Latest Articles
‘Which Side Are You On?’: American protest songs have emboldened social movements for generations, from coal country to Minneapolis
‘Which Side Are You On?’: American protest songs have emboldened social movements for generations, from coal country to Minneapolis “Which Side Are You On?” is an American protest song that has been used to empower social movements for generations, from coal country to Minneapolis. The song was written in 1931 by Florence Reece, a woman […]
🏛️ Politics
‘Less lethal’ crowd-control weapons still cause harm – 2 physicians explain what they are and their health effects
‘Less lethal’ crowd-control weapons still cause harm – 2 physicians explain what they are and their health effects Less lethal crowd-control weapons, such as tear gas, rubber bullets, and electronic conduction devices, can still cause significant harm to individuals, including pain, fear, and physiological stress, and can result in serious injury or death. The use […]
🏥 Health
‘Inoculation’ helps people spot political deepfakes, study finds
‘Inoculation’ helps people spot political deepfakes, study finds Researchers have found that informing people about political deepfakes through text-based information and interactive games can improve their ability to spot AI-generated video and audio that falsely depict politicians. Inoculation theory, which proposes that psychological inoculation can immunize people against persuasive attacks, has been shown to be […]
📰 News
Women have been mapping the world for centuries – and now they’re speaking up for the people left out of those maps
Women have been mapping the world for centuries – and now they’re speaking up for the people left out of those maps Women have been mapping the world for centuries, but their contributions to cartography have long been overlooked. Despite this, women have played a significant role in shaping our understanding of the world and […]
📰 News
Winter Olympians often compete in freezing temperatures – physiology and advances in materials science help keep them warm
Winter Olympians often compete in freezing temperatures – physiology and advances in materials science help keep them warm For the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, athletes can expect relatively mild but still chilly temperatures (upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit), which will require adjustments in equipment preparation and physiological responses. Athletes competing in outdoor events will […]
🏥 Health
Will a ‘Trump slump’ continue to hit US tourism in 2026 − and even keep World Cup fans away?
Will a ‘Trump slump’ continue to hit US tourism in 2026 − and even keep World Cup fans away? The US tourism industry is worried that the “Trump slump” will continue to hit US tourism in 2026, even affecting World Cup fans. The decline in international arrivals to the US in 2025 was 5.4%, a […]
📰 News
Why ‘The West Wing’ went from a bipartisan hit to a polarized streaming comfort watch over 2 decades, reflecting profound shifts in media and politics
Why ‘The West Wing’ went from a bipartisan hit to a polarized streaming comfort watch over 2 decades, reflecting profound shifts in media and politics The TV series “The West Wing” has undergone a significant shift in its appeal over the past two decades, reflecting profound changes in media and politics. The show’s transition from […]
🏛️ Politics
Why retailers rarely use ‘Super Bowl’
Why retailers rarely use ‘Super Bowl’ Many retailers avoid using the term “Super Bowl” due to trademark protection. The Super Bowl is a major driver of commercial sales, but brands must find creative ways to reference it without infringing on the trademark. Trademark rules shape promotions and retail marketing strategy for one of the biggest […]
🎭 Entertainment
Why eating cheap chocolate can feel embarrassing – even though no one else cares
Why eating cheap chocolate can feel embarrassing – even though no one else cares Consumption stigma refers to the social judgment that people can be judged or looked down on for using certain products, even when there’s nothing objectively wrong with them. Feeling stigmatized by consumption choices can lead to mental exhaustion, eroded self-esteem, increased […]
📰 News
Why corporate America is mostly staying quiet as federal immigration agents show up at its doors
Why corporate America is mostly staying quiet as federal immigration agents show up at its doors Corporate America has largely remained quiet in response to federal immigration agents showing up at its stores, detaining employees and conducting work authorization inspections. The response from CEOs in Minnesota, including those from Target, 3M, and UnitedHealth Group, was […]
🏛️ Politics
Why Christian clergy see risk as part of their moral calling
Why Christian clergy see risk as part of their moral calling Christian clergy across the US are taking risks to protest harsh immigration enforcement actions and advocate for immigrant rights, seeing it as a moral calling. Their willingness to face arrest and bodily harm is rooted in their professional obligation to provide spiritual care for […]
🏛️ Politics
Whether it’s yoga, rock climbing or Dungeons & Dragons, taking leisure to a high level can be good for your well-being
Whether it’s yoga, rock climbing or Dungeons & Dragons, taking leisure to a high level can be good for your well-being Serious leisure pursuits, such as collecting old editions of Dungeons & Dragons monster manuals or mastering yoga postures, require participation over longer periods and can lead to increased skill and connection with the activity. […]
🎭 Entertainment
What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 Mission
What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 Mission The SpaceX Crew-12 mission is set to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on a Dragon spacecraft named Freedom, carrying four crew members: NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. The crew will conduct research, […]
📰 News
What Olympic athletes see that viewers don’t: Machine-made snow makes ski racing faster and riskier – and it’s everywhere
What Olympic athletes see that viewers don’t: Machine-made snow makes ski racing faster and riskier – and it’s everywhere Machine-made snow is increasingly used at Olympic venues, making ski racing faster and riskier, but also changing the sport’s dynamics. Athletes are adapting to machine-made snow by adjusting their technique, preparing skis differently, and relying on […]
📰 News
What is the American Dream, and has it become harder to achieve in recent years?
