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Showing posts from December, 2020

U.S. sees some indications of possible Iranian attack in Mideast

There have been recent heightened tensions, but an official acknowledged reading Iranian intentions is "difficult and at times unpredictable." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38LJAVq

Covid variant found in Florida, more cases identified in California

The strain first detected in the U.K. has now been reported in three states. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LeHeWM

Rep. Jamie Raskin announces death of 25-year-old son

The family has asked for everyone to observe strict Covid-19 protocols as they grieve for the loss of Thomas Bloom Raskin. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Lby79D

Trump extends Covid-related visa ban, health coverage policy advances

In April, Trump imposed a ban on green cards issued abroad that largely targets family members of people already in the United States. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hwnPNa

Rep. Jamie Raskin announces death of 25-year-old son

The family has asked for everyone to observe strict Covid-19 protocols as they grieve for the loss of Thomas Bloom Raskin. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Lby79D

Danny Masterson harassment suit must go through Scientology mediation, judge rules

The plaintiffs claim they were stalked and intimidated by the church's agents after going to police to report rape allegations against the actor. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KQfQic

Millions of Americans moved during the pandemic — and most aren't looking back

The faces of America's cities and neighborhoods have been forever altered by the pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38RYqtC

U.S. restores Medicaid for Marshall Islands, exposing longtime injustice, experts say

President Bill Clinton signed a welfare bill 24 years ago that altered those eligible for federal aid, stripping Marshallese and other nations of coverage. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/388gMHL

Masked rapper MF Doom dies at 49

Daniel Dumile, best know as the rapper and producer MF Doom, died on October 31, his wife and label announced on Thursday. No cause of death was given. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hwGMiV

In Arizona, a shortage of public health staffers is slowing the vaccine rollout

4 out of 5 doses that arrived in the state by early this week hadn't been used, waiting for someone qualified to give the shots. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hvNTYZ

Food banks and hospitals are stretched thin as the Delta faces a Covid surge

Three in 1,000 residents in Bolivar County have died from the coronavirus, devastating one of the most vulnerable rural regions in the country. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38S8LWb

New law requires portable gas containers to add devices to protect against explosions

An NBC News investigation found that under certain conditions, plastic gas containers were susceptible to explosions that could cause severe burns. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2L8RLmu

Rep.-elect Salazar to miss swearing-in ceremony due to Covid diagnosis

The freshman Republican from Miami defeated Rep. Donna Shalala in one of the biggest upsets of the year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3n1cnKH

'Playing with fire': GOP Sen. Ben Sasse tears into Republicans planning to object to Electoral College results

The Nebraska senator said that in private, few Republicans actually believed Trump's baseless claims of voter fraud. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3n3ubVJ

After grueling year, latest weekly initial jobless claims remain elevated, at 787,000

"The bar couldn’t be any lower, but after a tough start the economy should have a much better 2021," one economist said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38QmpsV

2020: A dismal economic year, unless you were on Wall Street

It might be hard to recall now, but 2020 started off with an economy full of potential. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3huBPXM

Shopping in 2020: What we bought during a global pandemic

Air purifiers, exercise bikes, monitors, ergonomic chairs, face masks: Elevating home living overwhelmed Shopping trends this year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34Y3hbg

Nationwide Covid memorial announced as part of Biden inauguration

Cities and towns around the country will light up their buildings and ring church bells in honor of those who have died. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WZZvtG

Goodbye, 2020! Are New Year's resolutions inspirational or self-defeating?

A writer who loves making resolutions and a writer who thinks they're a waste of time make their cases. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hxbB72

World bids farewell to pandemic-ridden 2020

With cancelled firework displays and banned public gatherings, New Year's Eve events this year will be a mere shadow of past celebrations. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34XEvbg

Ford nixes F-150 ad campaign, urges Americans to wear a mask instead

Ford's New Year’s Day campaign asks Americans to wear a mask and follow the science. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3n1Tc3A

Beyond crisis funding: Black-led organizations that saw a surge in donations look for lasting impact

Heading into 2021, Black-led nonprofits and organizations encounter new — and old — funding challenges after a surge in donors in 2020. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38NMCZf

Norwegian rescuers hunt for 10 missing after landslide

Another 10 people were injured, one critically, after a landslide in the residential area in the Gjerdrum municipality, about 19 miles north of Oslo. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2JwQNjw

Putin targets U.S. social media, secret agent leaks and protests with new laws

One of Wednesday's laws enables Russia to block or restrict access to sites that "discriminate" against its media. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3htdjGG

Doctors, nurses 'can't take much more' amid Covid-19 surge in Southern California

Hospitals have erected makeshift ICUs and moved patients into gift shops and pediatric wards to make room for the sick and dying. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aSA99r

Trump vs. the truth: The most outrageous falsehoods of his presidency

“I have never seen a president in American history who has lied so continuously and so outrageously as Donald Trump, period,” presidential historian Michael Beschloss said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hu4RXH

I lived alone on a desert island for eight years and loved it despite the solitude

There was so much beauty that it made the island magical. But loneliness would still attack me. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rEil7Q

After a year of darkness, trauma experts offer this advice: Find hope

"If you explicitly work on focusing on the good things that happened, no matter what they were, you will feel better," one psychiatrist said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LcTjvF

Here are the top memes of 2020

"Since we can't see each other in person, using memes to kind of share feelings and connect with one another has become huge this year," said the editor of Know Your Meme. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2JqZMmq

California governor offers plan, $2 billion to reopen in-person schools

Gavin Newsom said the focus early on will be youngest students and those who struggle most with distance learning brought on in the pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KNUmCA

Foster care crisis: More kids are entering, but fewer families are willing to take them in

Experts and state agencies say families are reluctant to take in foster children for fear of spreading Covid-19. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WX8lIQ

Samuel Little, most prolific serial killer in U.S. history, dies

Little, 80, confessed to over 90 murders and was serving multiple life sentences. He was pronounced dead Wednesday at a California hospital. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pIgQ6Z

Dallas flights grounded as air traffic facility with 3 positive Covid tests in a week is sanitized

Flights were subject to a ground stop for several hours at Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth International airports Wednesday, according to the FAA. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2JCAUZ2

A pursuit of better testing to sort out the complexities of ADHD

The introduction of computer simulation to the identification of symptoms in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has potential to provide an additional objective tool to gauge the presence and severity of behavioral problems, researchers suggest. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nZYnC9

Wall Street's best year ever? Why the pandemic has been great for billionaires.

The United States has gained 56 new billionaires since the pandemic began. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Mkpv0V

One year since coronavirus emerged in Wuhan, Americans there look home

"I would be very afraid if I were living in the States," Benjamin Wilson, an American who has lived in Wuhan for almost two decades, said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38JCHnD

One year since coronavirus emerged in Wuhan, Americans there look home

"I would be very afraid if I were living in the States," Benjamin Wilson, an American who has lived in Wuhan for almost two decades, said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38JCHnD

Blast, gunfire in Yemen after plane carrying new government lands, 5 killed

Loud blasts and gunfire were heard at the airport shortly after the plane arrived, witnesses said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3o1PZSH

Biden, Harris to campaign in Georgia in final push to win Senate

The incoming Democrats are rallying for Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock ahead of Tuesday's runoffs. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WSNQgg

Bill legalizing abortion passed in pope's native Argentina

The measure would make Argentina the largest Latin American country to legalize abortion. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34XwPpB

Federal judge: No surprise 'criminal like Trump pardons other criminals'

U.S. District Court Judge Robert Pratt was appointed by President Clinton in 1997. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ocETdy

Nashville blast brings damage and uncertainty to already struggling local businesses

First, a tornado passed through the city in March, uprooting trees and destroying homes and shops. Then, the coronavirus pandemic brought tourism and business to a halt. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34WeJnR

Israel welcomes former spy in U.S. after 30 years in jail

The espionage affair involving Pollard became a decades-long sticking point between the U.S. and its ally, Israel. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rEglfH

These Covid 'long-haul' survivors are now part of a special club no one wants to join

Like those of us living with chronic illness, thousands of Covid-19 survivors must now confront the unrelenting unknowing of what will happen next. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ocidtW

How the NBA's pandemic success created an 'unrealistic expectation' for sports leagues

Most leagues have restarted play even as players have tested positive, games have been delayed and the broader national situation has worsened. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3o1AAlk

AstraZeneca granted U.K. approval for its Covid-19 vaccine

"With two vaccines now approved, we will be able to vaccinate a greater number of people who are at highest risk," the U.K. government said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ryApQR

AstraZeneca granted U.K. approval for its Covid-19 vaccine

"With two vaccines now approved, we will be able to vaccinate a greater number of people who are at highest risk," the U.K. government said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ryApQR

N.J. principal Joe Clark who inspired film 'Lean on Me' dies at 82

The educator's unwavering commitment to his students and uncompromising disciplinary methods inspired the 1989 film. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hqNVRI

Congressman-elect Luke Letlow dies from Covid complications days before being sworn in

Luke Letlow, a Republican elected U.S. representative to Louisiana's 5th district, was 41 years old. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37VSHUm

Trump put Senate Republicans in a real jam. But McConnell might have a way out.

The president said GOP lawmakers have a "death wish" if they don't OK $2,000 stimulus checks. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37Y3q0E

Stay-at-home orders extended in California as Covid cases surge

The restrictions which ordered some businesses closed were extended in two large regions as hospitals are running low on ICU beds. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3huxqEw

Stay-at-home orders extended in California as Covid cases surge

The restrictions which ordered some businesses closed were extended in two large regions as hospitals are running low on ICU beds. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3huxqEw

The holidays brought air travel to its highest levels since March. It's still way down.

