

Captagon - Destroying the frontline drug

A seizure with a street value of more than $1bn (£900m) has revealed the scale of illegal drug production in Syria. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38mauTt

Plants can be larks or night owls just like us

Plants have the same variation in body clocks as that found in humans, according to new research that explores the genes governing circadian rhythms in plants. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WzlRC1

Water limitations in the tropics offset carbon uptake from Arctic greening

More plants and longer growing seasons in the northern latitudes have converted parts of Alaska, Canada and Siberia to deeper shades of green. Some studies translate this Arctic greening to a greater global carbon uptake. But new research shows that as Earth's climate is changing, increased carbon absorption by plants in the Arctic is being offset by a corresponding decline in the tropics. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mBrnyK

King of the Cave: New centipede on top of the food chain in the sulphurous-soaked Movile

A new species of endemic, troglobiont centipede was discovered by an international team of scientists in the Romanian cave Movile: a unique underground ecosystem, isolated several millions years ago during the Neogene, whose animal life only exists because of the chemosynthetic bacteria. As the largest Movile's inhabitant, the new species can easily be crowned as the 'king' of this 'hellish' ecosystem. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/38jjqZX

New class of cobalt-free cathodes could enhance energy density of next-gen lithium-ion batteries

Researchers have developed a new family of cathodes with the potential to replace the costly cobalt-based cathodes typically found in today's lithium-ion batteries that power electric vehicles and consumer electronics. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mB4b3E

The incredible, variable bacteria living in your mouth

Researchers have examined the human oral microbiome and discovered tremendous variability in bacterial subpopulations living in certain areas of the mouth. In many cases, the team was able to identify a handful of genes that might explain a particular bacterial group's habitat specificity. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37xPdXM

Low-income preschoolers exposed to nurturing care have with higher IQ scores later on

Preschoolers living in impoverished communities who have access to a nurturing home environment have significantly higher intelligence quotient (IQ) scores in adolescence compared to those raised without nurturing care. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rg0MdV

Shifting gears toward chemical machines

Researchers have utilized a catalytic reaction that causes a two-dimensional, chemically-coated sheet to spontaneously 'morph' into a three-dimensional gear that performs sustained work. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34uVRw8

Living environment affects the microbiota and health of both dogs and their owners

In urban environments, allergic diseases are more common among dogs and their owners compared to those living in rural areas. Simultaneous allergic traits appear to be associated with the microbes found in the environment, but microbes relevant to health differ between dogs and humans. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ar2S4L

Covid: Belgium and Netherlands ban flights from UK over variant

Italy is set to join the Netherlands and Belgium in suspending flights from the UK. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38pQpfj

Nigeria kidnapping: Mahuta children rescued after gun battle

Police say vigilantes helped rescue 84 children after Nigeria's second mass kidnapping in eight days. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KlmAo0

Cardinal Pell says his conservative views drove public against him

The ex-Vatican treasurer was acquitted of child sexual abuse and released from prison this year. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rbFOgl

Covid: WHO in 'close contact' with UK over new variant

UK officials say the new variant is spreading more rapidly, but it is not believed to be more deadly. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h26tYm

Biden says 'no time to waste' as climate team unveiled

The US president-elect says the team will lead his "ambitious plan" to combat climate change. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34uje8Y

Covid vaccine: 'Disappearing' needles and other rumours debunked

We examine widely shared false claims about vaccines - from "disappearing" needles to a "dead" nurse. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37waTDH

Christmas celebrations to go ahead in Bethlehem

BBC Middle East correspondent Yolande Knell joins the rehearsals for the festive processions. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Wyj0cJ

'God will forgive me or not': Inside the world of a people smuggler

Noor charges Afghans thousands of dollars to travel to Europe. He claims he is getting out of the business. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KE1q4g

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: 'How we survived when Mekelle was shelled'

Ethiopia's prime minister says no civilians were killed in the Tigray conflict. Three witnesses say otherwise. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mBQy42

Uganda election: False claims about Joe Biden and others

Claims about the US president-elect are among misinformation being widely shared during an election. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37zuwef

Spain housing: Evictions and broken promises in a pandemic

Spain's prime minister promised nobody would be evicted during the pandemic but activists say thousands have. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2JS0xFn

Senegal's Dakar Fashion Week: The catwalk in a baobab forest

Held outside because of the pandemic, a fashion show in Senegal embraces the environmental message. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3adddkO

MasterChef final is dream come true for Nepal’s Santosh Shah

Getting to the MasterChef final is like a dream for Santosh Shah, who is from a tiny village in Nepal. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kntf0L

Canada 'Sixties Scoop': Indigenous survivors map out their stories

Canada's "Sixties Scoop" saw thousands of indigenous children forcibly removed from their families. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37fE25T

Growing numbers of critically endangered sawfish in Miami waters

A new collaborative study found evidence of growing numbers of critically endangered smalltooth sawfish within coastal waters off Miami, Florida, an area where the regular presence of this rare species had gone largely undocumented, until now. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nBdNg9

New way to deliver DNA-based therapies for diseases

Researchers have created a new polymer to deliver DNA and RNA-based therapies for diseases. For the first time in the industry, the researchers were able to see exactly how polymers interact with human cells when delivering medicines into the body. This discovery opens the door for more widespread use of polymers in applications like gene therapy and vaccine development. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rbtAEw

Researchers monitor bees by 'dressing' them in high visibility retro-reflective vests

A team have been trialing new, low-cost ways to monitor bee species in the UK, by dressing bees in high visibility retro-reflective vests. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KbwRDm