What is the American Dream, and has it become harder to achieve in recent years? The American Dream, coined by historian James Truslow Adams in the 1930s, has become a central concept to the nation’s identity and self-image. Most people interviewed defined the American Dream as consisting of three basic ideas: an economic bargain (financial […]
🏛️ Politics
Valentine’s Day cards too sugary sweet for you? Return to the 19th-century custom of the spicy ‘vinegar valentine’
Valentine’s Day cards too sugary sweet for you? Return to the 19th-century custom of the spicy ‘vinegar valentine’ Vinegar valentines were a type of Valentine’s Day card that emerged during the Victorian era, characterized by their mocking and insulting nature. The cards were meant to shock, offend, and upset their recipients, often targeting people who […]
🎭 Entertainment
US experiencing largest measles outbreak since 2000 – 5 essential reads on the risks, what to do and what’s coming next
US experiencing largest measles outbreak since 2000 – 5 essential reads on the risks, what to do and what’s coming next The US is experiencing its largest measles outbreak since 2000, with over 876 cases reported as of February 3, 2026, surpassing previous outbreaks in Texas and South Carolina. The outbreak has highlighted the dangers […]
🏥 Health
Trump’s new ‘Buy American’ requirement for EV charging would dramatically curtail build-out
Trump’s new ‘Buy American’ requirement for EV charging would dramatically curtail build-out Donald Trump’s administration has introduced a new “Buy American” requirement for EV charging infrastructure, which would significantly impact its build-out. The requirement states that EV chargers must be built in the US and use components originating from the US to receive federal funding. […]
📰 News
The Toyota Highlander is now a three-row electric SUV with 320 miles of range
The Toyota Highlander is now a three-row electric SUV with 320 miles of range The Toyota Highlander has been redesigned as a three-row electric SUV for the US market. The new vehicle boasts 320 miles of range and marks Toyota’s first three-row electric vehicle in America. The redesign aims to compete directly with popular EV […]
📰 News
There’s a competition crisis in America’s state legislatures – and that’s bad for democracy
There’s a competition crisis in America’s state legislatures – and that’s bad for democracy The competition crisis in America’s state legislatures is a growing concern for democracy, with over half of Massachusetts state House seats going uncontested by one party since 2010. The trend is not limited to Massachusetts; in recent election cycles, between 30% […]
🏛️ Politics
News
‘Inoculation’ helps people spot political deepfakes, study finds
‘Inoculation’ helps people spot political deepfakes, study finds Researchers have found that informing people about political deepfakes through text-based information and interactive games can improve their ability to spot AI-generated video and audio that falsely depict politicians. Inoculation theory, which proposes that psychological inoculation can immunize people against persuasive attacks, has been shown to be […]
📰 News
Women have been mapping the world for centuries – and now they’re speaking up for the people left out of those maps
Women have been mapping the world for centuries – and now they’re speaking up for the people left out of those maps Women have been mapping the world for centuries, but their contributions to cartography have long been overlooked. Despite this, women have played a significant role in shaping our understanding of the world and […]
📰 News
Will a ‘Trump slump’ continue to hit US tourism in 2026 − and even keep World Cup fans away?
