Latest News
See updates in chronological order
Microplastics in the body may be less widespread than thought.
Recent reviews and expert critiques have challenged several high-profile studies reporting microplastics in human tissues, leaving the extent of microplastics in people uncertain.
Swarms of tiny earthquakes reveal hidden structure of California faults
A study published in Science used swarms of very small (about magnitude 0) earthquakes to map the Mendocino Triple Junction and found a complex, five-piece geometry that includes a buried Pioneer fragment and may represent an unaccounted seismic hazard.
Kaiser settles $46 million lawsuit over patient data.
Kaiser Permanente has agreed to a $46 million settlement in a lawsuit alleging that patient data from its websites was shared with third parties; the settlement is pending court approval and claims must be filed by March 12, 2026.
Trump says Reza Pahlavi 'seems very nice' but Iranian support unclear
President Trump told Reuters he finds Reza Pahlavi 'very nice' but said he is unsure whether Iranians would accept him as a leader; protests are ongoing in Iran and no clear successor to the current leadership has emerged.
Cancer five-year survival reaches 70% in recent U.S. report.
The American Cancer Society reports that 70% of U.S. cancer patients diagnosed 2015–2021 survived at least five years, up from about 49% in the mid-1970s; the report also notes rising incidence for several common cancers and persistent racial disparities.
Sisterdale VFD marks 50th anniversary with ribbon cutting
The Sisterdale Volunteer Fire Department, established in 1975, will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 21 at its headquarters as it marks 50 years serving parts of Kendall County.
SETI program follows up its final 100 signals with FAST telescope
Astronomers are using China's FAST radio telescope to reobserve 100 candidate narrowband signals flagged by SETI@home; the team expects many may prove to be local radio interference and analysis is ongoing.
Astronauts splash down off California after medical evacuation
Four astronauts splashed down off the coast of California after leaving the International Space Station about a month early because of a medical issue; NASA said the affected crew member was in stable condition.
NBA's European league plans face pushback from EuroLeague
NBA commissioner Adam Silver is meeting in Europe to build support for a new NBA-FIBA league, while the EuroLeague has warned it may take legal action over licensed clubs.
Subway Surfers City sequel arrives February 26
SYBO will release Subway Surfers City on February 26; the sequel introduces four unlockable neighborhoods, new abilities, and three game modes.
Northern Lights may be visible across 15 states this weekend
A surge of solar energy could produce auroras across parts of the northern U.S. late Jan. 16 into early Jan. 17, and NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center forecasts a minor (G1) geomagnetic storm.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park completes prescribed burn at Cades Cove.
Park crews completed a planned prescribed burn that treated 900 acres at Cades Cove to help limit woody vegetation and preserve the area's historic open habitat.
Diversified approach to income is essential now, says UBS
UBS says income investors should diversify income sources because it expects higher volatility and tight credit spreads; the firm highlights bonds, private credit and structured products as potential income sources.
Autistic Barbie released with sensory-focused design and accessories.
Mattel released its first autistic Barbie developed with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, featuring sensory-friendly clothing, articulated joints, a gentle side gaze, and accessories such as noise-canceling headphones; the company said it will donate more than 1,000 dolls to pediatric hospitals.
Department stores then and now: vintage photos show how they have changed
Vintage photos trace a shift from early 1900s department stores that sold necessities like food and home goods to a modern retail landscape where many luxury chains are struggling; the article reports that Saks Global filed for bankruptcy on Tuesday.
Astronauts Return to Earth After Early Space Station Departure
SpaceX's Crew Dragon Endeavor splashed down off the California coast in the early hours of Jan. 15, returning four crew members; NASA called the shortened, 167-day mission a success.
Spare the Air alert in Bay Area to remain through Saturday
The Bay Area Air District extended its Spare the Air alert through at least Saturday, banning indoor and outdoor burning of wood and other solid fuels. Fine particulate levels were at or above the district's threshold and are expected to remain in the mid- to high-moderate range.
Zion Foster Shares Poem About His Daughters After SMA Diagnosis
Zion Foster posted a video reading a poem for his twin daughters after they were diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, and Jesy Nelson said doctors told them the girls may never walk.
Trump unveils healthcare plan shifting subsidies to direct health savings account payments
President Donald Trump announced a plan to replace Affordable Care Act insurance subsidies with direct payments into health savings accounts, and the White House says the plan would lower drug prices and make costs more transparent.
Astronauts splash down after SpaceX medical evacuation
Four astronauts returned to Earth after an unprecedented medical evacuation from the International Space Station, and NASA said the affected crew member is doing fine.
Tour de France returns to Britain with at least 10 million expected to line route
Organisers announced the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes will start in the UK in 2027, with at least 10 million people expected to watch along the routes. Start and finish locations for three UK stages of each race were unveiled at a press conference in Leeds.
Recycling: Seven takeout containers that don't belong in the blue bin.
A CNET piece reports that 'wish‑cycling'—placing doubtful items in recycling—disrupts processing plants, and that many takeout containers that look recyclable are not accepted by most facilities; a Republic Services sustainability ambassador offered guidance and noted local rules vary.
RFK Jr. reverses $2 billion cuts to mental health programs
The Department of Health and Human Services reinstated $2 billion for mental health and substance use programs less than a day after notifying recipients that the funds would be canceled, following strong public and professional backlash.
Job Security: Unemployment Claims Unexpectedly Fall to 198,000
Initial claims for state jobless benefits fell to 198,000 last week, below economists' expectations of 212,000, and the four-week moving average declined to 205,000.
Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh visits Thames Valley Air Ambulance
Sophie visited Thames Valley Air Ambulance in Stokenchurch on Jan. 14 and met crews and took part in training; the charity’s crew airlifted her in 2001 after an ectopic pregnancy, when she required emergency surgery.
Minneapolis mayor says Minnesota doesn't need additional troops
Mayor Jacob Frey urged ICE to leave Minneapolis after the killing of Renee Good and said the city does not need more federal troops; the Trump administration has said it plans to send additional forces and the president threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act.
Top Doctor Urges Trump to Be Evaluated After Appearing Drowsy
A cardiologist and another specialist cited video of President Trump appearing to nod off during an Oval Office event and called for a medical evaluation; the White House and the president's doctors say he remains in excellent health.
Prince Harry expected to return to UK to testify as tabloid trial begins
Prince Harry is expected to return to the United Kingdom next week to testify in a lawsuit against Associated Newspapers; a pretrial hearing on Jan. 15 addressed witness testimony and last-minute amendments.
This pillow provides life-changing comfort and neck pain relief
A contoured memory-foam cervical pillow priced at $39.98 is reported by multiple user reviews to ease neck and shoulder pressure and improve sleep quality.
Wyoming breaks six weather records in two days
The National Weather Service in Riverton reported six weather records were broken across Wyoming over two days, including multiple record high temperatures and one rainfall record. Forecasters also noted that the polar vortex could bring Arctic air to parts of the U.S. later this month.