AI-supported test predicts eye disease three years before symptoms

A pioneering new eye test may predict wet AMD, a leading cause of severe sight loss, three years before symptoms develop, finds a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KnwDsL

François Bozizé: CAR accuses former president of 'attempted coup'

The Central African Republic says forces loyal to François Bozizé plan to march on the capital Bangui. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3ap7JU3

Covid: Chile's president Sebastián Piñera fined $3,500 for no-mask selfie

Sebastián Piñera apologised for breaching Covid rules by posing for the photo on a beach this month. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h6CLRZ

ICYMI: Runaway sheep and a big bale of turtles

Here are some of the stories you may have missed this week. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Wt7xuK

Covid-19: Explosion kills nine coronavirus patients in Turkey

Nine people are killed as an oxygen ventilator explodes at a coronavirus ward of a private hospital. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3payMqe

Epstein ex-associate Jean-Luc Brunel placed under formal investigation

Modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel is accused of rape and sexual harassment by French authorities. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KAv0Yq

Caliphate: NY Times loses awards for Islamic State podcast over false reporting

The paper admits its blockbuster podcast about Islamic State group failed to meet editorial standards. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3r7tQod

US cyber-attack: Russia 'clearly' behind SolarWinds operation, says Pompeo

US secretary of state says Moscow is "clearly" responsible for a hack targeting government agencies. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nM24LX

737 Max: Boeing 'inappropriately coached' pilots in test after crashes

US Senate investigators find problems with tests conducted in the wake of two deadly crashes. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h9qBbe

Covid: Italy latest European country to order Christmas lockdown

Non-essential shops will be closed with travel only allowed for work, health and emergency reasons. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38oHfzI

US charges ex-Zoom employee with shutting down Tiananmen Square events

US prosecutors say the China-based executive terminated meetings discussing the 1989 crackdown. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34rA2O0

Covid: US approves Moderna as second vaccine

The Food and Drug Administration gives the green light for releasing millions of doses. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3axsJYK

Covid : US Vice-President Pence 'didn't feel a thing'

Mike Pence received the coronavirus vaccine live and said he "didn't feel a thing". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Wx21qY

Vanessa Bryant, her mother's lawsuit and the value of childcare

Vanessa Bryant's messy legal dispute with her mother has also got us talking about the value of housework. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kmcjrw

Covid: The countries worried they won't get the vaccine

Countries such as Zimbabwe, Mexico and Pakistan are likely to have to wait for the coronavirus vaccine. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3h2hPLW

Faith and fertility at Bethlehem's Milk Grotto

Some say the place where Mary is said to have nursed Jesus holds the power to help couples conceive. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3p76I7e

Coronavirus in South Africa: Unravelling the mystery

Antibody tests show that up to a third of South Africans may have contracted coronavirus during the first wave. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3alUGmt

Blindian Project: Celebrating black and South Asian relationships

Blindian Project runs workshops to prepare couples for tricky family introductions. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34sGGDz

North Korea: Potato propaganda is back... but what does it mean?

Why is North Korea promoting the humble spud in movies, culinary shows, and news reports? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37x6m44

Microplastics, drugs and food - how jellyfish can help us

Jellyfish are being used to develop new medicines, filters for microplastics and for food. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KEY3dc

Hunger spikes, demand rises for US food banks

Amid the pandemic, one in eight Americans say their household has experienced a food shortage. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qY1oon

Covid: US Vice-President Mike Pence to receive vaccine

Mike Pence is set to receive the vaccine publicly on Friday to 'build confidence" among Americans. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34nX2xt

Libya's Gen Haftar frees Italy fishermen held for months

Italy's PM wins the release of 18 fishermen based in Sicily who have been detained since September. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mE7cjT

Mozambique's Islamist insurgency: UN warns of rising violence in Cabo Delgado

The UN also blames a failure to distribute vast mineral and gas revenues to the local population. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34qFPU5

Nigeria school attack: Was it really Boko Haram?

Militant activity is spreading across northern Nigeria with other groups expressing allegiance to Boko Haram from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34reNfj

Japan: Snow traps 1,000 drivers in frozen traffic jam

Heavy snow has left drivers stranded on a highway in Japan, some of them since Wednesday night. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3p2U74X

Sony pulls Cyberpunk 2077 from PlayStation store

Players say the game is riddled with bugs and glitches and is prone to crashes so will offer refunds. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3rfxBIj

The angry pop song calling out China's domestic violence problem

Xiao Juan is the first pop song in China to openly discuss the sensitive topic of domestic violence. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KeQZV0

Trump trade chief wants WTO leadership race reopened

Picking a new leader for the WTO will be a challenge for Joe Biden as the global economy struggles with coronavirus. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34qrxCN

Alibaba says its technology won't target Uighurs

A recent report said China's Alibaba's facial recognition technology can pick out Uighur minorities. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34lWEPQ

Covid: Moderna vaccine moves closer to US approval

A panel of US experts say the Moderna vaccine should be given emergency use approval. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34q7gx9

Deb Haaland: Historic Native American 'pick for Biden cabinet'

Deb Haaland would be the first Native American in a cabinet secretary role, overseeing public lands. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WqeaOC

Google sued again over anti-competitive search practices

US states accuse Google of unfairly abusing monopolies to dominate new tech like voice assistants. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nul7u1

Coronavirus: Swiss count cost of surge in deaths

Swiss leaders decide on Friday whether to impose tougher measures, as deaths reach 100 a day. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3asfpoR

Biden cabinet: Does this new team better reflect America?