Will a ‘Trump slump’ continue to hit US tourism in 2026 − and even keep World Cup fans away? The US tourism industry is worried that the “Trump slump” will continue to hit US tourism in 2026, even affecting World Cup fans. The decline in international arrivals to the US in 2025 was 5.4%, a […]
📰 News
Why eating cheap chocolate can feel embarrassing – even though no one else cares
Why eating cheap chocolate can feel embarrassing – even though no one else cares Consumption stigma refers to the social judgment that people can be judged or looked down on for using certain products, even when there’s nothing objectively wrong with them. Feeling stigmatized by consumption choices can lead to mental exhaustion, eroded self-esteem, increased […]
📰 News
What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 Mission
What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 Mission The SpaceX Crew-12 mission is set to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on a Dragon spacecraft named Freedom, carrying four crew members: NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. The crew will conduct research, […]
📰 News
What Olympic athletes see that viewers don’t: Machine-made snow makes ski racing faster and riskier – and it’s everywhere
What Olympic athletes see that viewers don’t: Machine-made snow makes ski racing faster and riskier – and it’s everywhere Machine-made snow is increasingly used at Olympic venues, making ski racing faster and riskier, but also changing the sport’s dynamics. Athletes are adapting to machine-made snow by adjusting their technique, preparing skis differently, and relying on […]
📰 News
Trump’s new ‘Buy American’ requirement for EV charging would dramatically curtail build-out
Trump’s new ‘Buy American’ requirement for EV charging would dramatically curtail build-out Donald Trump’s administration has introduced a new “Buy American” requirement for EV charging infrastructure, which would significantly impact its build-out. The requirement states that EV chargers must be built in the US and use components originating from the US to receive federal funding. […]
📰 News
The Toyota Highlander is now a three-row electric SUV with 320 miles of range
The Toyota Highlander is now a three-row electric SUV with 320 miles of range The Toyota Highlander has been redesigned as a three-row electric SUV for the US market. The new vehicle boasts 320 miles of range and marks Toyota’s first three-row electric vehicle in America. The redesign aims to compete directly with popular EV […]
📰 News
Sixth year of drought in Texas and Oklahoma leaves ranchers bracing for another harsh summer
Sixth year of drought in Texas and Oklahoma leaves ranchers bracing for another harsh summer The Southern Plains region has been experiencing its sixth consecutive year of drought, with Texas and Oklahoma facing severe water shortages and dried-out pastures. The drought has cost the agriculture industry an estimated $23.6 billion in lost crops, higher feed […]
📰 News
Schools are increasingly telling students they must put their phones away – Ohio’s example shows mixed results following new bans
Schools are increasingly telling students they must put their phones away – Ohio’s example shows mixed results following new bans 29 states have passed laws requiring K-12 public schools to enforce bans or strict limits on students using their cellphones on campus, with approximately 77% of public schools now forbidding students from having their phones […]
📰 News
Sports
Has Little Caesars Arena boosted economic activity in Detroit? We looked at hotel and short-term rental industry data to find out
Has Little Caesars Arena boosted economic activity in Detroit? We looked at hotel and short-term rental industry data to find out Little Caesars Arena’s impact on Detroit’s economy was studied using hotel and short-term rental industry data, which showed a significant increase in lodging industry growth coinciding with the arena’s opening in 2017. The study […]
⚽ Sports
Clarence ‘Taffy’ Abel: A pioneering US Olympic hockey star who hid his Indigenous identity to play in the NHL
Clarence ‘Taffy’ Abel: A pioneering US Olympic hockey star who hid his Indigenous identity to play in the NHL Taffy Abel was a pioneering US Olympic hockey star who hid his Indigenous identity to play in the NHL, becoming the first U.S. flag bearer at the Winter Olympics in 1924. Abel’s secret identity as half-Ojibwe […]
⚽ Sports
Tennis is set for a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ sequel – with no movement behind it
Tennis is set for a ‘Battle of the Sexes’ sequel – with no movement behind it Tennis’ upcoming “Battle of the Sexes” event between Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it may not be a meaningful representation of equality in sports. The event has been criticized for its modified […]
⚽ Sports
George Plimpton’s 1966 nonfiction classic ‘Paper Lion’ revealed the bruising truths of Detroit Lions training camp
