Stuck in a rut? How to appreciate your life again, according to science After a while, even the most exciting relationships, jobs and environments lose their spark. But cognitive neuroscientist Tali Sharot says it’s possible to fall back in love with life’s small joys. Read more on NPR

These nurse managers were burnt out. Then their hospital gave them a 4-day workweek Since the pandemic, hospitals have seen soaring turnover among clinical managers who oversee teams of nurses. Now some hospitals, including AtlantiCare in New Jersey, have introduced a 4-day workweek. Read more on NPR

Another monolith appeared near Las Vegas. Who’s behind these mysterious objects? Metallic prisms have been appearing across the world since one was found in Utah in 2020, but in many cases it’s still unclear who created them and why. Read more on NPR

Chorus or cacophony? Cicada song hits some ears harder than others Cicadas are the song of the summer, but this year’s large broods may be especially irritating for people on the autism spectrum who have hearing sensitivity. Read more on NPR

The brain makes a lot of waste. Now scientists think they know where it goes The brain appears to rely on synchronized waves to wash out waste products, including toxins associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Read more on NPR

Swimmer Michael Phelps says China doping scandal threatens the Olympic movement On Capitol Hill, Michael Phelps and fellow Olympic swimming star Alison Schmitt testified about doping by elite Chinese athletes and demanded reforms to the World Anti-Doping Agency. Read more on NPR

As sideshows gain popularity, police try a range of tactics to stop them in their tracks Illegal “sideshows,” also known as “street takeovers,” have spread since the pandemic. When police try to break them up, they often face defiant crowds Read more on NPR

Christian writer’s new book reminds kids what makes them different makes them special Christian writer Jonathan Merritt’s new book My Guncle and Me tells the story of a gay uncle who helps his nephew embrace being different. Read more on NPR

She was overwhelmed by clearing out her parents’ belongings. Then a friend stepped in When Karen Muller’s father passed away, she was overwhelmed by the prospect of clearing out her parents’ home. Then a family friend stepped in. Read more on NPR