The role of a president's inaugural cabinet goes beyond just policy - let's take a closer look. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37tXxYD

'A total mess': Venezuelans see little hope of improvement

With many Venezuelans spending days in queues for fuel, hope for the future is at a new low. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37rwWvc

Africa's week in pictures: 11 - 17 December 2020

A selection of the week's best photos from across the continent. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3p3X5q4

US cyber-attack: Hack of government agencies and companies poses 'grave risk'

The US cyber-security agency says thwarting the attack will be "highly complex and challenging". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3myGKIa

Covid: Sydney residents urged to stay home amid new outbreak

Residents are told to stay home as officials scramble to contain a cluster ahead of Christmas. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/389TXC6

Covid vaccine: India expects to 'begin vaccination in January'

India's vaccination programme aims to reach 300 million people by early August. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KiIXdD

The impact of Covid rule-breakers

Is rule-breaking causing the Covid-19 surge? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aqiMMP

Covid in India: How do you vaccinate 1.3 billion people?

The BBC looks at how India plans to vaccinate its vast population against Covid-19. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KDKYRn

US couple find 100-year-old whisky bottles hidden in walls of home

In 1920, the US banned alcohol but bootleggers went to extraordinary lengths to hide the illicit goods. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34mJwtT

Celebrating Hanukkah and tackling anti-Semitism

Young Jews have marked the festival by posting videos honouring traditions and fighting anti-Semitism. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38dcltY

Maradona's body 'must be conserved' for DNA test, judge rules

The body must be conserved, a judge rules, as a woman claims the football legend may be her father. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34mULm6

Emmanuel Macron: French president tests positive for Covid

The 42-year-old took a test after experiencing symptoms and will now self-isolate for seven days. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3ntb1tj

Road chaos across north-eastern US

More than 60 million people are affected by a powerful snowstorm, in 14 US states. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oZr6qT

Covid and vitamin D: 'Not enough evidence' for treatment

People are still advised to take a daily supplement this winter to keep bones and muscles healthy. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gRcerS

Bitcoin hits all-time high rising above $20,000

The virtual currency has gained more than 170% this year amid stock market turmoil during the pandemic. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gWbFwW

Google ad practices under fire in new lawsuit

Ten US states accuse the tech firm of illegally trying to preserve its online advertising monopoly. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gRnqEU

China biodegradable plastics 'failing to solve pollution crisis'

China's increase in biodegradables is outpacing its ability to degrade plastic, warns Greenpeace. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WjYqN2

US snow storm: Millions on east coast under advisory

The storm is expected to stretch from Colorado to Maine with warnings in place in 14 states. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nrixVF

Marshall Islands: Record drugs haul washes up on shore

About 49kg (1,430lbs) of cocaine was found hidden inside a boat that had washed ashore. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gWQZVm

'Love jihad': What a reported miscarriage says about India's anti-conversion law

A young Hindu says she miscarried after being separated from her Muslim husband under a new law. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3r6qaTF

China's drinkers develop taste for home-grown wines

Chinese drinkers are increasingly choosing to buy and drink wines from their own country. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37rB5PT

Tigray crisis: How Ethiopian doctors fled militia attacks

Ethiopian doctors tell the BBC about their efforts to treat wounded civilians during fighting last month. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3r4nC8s

Brexit trade talks: Could the UK and the EU keep negotiating?

What happens if there's a last-minute Brexit trade deal or they need to keep talking? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3p4eEq5

In pictures: The beauty of toilets

Photographer Elena Heatherwick captures the stories behind them in villages in Rwanda and Madagascar. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KaRgIw

Viola Davis: 'In my world, there are a lot of Ma Raineys'

Viola Davis on her new movie with Chadwick Boseman and how black women are represented on screen. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kd130z

Driving force behind cellular 'protein factories' identified

Researchers have identified the driving force behind a cellular process linked to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and motor neuron disease. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2K1Z4MP

Covid: Melbourne towers lockdown 'breached human rights'

A snap decision to confine 3,000 people to public housing units was unlawful, a report finds. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34mU106

CCTV shows the moment farm animals visited a town hall

A sheep, a goat and three lambs escaped from their farm in Turkey, ending up at a nearby town hall. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/384fa04

Potential treatment approach kills lymphoma while sparing healthy cells

Scientists at Scripps Research have demonstrated a promising new strategy for treating lymphomas, a group of cancers that begin in infection-fighting cells of the immune system called lymphocytes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KbtDQ6

Experimental vaccine can counter dangerous effects of synthetic cannabinoids

Made in clandestine laboratories and sold widely across the United States, the diverse class of drugs known as synthetic cannabinoids presents a growing public health threat. In a new study, scientists have devised a way to deactivate these designer drugs after they've been administered -- offering a potential path for treating addiction and overdose. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ns6mb3

How the spread of the internet is changing migration

The spread of the Internet is shaping migration in profound ways. A new study of over 150 countries links Internet penetration with migration intentions and behaviors, suggesting that digital connectivity plays a key role in migration decisions and actively supports the migration process. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3r6Q7lK

Dark storm on Neptune reverses direction, possibly shedding a fragment

Astronomers using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope watched a mysterious dark vortex on Neptune abruptly steer away from a likely death on the giant blue planet. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34ia3by

Researchers identify neurons that control nausea-like responses in mice

Researchers have identified neurons that regulate nausea-like responses in mice. When these neurons are experimentally turned on, nausea-like responses can be activated regardless of exposure to nausea-triggering substances. Without these neurons, nausea-like responses to poisons are lost. The results shed light on the sensation of nausea and present new targets for the design of improved, more precise antinausea medications. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mxtunm