George Plimpton’s 1966 nonfiction classic ‘Paper Lion’ revealed the bruising truths of Detroit Lions training camp George Plimpton’s 1966 nonfiction classic “Paper Lion” revealed the harsh realities of Detroit Lions training camp, where he went undercover as a rookie quarterback to write about his experience. Plimpton, a writer and Paris Review editor, convinced the team […]
⚽ Sports
Sky Sports killed off its female-focused Halo brand after just three days
Sky Sports killed off its female-focused Halo brand after just three days Sky Sports launched a female-focused Halo brand on TikTok, but it was met with swift and strong backlash from female sports fans. The brand’s content was criticized for being overly feminine, using phrases like “hot girl walks” and posting shipping memes, which were […]
⚽ Sports
Allen Iverson’s 2001 Sixers embodied Philly’s brash, gritty soul − and changed basketball culture forever
Allen Iverson’s 2001 Sixers embodied Philly’s brash, gritty soul − and changed basketball culture forever The Philadelphia 76ers are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their legendary 2001 team, which embodied the city’s brash and gritty soul and changed basketball culture forever. The team will honor the 2001 season through various means, including the return of […]
⚽ Sports
Cleveland Guardians’ pitchers indicted for rigging online bets
Cleveland Guardians’ pitchers indicted for rigging online bets Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz have been indicted on charges of rigging online bets, including wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. The two pitchers allegedly agreed to throw specific types and speeds of pitches in exchange for bribes and kickback payments, with unnamed […]
⚽ Sports
How the explosion of prop betting threatens the integrity of pro sports
How the explosion of prop betting threatens the integrity of pro sports The explosion of prop betting in professional sports threatens the integrity of the games, as individual players can control the outcome of certain bets. The popularity of prop bets has led to a worldwide sports gambling industry that has experienced explosive growth and […]
⚽ Sports
Japan’s sumo association turns 100 – but the sport’s rituals have a much older role shaping ideas about the country
Japan’s sumo association turns 100 – but the sport’s rituals have a much older role shaping ideas about the country Sumo wrestling has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, but its rituals have roots in Shinto practices that date back even further. The sport’s popularity in Japan was initially overshadowed by baseball, which […]
⚽ Sports
Baseball returns to a Japanese American detention camp after a historic ball field was restored
Baseball returns to a Japanese American detention camp after a historic ball field was restored Baseball returns to Manzanar Relocation Center, a Japanese American detention camp during WWII, after an 80-year hiatus. The restoration was spearheaded by Dan Kwong, a descendant of a detainee, and features custom 1940s-style uniforms and vintage equipment. The Manzanar Relocation […]
⚽ Sports
Technology
Samsung’s next Unpacked is confirmed for later this month
Samsung’s next Unpacked is confirmed for later this month Samsung’s next Unpacked event has been confirmed for February 25th. The S26 series, Samsung’s flagship phones, will reportedly be a software-focused release with no major hardware upgrades. The standard S26 model is expected to feature a larger battery, increasing from 4000mAh to 4300mAh. Unfortunately, all three […]
💻 Technology
New technologies are stepping up the global fight against wildlife trafficking
New technologies are stepping up the global fight against wildlife trafficking New technologies are being used to combat wildlife trafficking, with Interpol coordinating global operations across 134 nations in late 2025, seizing over 30,000 live animals and confiscating illegal plant and timber products. The global wildlife trafficking industry is estimated to net between $7 billion […]
💻 Technology
My favorite Switch 2 controller is 30 percent off for today only
My favorite Switch 2 controller is 30 percent off for today only The EasySMX S10 wireless controller for Switch 2 is currently 30% off at Amazon, priced at $41.99 (black) or $44.99 (blue and white). The S10 offers nearly as many features as Nintendo’s Switch 2 Pro controller, including satisfying rumble sensation, motion controls, and […]
💻 Technology
Mapping cemeteries for class – how students used phones and drones to help a city count its headstones
Mapping cemeteries for class – how students used phones and drones to help a city count its headstones Miami University students, under the guidance of an environmental scientist, used geospatial technology tools to map a historic cemetery in Oxford, Ohio, which had over 6,000 headstones and no digital records. The project, which took about six […]
💻 Technology
Fitbit’s AI health coach is now available on your iPhone