More than 1.2 million passengers crossed TSA checkpoints Sunday, the most since spring. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3b5gRxN

Colorado reports first confirmed case of U.K. coronavirus variant

The new variant, dubbed VUI-202012/01, is believed to be more contagious but not more lethal than other strains. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aVCpwu

Louisville police move to fire detective who obtained Breonna Taylor warrant

Det. Joshua Jaynes said in a sworn affidavit that he spoke to a postal inspector about packages at Taylor's home, but an investigation found otherwise. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KKmaYx

Treasury Secretary Mnuchin says $600 Covid payments start going out Tuesday night

The payouts are being sent through direct deposit and checks while a measure to increase the payments to $2,000 is stalled in the Republican-controlled Senate. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34TWy2e

Nurse urging Covid safety gets million views on TikTok

"It's like a war zone and we're asking for help and help's not coming," Gayana Chuklansev, a nurse, said on the video-sharing platform. . from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2L54M0g

U.S. to allow small drones to fly over people and at night

Small drones will be allowed to fly over people and at night in the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said on Monday. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2X6xktn

The state of Black Lives Matter, 7 years later

The Black Lives Matter movement, founded in 2013, has changed the way the nation talks about race. But the organization itself may be disconnected from local chapters. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rFmisP

'Up the ante': What players, NBA are doing for racial justice

Task forces, coalitions, foundations and donations are among plans to sustain momentum the league and players embraced last season from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38Jorev

Nashville bomber told his neighbor before attack: The world is 'never going to forget me'

The man was speechless when he learned that authorities identified his neighbor, Anthony Warner, as the man suspected of detonating a bomb in Nashville. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38Lwk30

Passengers set to board first Boeing 737 Max flight, almost two years after jet's worldwide grounding

The controversial jet was grounded in 2019 after two crashes that killed everybody on board. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KKgVrN

Famed French designer Pierre Cardin dies at 98

Cardin’s name embossed myriad products from wristwatches to bedsheets, making his label among the world’s most famous. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mWm0ud

Brain imaging predicts PTSD after brain injury

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychiatric disorder brought on by physical and/or psychological trauma. How its symptoms, including anxiety, depression and cognitive disturbances arise remains incompletely understood and unpredictable. Treatments and outcomes could potentially be improved if doctors could better predict who would develop PTSD. Now, researchers using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have found potential brain biomarkers of PTSD in people with traumatic brain injury (TBI). from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rChPqY

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34SrG21

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rBrttM

'She's very courageous': Saudi women's rights campaigner to appeal jail sentence

“She wants to be considered innocent, this is her main objective,” Loujain al-Hathloul's sister, Alia, told NBC News. “She’s very courageous." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37XSKyS

Russia's Covid-19 death toll 3 times higher than reported, deputy PM says

Questions have been raised over Russia's official Covid death toll — it has the fourth largest case load in the world. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38N5qrs

Biden to attack Trump admin for slow pace of Covid vaccinations

The president-elect will be sworn into office in 22 days. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hsNrdK

My father's murder disrupted my education. But I survived and got back on track.

I tried to escape the tragedy of my father's murder at a school far away from home. But I carried my grief inside me, and it almost drowned me as a student. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KJsuzt

Republican tax cuts are a lie. And our research proves it — just in time for Covid.

Policymakers at all levels of the U.S. government should not cut taxes on wealthy individuals or corporations as a way to aid the economic recovery from the pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rJeZkb

How the pandemic deferred dreams — and potentially reshaped lives irrevocably

In a way, Covid-19 behaved like a thief, stealing precious time that may be lost forever. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aRhKcQ

Russia tells Kremlin critic Navalny to return or face jail

Russia has said it has seen no evidence he was poisoned and has denied any involvement in the incident. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3poU4AO

Allen, Diggs carry Bills to 38-9 Monday Night Football win over Patriots

Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs emphatically carried the Buffalo Bills to a 38-9 victory over the New England Patriots on Monday night. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mVKEuZ

Utah hiker slips, falls more than 100 feet — and survives

“He misstepped, got too close to the edge and took a slide and tumble halfway down the cliff," a fire official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aR7gKO

Utah hiker slips, falls more than 100 feet — and survives

“He misstepped, got too close to the edge and took a slide and tumble halfway down the cliff," a fire official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aR7gKO

Ohio officer who fatally shot Andre Hill in Columbus is fired

Officer Adam Coy's actions "do not live up to the oath of a Columbus Police officer," Columbus Public Safety Director Ned Pettus, Jr. said in his decision. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2MiXgzP

Ohio officer who fatally shot Andre Hill in Columbus is fired

Officer Adam Coy's actions "do not live up to the oath of a Columbus Police officer," Columbus Public Safety Director Ned Pettus, Jr. said in his decision. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2MiXgzP

LAPD seeking public's help to find woman who went missing in early December after leaving Venice Beach

Kolby Story, 32, was last seen in the early morning hours of December 7, 2020, in the 12300 block of Pacific Avenue, in the Mar Vista area of Los Angeles, California. A few hours earlier, on December 6, Kolby had been at Venice Beach and called a friend to help find her car keys. They located the keys and around 2 a.m., she left the beach alone and drove in the direction of her Mar Vista home. She never made it. Her friend and her roommate reported her missing on December 9. Her car was later lo from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mXzy8y

The battle for more Covid aid is far from over. Biden, Democrats have plans.

State and local govt's say they need money, and restaurants and renters are pleading for help, too. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34Pvyks

Vaping could cloud your thoughts, new studies suggest

Both adults and kids who vape were more likely to report difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions than their non-vaping, non-smoking peers on two annual national surveys. Survey results also suggest that kids were more likely to experience mental fog if they started vaping before the age of 14. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34RAG7L

Quick look under the skin

Imaging techniques enable a detailed look inside an organism. But interpreting the data is time-consuming and requires a great deal of experience. Artificial neural networks open up new possibilities: They require just seconds to interpret whole-body scans of mice and to segment and depict the organs in colors, instead of in various shades of gray. This facilitates the analysis considerably. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3n2XMi5

Music-induced emotions can be predicted from brain scans

Researchers have discovered what type of neural mechanisms are the basis for emotional responses to music. Altogether 102 research subjects listened to music that evokes emotions while their brain function was scanned with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34RO0ZH

Study suggests link between word choices and extraverts

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

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 Top Health 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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nZJC2k

Lori Loughlin released from prison after serving 2 months for role in college admissions scandal

The former "Full House" star served her two-month sentence at a federal lockup near San Francisco. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rvLYIq

New Covid vaccine starts late-stage trial in the U.S.

Up to 30,000 volunteers will receive the two-dose shots at about 115 sites in the U.S. and Mexico. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aMMrjr

Ossoff, Warnock warn about running low on funds, seek last-minute donations

NBC News obtained a memo from the Democratic campaigns expressing concern about outside GOP spending in the Georgia Senate races. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mTxQVX

Prominent Saudi women's rights activist sentenced to nearly 6 years in prison

Loujain al-Hathloul rose to prominence for openly calling for women’s right to drive in the deeply conservative kingdom. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3puxFSu

Snitches on wheels: Police turn to car data to destroy suspects' alibis

Looser privacy standards for vehicle data are a treasure chest of data for law enforcement. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mWez62

2 women arrested after hosting 200-person 'makeshift bar' party in New Jersey

26-year-old Denisse Tinizaray and 28-year-old Katherine Tinizaray, both of Newark, were arrested after the two failed to provide a liquor license. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KGcmie

Archaeologists uncover ancient street food shop in Pompeii

Archaeologists in Pompeii, the city buried in a volcanic eruption in 79 AD, have made the extraordinary find of a frescoed hot food and drinks shop. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38DZJvX

Chinese citizen journalist jailed for four years for reports from Wuhan

Zhang's lawer told NBC News on Monday his client was “on long-term hunger strike” and being force-fed. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2MhiqON

Peter King: Cowboys, Bears eye improbable playoff runs after 2020 disasters

Peter King's Football Morning In America column leads with how the Bears and Cowboys improbably find themselves in the NFL playoff hunt. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38GCelZ

Becerra faces GOP confirmation concerns over abortion, health care

"I just don't know what expertise he has in health care," said Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Tennessee. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KXA3m2

My great-grandfather denounced Stalin. Here's how to survive the next autocrat.

One way to combat tyrants is by limiting their power over people through reading. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KUpXSN

Biden will inherit hundreds of toxic waste Superfund sites, with climate threats looming

The EPA’s program for cleaning up the nation’s hazardous waste dumps has a backlog of sites that lack funding — the largest in 15 years. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34OcMdo

'I would never go back': Horrors grow in Ethiopia's conflict

Refugees in a fragile community on the edge of Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict have fled nearly two months of deadly fighting. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mUpIEo

Food banks sound alarm on child hunger as Covid crisis drags on

One county in Massachusetts has experienced a projected 168 percent increase in child hunger since 2018. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38vZ93e

Fox's 'Masked Dancer' competition is so wild, it just might work

Perhaps masked anonymous dancers is merely the logical next step for our pandemic-addled brains. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ppimuo

Here are the top memes of 2020

"Since we can't see each other in person, using memes to kind of share feelings and connect with one another has become huge this year," said the editor of Know Your Meme. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2JqZMmq

Doctor uses autoinjector, stems his allergic reaction to vaccine

Physician with a severe shellfish allergy felt symptoms after his shot and was allowed to self-administer epinephrine, Boston Medical Center says. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rEAEtN

Covid unemployment benefits expire after Trump refuses to sign aid bill

Other pandemic assistance programs are set to end and a government shutdown looms as Trump spends his holiday at Mar-a-Lago. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hloG3i

Police at Nashville blast credit divine intervention, say RV played "Downtown" before exploding

“I literally heard God tell me to turn around," an officer said of surviving the blast. Police also say the Petula Clark song was coming from the vehicle prior to the explosion. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3psPO36

Covid unemployment benefits expire after Trump refuses to sign aid bill

Other pandemic assistance programs are set to end and a government shutdown looms as Trump spends his holiday at Mar-a-Lago. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hloG3i

Jon Huber, pro wrestler known as Brodie Lee and Luke Harper, dies at 41

Huber died of a "non Covid related lung issue," his wife Amanda wrote on Instagram. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hlh40I

'Club kid' killer Michael Alig dies at 54

His story was turned into the 2003 movie “Party Monster,” in which Macaulay Culkin played Alig. Police say a drug overdose is suspected in his death. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aRlZ8B

Vaccination begins for 450 million in Europe as mutated coronavirus strain spreads

The coordinated vaccination campaign of unprecedented scale in the European Union is a crucial step in curbing a pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34O1Qfz

Hundreds of Syrians flee Lebanon camp as tents torched

Lebanon has over one million Syrian refugees who fled since the beginning of the Syrian conflict in 2011. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34K0a72

Vaccination begins for 450 million in Europe as mutated coronavirus strain spreads

The coordinated vaccination campaign of unprecedented scale in the European Union is a crucial step in curbing a pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34O1Qfz

Can public transportation survive the pandemic? Experts warn of 'death spiral'

"If we get this wrong, then it’s very hard to bring public transport services back once they’ve disappeared," one expert said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aMfHqO

Democrats promise Biden-era abortion showdown over Hyde Amendment

The decades-old measure, named after an Illinois GOP lawmaker, limits the use of federal funds. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37SC2AW

THINKing about how we survived one of the worst years ever — and what happens next

We ask people who lived through some of this before to tell us how they survived any of this — and, since 2021 is upon us, what can possibly happen next. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KE16mr

It's fine to not be OK after losing a parent. I wasn't, but maybe I'm getting there.