Britney Spears' father Jamie defends his conservator role

Jamie Spears tells CNN he is protecting his daughter, who "needs special care and protection". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oYQVre

East Africa fears second wave - of locust swarms

Good breeding conditions mean millions of people are now threatened in the Horn of Africa and Yemen. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nBQy5m

Iraq anti-government activist 'killed by gunmen in Baghdad'

Salah al-Iraqi played a prominent role in anti-government protests in Iraq's capital. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38diia4

Paris mayor mocks 'absurd' fine for hiring too many women

City mayor Anne Hidalgo mocks the "absurd" penalty for breaking equal employment rules. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/38bxLr5

Tom Cruise: Recording emerges of star 'shouting at film crew' over Covid

A recording emerges of the Mission: Impossible star apparently letting fly about social distancing. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kdbhhs

Gay conversion therapy: Hundreds of religious leaders call for ban

More than 370 leaders from the world's major faiths join a call to stop "harmful practices". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3afLoII

Brexit: 'Narrow path' in view for trade deal - EU chief

The president of the EU Commission says the "next few days" will be decisive for trade negotiations. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2WjH1UJ

Covid-19: Singapore migrant workers infections were three times higher

New data shows the number of infections was three times higher than previously estimated. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37mVaqm

Struggling Air India could be taken over by workers

A group representing employees is one of a number of bidders for India's loss-making national carrier. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2ITscVL

Will conflict return to Sudan's Darfur region when peacekeepers leave?

Concerns grow for people's safety in Sudan's war-torn Darfur as peacekeepers prepare to leave. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3anAZdM

Australia launches WTO appeal against China's barley tariff

In a trade row escalation, Australia says it will challenge China's tariff on its barley exports. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3ag01f1

An avocado a day keeps your gut microbes happy, study shows

Eating avocado as part of your daily diet can help improve gut health, a new study shows. Avocados are a healthy food that is high in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fat. However, it was not clear how avocados impact the microbes in the gastrointestinal system or 'gut.' from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ns1S47

MacKenzie Scott gives away $4.2bn in four months

The ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has been focusing on women, people of colour and food banks. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37lQHUR

Peru: Police conduct drugs raid dressed as Santa Claus and elf

Police in Peru raid a house dressed as Santa Claus and an elf, and detain a suspected drug dealer. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aggTSM

SolarWinds: Why the Sunburst hack is so serious

The hack of thousands of high-profile organisations, including the US government, could have major consequences. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qUS70B

Great Pyramid: Lost Egyptian artefact found in Aberdeen cigar box

The 5,000-year-old piece of wood, originally found in the Great Pyramid in 1872, is said to be "hugely significant". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gNFcc8

Prato: The Italian town turning rags into new clothes

A small Italian town has built its fortune on transforming the world's old scraps into new clothes. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3r0VxyQ

Abhishek Bachchan: A Bollywood star's romance with kabaddi

Abhishek Bachchan's team is the subject of a new TV series by an award winning British filmmaker. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oWDLLq

Kangaroos can 'communicate' with humans, study finds

Their behaviour challenges a notion that such abilities come only from domestication, a study finds. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/34gSusK

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: About 2.3 million children cut off from aid, UN says

The UN urges access to the region where Ethiopian government forces have been battling local fighters. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3p0tIF7

Germany starts Christmas lockdown amid Covid surge

New restrictions come into force limiting festivities to the smallest of family gatherings. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3r2nTZq

French culture takes centre stage in Covid protest

Actors, musicians and theatre directors gather to criticise the decision not to reopen culture venues. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3miT92J

Beirut explosion: The architect rebuilding families' homes for free

Joe Salloum and his team are bringing hope, and homes, back to people who live in the poorest areas of Beirut. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3niM4Rb

Apathy could predict onset of dementia years before other symptoms

Apathy -- a lack of interest or motivation -- could predict the onset of some forms of dementia many years before symptoms start, offering a 'window of opportunity' to treat the disease at an early stage, according to new research. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mlOsFk

Characterizing wildlife consumers to guide behavior change efforts provides optimism amid the Asian Songbird Extinction Crisis

A comprehensive new study into the key user groups in Indonesia's bird trade offers hope for protecting species through behavioural change. Novel research has identified three main groups within the Indonesian songbird owner community: 'hobbyist', 'contestant' and 'breeder'. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3gLHDvC

New dinosaur showed descendants how to dress to impress

Scientists have found the most elaborately dressed-to-impress dinosaur ever described and say it sheds new light on how birds such as peacocks inherited their ability to show off. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3p4XQiL

Nanoengineered cement shows promise for sealing leaky gas wells

Leaking natural gas wells are considered a potential source of methane emissions, and a new nanomaterial cement mixture could provide an effective, affordable solution for sealing these wells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KuT8vG

A human gene placed in fruit flies reveals details about a human developmental disorder

Meier-Gorlin syndrome, or MGS, is a rare genetic developmental disorder that causes dwarfism, small ears, a small brain, missing patella and other skeletal abnormalities. One mutation causing MGS, first reported in 2017, is a Lysine 23 to Glutamic acid (K23E) substitution in the gene for Orc6. Researchers have now put that mutant human gene into fruit flies to probe the function of Orc6 K23E. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/380X67m

Emerging from the fog: Little understood post-stroke cognitive issues are verified

For the first time, researchers have measured the physical evidence of diminished neural processing within the brain after a stroke. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3oSs08F