Fitbit’s AI health coach is now available on your iPhone Fitbit’s AI health coach is now available on iPhone, marking a major expansion from its initial launch in October. The feature uses Gemini-powered AI to interpret user results, create custom routines and workouts based on personal health goals and preferences. The update is currently available […]
💻 Technology
Fears about TikTok’s policy changes point to a deeper problem in the tech industry
Fears about TikTok’s policy changes point to a deeper problem in the tech industry Fears about TikTok’s policy changes may be exaggerated, but they highlight a deeper issue in the tech industry regarding user trust and data privacy. The new terms of service and privacy policy went into effect on January 22, 2026, following the […]
💻 Technology
ChatGPT’s deep research tool adds a built-in document viewer so you can read its reports
ChatGPT’s deep research tool adds a built-in document viewer so you can read its reports OpenAI is updating ChatGPT’s deep research tool to include a full-screen document viewer. The built-in viewer allows users to scroll through and navigate to specific areas of AI-generated reports. The update includes a table of contents on the left side […]
💻 Technology
Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter is stepping down after six years
Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter is stepping down after six years Robert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics, is stepping down from his role effective immediately. Playter’s departure comes after six years at the helm of the company. Boston Dynamics was acquired by Softbank and later Hyundai in 2021, under Playter’s leadership. The company recently launched […]
💻 Technology
Ayaneo’s new Windows handheld will cost up to $4,299 with maxed out specs
Ayaneo’s new Windows handheld will cost up to $4,299 with maxed out specs Ayaneo has opened preorders for its new Windows 11 handheld, the Next 2, which starts at $1,999. The device features a 9.06-inch OLED screen with an adjustable refresh rate and weighs 3.14 pounds, making it heavier than the original Ayaneo Next and […]
💻 Technology
AI-generated text is overwhelming institutions – setting off a no-win ‘arms race’ with AI detectors
AI-generated text is overwhelming institutions – setting off a no-win ‘arms race’ with AI detectors The increasing use of AI-generated text is overwhelming institutions across various fields, leading to an “arms race” between AI detectors and generators. Institutions such as magazines, newspapers, academic journals, courts, and social media platforms are being inundated with AI-generated submissions, […]
💻 Technology
Gaming
I tested a bunch of gaming laptops and these are the best
I tested a bunch of gaming laptops and these are the best The best gaming laptops for 2025 are the Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090), Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Ryzen AI Max), Lenovo Legion Pro 7i (RTX 5080), HP Victus 15 (RTX 4050), and Asus ROG Flow Z13 (Integrated AMD graphics). The Razer Blade […]
🎮 Gaming
Elden Ring Nightreign is getting even harder bosses
Elden Ring Nightreign is getting even harder bosses Elden Ring Nightreign is introducing “Everdark Sovereigns,” more difficult versions of the game’s Nightlord foes, available for a limited time. The first Everdark Sovereign is a new version of Adel, Baron of the Night (Gaping Jaw), which can be unlocked by beating the normal version of that […]
🎮 Gaming
Here’s how you can prepare for the next round of Nintendo Switch 2 preorders
Here’s how you can prepare for the next round of Nintendo Switch 2 preorders Walmart is no longer accepting preorders for the standalone Switch 2 ($449) or the Mario Kart World bundle ($499), but you can still preorder games and accessories. GameStop currently isn’t accepting preorders, but it offers up to $175 off a Switch […]
🎮 Gaming
Entertainment
Why retailers rarely use ‘Super Bowl’
Why retailers rarely use ‘Super Bowl’ Many retailers avoid using the term “Super Bowl” due to trademark protection. The Super Bowl is a major driver of commercial sales, but brands must find creative ways to reference it without infringing on the trademark. Trademark rules shape promotions and retail marketing strategy for one of the biggest […]
🎭 Entertainment
Whether it’s yoga, rock climbing or Dungeons & Dragons, taking leisure to a high level can be good for your well-being
Whether it’s yoga, rock climbing or Dungeons & Dragons, taking leisure to a high level can be good for your well-being Serious leisure pursuits, such as collecting old editions of Dungeons & Dragons monster manuals or mastering yoga postures, require participation over longer periods and can lead to increased skill and connection with the activity. […]
🎭 Entertainment
Valentine’s Day cards too sugary sweet for you? Return to the 19th-century custom of the spicy ‘vinegar valentine’
Valentine’s Day cards too sugary sweet for you? Return to the 19th-century custom of the spicy ‘vinegar valentine’ Vinegar valentines were a type of Valentine’s Day card that emerged during the Victorian era, characterized by their mocking and insulting nature. The cards were meant to shock, offend, and upset their recipients, often targeting people who […]