I haven’t fully processed the pain of losing her two years later, and I doubt I ever fully will. But it is slowly getting easier. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37SuSwy

At least 7 killed in knife attack in northeastern China, state media reports

The suspect, identified by the media by his surname Yang, was arrested while the motive for the attack remains unknown. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pnVVWs

Man wearing Trump mask, Santa Claus hat shoots brother-in-law, police say

The victim suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries, authorities in California said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aERLFE

Woman survives after vehicle goes over San Francisco beach cliff

It ended up on its roof on the sand at Fort Funston. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rtHkL5

Man wearing Trump mask, Santa Claus hat shoots brother-in-law, police say

The victim suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries, authorities in California said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aERLFE

Six injured in Massachusetts shooting during music video filming

No suspects were in custody, and the motive was unknown, police said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2JqItls

How 2020 rewired our relationship with the internet and tech — possibly forever

After a pandemic year that pushed more of life online, the idea of spending even more time on the internet doesn't sound so crazy anymore. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mKGNAM

Three dead, three injured in shooting at Illinois bowling alley

Teenagers were among those hurt in the Saturday night attack, police said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38Gxxsi

Gingerbread monolith delights San Francisco on Christmas Day

“It made me smile. I wonder who did it, and when they put it there,” said Ananda Sharma, who spotted the creation during his morning run. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37QxTO1

Hundreds of migrants freezing in heavy snow in Bosnia camp

Around 1,000 people were stuck in the cold, with no facilities or heat, eating meager food parcels from aid groups after a destructive fire. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mSNvog

Utah football player Ty Jordan, Pac-12 offensive freshman of the year, dies

Jordan's infectious personality and smile "made a huge impact on our program in the short time he was with us," Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hlcqzZ

Utah football player Ty Jordan, Pac-12 offensive freshman of the year, dies

Jordan's infectious personality and smile "made a huge impact on our program in the short time he was with us," Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hlcqzZ

As pandemic forced workers home, shoe repair stores lose nearly all their business

“We suffer a lot because we depend on the people in the building,” the owner of Eddie’s Shoe Repair in New York City’s Rockefeller Center said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nWwfQE

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 Top Health 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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34NyiPf

New research highlights the importance of a forgotten organ in ensuring healthy pregnancies

An international research team has uncovered for the first time the importance of a small gland tucked behind the sternum that works to prevent miscarriage and diabetes in pregnant women. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nSH6uD

Biden calls on Trump to sign Covid bill as government shutdown nears

The president-elect also criticized Trump for letting a handful of Covid relief protections expire with his refusal to sign the bill. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37PQwSj

Tennessee governor requests emergency declaration from President Donald Trump

The "severity and magnitude" of the blast are more than state and local governments can handle, said Lee in a statement. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mSMooJ

Tennessee governor requests emergency declaration from President Donald Trump

The "severity and magnitude" of the blast are more than state and local governments can handle, said Lee in a statement. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mSMooJ

Tougher rules begin for millions in U.K. as mutated Covid strain spreads around the world

Festive cheer fades as new variant found in several European countries and further afield. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rrhh7c

George Blake, last in line of Cold War spies who betrayed Britain, dies at 98

"The memory of this legendary person will be preserved forever in our hearts," wrote Russian President Vladimir Putin. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WMLAHy

Covid didn't cancel Christmas in London. Boris Johnson's lack of leadership did.

How did the anti-nanny-state, good-time prime minister become the first man to demand a no-fun London since Oliver Cromwell? He won't make a tough call. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38z8M1j

Air Canada Boeing 737-8 Max jet forced to divert after engine shut down

Shortly after the take-off, the pilots received an "engine indication" and "decided to shut down one engine," an Air Canada spokesman said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rEv6zo

In pursuing historic climate change agenda, Biden may find surprising ally

Republicans are pitching their own plans — and the new president may be able to work with them next year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3prQHt0

Netflix's steamy 'Bridgerton' takes Regency bodice-ripping to a whole new level

But perhaps most importantly for the romance genre, the series doesn’t shy away from happily ever afters. Let’s hope for a dose of “Bridgerton” every holiday season. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pnm73x

Multiple explosions target police in Kabul leaving at least 2 dead

The officers died and a civilian was hurt when a magnetic bomb attached to a police vehicle detonated, said police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nQ2iBB

5 killed in Arkansas in suspected homicide on Christmas Day

The sheriff's office said it believes all five of the people found dead were relatives. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hiUzJH

Judge delays execution of only woman on U.S. death row

The decision potentially sets up the Trump administration to schedule the execution after President-elect Joe Biden takes office. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rrZ49F

Judge delays execution of only woman on U.S. death row

The decision potentially sets up the Trump administration to schedule the execution after President-elect Joe Biden takes office. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rrZ49F

Duke women call it quits on basketball season because of Covid

The men's team plan to continue, but coach Mike Krzyzewski has questioned why college basketball was being played in the midst of the pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37L9lpA

Christmas Day homicide of 18-year-old at Indiana apartment complex still unsolved four years later

Calab Luckett, 18, was shot and killed on Christmas Day 2016. His body was found the next day at Woodland Park Apartments, then called Parkside Terrace, in Evansville, Indiana. His death has been ruled a homicide but the shooter has never been caught. The Evansville Police Department is investigating. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rtyih1

Duke women call it quits on basketball season because of Covid

The men's team plan to continue, but coach Mike Krzyzewski has questioned why college basketball was being played in the midst of the pandemic. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37L9lpA

The stunning 'One Night in Miami' is already an Oscar favorite. Here's why.

“One Night in Miami” should be the future of its genre. And King adeptly places the emphasis where it belongs: these four extraordinary men. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aIteiQ

'Wonder Woman 1984' is a fun movie — if you don't think too hard about its message

This isn't a great superhero film, but it's a pleasant enough way to spend 150 minutes — for the most part. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KVUfVm

I was wrong to ban Christmas in my home. Now I'm welcoming it.

By stressing the idea of a singular identity, I inadvertently sent a message of noninclusion. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KZU1ww

Trump again calls for $2,000 checks as Covid aid bill remains in flux

"Give our people the money!" the president tweeted without indicating if he will veto the measure. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37OJOf3

In very different Christmas messages, Biden discusses Covid and Trump barely makes reference

Nearly 330,000 Americans have died from the virus, and there are over 18.7 million confirmed cases in the U.S. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38CIgnx

In very different Christmas messages, Biden discusses Covid and Trump barely makes reference

Nearly 330,000 Americans have died from the virus, and there are over 18.7 million confirmed cases in the U.S. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38CIgnx

Nashville police investigating 'intentional' Christmas vehicle explosion

The 6:30 a.m. explosion sent three people to hospitals with non-critical injuries. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37O3sIb

British army helps clear backlog of 4,000 virus-stranded truck drivers at border

Free food and drink was being sent to the stranded drivers and more than 280 portable toilets were sent to the area. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38xCljP

If nothing else, the U.K.-E.U. trade deal might mean Brits can stop talking about Brexit

"This takes Brexit off the front pages and returns the business of trade relations back to dull officialdom," one expert said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34JfHUo

Erdogan says Turkey wants better ties with Israel, talks continue

"The Palestine policy is our red line," the Turkish leader said. "If there were no issues at the top level, our ties could have been very different." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KDBNB1

Christians celebrate subdued Christmas amid pandemic

"We want to offer hope," said Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, who himself contracted the virus and recovered. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34K2Npk

A year of binge eating, overdrinking and impulse shopping. This is your brain on cortisol.

When experience has demonstrated that an extra glass of wine or a slice of cake won't make us feel better in the long run, why do bad habits continue to compel us? from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37NUTwV

Christmas has always been about the need to find hope. This year is no different.