Critical temperature for tropical tree lifespan revealed

For the first time scientists have provided clear evidence that tropical tree lifespan decreases above a critical temperature threshold. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34eLMmN

Joe Biden says 'will of people prevailed' after victory confirmed

The Democrat has been formally certified as the next US president by the country's electoral college. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3aaB7xf

Australia storms: Floods spark evacuation warnings for NSW towns

Some New South Wales residents are told to leave their homes, after storms batter two states. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mqAjqM

EU Digital Services Act set to bring in new rules for tech giants

Europe is set to announce two new acts in the biggest shake-up of digital laws in 20 years. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oRUlfo

Endothelial cell targeting could help fight COVID-19 symptoms, study shows

For COVID-19 patients with serious lung disease, targeting endothelial cells -- cells that comprise the blood vessel wall which regulate oxygen exchange between airways and the bloodstream -- may be a novel approach restoring normal lung function. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3moelUZ

UV-emitting LED lights found to kill coronavirus

Researchers have shown that the coronavirus can be killed efficiently, quickly, and cheaply using ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs). They believe that the UV-LED technology will soon be available for private and commercial use. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ac18w8

Compound derived from thunder god vine could help pancreatic cancer patients

The results of a pre-clinical study suggest how a compound derived from the thunder god vine -- an herb used in China for centuries to treat joint pain, swelling and fever -- is able to kill cancer cells and potentially improve clinical outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34cCmIp

Salt-tolerant bacteria with an appetite for sludge make biodegradable plastics

The United States generates seven million tons of sewage sludge annually, enough to fill 2,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools. While a portion of this waste is repurposed for manure and other land applications, a substantial amount is still disposed of in landfills. In a new study, researchers have uncovered an efficient way to use leftover sludge to make biodegradable plastics. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3oOpXm3

Robotic exoskeleton training improves walking in adolescents with acquired brain injury

Gait training using robotic exoskeletons improved motor function in adolescents and young adults with acquired brain injury. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mfp1VX

Coronavirus: The day US began Covid vaccinations

A massive vaccination effort has kicked off with healthcare workers first to get a vaccine. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/387oCQz

MasterChef final is dream come true for Nepal’s Santosh Shah

Getting to the MasterChef final is like a dream for Santosh Shah, who is from a tiny village in Nepal. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kntf0L

Hunger spikes, demand rises for US food banks

Amid the pandemic, one in eight Americans say their household has experienced a food shortage. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qY1oon

Senegal's Dakar Fashion Week: The catwalk in a baobab forest

Held outside because of the pandemic, a fashion show in Senegal embraces the environmental message. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3adddkO

Why India's doctors differ on Covid-19 plasma therapy

The therapy is allowed in many countries despite unanswered questions over its efficacy. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qZxakU

A palm oil alternative could help save rainforests

Plantations for palm oil are blamed for rainforest destruction, but an artificial palm oil is close. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37iIDV2

Yemen: How Covid-19 spread in a war zone

Already facing a humanitarian crisis, Yemenis have been left in the dark over the coronavirus outbreak. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2K4d9t0

Experiencing a lockdown world through hang gliding

Hang glider Wolfgang Siess lost his job due to coronavirus, so he started filming his flights to try and attract more people to the sport. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oMFRNy

Rewiring stroke survivors brains could alleviate depression

Researchers have made a major breakthrough in the treatment of depression after stroke, using a high frequency brain stimulation device to improve low moods. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3gIBssl

'Pizza' can help address the dark matter mystery?

A research team developed a novel multiple-cell cavity ('pizza cavity') haloscope that will extend the axion search band to higher-frequency regions. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37ddhis

Inside a vaccine cold storage room

The BBC's Karishma Vaswani takes a look around a vaccine cold storage facility in Singapore. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nfEXc5

Australia storms: Wild weather lashes vast stretch of east coast

Heavy rain and huge ocean swells batter popular tourist spots, prompting hundreds of calls for help. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37Xo93q

Ambrose Dlamini: Eswatini's PM dies after testing positive for Covid-19

The country's government says Ambrose Dlamini, 52, died in hospital in South Africa on Sunday. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W8P5Yk

Kenya's black market baby trade: A mother's choice

What drives a mother to sell her baby for £70? The story of a woman caught between poverty and traffickers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nhS50n

US election 2020: What is the electoral college?

The president of the United States is not chosen directly by voters, but by what's known as the electoral college. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/35wCWlM

Fear and mistrust stalk Kashmir polls

The first elections since the region lost its special status last year have seen low voter turnout. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Lpydua

Canada 'Sixties Scoop': Indigenous survivors map out their stories

Canada's "Sixties Scoop" saw thousands of indigenous children forcibly removed from their families. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37fE25T

Covid vaccine: How does a vaccine get approved?

The NHS is carrying out the biggest mass vaccination campaign in its history with a jab that protects against Covid-19. What safety checks were made for it to get to this point? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/349ytUW

US election: Can you explain the electoral college in 10 seconds?