🎭 Entertainment
Philly theaters unite to stage 3 plays by Pulitzer-winning playwright James Ijames
Philly theaters unite to stage 3 plays by Pulitzer-winning playwright James Ijames Philadelphia’s Citywide James Ijames Pass offers tickets to three plays by Pulitzer-winning playwright James Ijames at three theaters, including “Good Bones”, “The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington”, and “Wilderness Generation”. The pass costs $130 for the full package or $90 […]
🎭 Entertainment
Philadelphia was once a sweet spot for chocolatiers and other candymakers who made iconic treats for Valentine’s Day and other holidays
Philadelphia was once a sweet spot for chocolatiers and other candymakers who made iconic treats for Valentine’s Day and other holidays Philadelphia was once a hub for chocolatiers and candymakers who created iconic treats like Peeps, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and Whitman’s Sampler chocolates. The city’s strategic location on the Delaware River made it an […]
🎭 Entertainment
This coming-of-age adventure game made me feel a little too seen
This coming-of-age adventure game made me feel a little too seen The coming-of-age adventure game Perfect Tides: Station to Station features a relatable protagonist named Mara. Mara’s character is drawn with “piercing specificity”, making her awkward and socially anxious feel uncomfortably real. The game has minimalist mechanics, consisting mainly of conversations broken up by occasional […]
🎭 Entertainment
Opera is not dying – but it needs a second act for the streaming era
Opera is not dying – but it needs a second act for the streaming era Opera companies are facing financial stress due to declining attendance and revenue, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the art form is dying. The traditional business model of opera is faltering, relying on season ticket sales and big donors, whereas other […]
🎭 Entertainment
Get stuff done by yelling at your phone
Get stuff done by yelling at your phone Installer No. 113 has been reading about private garbage collectors and vintage watches. The writer watched The Running Man, which was not great, but Sinners, which was extremely great. The writer tried out their Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses again and listened to The Format’s new album. The […]
🎭 Entertainment
Gaming’s most fun sales data is full of old and obscure games
Gaming’s most fun sales data is full of old and obscure games Gaming analyst Mat Piscatella shares fascinating data on video game sales on Bluesky every month. The data often highlights retro games that take him down memory lane or titles he didn’t know existed. Mat has started posting lists of games that have sold […]
🎭 Entertainment
Animal Crossing: New Horizons added just enough to suck me back in
Animal Crossing: New Horizons added just enough to suck me back in Animal Crossing: New Horizons has introduced changes to address player frustration with its slow pace. The game’s 3.0 update, released as a free download, aims to improve quality of life for players. Key updates include streamlined crafting and building processes, reducing the need […]
🎭 Entertainment
Science
Team uncovers secret of fungi that eats charcoal
Team uncovers secret of fungi that eats charcoal New research reveals the genetic secrets behind fungi’s ability to thrive in charred environments, including their unique methods of digesting charcoal. Fungi have evolved three main ways to break down charcoal: gene duplication, sexual reproduction, and horizontal gene transfer from bacteria, allowing them to survive and even […]
🔬 Science
Space Station Research Contributes to Artemis II
Space Station Research Contributes to Artemis II NASA’s International Space Station (ISS) plays a crucial role in advancing human space exploration by conducting research and testing technologies ahead of time. The ISS has contributed to the development of life support and safety systems for the Orion spacecraft, which will carry four astronauts around the Moon […]
🔬 Science
Shrews shrink their brains and bodies to get through winter
Shrews shrink their brains and bodies to get through winter Two new studies have shed light on how shrews adapt to winter by shrinking their brains and bodies through a process called Dehnel’s phenomenon. The research, conducted by Stony Brook University researchers, reveals genetic and biological changes that occur in shrews during this process, including […]
🔬 Science
RNA is key to the dark matter of the genome − scientists are sequencing it to illuminate human health and disease
RNA is key to the dark matter of the genome − scientists are sequencing it to illuminate human health and disease RNA plays a crucial role in regulating the genome and generating cell diversity, making it a key player in human health and disease. The majority of DNA (about 98%) does not code for proteins, […]
🔬 Science
No animal alive today is ‘primitive’ – why are so many still labeled that way?
