We use tensors in physics to describe how things like force on one spatial axis can affect other axes. In Einsteinian relativity this is a valid concept. Also, in relativity we understand that space and time are related and intertwined. For this we might surmise that if you distort space you might affect time. Special relativity in fact discusses this.

What if you could construct a means of 'swirling' space to create a helical torsion in a region. How might that affect time in the region? [unknown and tbd]

How could you do that? By spinning heavy kinds of matter at extreme high velocities. Solid heavy atoms like lead or uranium can't be spun that way. But mercury is perfect because it is fluid at normal temperatures. Might Bell have been a chamber wherein mercury was rotated at enormous velocity to achieve a local breakdown of spacetime, and by doing that one could disrupt atoms, maybe even nucleii, and this could emit high density radiation as well as messing with regional spacetime.

My guess we know about this and have for 80 years, and it has been a highly classified military secret.

I deduce that some astrophysical extreme objects like fast-rotating high density neutron stars with enormous mass density may actually distort space-time around them. [added: YES they do!]