Science
The latest in science news, from the depths of space to the quantum realm.
Scientists observe live cells responding to magnetic fields for first time
January 06, 2021
Exactly how some animals, such as birds, can detect magnetic fields remains a mystery. Now researchers in Japan may have found a crucial piece of the puzzle, making the first direct observations of live, unaltered cells responding to magnetic fields.
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Ring-shaped compounds better equip gold nanoparticles to fight cancer
We have seen how gold nanoparticles can fight cancer in a number of ways, but they aren’t without their problems. Scientists in Japan have found a solution to one of these drawbacks, through the careful addition of a ring-shaped synthetic compound. -
Designer DNA molecule helps hunt down cancer stem cells in blood
Like weeds that grow back if you don’t remove the roots, cancer can keep returning thanks to stem cells. A new “designer” DNA molecule eradicates these cancer stem cells, with tests in mice showing promising early results in preventing relapse. -
Unique magic mushroom microdosing study to begin in Australia
A novel trial is set to investigate the popular yet still deeply unproven practice of microdosing psychedelics, and promises to be the first exploration of naturalistic psilocybin microdosing in a lab-setting using a cutting-edge neuroimaging technique. -
Computer algorithm spots endangered wildlife in satellite images
Satellites have offered scientists a powerful new tool when it comes to tracking endangered wildlife, with the movements of animals able to be monitored with precision. A new technology promises to expand the possibilities in this area even further. -
88-megawatt Canadian hydro-to-hydrogen plant to open in 2023
German multinational Thysenkrupp has won the contract to build and operate a huge hydro-electrolysis facility in Quebec, which will use one of the world's most powerful electrolyzers to produce some 11,100 metric tons of green hydrogen annually. -
Breakthrough study finds age-related cognitive decline may be reversible
A new study describes one way immune cells become dysfunctional as we age, leading to the inflammatory hyperdrive that plays a role in most age-related disease from cancer to cognitive decline, and suggests this immune dysfunction can be reversed. -
Glaciers on Mars likely didn't form during a single ice age event
Mars may have experienced up to 20 ice ages in the past 300 to 800 million years, according to the results of a new study. Glaciers formed during the cooling periods represent fascinating targets for future exploration missions. -
Porpoise-sized mosasaur sported specialized shark-like teeth
Tyrannosaurus rex may have ruled the land in the time of the dinosaurs, but the mosasaur was likely the most ferocious reptile in the sea. A new species of the creature was recently classified, which distinguished itself with teeth like those of a shark. -
Scientists take a step closer to growing wood in a lab
While lab-grown meat shows promise for sparing animals from slaughter, wood still comes entirely from trees that are cut down. That may not always be the case, though, as scientists are now working on growing it in a lab, too. -
First dinosaur butt discovered and described in (too much) detail
Paleontologists have found and described what may be the last dinosaur body part we didn’t know anything about – the butthole. Better yet, it seems like it might have evolved to look and yes, even smell, nice to suitors. -
Diamond laser taps into spooky quantum world for true randomization
There’s no such thing as random in classical physics – for true randomization you need to turn to quantum physics. Now scientists have done just that, creating secure encryption keys based on the genuine randomness of quantum vibrations of diamond. -
$3,500 EV battery prototype promises 200-mile range on a 10-minute charge
In 2019, we looked at an innovative battery for electric vehicles that could be charged in 10 minutes. The researchers behind it have now added a couple more desirable attributes, including a cost they say is on par with internal combustion engines.