Scientific American: Today in Science

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Accessed on 12 March 2020, 2230 UTC.

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March 12, 2020

Dear Reader,

As researchers race to test an experimental vaccine for COVID-19, they aren’t waiting to see how well it prevents infection in animals before trying it in people, breaking from the usual protocol. Meanwhile, the U.S. government is working to contain the spread of the virus. Testing is central to these efforts. In our lead story, molecular biologist Maureen Ferran answers key questions about who should get tested, how the diagnostic kits work–and if there are enough to go around. The coronavirus pandemic has also caused an unexpected dip in global greenhouse gas emissions. Reasons include a temporary blow to industrial activities in China, falling demand for oil and a decline in air travel.

Stay well,

Sunya Bhutta, Senior Editor, Audience Engagement
@sunyaaa
Biology

How Does the Coronavirus Test Work? 5 Questions Answered

A molecular biologist explains how the kits function, and why the U.S. has faced problemsBy Maureen Ferran,The Conversation US

Researchers Rush to Test Coronavirus Vaccine in People
MEDICINE

Researchers Rush to Test Coronavirus Vaccine in People

In a big break from protocol, scientists are not waiting to see how well it works in animals first

By Eric Boodman,STAT
How to Prevent Loneliness in a Time of Social Distancing
BEHAVIOR & SOCIETY

How to Prevent Loneliness in a Time of Social Distancing

Here’s advice for preserving your mental health while avoiding physical proximity

By Kasley Killam
Molten Iron Rain Falls On Scorching-Hot Exoplanet
SPACE

Molten Iron Rain Falls On Scorching-Hot Exoplanet

A planet called WASP-76 b may be the most extreme world we know of

By Mike Wall,SPACE.com
How the Coronavirus Pandemic Is Affecting CO2 Emissions
ENVIRONMENT

How the Coronavirus Pandemic Is Affecting CO2 Emissions

Curtailed travel could temporarily lower emissions, but increased home energy use might offset that

By Chelsea Harvey,E&E News
Constant Shifts between Mental States Mark a Signature of Consciousness
COGNITION

Constant Shifts between Mental States Mark a Signature of Consciousness

Both of two essential brain networks that switch roles—one is on when the other is off—shut down in unresponsive individuals

By Simon Makin
FROM THE STORE
The Science Behind the Debates
The Science Behind the Debates

People say that they trust scientists, yet evidence often takes a back seat to emotions. In fact, for issues that cause the loudest public furor – like vaccine safety – there is almost no debate in the scientific community. In this eBook, we examine the science behind today’s most contentious debates including gun control, GMOs and evolution, as well as strategies for understanding and coping with denialism.

*Editor’s Note: This eBook was originally published as a Special Edition The eBook adaptation contains all of the articles, but some of the artwork has been removed to optimize viewing on tablet devices.

Buy Now

ADVERTISEMENT

FROM THE ARCHIVE
Why You Should Work from Home
Why You Should Work from Home

Ditching the office at least part-time can boost profitability and personal happiness—provided it’s done right

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“I hope that these kinds of events–where people are actually pausing and they’re in their homes and they have a chance to think–we use those moments to communicate some of these bigger issues that are facing us”

Jacqueline Klopp, Co-Director of the Center for Sustainable Urban Development, Columbia University

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https://hawaiisciencedaily.com

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