All of the symbolism of Christmas is designed to remind us that better days are coming. There is no better year to remember that than this one. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mRBX4G

CDC says all U.K. air travelers to U.S. need negative Covid tests as mutant virus emerges

The order from President Donald Trump follows similar actions by the airlines and flight suspensions by nations concerned about coronavirus variants. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KRyje2

Pair of Nazi headstones with swastikas removed from U.S. national cemetery in Texas

The two grave markings belonging to German prisoners of war were taken down on Wednesday at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antionio. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nJwOwS

'No other case like this': 3-year-old in Missouri had stroke after Covid diagnosis, doctors say

Researchers since the start of the coronavirus pandemic have been examining a possible association between Covid-19 and neurological problems. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38uEJb0

UPS employee confessed to fatally attacking co-worker found stabbed in truck, warrant says

“What took you guys so long to find me?” the suspect asked Connecticut authorities who found him after he ran into the woods following the alleged attack. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aH6q3a

From pop stars to politics: How the pandemic, social unrest mobilized stans

Stans mobilized behind political and social issues in 2020, taking their cues from the public stances of the stars and celebrities they idolize. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37KWDHc

Gaming studio sued over buggy 'Cyberpunk 2077'

The lawsuit seeks class action status on behalf of a group of investors, alleging CD Projekt over-hyped not only the game but its stock price. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WWEznD

Parents convicted in 'balloon boy' hoax pardoned by Colorado governor

Richard and Mayumi Heene reported that their 6-year-old son floated away in a UFO-shaped balloon above Fort Collins in 2009. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KQKiZk

Christmas storm moves east, bringing snow, high winds and heavy rain

A foot of snow, wind gusts up to 65 mph and tornadoes are all possible in the Christmas Eve storm, forecasters said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mNN4LS

U.S. air travel reached post-March peak on day before Christmas Eve

TSA data showed that some 1,191,123 travelers passed through airport checkpoints nationwide on Wednesday, the largest number of people since March 16. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mIwHAh

Feral pigs flummox Puerto Rico, invading communities and reproducing rapidly

The pigs are proving particularly hard to control and can't be killed for food because they carry so many diseases. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34GVnDi

Pelosi says House to vote on bigger stimulus payments after GOP blocks increase

Her announcement came moments after House Republicans blocked an effort to increase the payments to $2,000 per person. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38AKuDV

Where is Santa? Track his journey across the globe

NORAD is tracking Santa’s sleigh and his reindeer for its 65th year on Christmas Eve. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mGuEwM

Where is Santa? Track his journey across the globe

NORAD is tracking Santa’s sleigh and his reindeer for its 65th year on Christmas Eve. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mGuEwM

Britain and European Union strike last-minute post-Brexit trade deal

Independent economists were almost united in agreeing that any form of Brexit will damage the U.K. economically. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mOkzxG

How a gay chorus is using American Sign Language to keep holiday spirit alive

For this year's annual holiday concert, the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus has added an inclusive twist to the Christmas classic "Silent Night." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WHGJXR

Breaking bad: How shattered chromosomes make cancer cells drug-resistant

Scientists describe how a phenomenon known as 'chromothripsis' breaks up chromosomes, which then reassemble in ways that ultimately promote cancer cell growth. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WHCs6L

For Afro-Latina supermodel Joan Smalls, Puerto Rico and family are 'my safe haven'

"When you leave — you actually realize how important these things are to your happiness and fulfillment," she says. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nHItwd

Shopping in 2020: Bestselling exercise bikes

Schwinn, Echelon, Sunny Health & Fitness: Readers preferred adjustable, affordable and compact exercise bikes this year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mNhn5E

The 'relief' in Washington's paltry Covid relief bill will be short-lived. Here's why.

President-Elect Joe Biden has promised that this bill, if it becomes law, is just a down payment. Because without a long-term aid plan, the pandemic could steal millions of futures. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3azurZU

Court orders release of man charged in Daniel Pearl killing

Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh's lawyer has called for him to be released immediately. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2M4HCrA

Shonda Rhimes reinvented how to present race in a period piece with 'Bridgerton'

Typically in Regency era shows or movies, people of color are all either erased or given traumatic backstories. This is excitingly different. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38wjZQ9

China launches antitrust probe into Alibaba in latest blow to Jack Ma's tech empire

China's Politburo has vowed to strengthen anti-monopoly efforts in 2021 and rein in “disorderly capital expansion." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nNnlVr

Man admits to fatally shooting elephant seal on California beach, faces prison term

Jordan Gerbich, 30, who now lives in Utah, fatally shot a northern elephant seal, which are protected under a marine mammals act, on a beach last year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rpxOsl

Trump pardons Roger Stone, Paul Manafort, Charles Kushner and others

On Tuesday, Trump pardoned more than a dozen people, including former campaign adviser George Papadopoulos. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37LlDOU

Covid-19 patient kills fellow Covid-19 patient in California hospital, officials say

The suspect allegedly became upset when the victim began to pray and attacked him with an oxygen tank, according to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3he5UuF

Aid bill has $13 billion for food stamps, a jobs boost bargain

The $13 billion boost to food stamp benefits in the new aid bill isn’t a giveaway to the poor -- it’s some of the best stimulus government money can buy. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hch5nI

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ayIYFc

Ohio mayor calls fatal police shooting of Black man a 'stunning disregard for life' after release of body camera footage

“Enough is enough. This community is exhausted. The African-American community is fearful and concerned and outraged. This is a stunning disregard for life,” Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34HPxBD

'Slower than expected': Covid vaccines not being given as quickly as projected

Just over 1 million people have received their first dose of vaccine so far. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mJAYUb

Controlling cardiac waves with light to better understand abnormally rapid heart rhythms

Over 300,000 people die each year in the US due to sudden cardiac death. In many cases, sudden cardiac death is caused by abnormally rapid heart rhythms called tachycardias, which means the heart cannot pump adequate blood to the body. In Chaos, researchers use mice to study tachycardias and find there are intrinsic mechanisms that exist in heart tissue that they hypothesize lead to the self-termination of rapid cardiac rhythm. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34DkwyL

Cannabis use blunts stress reactivity in female rats

Female rats that inhaled vaporized cannabis daily for a month developed a blunted physiological response to stress, according to a new study. In contrast, male rats that were provided access to the same potency of cannabis over the same 30-day window did not experience any physiological changes in how they responded to a stressful situation. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3azMFug

Scientists discover mutations associated with early onset dementia

Scientists have announced a significant advance in our understanding of an early onset form of dementia that may also progress our understanding of conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Adult onset Leukoencephalopathy with axonal Spheroids and Pigmented glia (ALSP) is an ultra-rare condition that manifests initially with psychiatric and behavioural changes in patients followed by a rapid progression of dementia in the third or fourth decade of life. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WFoG4F

Weekly jobless claims fall to 803,000

Weekly jobless claims fell slightly but still remain elevated, reflecting the economic impact of business and social restrictions as coronavirus cases rise. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KNApeW

Gov't agrees to buy additional 100 million doses of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine

HHS, which announced the deal, said it means all Americans can be vaccinated within 6 months. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KuDCA9

Gov't agrees to buy additional 100 million doses of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine

HHS, which announced the deal, said it means all Americans can be vaccinated within 6 months. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KuDCA9

Biden to introduce his education secretary nominee, Miguel Cardona

The president-elect will be sworn into office in 28 days. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3hdeFoF

Latino members of Congress skip big Nochebuena gatherings, urge Americans to do the same

Sen. Bob Menendez won't be eating lechón with extended relatives, and Reps. Sylvia Garcia and Chuy García won't be assembling tamales with a crowd to keep their families safe from Covid-19. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34E2agY

Dominion worker sues Trump campaign and conservative media

The election systems security chief says he's been vilified by Fox News and others. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aBxrF2

Dominion worker sues Trump campaign and conservative media

The election systems security chief says he's been vilified by Fox News and others. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aBxrF2

Shopping in 2020: Bestselling face masks

Face masks from Adidas, Crayola, Vistaprint and Old Navy are just some of the options Shopping readers gravitated toward this year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WFq4UR

Anger as gridlock grips U.K.'s southeast amid coronavirus variant fears

There are an estimated 10,000 trucks backed-up near the port of Dover, the main ferry port for France and the continent. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nF0Odj

3 police officers shot dead in France during domestic violence call

“To protect us, our forces act putting their lives at risk. They are our heroes,” French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter after the incident.. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37Fx7Dj

Wildfires fueled by climate change threaten toxic Superfund sites

Blazes at the imperiled hazardous waste sites could release toxins ranging from acid mine drainage to radioactive smoke. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WEnyOD

Why Miguel Cardona should make sure facial recognition stays out of schools

The man Biden intends to nominate to lead the Education Department cares deeply about racial and class inequality. This is one way to show it. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rpnmBd

NORAD is tracking more than Santa this year. It's showing kids how Covid spreads.

What do we really know about this "St. Nick" guy, anyway, except that government officials are telling bold-faced lies about him? from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KTM8s7

The mental health toll of being a 'model minority' in 2020

“Especially when you talk about the invisibility of some of their issues, in a sense, it's almost a self-fulfilling prophecy,” psychologist Richelle Concepcion said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3roNJXW

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3piAeHj

After permit approved for whites-only church, small Minnesota town insists it isn't racist

City leaders said if they had turned down Asatru Folk Assembly, they would have faced an expensive legal battle. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37DD6sq

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hddtSg

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WEkmm9

Trump pardons former campaign adviser George Papadopoulos, ex-GOP congressmen, and others

Trump also pardoned four ex-Blackwater contractors convicted of killing Iraqi civilians. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KKjnOG

Israel-Morocco deal is Trump's latest distortion. And it could bring war, not peace.

