Chimps' rhythmic drumming and complex calls hint at origins of human language Two new studies hint at the evolutionary roots of human language. The studies found that chimps use rhythmic structures and complex call combinations to communicate. Jon Hamilton
Trump tightens control of independent agency overseeing nuclear safety NPR has learned that rules must now be vetted by the White House and that the administration is drafting an executive order that could loosen radiation limits. Geoff Brumfiel
2 men convicted of cutting down beloved Sycamore Gap tree in 'mindless' destruction Prosecutors say that as news of the crime spread, the two men exchanged messages relishing the outrage and sadness they caused. The tree in northern England was believed to be about 200 years old. Bill Chappell
RFK Jr. says autism database will use Medicare and Medicaid info The National Institutes of Health will partner with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid to create a database of Americans with autism, using insurance claims, medical records and smartwatch data. Alana Wise
Glittering blue creatures are washing up on California beaches. Here's why Hundreds of thousands of Velella velella, more commonly known as by-the-wind-sailors, are drifting onto the coastline. Beachcombers say they look like "blue diamonds strewn across the beach." Vanessa Romo
Economists warn Trump's research cuts could have dire consequences for GDP President Trump has proposed slashing federal scientific funding. Economists say the long-term consequences could be dire. Geoff Brumfiel
Energy Star, efficiency program that has steered consumer choice, targeted in cuts An Environmental Protection Agency plan to eliminate its Energy Star offices would end a decades-old program that gave consumers a choice to buy environmentally friendly electronics and save money on bills, consumer and environmental groups said. The Associated Press
Humans still haven't seen 99.999% of the deep seafloor Human eyes have only seen a tiny, tiny, tiny fraction of the areas of the world that are covered by deep water. Scientists want to change how they explore these regions. Nell Greenfieldboyce
Most Americans use federal science information on a weekly basis, a new poll finds Most Americans frequently use federal science information. But few are concerned that cuts to federal science spending could affect their access to such information, a new poll finds. Rebecca Hersher
Trump restricts funding for 'gain-of-function' research — calling it dangerous President Trump issued an executive order Monday banning federal funding for any research abroad that involves a field of scientific study known as "gain-of-function" research. Here's what it means. Rob Stein
