Scientists expose the X chromosome's complete genetic sequence. New research shows how the X and Y chromosomes evolved from a pair of regular chromosomes 300 million years ago.
Joe Palca is a science correspondent for NPR. Since joining NPR in 1992, Palca has covered a range of science topics — everything from biomedical research to astronomy. He is currently focused on the eponymous series, "Joe's Big Idea." Stories in the series explore the minds and motivations of scientists and inventors. Palca is also the founder of NPR Scicommers – A science communication collective.
What’s in a name?If it’s the name of the Florida Red-bellied Cooter, there’s a lot! This freshwater (and occasionally brackish water) turtle is found in calm water through most of Florida and into southern Georgia. “Red-bellied” describes most young adults, but as they age, their belly changes color and can be brown or yellow.And that name “cooter” – where did it come from and what does it mean? The name “cooter” is centuries old and it seems likely that it was the name used by slaves from west Africa. In their language, the name for turtle – is today spelled “kuta” and pronounced like “cooter.
Flight cancellations at Southwest Florida International Airport continued Monday with 55 just after 3 p.m. The cancellations are mostly due to the massive snow and ice-filled winter storm hitting the country from Texas to Maine. Airlines warned the storm could cause widespread cancellations and delays at some of the nation’s busiest airports.
Following a lengthy renovation, Lee County's South County Regional Library reopened. The return couldn’t come at a better time, since reading among Floridians has been on the decline.
An injured male American bald eagle admitted in late December to Sanibel-based CROW, the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, has been on the mend and freedom is not far away for the big raptor.