The U.S. ruptured decades of foreign policy in North Africa to forge the agreement, setting the stage for violence that could destabilize the region. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38rgk68

Earthlings treated to once-in-800-year celestial sight as Jupiter and Saturn align

The heightened brightness of the two planets has invited speculation about whether they formed the "Christmas star" that the New Testament describes. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nIuLZU

Israel on course to hold fourth national election in two years

Analysts had seen Netanyahu pushing for an election in May or June next year, after the Covid crisis was expected to ease and economy to begin to recover. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mH22mQ

'Promising Young Woman' shows promising young men don't deserve society's protection

You won't be able to stop thinking about this provocative thriller with Carrie Mulligan about a woman out for revenge after a college rape upends her life. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2M0d7mz

Bengals shock Steelers on MNF as Pittsburgh slips to third straight loss

The Cincinnati Bengals jumped all over the Pittsburgh Steelers early and held off a second half rally in a 27-17 victory over the Steelers on Monday night. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pjI9nT

Trailblazing country singer-songwriter K.T. Oslin dies at age 78

She was the first female writer whose work won CMA Song of the Year, for her 1987 hit "80s Ladies." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LY9VYE

Three Colorado avalanche deaths prompt backcountry warnings

As of Sunday, 132 avalanches had been reported, and Colorado’s snowpack is said to be the weakest it has been since 2012. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nG0Xxh

'Historic moment': Congress passes legislation to create national Latino museum

"We have overcome tremendous obstacles and unbelievable hurdles to get to this historic moment," said Sen. Bob Menendez, who co-sponsored the measure. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aujPvj

Soldier held in death of Fort Drum corporal who was found shot, buried under snow

Cpl. Hayden Allen Harris, 20, was to meet someone for a vehicle transaction last week and had not been seen since, officials said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37GsLvI

'Historic moment': Congress passes legislation to create national Latino museum

"We have overcome tremendous obstacles and unbelievable hurdles to get to this historic moment," said Sen. Bob Menendez, who co-sponsored the measure. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aujPvj

Two passengers leave plane by emergency slide before takeoff from NYC

The passengers were on a flight bound for Atlanta when they opened the aircraft’s cabin door. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aEfIwV

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hl6RBD

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37GZTUh

Federal prosecutors have discussed obtaining Giuliani's electronic communications, say two sources

The federal investigation of the president's personal lawyer is ongoing, said two sources familiar with the matter, with one saying it is "very active." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WE4IqS

Covid is forcing doctors to end a key ritual — and patients may suffer for it

As the use of exam techniques and medical tools becomes more perfunctory, physicians are shedding a treasured ritual. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ha28SY

2 accused of shooting up strip club after refusing to wear masks face life in prison

Three people were injured in the Halloween night shooting at an Anaheim club. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3peYTwi

2 dead after small plane crashes after takeoff near Dallas

The small plane crashed along what was described as a service road in Grand Prairie minutes after it took off. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mNI3TX

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mAQIbX

Body camera video released in fatal Texas police shooting of Joshua Feast

Feast, 22, died after being shot on Dec. 9 when a La Marque officer was attempting to arrest him on outstanding warrants, according to police. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WDuoUJ

Dozens of West Point cadets accused of cheating on math exam

The scandal could be the largest violation of the school's honor system in years, an official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37EKpjt

Man charged with murder in 1988 disappearance of 9-year-old Michaela Garecht

David Misch, 59, has been arrested and charged with murder in the 1988 disappearance of 9-year-old Michaela Garecht, who vanished from a supermarket parking lot more than three decades ago while trying to retrieve a friend’s scooter that authorities said the abductor had moved closer to his vehicle. Misch is already serving prison time for the murder of a Hayward woman and faces trial for the murders of two women in 1986. Michaela’s remains have still not been found. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3azvwkm

New York woman still missing two months after disappearing from Brooklyn

Lynette Hernandez, 27, was last seen by her family in Nassau County, New York on September 19, 2020. She went to stay with her boyfriend in Brooklyn, but when she hadn’t contacted her young daughter in weeks, her family grew worried. Lynette’s boyfriend told them he hadn’t seen her since October 4. The Nassau County Police Department is investigating. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34Aq7Wu

See the most powerful and inspiring images of 2020

These images capture the pain, grief, rage, resilience, loneliness and even hope that defined a watershed year. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WxHcMn

Warehouse workers pushed to their limit as holiday orders — and virus cases — surge

“I don’t know the public knows what us warehouse workers are going through to make the holidays happen,” one worker said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KMbIPK

Backcountry skiing — and equipment — see surge in interest as ski resorts limit crowds

The surge in sales of backcountry gear is similar to that of bikes over the summer, one industry expert said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3p9qyin

Honduras' hurricane losses total $1.9 billion, far below government estimate, U.N. says

The impacts of the two storms are "devastating," the U.N. report says. At the humanitarian level, more than 4 million people are affected, with 2.5 million in need. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pc1Wp5

Fire truck rushing to blaze crashes into Brooklyn building, injuring 6

Residents of the building have been ordered out, fearing the structure could be unstable. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ayacM6

Family of U.S. teen jailed in Cayman Islands asks Trump for help

Skylar Mack was sentenced to prison in the Cayman Islands for breaking Covid isolation protocols. Her family has appealed to the U.S. government for help. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37Efxj7

Kilauea volcano erupts in Hawaii, residents asked to stay indoors

Hawaii residents on the Big Island were asked to stay at home after the Kilauea volcano erupted in an explosion that sent a plume of ash into the sky. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37AEaNw

Peter King: How Buffalo built its way back to top of AFC East

Peter King takes a deeper look at how the Bills finally knocked the Patriots off of their AFC East throne and created stability in Buffalo. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38pKAOF

U.K. finds 2 men guilty of manslaughter in deaths of 39 Vietnamese migrants

The deaths shone a spotlight on the global trade that sends the poor of Asia, Africa and the Middle East on perilous journeys to the West. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WB50Pi

Are new coronavirus strains cause for concern?

New coronavirus strains that seem to spread more easily are causing alarm, but virus experts say it’s unclear if that’s the case or whether they pose any concern for vaccines. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38htiDi

Tesla joins S&P 500 with shares falling over 4 percent

"“People are going to look beyond Elon Musk’s claims… You’re going to have to look to the fundamentals of this business." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3riXirm

'A holiday season like no other': Many cope with loss, grief during the pandemic

"Many people are in deep, deep pain. The sad thing is that until somebody close to them dies from Covid, most people just don't get it," a grief expert said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wz7duH

Apple temporarily closes California stores as virus cases mount

Apple has temporarily closed all 53 of its retail stores in California after the number of coronavirus cases reached new daily records in its home state this week. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34xSpkg

Amazon closes NJ warehouse after workers test positive for coronavirus

Amazon has temporarily closed a facility in northern New Jersey after it detected an increase in asymptomatic positive cases. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rk0pPw

Biden to receive Covid-19 vaccine, Harris campaigning in Georgia

The president-elect will be sworn into office in 30 days. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mxwiAI

Birx travels, family visits highlight pandemic safety perils

Medical experts say public health officials need to lead by example that's beyond reproach. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37CEF9R

World moves to cut off U.K. in attempt to halt spread of mutant coronavirus strain

Crisis meetings were scheduled in London and Brussels as officials grappled with the new variant, which could be up to 70 percent more infectious. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KpsQej

Biden looks to Susan Rice to elevate low-profile Domestic Policy Council

"Susan will elevate and turbocharge a revitalized" council, Joe Biden said when he nominated the former national security adviser. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pb7akX

'We need more time': Experts sound warnings about flawed census data

Experts and researchers have expressed deep concerns about the quality and completeness of the data and whether the census will meet its Dec. 31 deadline. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3rfFehJ

Tommy Oliver: We have to learn what Philly did to MOVE, to keep it from happening again

We can't learn any lessons from our past if we allow it to be covered up — or we just allow ourselves to forget what happened. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37CCmnb

Mayfield leads Browns to win over Giants on Sunday Night Football

Baker Mayfield and the Browns took care of business against the Giants in Week 15 on SNF as they earned their 10th win of the season. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wzjrne

Ariana Grande announces engagement, shows ring on Instagram

The “Rain on Me” singer posted the photos of her cuddling with Dalton Gomez, a luxury real estate agent, on Instagram. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2J6SdB2

Mayfield leads Browns to win over Giants on Sunday Night Football

Baker Mayfield and the Browns took care of business against the Giants in Week 15 on SNF as they earned their 10th win of the season. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wzjrne

First shipments of Moderna vaccine roll out, a new weapon in U.S. Covid-19 response

Following the distribution of the Pfizer vaccine last week, Moderna’s effort means the U.S. now has two vaccines in its arsenal to fight the coronavirus. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KnLOlx

Racism is rampant on Omegle. Teens are working to hold racist trolls accountable.

Omegle users are recording and sharing encounters on the video chat website to expose racism, homophobia and anti-Semitism. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KlCHSy

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rg0MdV

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ar2S4L

Latino mistrust of Covid vaccine worries Hispanic doctors

“We’re the ones who are going to have to take that charge up and reassure our community,” says a Florida-based research doctor. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3pfPogF

Recall effort against California governor an attempt to 'destabilize the political system,' analysts say

"We wouldn't have been as successful as we've been if it weren't for Gavin Newsom," a Recall Gavin 2020 organizer said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38nwFJ0

Why are monoclonal antibodies dividing docs treating Covid-19?

Some doctors are clamoring for the treatment, which, officials say, in some places is sitting unused. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3h6y6iQ

Mental health care has become even more crucial in 2020 — but resources are stretched thin

Questions remain as to whether systems will change enough to normalize mental health care following a year of collective trauma. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WtgVih

Trump TV would be great for America's reality star president — but terrible for America

The majority of America is ready to tune Trump out in 2021. But he still has millions of fans eagerly awaiting a new MAGA "season," whether it’s filmed at the White House or not. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37ES6GB

Covid is encouraging a hierarchy of grievance — but what we really need is compassion

Are we competing in the pain Olympics? With most sports canceled, are we going to decimate each other instead — the winner being the one who suffered the most? from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37ES5T3

At least 8 dead as car bomb rocks Afghanistan's capital Kabul

More than 15 were wounded in the attack including a member of parliament, a government official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nBVkQB

'SNL' mocks Pence's record on Covid-19

Alex Moffatt portrayed President-elect Joe Biden: "You're about to have a real leader again." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38fRkic

Republican, Democrats reach compromise over Covid-19 stimulus package

They overcame a major hurdle over the Federal Reserve's lending power. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nzz7T6

Republican, Democrats reach compromise over Covid-19 stimulus package

They overcame a major hurdle over the Federal Reserve's lending power. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nzz7T6

Inmate died of leukemia after pleading for help, federal lawsuit claims

It alleges that a nurse at the St. Louis County jail accused Lamar Catchings, 20, of being a "faker." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38j06vL

Alleged pedophile, white supremacist arrested in kidnapping of 12-yr-old girl

"Through manipulation and grooming" Nathan Larson convinced his victim to send inappropriate pictures of herself and run away with him, law enforcement officials said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LKH6i8

Boston sergeant placed on leave as videos of George Floyd protests prompt investigations

Leaked body camera footage showed "troubling scenes" of officers handling crowds, the district attorney's office said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3atsLko

Boston sergeant placed on leave as videos of George Floyd protests prompt investigations

