Science and Technology

Study finds plastics in more than half of small land mammals sampled

Scientists studying plastic pollution in the UK have turned their eye to small land mammals and found traces of the material in more than half the species sampled, with a seemingly equal distribution across locations and even dietary habits.

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Virgin Orbit carries out its first night mission for the US Space Force

Virgin Orbit has ticked off another milestone in its fledgling launch business, successfully carrying out its first night-time mission over the weekend and deploying satellites into low-Earth orbit for the US Space Force.

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Nicotine-salt e-cig pods may harm immune cells more than other vapes

New research has found users of nicotine-salt-containing pod and disposable e-cigarettes display unique markers of immune suppression not seen in users of other kinds of e-cigarettes. The study indicates the long-term health implications are unknown.

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Cancer drug pulls surprising double duty to treat muscular dystrophy

In a new study, researchers have accidentally discovered that an existing cancer drug shows promise in slowing the progress of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, by changing the type of muscle fibers to be more resilient.

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New methane binding process could end insanely wasteful burn-offs

The global oil industry wastefully burns off about as much natural gas as is used by all of Central and South America – but a new methane binding agent offers a potential way for this greenhouse gas to be converted economically into liquid fuels.

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Sight of mouthwatering meals triggers inflammation linked to diabetes

The sight of a mouthwatering dish can certainly be enough to send our senses into overdrive, and a new study has demonstrated how the mechanisms behind this may play an important role in type 2 diabetes.

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FDA and WHO disagree on COVID-19 vaccine booster variant advice

Over the last few weeks the FDA and the WHO have disagreed over what direction COVID-19 vaccines should take later this year. Which Omicron subtype should boosters focus on, and how quickly can vaccine makers deliver new doses?

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Best of Britain: RIBA showcases UK’s finest new buildings

RIBA has revealed the 29 projects that feature in this year's National Awards. Consisting of the UK's finest new architecture, highlights include a house built into ruins and the country's first Passivhaus-rated high school.

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Methane converted into methanol at room temperature – just add light

Scientists have developed an efficient new way to convert methane into methanol at room temperature. The technique could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a cleaner way to make key products.

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Light-activated fish-shaped robot soaks up microplastics from the water

Scientists have come up with a novel cleanup solution for microplastic pollution that takes its cues from nature, in the form of a fish-like robot that can move through the water and soak up small plastic fragments as it goes.

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