Jay and Peter are two of the 538 US electors, who vote on Monday to formally choose the next president. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W8JFMY

Evolution of tropical biodiversity hotspots: Look to harsh species-poor areas

Researchers argue that tropical species form faster in harsh species-poor areas but accumulate in climatically moderate areas to form hotspots of species diversity. Drawing on decades of expeditions and research in the tropics and the scientists' own knowledge and sampling of tropical bird diversity, the team assembled a large and complete phylogenomic dataset for a detailed investigation of tropical diversification. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KqRtqY

Artificial intelligence helps scientists develop new general models in ecology

The automation of scientific discoveries is here to stay. Among others, a machine-human cooperation found a hitherto unknown general model explaining the relation between the area and age of an island and the number of species it hosts. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3m9CXks

Record resolution in X-ray microscopy

Researchers have succeeded in setting a new record in X-ray microscopy. With improved diffractive lenses and more precise sample positioning, they were able to achieve spatial resolution in the single-digit nanometer scale. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3oJhBvK

Last Interglacial: warming amplified in mountain environments

Speleothems turned out to be a great stroke of luck: dripstones from two caves in the Swiss Alps provide for the first time a continuous reconstruction of temperatures during the Last Interglacial period. A new study shows that high alpine regions were affected by stronger temperature increases than lower altitudes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37bLIWW

New analysis method for predicting the risks and effects of immunotherapy

In a new study, researchers have been able to show differences in how Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody drug, interacts with the blood of healthy individuals compared to patients with chronic lymphatic leukemia. This has awakened hopes that this analysis method could pave the way for important breakthroughs in immunotherapy research and treatment. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3qSwqhB

Artificial visual system of record-low energy consumption for the next generation of AI

Researchers have built an ultralow-power consumption artificial visual system to mimic the human brain, which successfully performed data-intensive cognitive tasks. Their experiment results could provide a promising device system for the next generation of artificial intelligence (AI) applications. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3820rTC

Artificial Chemist 2.0: quantum dot R&D in less than an hour

A new technology, called Artificial Chemist 2.0, allows users to go from requesting a custom quantum dot to completing the relevant R&D and beginning manufacturing in less than an hour. The tech is completely autonomous, and uses artificial intelligence and automated robotic systems to perform multi-step chemical synthesis and analysis. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3497UPn

Perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells on the magic threshold of 30% efficiency

Scientists have set the current world record of 29.15% efficiency for a tandem solar cell made of perovskite and silicon. The tandem cell provided stable performance for 300 hours - even without encapsulation. To accomplish this, the group investigated physical processes at the interfaces to improve the transport of the charge carriers. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/349Rk29

Different forms of sugar impact hunger-suppressing hormones in young adults

Drinks with sucrose compared to glucose may cause young adults to produce lower levels of appetite-regulating hormones, according to a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2W8uVhf

Using CRISPR, new technique makes it easy to map genetic networks

Scientists have developed an easy way to genetically profile a cell, including human cells, and rapidly determine all DNA sequences in the genome that regulate expression of a specific gene. This can help track down upstream genes that regulate disease genes, and potentially find new drug targets. The technique involves 'CRISPRing' the entire genome while giving each CRISPR guide RNA a unique barcode. Deep sequencing of pooled cells uniquely identifies control genes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37diU03

When it comes to feeling pain, touch or an itch, location matters

When you touch a hot stove, your hand reflexively pulls away; if you miss a rung on a ladder, you instinctively catch yourself. Both motions take a fraction of a second and require no forethought. Now, researchers have mapped the physical organization of cells in the spinal cord that help mediate these and similar critical 'sensorimotor reflexes.' from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2LxJCs6

A potential therapy for one of the leading causes of heart disease

After 15 years of unrelenting work, a team of scientists has discovered a potential drug candidate for heart valve disease that works in both human cells and animals and is ready to move toward a clinical trial. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2W8xoYS

Nigeria school attack: Gunmen who seized children in Katsina 'surrounded'

Gunmen raided an all-boys boarding school on Friday, abducting an unknown number of children. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nfPrYV

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Max Verstappen claims second win of year at season finale

Max Verstappen ends a frustrating season for Red Bull on a high with a dominant victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mhc0eF

UK and EU agree to extend Brexit trade talks

Ursula von der Leyen says talks were "constructive", but Boris Johnson warns no deal is "most likely". from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gHcMjX

Nagorno-Karabakh conflict flares despite ceasefire

The tension comes after a six-week war killed thousands over the disputed territory in the Caucasus. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oJSKbp

Coronavirus: US starts huge vaccine delivery operation

The US has started distributing the vaccine to hundreds of locations across the country. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oL5QVO

Jill Biden: Backlash after WSJ op-ed calls future first lady 'kiddo'

Opinion writer Joseph Epstein argued only medical doctors should call themselves Dr. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qQPXyU

Motjeka Madisha: South Africa footballer dies in car crash

Motjeka Madisha, 25, was capped 13 times for the national team and was seen as a rising star. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W7gOJ3

Von der Leyen: 'It is responsible to go the extra mile and continue talks'

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says Brexit talks will continue because it's the 'responsible thing to do'. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Lt7ahD

Coronavirus: Germany to go into lockdown over Christmas

The authorities have been struggling to control a growing number of infections and deaths. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KpqsUQ

US election: Pro-Trump rallies see scuffles in US cities

"Stop the Steal" marchers gathered to back President Trump's push to reverse his election defeat. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37cqrw5

Charley Pride: Country music singer dies of Covid-19

The Grammy-winning artist was the first black singer to enter the Country Music Hall of Fame. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W7Hnxt

Paolo Rossi: Italian World Cup hero's home burgled during funeral

A watch and cash are among items reported stolen from the late World Cup winner's home on Saturday. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oIFNP5

Covid vaccines: Will drug companies make bumper profits?