Leaked body camera footage showed "troubling scenes" of officers handling crowds, the district attorney's office said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3atsLko

Researchers use artificial intelligence to ID mosquitoes

Rapid and accurate identification of mosquitoes that transmit human pathogens such as malaria is an essential part of mosquito-borne disease surveillance. Now, researchers have shown the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence system -- known as a Convoluted Neural Network -- to classify mosquito sex, genus, species and strain. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37x0sQo

COVID-19 pandemic had big impact on commercial fishing in Northeast

With restaurants and supply chains disrupted due to the global coronavirus pandemic, two-fifths of commercial fishermen surveyed from Maine through North Carolina did not go fishing earlier this year, according to a new study that also documented their resilience and adaptation. Of those who kept fishing, nearly all reported a decline in income compared with previous years, according to the survey of 258 fishers in the Northeast. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3au2UJo

Researchers create model to calculate COVID-19 health outcomes

Researchers have created a machine-learning model to predict the probability that a COVID-19 patient will need a ventilator or ICU care. The tool is free and available online for any healthcare organization to use. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2LSAFK5

New insights into cholera microbe and chances of pandemic strain

Researchers have uncovered a novel way in which Vibrio cholerae, the aquatic microbe that causes cholera, may increase its competitive fitness, and the likelihood of creating pandemic strains of the bacteria. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3p8AhFI

The mask matters: How masks affect airflow, protection effectiveness

A computer model deepens our understanding of airflow while wearing face masks, where particles land in the respiratory tract and the effectiveness of three-layer surgical masks. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rf6BIQ

SARS-CoV-2-like particles very sensitive to temperature

A new study found that moderate temperature increases on glass surfaces broke down SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particles structure, while humidity had very little impact. The findings suggest that as temperatures begin to drop, particles on surfaces will remain infectious longer. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KcryDG

CAPTUREing Whole-Body 3D movements

Neuroscientists have made major advances in their quest to study the brain; however, there are no tools to precisely measure the brain's principal output -- behavior -- in freely moving animals. Researchers present CAPTURE, a new method for long-term continuous three-dimension motion tracking in freely behaving animals. Attaching markers to rats' head, trunk, and limbs, researchers can use CAPTURE to record the animal's natural behavior continuously for weeks. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KGh1QZ

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3rbtAEw

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2KnwDsL

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson calls emergency meeting over mutant Covid strain

"We have alerted the World Health Organization and are continuing to analyze the available data," said the chief medical officer for England. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aE4RDd

'Immediate need': State, local govts decry being left out of Covid aid bill

Some worst-case forecasts early on in the pandemic haven't played out, but the situation remains "dire," said one official. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3apxDqX

'Like a war zone': Prison that freed Paul Manafort early now ravaged by Covid

Nearly 75 percent of the 856 prisoners at FCI Loretto in Pennsylvania tested positive for Covid-19 in the last month. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LN5Fel

Contact tracers play a key role in the pandemic. And not just for tracking Covid.

“We have contact tracers and public health workers that are getting people groceries and getting all their medications,” one public health expert said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aleHto

'Like a war zone': Prison that freed Paul Manafort early now ravaged by Covid

Nearly 75 percent of the 856 prisoners at FCI Loretto in Pennsylvania tested positive for Covid-19 in the last month. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LN5Fel

The Arab Spring was meant to drive out dictators. Instead, it empowered them.

Analysis: Most revolutions failed to bring democracy or prosperity. Instead, the turmoil was boon to the autocrats the protesters meant to depose. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3h3Fxax

2020's unique holiday gift to LGBTQ people: Social distancing from our toxic families

If it weren't for quarantine, we would be making the same stressful end-of-year attempt to conform and accommodate everyone’s desires except our own. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KmUA3c

Trump's ridiculous toilet obsession is the perfect metaphor for his shameful legacy

Refusing to be distracted by a crisis that has given us apocalyptic wildfires and a devastating hurricane season, Trump and his Republican enablers have kept their eyes on the prize. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wrl5qM

Rockets hit major U.S. base in Afghanistan

Twelve rockets were placed in a vehicle and five of them were fired while police were able to defuse seven others, a local official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wrk2ak

Secretary of State Pompeo says hack was 'pretty clearly' Russian

"This was a very significant effort, and I think it's the case that now we can say pretty clearly that it was the Russians that engaged in this activity," he said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3atqqpI

Secretary of State Pompeo says hack was 'pretty clearly' Russian

"This was a very significant effort, and I think it's the case that now we can say pretty clearly that it was the Russians that engaged in this activity," he said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3atqqpI

Trump admin says it is shuttering last 2 consulates in Russia

Following the closures, the only diplomatic facility the U.S. will have in Russia will be the embassy in Moscow. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LPK2u2

Stanford apologizes to doctors after protests over botched vaccine rollout

The demonstrations closed out a painful week for California, which is quickly becoming the center of the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KhZlv3

FDA grants emergency authorization to Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine

The authorization adds a second vaccine to the country's arsenal. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Km9JBQ

FDA grants emergency authorization to Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine

The authorization adds a second vaccine to the country's arsenal. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Km9JBQ

What Covid and QAnon misinformation has in common — and how to stop it

Once a person feels part of a community or a movement, the adherence to a science-free, health misinformation position may begin to feel brave. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oYk3yO

Disappearance of North Carolina mother remains a mystery nearly two decades after she went Christmas shopping and never returned

Michele Hundley Smith, 38, left her Stoneville, North Carolina home on December 9, 2001, telling her family she was going Christmas shopping in nearby Martinsville, Virginia. She never returned home and hasn’t been seen or heard from since. Her green 1995 Pontiac Trans Sport van with North Carolina license plate ROK-N-ON is also missing. The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WvU1qh

Visa delays leave thousands of South Asian women unable to work

One member of Congress has had a 900 percent increase in calls over work visa lapses for spouses of H-1B visa holders. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KysguB

Chicago mayor says city's attempt to block video of botched raid 'a mistake'

The city withdrew a motion to sanction an attorney who obtained the police body cam footage. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3p34Lc0

Best gifts to give under $20

From hand sanitizer and hand cream to indoor plants, house slippers and more, here are the best gifts under $20. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gZzbsM

Congress hits a new snag on Covid relief bill as shutdown deadline looms

Top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell said he remains "optimistic" that deal is close. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37y1Hil

Travel beyond 2021: Sanitization robots will stay, but in-flight meals may return

Travelers "won’t accept paying for a premium experience and getting something that is subpar,” said one industry expert. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3h0GdOf

Rock's future is in Latin America. Here's why, says this Oscar-winning musician

"Anglo rock lost sight of that rock 'n' roll essence that makes it a platform to criticize structures of power," Gustavo Santaolalla said about the Netflix documentary series he co-produced. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34rilxX

Can mammogram screening be more effective?

Economists have identified an important challenge in designing age-related guidelines for when to start breast cancer screenings: Women who start getting mammograms at age 40 may be healthier than the population of 40-year-old women as a whole, with a lower incidence of breast cancer at that age. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3gYaCfO

NYPD used excessive force during George Floyd protests, city investigation finds

The report said the NYPD’s response was excessive in part because most police officers involved had not received “relevant training” in policing protests. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38vZIuf

Texas doctors in rural hotspots left out in cold on vaccine

"We're all exposed all the time," one doctor in West Texas said. "To not be included in the first shipment of vaccines is just so upsetting." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3apLk9g

Errant DNA boosts immunotherapy effectiveness

DNA that ends up where it doesn't belong in cancer cells can unleash an immune response that makes tumors more susceptible to immunotherapy, the results of two new studies indicate. The findings suggest that delivering radiation - which triggers DNA release from cells - before immunotherapy could be an effective way to fight cancers that are challenging to treat. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Ws9aci

Optogenetic method can reveal how gut microbes affect longevity

Optogenetics offers a direct way to manipulate gut bacterial metabolism in a temporally, quantitatively and spatially controlled manner and enhance host fitness. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nvF97q

Sweden's king says 'we have failed' over Covid-19, as deaths mount

"We have had a large number of deaths and that is terrible," the king said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3h0YZoy

Say goodbye to 2020, a historic and consequential year in politics

First Read is your briefing from "Meet the Press" and the NBC Political Unit on the day's most important political stories and why they matter. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3r8GvXI

Sony pulls Cyberpunk 2077 from PlayStation store after backlash

Sony has removed the video game Cyberpunk 2077 from its PlayStation Store, in a move that has shocked industry analysts. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KH7jxO

8 Wisconsin nuns at same convent die of Covid in past week

School Sisters of Notre Dame of Elm Grove said there were confirmed cases among the 88 sisters living at the facility, but did not specify the number. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LFeOFI

Hundreds trapped on highways after heavy snowfall brings chaos to northwest Japan

Rescuers may take until Saturday morning to free all the stranded vehicles, the company that manages the highway said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KD8bTM

Pence set to receive Covid vaccine in televised appearance

The vice president wants to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness to the American public. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37sJeU6

Ocasio-Cortez passed over for key committee assignment

New York Democrats had been jockeying for a spot on the panel. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3raqGQg

Doctors blame right-wing media for eroding trust during pandemic

Demoralized doctors say their patients are infected by Covid-19 conspiracy theories. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3p1McF8

Study: Bisexual men more prone to eating disorders than gay or straight men

"Double discrimination" and a need for control may be triggering unhealthy eating habits. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nwxAgG

Homeless and doubled up, families living with other households may fall into aid blind spot

Vital housing assistance, such as rapid rehousing, may not be available to families that don’t meet the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s definition of homeless, including those who have had to move in with other households. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KfdSHS

Freed Nigerian schoolboys arrive back home a week after abduction

Gunmen raided the boys' secondary school in Kankara town, Katsina state, on Friday last week. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KwjMnL

White House lawyers are scared Trump's trying to enforce loyalty pledges. They should be.