No animal alive today is ‘primitive’ – why are so many still labeled that way? Many animals are still labeled as “primitive” or “ancient,” but modern evolutionary biology shows that all species alive today are equally evolved and have long lineages, rather than being ancestors or descendants. The concept of a hierarchical view of evolution, […]
🔬 Science
NASA’s Hubble Captures Light Show Around Rapidly Dying Star
NASA’s Hubble Captures Light Show Around Rapidly Dying Star NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has captured the clearest view yet of the Egg Nebula, a pre-planetary nebula located approximately 1,000 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus. The Egg Nebula features a central star obscured by a dense cloud of dust, with twin beams from the dying […]
🔬 Science
Lüften sounds simple – but ‘house-burping’ is more complicated in Pittsburgh
Lüften sounds simple – but ‘house-burping’ is more complicated in Pittsburgh “Lüften” is a German practice of opening windows and doors to rapidly fill a house with outdoor air, typically at least twice daily, to improve indoor air quality and control humidity. The practice is not unique to Germany, but it’s uncommon in the US, […]
🔬 Science
Listen: There’s 1 easy thing you can do to improve your memory
Listen: There’s 1 easy thing you can do to improve your memory Dr. Edward Awh, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Chicago, shares insights on improving memory and focus. The human brain has limited capacity for conscious awareness, making it hard to focus and remember information in an information-saturated world. Dr. Awh’s research explores […]
🔬 Science
Infusing asphalt with plastic could help roads last longer and resist cracking under heat
Infusing asphalt with plastic could help roads last longer and resist cracking under heat Infusing asphalt with plastic can help roads last longer and resist cracking under heat, making them more durable and reducing the need for frequent repairs. The technology involves mixing small amounts of recycled plastic with asphalt to create a stronger road […]
🔬 Science
How do scientists hunt for dark matter? A physicist explains why the mysterious substance is so hard to find
How do scientists hunt for dark matter? A physicist explains why the mysterious substance is so hard to find Scientists are unable to directly observe dark matter due to its “dark” nature, meaning it doesn’t interact with light in any way. The existence of dark matter was first proposed by Fritz Zwicky in the Coma […]
🔬 Science
Health
‘Less lethal’ crowd-control weapons still cause harm – 2 physicians explain what they are and their health effects
‘Less lethal’ crowd-control weapons still cause harm – 2 physicians explain what they are and their health effects Less lethal crowd-control weapons, such as tear gas, rubber bullets, and electronic conduction devices, can still cause significant harm to individuals, including pain, fear, and physiological stress, and can result in serious injury or death. The use […]
🏥 Health
Winter Olympians often compete in freezing temperatures – physiology and advances in materials science help keep them warm
Winter Olympians often compete in freezing temperatures – physiology and advances in materials science help keep them warm For the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, athletes can expect relatively mild but still chilly temperatures (upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit), which will require adjustments in equipment preparation and physiological responses. Athletes competing in outdoor events will […]
🏥 Health
US experiencing largest measles outbreak since 2000 – 5 essential reads on the risks, what to do and what’s coming next
US experiencing largest measles outbreak since 2000 – 5 essential reads on the risks, what to do and what’s coming next The US is experiencing its largest measles outbreak since 2000, with over 876 cases reported as of February 3, 2026, surpassing previous outbreaks in Texas and South Carolina. The outbreak has highlighted the dangers […]
🏥 Health
Overactive immune cells can worsen heart failure – targeting them could offer new treatments
Overactive immune cells can worsen heart failure – targeting them could offer new treatments Heart failure affects approximately 64 million people worldwide, with nearly half dying within the first five years of diagnosis due to a lack of effective treatments. The immune system may be responsible for worsening heart failure, as research suggests that overactive […]
🏥 Health
Is there a link between viral infection and ALS?
