In this week’s science news roundup, Regina Barber and Emily Kwong discuss intriguing debates and discoveries. Spider Webs and Stabilimenta Orb webs, among the most identifiable spider webs, often feature unique decorations known as stabilimenta. These can range from zigzag patterns to circular disks. Physicist Gabriele Greco presented a hypothesis suggesting these decorations help spiders...
In Stockholm, Sweden, on October 7, 2026, Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai received the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Their portraits appeared on screen at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences during the announcement. The two scientists were recognized for their groundbreaking discovery of non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis. “Henri Kagan...
White nose syndrome has drastically reduced the population of little brown bats, formerly the most abundant bat species in the eastern United States. This fungal disease severely impacts bats as they hibernate, threatening their existence across the U.S. Conservation biologist Giorgia Auteri and her team have identified genetic mutations in some surviving bats. These mutations...
Recent research indicates that the buildup of artery-clogging plaque may start much earlier than previously believed. Approximately 1 in 13 adults aged 18 to 29 already have silent atherosclerosis, the hardening of arteries due to plaque, despite having no known cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, more than half of all healthy adults in the study displayed signs...
The Atlantic hurricane season has been uncharacteristically quiet this year, concluding September without the formation of a single hurricane. This period is typically the most active time of the season, particularly mid-September, which is known for a surge in hurricane activity. Yet, this year has seen an unusual silence. Historically, September is the peak of...
Trail cameras in southern Will County have captured images of bobcats, including one with a pronounced limp. This bobcat had also appeared in footage from 2022, indicating its resilience and adaptability in the wild. Becky Blankenship, a wildlife ecologist, expressed optimism about the bobcat’s recovery. Bobcats, scientifically named Lynx rufus, are native to Illinois and...
Just above White Pine Lake in Utah, a layer of loose rock conceals glacier ice. This natural feature is known as a rock glacier. Despite the existence of over 10,000 rock glaciers in the western US, many people might overlook them. Unlike the snowy glaciers commonly recognized, these rock glaciers remain relatively unexplored. Rock glaciers...
Hundreds of species of scavenging animals around the world are facing declines or are at risk of extinction. These animals, which primarily consume decaying animal carcasses, play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. However, their dwindling numbers present a significant concern for human health. Research conducted by scientists highlights the connection between the decline...
California voters will soon decide on a proposal to create a $7.5 billion state scientific research fund, similar to the National Institutes of Health. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill placing this proposal on the March 2028 ballot. This new fund aims to counteract federal research cuts by the Trump administration. It aims to...
Recent storm-driven swells influenced by a burgeoning El Niño have warmed ocean waters, leading to erosion along California’s coastline. These conditions have attracted atypical marine life and artifacts. Among these unexpected finds, Ventura County officials reported discovering a Navy MK25 phosphorus location marker on a local beach. This marine marker, used for creating visible signals...