Firing FBI Director Christopher Wray would be one more example of how Trump tramples democratic norms, even on his way out the door. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oZSQMb

Suspected Russian hacking campaign has been ongoing since March, Microsoft says

Eighty percent were in the U.S., but there were also victims in other countries, including Canada, Israel and the U.K. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aucqMi

Suspected Russian hacking campaign has been ongoing since March, Microsoft says

Eighty percent were in the U.S., but there were also victims in other countries, including Canada, Israel and the U.K. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3aucqMi

Department of Energy says it was hacked in suspected Russian campaign

The massive breach has left the U.S. government scrambling to find out what was infected and how much information was stolen. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oYX72r

Covid job losses are devastating these workers, who are largely unseen

“For domestic workers, this pandemic has been an economic crisis," said Marrisa Senteno of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, as well as "a health and safety disaster." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34n7FAn

Is it time for a 9/11-style commission to study the nation's Covid response?

First Read is your briefing from "Meet the Press" and the NBC Political Unit on the day's most important political stories and why they matter. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KAkuQM

In quest to find birth family, a woman makes 'life-altering' discovery: She's a princess

The life of Sarah Culberson, a Sierra Leone princess, changed forever when she learned of her royal status. But her story isn’t exactly a fairy tale. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mmwEdq

WHO says China welcomes Covid-19 investigators, but unclear if they will go to Wuhan

It was unclear whether the WHO investigators will travel to the city of Wuhan where the virus was first detected. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38dJupm

Anti-vaccination movement gets traction in unlikely source: Local news

From California to Maine, local news stations have been by covering their protests and giving anti-vaccination activists a microphone to spread misinformation. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nwvZaO

Duke coach's Covid comments ignited a basketball controversy — but he's right

The NCAA has already announced that March Madness this year will take place in a bubble. But that bubble isn’t doing much to protect teams now. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34kibZj

The CDC banned evictions for those affected by Covid. Why are tenants being thrown out on the street?

“If policymakers don’t intervene, we are facing the very real possibility of tens of millions of people losing their homes this winter,” said an advocate. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KgifSV

France's President Emmanuel Macron tests positive for coronavirus

The news came as countries across Europe struggle to suppress a big spike in infections in the run-up to Christmas. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38fItx1

Anti-vaccination movement gets traction in unlikely source: Local news

From California to Maine, local news stations have been by covering their protests and giving anti-vaccination activists a microphone to spread misinformation. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nwvZaO

Putin set to hold court in annual call-in show: what to expect

The conference is a pillar of Putin’s domestic image building, and something of a fixture in the holiday season in Russia. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34nnGGJ

Storm blasts East Coast, dumping more snow than some saw all last winter

Up to a foot is expected in Boston and other parts of Massachusetts before snow showers move on. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mr1jGo

Storm blasts East Coast, dumping more snow than some saw all last winter

Up to a foot is expected in Boston and other parts of Massachusetts before snow showers move on. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mr1jGo

With 3 more federal executions scheduled, Democrats appeal to Biden

As executions have picked up in the waning days of the Trump administration, calls grow to end an "unjust, racist, and defective" practice. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37p7CWT

Ambulance services nearing 'breaking point' receive federal aid

The Department of Health and Human Services announced they would receive $1.48 billion. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34n7IMF

Texas couple of 30 years die of Covid-19 within minutes of one other while holding hands

“It did give us some sense of closure that they both went together," one of their sons said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ntWP37

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2K1Z4MP

Novel biomarkers predict the development of incident heart failure

Researchers have discovered several new biomarkers that are associated with incident heart failure. In a new study, several inflammatory biomarkers and cell energy metabolites were linked to an increased risk of incident heart failure. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ahhLGK

Researchers expose power of enzyme on key immune cells

Communication, serendipity and an enzyme called DOT1L have all combined to produce some exciting findings into the immune system's B cells and T cells. These findings could result in further studies into a target for asthma and allergies, and fundamental work exploring the formation of immunity itself. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WoT4A0

Pence to publicly receive Covid vaccine on Friday, Biden as soon as next week

"I don’t want to get ahead of the line, but I want to make sure we demonstrate to the American people that it is safe to take," Biden said earlier Wednesday. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gW8KnZ

Honda recalls 1.4M U.S. vehicles for software, other problems

A programming flaw in a control computer can cause the rear camera, turn signals and windshield wipers to malfunction. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3akycSW

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ns6mb3

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mxtunm

Retail sales plunged in November, as shoppers stayed home amid rising Covid cases

Restaurants moved outdoors over the summer and the arrival of cold weather is also undercutting spending. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oYuOkM

As other GOP lawmakers move on, Georgia's senators are stuck fighting the last war

First Read is your briefing from "Meet the Press" and the NBC Political Unit on the day's most important political stories and why they matter. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wki9Mv

Bitcoin hits $20,000, an irresistible investment in an unstable economy

This time around, large funds and even CEOs of publicly traded companies are fueling bitcoin's 2020 run. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34i5QF2

COVID-19 preprint data rapidly influenced critical care practice

In a new research letter, researchers examine whether preprint data on the use of the corticosteroid dexamethasone influenced clinical practice in treating COVID-19 critical care patients throughout Australia. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37p0hGU

An unexpected role for the brain's immune cells

A team has uncovered that microglial cells constantly survey the brain to prevent spontaneous seizures. These findings could offer a new way to intervene in Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and autism. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3aakKkq

Tom Cruise reportedly recorded berating 'Mission Impossible' crew over Covid protocols

British newspaper The Sun published leaked audio Wednesday that it said captured Cruise, 58, shouting on set. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/388HlLF

Suspect arrested in shooting that left 3 dead at Texas car dealership, building

The accused gunman, who was unidentified by police, was charged with capital murder and held at Tarrant County Jail with a $1 million bond. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3r1uZgJ

Vaccines are here — but the developing world is missing out

"Higher income countries like the U.S. and the U.K. are putting themselves at the front of the line — that's obviously what's happening," one expert said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gS8ypD

Germany enters harder lockdown as virus deaths hit new high

“By summer we'll be able to return to normal, step by step,” Germany's health minister said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34zpNHF

White House counsel's office warned Trump not to fire Chris Wray

Attorneys have fretted that by firing the FBI director, Trump could be putting himself in jeopardy. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nrj8Xb

Winter to come roaring into East Coast with snow, ice, 'serious storm'

The storm could dump a foot of snow in parts Pennsylvania, New York and elsewhere, and North Carolina is expected to see sleet and freezing rain. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mpeqYP

They found love in Hong Kong. Now, its fate may force their family to break apart.

"Our mindsets and political stances are immensely different, causing lots of fights." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Wk23SY

Death penalty at historic lows despite federal resumption of capital punishment

A total of 17 people were executed in 2020, fewer than at any time in the past 37 years. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nnH0ed

Death penalty at historic lows despite federal resumption of capital punishment

A total of 17 people were executed in 2020, fewer than at any time in the past 37 years. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3nnH0ed

MacKenzie Scott gives away $4.1 billion in pandemic charity spree

Covid is "a wrecking ball in the lives of Americans already struggling” that “has substantially increased the wealth of billionaires," she said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2IS1r40

California orders thousands of body bags as Covid death toll grows

The grim preparations are a sobering reminder that the state is in a dangerous situation, the governor said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34gO1pD

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ns1S47

Poverty linked to higher risk of COVID-19 death, study suggests

People in the poorest areas are more likely to be affected by severe COVID-19 -- and to die from the disease -- than those in more affluent districts, according to a study of critical care units. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3r2vzL9

'I do not feel safe': Kansas GOP mayor resigns after threats over backing mask mandate

Joyce Warshaw said despite the threats, she doesn’t regret voting in favor of the mask mandate and still loves the city. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oTMMVq

FDA authorizes first at-home, over-the-counter Covid test

The Australian digital diagnostics company Ellume said it expects to produce more than 3 million of the tests in January with a likely cost of $30 or less. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38md4sX

Minnesota frees man serving life in child's 2002 death

Myon Burrell’s sentence was commuted after journalists discovered new evidence and serious flaws in the police investigation into the 2002 killing. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WglXyo

Uber has offloaded its Elevate unit, but flying taxis are still taking off

Interest in flying cars and taxis has only grown as the country's highways have become increasingly crowded. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34ePBZc

Former Houston police captain charged after allegedly attacking man falsely accused of voter fraud

The man allegedly told police in October that he was part of a group investigating voter fraud and accused a repairman of having fake ballots in his truck. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/38bfcDF

U.S. sanctions NATO ally Turkey over Russian defense system

The action is certain to further worsen tensions with Ankara, which is already at odds with the U.S. on a number of issues and is being courted by Russia. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LztPsF

Japan's 'Twitter killer' sentenced to death for dismembering 9 victims

Investigators said Takahiro Shiraishi approached the victims via Twitter, offering to assist them with their suicidal wishes. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mkCDiM

ACA open enrollment ends today. Is it reaching the right people?