Governments and charities have invested billions in vaccines developed by private firms. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oPnxmW

No pickers, no coffee: How Covid threatens Colombia's harvest

Labour shortages caused by the coronavirus pandemic are hitting coffee growers in Colombia hard. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2KhAyH6

Electoral College: The people who ultimately pick the US president

Members of the US Electoral College meet on Monday - but who are they? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W89Y67

Interior Chinatown: The novel taking on Hollywood’s Asian tropes

This year's winner of the US National Book Award for fiction explores what it means to be Asian in America. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gFoHyG

India farmers: Misleading claims about high-profile support

Misinformation is being shared about prominent politicians and the current protests in India. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oMTJr8

Earth Photo winners announced

A project on abandoned spaces reclaimed by nature has won the 2020 Earth Photo competition. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/39RZboE

Astronomy: 'Odd radio circles' in the sky a ‘genuine mystery’

A new high-powered telescope has discovered inexplicable ghostly circles in the sky. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mVT3iJ

Mateusz Kuzimski: The veg packer who became a pro footballer

Mateusz Kuzimski was working on a line in England - before returning to Poland to chase his dream. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2IpMl5z

Abortion laws: Polish women forced abroad for terminations

Poland has been rocked by weeks of protest over a ruling by the Constitutional Court, which has all but outlawed abortion, forcing even more Polish women to seek abortions abroad. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37SO6kw

Call of Duty: US and British military go head to head

Teams from the US and British forces compete for the first time to raise money for veteran charities. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37cDb64

Hurricane season 2020: Is global warming making hurricanes stronger?

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season was one of the most active on record, according to the US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration. Is it a result of global warming? from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3mbubCj

US Covid vaccination: 'The mission begins'

Gen Gustave Perna says he is confident of the safe distribution of the "precious commodity" across the US. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37X1lAF

Covid: First round of US vaccinations to begin on Monday

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine was approved earlier this week and doses are being distributed this weekend. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oMjojI

Spanish police rescue 21 'exploited' migrant workers from warehouse

Three people are arrested after police find workers in a secret room hidden behind piles of clothes. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qS17na

Boris Johnson on climate change, mung-bean munching and creating jobs

From mung-bean munching to being the Saudi Arabia of wind power generation, here's a summary of the UK PM's climate speech. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oOHKt4

Black Lives Matter: Driver charged after crashing into New York protest

Six were injured when the car ploughed into a crowd of 50 protesters on Friday in New York City. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3a3duXk

World needs to declare 'climate emergency' - UN

The UN secretary general has called on all countries to declare a climate emergency. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nfyfTI

Nigeria school attack: Hundreds missing after gunmen attack building in Katsina

Gunmen on motorbikes raid a boarding school, home to some 800 boys, in north-western Katsina state. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37gQNxn

Space tourism: Virgin space plane to fly above new base

Sir Richard Branson's tourist rocket plane will make a first flight above its new spaceport home. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gQChzz

ICYMI: Whales in New York to crossing the border for a haircut

In this week's In Case You Missed It, we round up some of the video stories that might have passed you by. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W6vAQ9

Covid pandemic: South Korea sees record rise in daily cases

The country has been praised as a model of how to deal with coronavirus but cases have surged. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37dzPjo

Zodiac Killer: Code-breakers solve San Francisco killer's cipher

A three-strong amateur team decodes one of several messages attributed to a US serial killer. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2IL6Bim

Ruhollah Zam: Iran executes journalist accused of fanning unrest

Ruhollah Zam ran a site that Iran accuses of inciting the nationwide protests of 2017-18. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W97NiE

Alfred Bourgeois: Second death row inmate executed in two days

President Donald Trump has planned three more executions before he leaves office on 20 January. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2IHsJdt

'I got a tattoo on my torso to match my son's birthmark'

When his son started feeling self-conscious about his birthmark, Derek Prue got a tattoo to match. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W9A3BH

Pushbacks: Migrants accuse Greece of sending them back out to sea

Greece insists such accusations are an insult but some migrants documented their trips with GPS. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3781JNE

GeeSixFive: The woman who became a pop sensation at 65

Olpha Selepe, also known as GeeSixFive, shot to fame with a hit single just weeks before her death. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2W3AIVj

China Covid: Infected woman defends herself after public shaming

A 20-year-old who was rounded on by Chinese internet trolls has spoken out. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Kiollk

The man behind Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You

Walter Afanasieff co-wrote and produced Mariah Carey's festive classic, which has hit UK number one after 26 years. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3qNocqY

US Supreme Court rejects Trump-backed bid to overturn election

The lawsuit sought to invalidate results in four states where President Trump lost the US election. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3meoFim

Aztec skull tower: Archaeologists unearth new sections in Mexico City

A further 119 skulls of men, women and children are found near a famous Aztec temple in Mexico City. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3nbgG7h

How Saddam Hussein tried to break into the film business

Oliver Reed travelled to Iraq in the 1980s when Saddam Hussein tried to join the movie business. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gDZ69m

Turning sounds from around the world into music

Classically-trained musician Belle Chen uses ambient recordings sent from people across the globe. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37aXsco

Harrison Ford returns as Indiana Jones for fifth and final episode

The film is to be the 78-year-old actor's fifth and final instalment in one of his most famous roles. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/341cf7t

Freed Uighur family reunited in Australia after three-year separation

Australia lobbied for the release of the Uighur woman and her Australian child for three years. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oKP9dd

Covid-19: Virus ‘success’ Taiwan to keep restrictions despite vaccine

Taiwan warns of another virus spike if people relax safety measures counting on a vaccine. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3a2376m

Biden and Harris named Time's Person of the Year

The US president-elect and his running mate beat three other finalists, including Donald Trump. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/377sh1j

