Rye Lynn Rost, a seventh grader from Montana, created bioplastics using starch from plantains and bananas. She discovered that plantains have more starch and higher tensile strength than bananas. Rye performed tests by comparing both bioplastics against plastic parafilm to evaluate their strength. Her project focuses on making sustainable bioplastics that are durable in environmental conditions over time.

A remarkable new insect species, Cretodorus noonoo, has been unearthed from 99 million-year-old amber found in Myanmar. This intriguing species is linked to the Neazoniidae family, renowned for its extraordinary mouthparts. These long and flexible adaptations reveal specialized feeding behaviors on tree sap. This discovery sheds light on the ecological interactions within Cretaceous forests, illustrating the diverse evolutionary strategies that shaped ancient ecosystems.

Researchers studying ageing in mice have found that a decline in chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), a cellular recycling process, helps “zombie cells” accumulate by weakening the immune system’s ability to clear them. Restoring CMA reduced senescent-cell buildup, inflammation and fibrosis in mice, pointing to a possible new approach to age-related diseases.

A New Jersey project that began installing 40 constructed oyster reefs along about 800 metres of Gandy’s Beach in 2015 recorded more than 800 live oysters per square metre during early monitoring. Researchers also found the reefs reduced storm-wave height by up to 51% under certain conditions, though seven years of monitoring showed continued elevation and vegetation loss at the site.

Sartaj Singh Gandhi, a brilliant seventh grader, has innovatively developed a device that monitors the freshness of various meats by tracking ammonia gas released during decay. His research revealed that peak ammonia levels were detected on day six of testing turkey, chicken, pork, and beef. With plans to broaden the device's capabilities to other food types, Sartaj dreams of a future in cardiothoracic surgery.

In a fascinating search for hidden landmines, South Korean troops discovered a small bronze gun buried beneath the earth. Dubbed a Hwangja Hwatong, this artifact dates back to the 14th or 15th century. The intricate details engraved on it can help historians piece together Korea's journey in firearm technology and military tactics from the times of the Goryeo and early Joseon dynasties.

Research conducted at the Etowah Indian Mounds has revealed cacao residue in 11th-century pottery, illustrating that the Mississippian culture actively consumed cacao as part of their lifestyle. This discovery suggests interconnected trade networks similar to those seen in Chaco Canyon, hinting at shared cultural exchanges. The distinct pottery styles from Etowah further emphasize this cultural interaction, prompting further investigation into these ancient societies.

D'Arros Island's Wedge-tailed Shearwater population rose dramatically after rats were eradicated in 2003. Researchers recorded 2,768 breeding pairs in 2016 and 2,406 pairs in 2021. The colony spread across a larger area and exhibited higher breeding burrow density during later surveys. The study utilized direct counts and area-based estimates to determine breeding pair numbers. Identifying the peak incubation period in November was crucial for future population comparisons.

J.K. Rowling opened the Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic in memory of her mother, who died of multiple sclerosis. The clinic focuses on research and treatment of various neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. The funding aims to attract world-class researchers to develop new therapies and potentially find a cure. It has already hosted numerous clinical appointments and research projects since its inception.

Researchers have identified ten likely new species of branching marine worms found within sea sponges. These unusual worms exhibit a unique tree-like body structure, which has evolved over time. Genetic analysis and museum specimens helped resolve the long-standing classification issues of these marine organisms. The study indicates these worms' diversification relates closely to their sponge hosts and geographic locations.

Researchers have developed an innovative living building material designed for potential use on Mars, integrating engineered yeast with sand. This breakthrough material operates with significantly lower energy requirements than traditional high-temperature construction methods. Tests indicate that existing bricks retain their integrity and the yeast's viability, promoting sustainability. While the engineered yeast does reinforce the material's strength and structure, additional evaluation is needed to determine its enduring durability in Martian conditions.

A captivating century-old enigma surrounds Yellowstone's Biscuit Basin, centering on the misplacement of Black Pearl Geyser. The confusion stemmed from a hydrothermal explosion in 1925, which not only reshaped the landscape but also displaced a key sign. Correspondence from 1926 highlighted the depth of this perplexity related to the geyser's position.