Science Once dismissed, these cells in the brain have the spotlight in the neuroscience world The brain's immune system is getting attention at the Society for Neuroscience in Chicago. A lot of research is now focused on the interaction of neurons, glial cells and other immune cells. Jon Hamilton Play AudioListen 4 mins
Science Nobel Prize in medicine honors two Americans for discovery of microRNA The Nobel Assembly said that their discovery is "proving to be fundamentally important for how organisms develop and function." The Associated Press
Science Why Massachusetts loves Nibi the beaver and is fighting to keep her out of the wild For the past several weeks, the beloved beaver has been embroiled in a court battle over whether she should return to the wild or stay at the rescue center where she has lived since she was a newborn. Juliana Kim
Environment A coal power plant demolition serves as a poignant historical moment for the Navajo For six decades, coal has provided for — and polluted — the Navajo Nation. Demolition of a power plant brings mixed emotions. Adam Burke Play AudioListen 8 mins
Science This week in science: squid fabric, a growing Everest, and the mystery of lightning NPR's Juana Summers talks with Regina Barber and Emily Kwong of Short Wave about squid-inspired fabric, the growing height of Mount Everest, and new research into the mystery of how lightning forms. Emily Kwong Regina Barber Play AudioListen 8 mins
Science What century-old soil samples can teach us A rediscovered soil sample collection in Illinois is helping researchers better understand how soil changes over time and what we can do to keep it healthy for agriculture. Play AudioListen 4 mins
Science Birders argue over plan to change dozens of bird names On Thursday, a major birding society will discuss how how to go about changing potentially offensive bird names. There's resistance to the original plan to rename all birds named after people. Nell Greenfieldboyce Play AudioListen 5 mins
Science Scientists have identified 50 million connections in a the brain of a fruit fly Scientists have mapped all 50 million connections in the brain of a fruit fly, the largest brain ever mapped. The feat will allow scientists to study how brain determines behavior in flies and people. Jon Hamilton Play AudioListen 4 mins
Science Fat Bear Week delayed after a large bear kills a rival bear The scene was relayed by a live webcam of bears on Alaska's Brooks River. “This is very difficult to watch and comprehend,” said Naomi Boak of the nonprofit Katmai Conservancy. Bill Chappell
Science A tiny town just got slammed by Helene. It could massively disrupt the tech industry Spruce Pine is a major global supplier of high-purity quartz. It’s an essential ingredient for microchips and solar panels. Geoff Brumfiel Scott Neuman Camila Domonoske