Covid: China asks cabin crew to wear nappies to reduce virus risk

New coronavirus guidelines recommend cabin crew use disposable diapers and avoid the toilet. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/37XcqBX

EU breaks deadlock over €1.8tn budget and Covid-recovery fund

A compromise was reached with Hungary and Poland who had threatened a veto over the rule-of-law clause. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oLo5ul

Africa's week in pictures: 4 - 10 December 2020

A selection of the week's best photos from across the continent. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3ndKekI

Diet modifications - including more wine and cheese - may help reduce cognitive decline

The foods we eat may have a direct impact on our cognitive acuity in our later years, according to new research. The study is the first of its kind to connect specific foods with cognitive decline. The findings show cheese protected against age-related cognitive problems and red wine was related to improvements in cognitive function. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3n6VWgU

Electric 'knob' tunes chemical reaction rates in quantum gas

Building on their newfound ability to induce molecules in ultracold gases to interact with each other over long distances, researchers have used an electric 'knob' to influence molecular collisions and dramatically raise or lower chemical reaction rates. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37TC3Dt

Blocking protein restores strength, endurance in old mice

A single protein is a master regulator of mouse muscle function during aging, a new study finds. Blocking this protein increased muscle strength and endurance in old animals. It may play a role in age-related muscle weakening in humans. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3qNonT6

Single-crystal technology holds promise for next-generation lithium-ion batteries

Scientists have improved a promising battery technology, creating a single-crystal, nickel-rich cathode that is hardier and more efficient than before. It's one step toward improved lithium-ion batteries that are common in electric vehicles today. Increasing nickel content in the cathode is on the drawing board of lithium-ion battery makers largely because of its relatively low cost, wide availability and low toxicity compared to other key battery materials, such as cobalt. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3a0vOk4

Climate change: Covid drives record emissions drop in 2020

The world has seen the biggest annual fall in CO2 emissions since World War Two, say researchers. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3n2G3rH

Covid: Australian vaccine abandoned over false HIV response

Trials of the Australian vaccine returned false-positive HIV tests, but did not harm participants. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/376trdy

Embryonic development in a petri dish

By growing mouse stem cells in a special gel, a research team succeeded to grow structures similar to parts of an embryo. The trunk-like structures develop the precursors for neural, bone, cartilage and muscle tissues from cellular clumps within five days. This could allow the investigation of the effects of pharmacological agents more effectively in the future -- and on a scale that would not be possible in living organisms. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3qP9Pme

What caused the ice ages? Tiny ocean fossils offer key evidence

Since the discovery that atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations were lower during past ice ages, the cause has been a mystery. Now, fossils of ocean algae reveal that a weakening in upwelling in the Antarctic Ocean kept more CO2 in the deep ocean during the ice ages. This brings scientists closer to a complete explanation for the glacial cycle and suggests that upwelling will strengthen under anthropogenic global warming, altering global climate and ocean ecosystems. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3n2Nkrv

Muslim men on no-fly list have right to sue FBI, says US Supreme Court

Three men say the FBI violated their religious beliefs by pressuring them to spy on other Muslims. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3n2MoTY

Plexiglass, sanitiser and masks: US mall Santas prepare for Christmas

Malls that have hosted visits with Santa for over 100 years are being forced to change their approach. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3m8SCQQ

Latin America politics: UK's 1960s covert activity revealed

Declassified files reveal Britain's attempts to wield influence in Latin America in the 1960s. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/376SkFV

Iran's Supreme Leader: Who might succeed Ali Khamenei?

Rumours about Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's health have thrown the spotlight on his possible successors. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3gMLIA1

Waldemar Haffkine: The vaccine pioneer the world forgot

Waldemar Haffkine created the world's first vaccines for cholera and plague. Then a disaster derailed his life. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2Ke90m4

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom: Chadwick Boseman 'a character actor'

Oscar-winner, Davis, stars alongside Boseman in the highly anticipated Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/3oGuJBR

Hundreds of volunteers are helping to map the Great Barrier Reef

Volunteers have been asked to take and categorise thousands of photos of the Great Barrier Reef. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/376ueLJ

New Zealand: Fixing the ruined Christchurch Cathedral that's frozen in time

New drone footage shows Christchurch Cathedral that's been untouched since the 2011 earthquake. from BBC News - World https://ift.tt/2JU51en

Magnesium contact ions stabilize the macromolecular structure of transfer RNA

In cells transfer RNA (tRNA) translates genetic information from the encoding messenger RNA (mRNA) for protein synthesis. New results from ultrafast spectroscopy and in-depth theoretical calculations demonstrate that the complex folded structure of tRNA is stabilized by magnesium ions in direct contact with phosphate groups at the RNA surface. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KaaKwF

Warmer springs mean more offspring for prothonotary warblers

Climate change contributes to gradually warming Aprils in southern Illinois, and at least one migratory bird species, the prothonotary warbler, is taking advantage of the heat. A new study analyzing 20 years of data found that the warblers start their egg-laying in southern Illinois significantly earlier in warmer springs. This increases the chances that the birds can raise two broods of offspring during the nesting season, researchers found. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2VWvc6P

Engineering discovery challenges heat transfer paradigm that guides electronic and photonic device design

A research breakthrough demonstrates a new mechanism to control temperature and extend the lifetime of electronic and photonic devices such as sensors, smart phones and transistors. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37Nueza

New tools 'turn on' quantum gases of ultracold molecules

Researchers have developed tools to 'turn on' quantum gases of ultracold molecules, gaining control of long-distance molecular interactions for potential applications such as encoding data for quantum computing and simulations. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3m52PxE