U.S. Catholics Invigorated By Pope Francis' First Year

NPR | By Nathan Rott

Published December 25, 2013 at 4:37 AM EST

Nathan Rott

Nathan Rott is a correspondent on NPR's National Desk, where he focuses on environment issues and the American West.

Stories From This Author

How a handful of koalas are changing scientists understanding of genetic risk

Nathan Rott

It's long been assumed that koalas in southern Australia are genetically unhealthy. A new study finds they're actually recovering, changing how scientists look at genetic risks.
What elephant whiskers can teach us about touch

Nathan Rott

Elephants use their trunks much like a human uses their hands: to pick up food and manipulate objects. A new study finds that tiny, specialized whiskers on elephant trunks help them do it.
A study of a remarkable bonobo named Kanzi shows apes may play make believe

Nathan Rott

The ability to imagine -- to play pretend -- has long been thought to be unique to humans. A new study suggests certain apes may be able to as well.