Science
The latest in science news, from the depths of space to the quantum realm.
Yale study solves mystery of how stress triggers inflammation
June 30, 2020
A new study has solved a long-standing mystery of how acute stress seems to amplify inflammatory disease, despite the fact many stress hormones actually suppress the immune system. It found a specific immune cell is released by fat cells when stressed.
LATEST NEWS
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Fireworks leave toxic metals lingering in the air, study finds
Fireworks are a surefire way to create a spectacle of color and light, but research has revealed these dazzling displays could pose a health risk by releasing a range of harmful toxins that can linger in the air once the lights go out. -
Hubble and ALMA mosaic captures stellar fireworks of star formation
Astronomers are celebrating the 4th of July weekend by releasing a new image of some cosmic fireworks. The spectacular shot is made up of a mosaic of radio and infrared images, showing a cluster of young stars exploding into life. -
Glowing bacteria could slow the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs
Scientists at the University of Exeter have developed a promising technique that could help slow the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs, by quickly illuminating bacteria when antibiotics are having the desired effect. -
Fluorinated membrane breaks a limit for capturing carbon dioxide
Carbon dioxide is an all too common waste product of industry, belched into the air from smokestacks. Now, researchers have developed a new type of fluorinated membrane that can selectively filter CO2 out of flue gas at the point of release. -
Nitrous oxide being trialed to treat depression, PTSD and alcoholism
A new pilot study has demonstrated nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, may help military veterans suffering from PTSD. A larger trial is now underway after several studies demonstrated potential new uses for the gas. -
Aerogel fashioned into world's lightest electromagnetic shielding
Scientists at EMPA have developed a new aerogel-based material that blocks a wide range of electromagnetic radiation frequencies, forming what they describe as by far the lightest electromagnetic shielding material in the world. -
New drug helps reduce brain damage from a stroke in mice
Strokes can leave lifelong lingering issues, as neurons are damaged and die. But now, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have identified a new drug that could help prevent damage even after a stroke, with tests in mice showing promise. -
Tiny quantum fluctuations observed moving 40-kg mirror
Classical physics describes how large objects and systems work on an everyday scale, while quantum physics describes the “spooky” subatomic world. Now scientists have observed a rare crossover where a quantum fluctuation affected a macroscale object. -
Gut bacteria signature reveals liver disease with over 90% accuracy
A research team working to unravel the secrets of the gut microbiome has happened upon a specific signature of bacterial species that can be used to detect liver fibrosis and cirrhosis with an accuracy of greater than 90 percent. -
Flight controls from historic Apollo 11 mission go up for auction
Julien's Auctions is offering a trio of historic Apollo 11 artifacts as part of its Legends & Explorers auction. Three of the hand controllers used to steer the Columbia spacecraft are expected to fetch between US$80,000 and $200,000 each. -
Ultrafast-acting form of insulin developed by Stanford researchers
Researchers have developed an ultrafast-acting form of insulin that promises to work up to four times faster than current formulations. The novel drug has only been tested in animals so far but the researchers hope to test it in human trials soon. -
Exposed core of ancient gas giant discovered orbiting Sun-like star
Astronomers have discovered the intact, exposed core of a gas giant locked in a close orbit around a Sun-like star. The discovery will give astronomers a rare opportunity to probe the heart of an ancient alien world.