Obamacare is a key pandemic safety net, but some fear the Trump administration's neglect is limiting its benefits. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3no1FPn

Putin finally recognizes that Biden won presidential election

In 2016, the Putin was among the first world leaders to congratulate Donald Trump on his victory. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Ku9Qeh

Putin finally recognizes that Biden won presidential election

In 2016, the Putin was among the first world leaders to congratulate Donald Trump on his victory. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2Ku9Qeh

An overwhelming toll: What America's children have lost during the pandemic

“We’re going to almost need a New Deal for an entire generation of kids to give them the opportunity to catch up,” one advocate said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37jzxHs

Driver yells anti-Semitic slurs, assaults man during Hanukkah celebration in Kentucky

"That this attack occurred on the third night of Hanukkah, during menorah-lighting celebrations, makes it all the more hateful," Kentucky's governor said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mfTLWR

High blood pressure at any age, no matter how long you have it, may speed cognitive decline

Memory, concentration and other cognitive functions decline faster among middle-aged and older adults who have high blood pressure than those who do not. Even seemingly slight blood pressure elevation during middle and older age is linked to a faster decline in cognition. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2WcH0SB

Georgia man who lied to employer about having Covid pleads guilty

The claim prompted the company to shut down the facility for cleaning, causing a loss of around $100,000, prosecutors said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3qZOSEU

Ann Reinking, Tony winner and star of Broadway's 'Chicago,' dies at 71

Her work as an actor, a dancer and a choreographer included "Sweet Charity," "Over Here!" "Goodtime Charley" and "Fosse!" from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gMzHdH

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mlOsFk

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3oSs08F

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/34cCmIp

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mfp1VX

Caterers at finance guru Dave Ramsey's holiday party told not to wear masks, complaint says

A complaint filed with the city of Franklin, Tenn., said that masks and gloves would "scare those in attendance.” from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37YKqha

Google delays return to office, announces plan to test 'flexible work week'

The new work model "will lead to greater productivity, collaboration, and well-being,” Google CEO Sundar Pichai said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37o15fb

Texas woman still missing months after driving to Florida for temporary caregiver job

Ashley Lucas, 34, was last seen in West Palm Beach, Florida, when West Palm Beach Police admitted her to a mental health facility on September 24, 2020. A few days after her release, she did not contact her friends or family, which caused them to grow concerned. On October 9, her roommate and friend reported her missing. Ashley had traveled from Texas to Florida in July to care for her friend’s elderly mother for two weeks. She never returned home and her phone has been disconnected. Her famil from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37o0CJX

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ac18w8

Attorney General William Barr to depart administration, Trump announces

The news comes not long after Barr said there was no widespread fraud in the 2020 election, defying Trump. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/34crYAp

Meet some of the first Americans to get the coronavirus vaccine

"To be able to take this step feels like a piece of what we all need to do to make our world safe again," said one health care worker. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WeQ1dF

California nurses threaten Christmas Eve strike over work conditions

The union members are concerned with “dangerously low staffing levels” and lack of adequate PPE that have put them at risk for infection. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gLiiCd

Covid D-Day: Vaccine campaign launches with first shipments to millions

"D-Day was a pivotal turning point in World War II. It was the beginning of the end — and that's where we are today," Gen. Gustave Perna said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3ncEbN7

Delivery of first Covid-19 vaccines expected Monday

An estimated 2.9 million doses will be distributed within the first week. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oQHrhz

Cleveland reportedly to change the name of its baseball team

The decision is "the culmination of decades of work," according to the Oneida Nation of New York, which led the Change the Mascot Movement. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LAcm3q

Cleveland reportedly to change the name of its baseball team

The decision is "the culmination of decades of work," according to the Oneida Nation of New York, which led the Change the Mascot Movement. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2LAcm3q

A year of loss, heartache, looming eviction — and rescuing itself — for Chinatown

The pandemic and anti-Asian racism have decimated Chinatowns in New York, San Francisco and Seattle, but many residents are turning to one another for help. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WbiwJ8

Hospitals scramble to prioritize Covid vaccine for their workers

Hospitals have been grappling with how to distribute the first scarce shots. Their plans vary broadly. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mj4WOF

Congress reaches make-or-break week on coronavirus relief, with deal elusive

Party leaders say they want to attach Covid-19 assistance to a government funding bill ahead of Friday's deadline. But can they strike a deal? from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oToZET

John le Carré, author of 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,' dies at 89

"We have lost a great figure of English literature, a man of great wit, kindness, humor and intelligence," said a representative for le Carré, who was 89. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oRnzLs

Natalie Portman revelation on sexualized roles is the wake-up call Hollywood needs

We have thankfully begun talking about the need for consent in relationships, starting at a young age, but that can’t stop when the cameras roll. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37gHgWV

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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3gIBssl

Top-tier universities like Harvard have long been led by white students. But that's changing.

Black student body presidents at predominantly white colleges incorporated Covid-19, social justice, anti-Trump positions into their winning platforms from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/39RxADQ

Russian hackers breach federal government, targeting multiple agencies

The CEO of cybersecurity firm FireEye said they appeared to be trying to steal information from government clients. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gHCG7f

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3820rTC

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/37diU03

Preschool program linked with better social and emotional skills years later

A preschool enrichment program helps boost social and emotional skills that still have positive effects years later during middle and high school, according to a new study. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mgyUD5

Natural environmental conditions facilitate the uptake of microplastics into living cells

The environment is polluted by microplastics worldwide. A research team has now discovered that microplastic particles find their way into living cells more easily if they were exposed to natural aquatic environments, i.e. fresh water and seawater. Biomolecules occurring in the water are deposited on the microplastic surfaces, which promote the internalization of the particles into cells. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mdbePL

Bosses need appreciation, too

'Tis the season to be grateful, even for your boss, according to a recent A new study suggests that when supervisors feel appreciated, it gives them a boost of energy and optimism. In the end, that's good for employees and the organization's bottom line. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3oKU1ir

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 Top Health 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 Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2W8xoYS

New and unexplored dimension in the study of protein-protein interactions

Cells accumulate glutamate and related molecules under stress, and so formation of high-order protein assemblies under these conditions has important biological implications. Specifically, this would represent a mechanism by which the presence of stressor compounds in the cell could control DNA replication. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2W9ojPp

Increased social media use linked to developing depression

Young adults who increased their use of social media were significantly more likely to develop depression within six months, according to a new national study. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2We3W3D

Some Covid patients may need heart damage tests before exercising again

Recommendations endorse physician consultations and heart screenings for athletes who had moderate to severe Covid. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/381Sq0O

First trucks with Covid-19 vaccine roll out of Pfizer plant in Michigan

Pfizer is expected to deliver an estimated 2.9 million doses this week to hospitals and nursing homes in the first phase of the vaccine rollout. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2IOdxLE

Britain and E.U. extend Brexit trade talks … again

"We both think it is responsible at this point in time to go the extra mile," Johnson and von der Leyen said on Sunday. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3qUKOpJ

What the Electoral College vote means for Trump and Biden

The presidential race will be officially decided Monday. There's almost no way to change the outcome. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2KfJ1KV

The best LGBTQ books to gift

Here are some of the best LGBTQ books this year to get lost in — or gift — from science fiction to poetry and everything in between and out. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mepWWI

Holiday shopping trends changing in big ways

Why get in a car to go sweat in public when you have already spent the money to be able to do it at home? from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gFbwxO

Britain and E.U. extend Brexit trade talks … again

"We both think it is responsible at this point in time to go the extra mile," Johnson and von der Leyen said on Sunday. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3qUKOpJ

FDA authorizes Pfizer vaccine

The authorization is "a significant milestone in battling this devastating pandemic," FDA commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn said in a statement. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3a4Yet1

NIH director asks Americans to leave 'conspiracy theories' on vaccines behind and 'look at the facts'

One of the nation's top health experts says "reasonable people" would look at the public data on vaccines and say, "I want this for my family." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mnhox3

'SNL' presents Fauci as sex symbol because 'I've been the only one saying facts'

The doctor, played by Kate McKinnon, said priority for vaccinations would be given to "anyone who pays for Red Lobster with a Diners Club card." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3qTNJio

Manhunt continues for Tennessee inmates who escaped prison, kidnapped man

Robert Brown and Christopher Osteen should both be considered armed and dangerous, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37W3gpi

They're not just treating Covid, rural-area doctors are fighting vaccine distrust

Doctors in rural areas say being the first to get vaccine shots will not only keep their patients safe, but it will also help combat distrust in their communities. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WclRHW

Gang who kidnapped hundreds of students in firefight with Nigerian military

A parent and school employee said that roughly half of the school's 800 students were missing. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37dTrUw

They're not just treating Covid, rural-area doctors are fighting vaccine distrust

Doctors in rural areas say being the first to get vaccine shots will not only keep their patients safe, but it will also help combat distrust in their communities. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/2WclRHW

Who will replace Kamala Harris in the U.S. Senate? California governor weighs a shortlist of firsts

The possible replacements include Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia and California Secretary of State Alex Padilla. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3mf1Gne

Churches, synagogues reimagine holiday services — and their messages of faith

“We have certain delusions as Americans that we have control of all of this stuff. Any catastrophe, any cataclysmic event ... and our hope is in our God.” from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37dT9gf

'SNL' presents Fauci as sex symbol because 'I've been the only one saying facts'

The doctor, played by Kate McKinnon, said priority for vaccinations would be given to "anyone who pays for Red Lobster with a Diners Club card." from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3gHwWu1

Man climbs onto wing of airplane before takeoff in Las Vegas

The Alaska Airlines flight was preparing for takeoff when the pilot spotted him approaching the aircraft and notified control tower operators. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3a6bJsz

Protesters clash during rallies in Washington state and Washington, D.C.

One person was shot during demonstrations Saturday in Olympia, a state patrol official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37Va1rq

Protesters clash during rallies in Washington state and Washington, D.C.

One person was shot during demonstrations Saturday in Olympia, a state patrol official said. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37Va1rq

Robots could replace real therapy dogs

Robotic animals could be the 'pawfect' replacement for our real-life furry friends, a new study has found. from Top Health News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3qKKCsS

Vanderbilt's Sarah Fuller makes history again

The senior kicked an extra point against Tennessee on Saturday. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37XiKt9

Vanderbilt's Sarah Fuller makes history again

The senior kicked an extra point against Tennessee on Saturday. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/37XiKt9

Delivery of first Covid-19 vaccines expected Monday

About 2.9 million doses of the vaccine are expected to be shipped within the first week. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3neYNnR

Delivery of first Covid-19 vaccines expected Monday

About 2.9 million doses of the vaccine are expected to be shipped within the first week. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3neYNnR

Jerry Harris, star of Netflix's 'Cheer,' faces new charges in child pornography case

The alleged acts took place in Florida, Illinois and Texas, according to a seven-count indictment against the 21-year-old. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/3oPo3RV

Driver arrested after plowing into New York City protesters, injuring 6

A city official said this was one of several collisions where protesters gathered near vehicles, and drivers panicked and accidentally accelerated. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/349HnSi

Driver arrested after plowing into New York City protesters, injuring 6

A city official said this was one of several collisions where protesters gathered near vehicles, and drivers panicked and accidentally accelerated. from NBC News Top Stories https://ift.tt/349HnSi