Is there a link between viral infection and ALS? Researchers have identified a specific type of mouse (CC023 strain) that responds to a viral infection in a way similar to humans with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), providing a new animal model for studying the disease. The study found that the initial viral infection triggers an […]
🏥 Health
How young adults recall early adversity shifts based on relationships now
How young adults recall early adversity shifts based on relationships now Young adults’ recall of early adversity shifts based on their current relationships, particularly with parents. A study tracking nearly 1,000 emerging adults found that reports of childhood adversity remained stable, but fluctuated over time based on relationship quality. When people reported more support and […]
🏥 Health
Anxiety over aging may make women age faster
Anxiety over aging may make women age faster A new study suggests that anxiety over aging may contribute to accelerated aging among women, particularly due to fears about declining health. The study found that subjective experiences of anxiety about aging can drive objective measures of aging, and that this association is strongest for concerns about […]
🏥 Health
Your brain can be trained, much like your muscles – a neurologist explains how to boost your brain health
Your brain can be trained, much like your muscles – a neurologist explains how to boost your brain health Just like muscles, the brain can be trained and strengthened through challenge and repetition. Clear thinking, focus, creativity, and good judgment are built by pushing the brain beyond its comfort zone. The brain has limits to […]
🏥 Health
Young cancer survivors age faster
Young cancer survivors age faster Young cancer survivors age faster than their peers who did not have cancer, according to a new study published in Nature Communications. The study found that accelerated aging occurs both at the cellular level and in brain function, such as memory, attention, and ability to process information. Cancer survivors may […]
🏥 Health
Why ‘unwinding’ with screens may be making us more stressed – here’s what to try instead
Why ‘unwinding’ with screens may be making us more stressed – here’s what to try instead Many Americans are using screens as a way to “unwind” and cope with stress, but this can actually be counterproductive and increase feelings of overwhelm. The constant stream of notifications, social media updates, and emotionally arousing content on digital […]
🏥 Health
Education
Historically Black colleges and universities do more than offer Black youths a pathway to opportunity and success – I teach criminology, and my research suggests another benefit
Historically Black colleges and universities do more than offer Black youths a pathway to opportunity and success – I teach criminology, and my research suggests another benefit Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) offer a pathway to higher education that can help young people, especially Black people, avoid the criminal justice system by providing access […]
📚 Education
Bearing witness after the witnesses are gone: How to bring Holocaust education home for a new generation
Bearing witness after the witnesses are gone: How to bring Holocaust education home for a new generation Bearing witness after the witnesses are gone: How to bring Holocaust education home for a new generation highlights the challenges of teaching about the Holocaust as survivors pass away, and how educators can bridge the divides between students […]
📚 Education
Deep reading can boost your critical thinking and help you resist misinformation – here’s how to build the skill
Deep reading can boost your critical thinking and help you resist misinformation – here’s how to build the skill Deep reading can boost critical thinking and help resist misinformation by slowing down to question and reflect on information. The average American spends over 4.5 hours a day on their phone, making it challenging to develop […]
📚 Education
Medieval peasants probably enjoyed their holiday festivities more than you do
Medieval peasants probably enjoyed their holiday festivities more than you do Medieval peasants enjoyed a more festive holiday season than commonly believed, with celebrations centered around religious holidays like Easter, Pentecost, and saints’ days. The longest and most festive holiday was Christmas, which lasted nearly six weeks and included feasting, drinking, and exchanging gifts, often […]
📚 Education
A, B, C or D – grades might not say all that much about what students are actually learning
A, B, C or D – grades might not say all that much about what students are actually learning Alternative grading approaches are being explored by educators to rethink traditional grading practices, which have been found to decrease students’ intrinsic motivation and cultivate a fear of failure. These alternative models aim to address issues such […]
📚 Education
Polytechnic universities focus on practical, career-oriented skills, offering an alternative to traditional universities
Polytechnic universities focus on practical, career-oriented skills, offering an alternative to traditional universities Polytechnic universities are shifting the focus from traditional liberal arts colleges to career-oriented skills, offering an alternative to four-year degrees. The gap between available skilled jobs and workers is expected to push employers to rethink what they require from job candidates, making […]
📚 Education
How I rehumanize the college classroom for the AI-augmented age
How I rehumanize the college classroom for the AI-augmented age The author, a college professor, believes that the AI-augmented age poses a threat to humanity and argues that the college classroom can play a crucial role in rehumanizing students for the workforce. The author’s framework for building a classroom centered around student socialization involves making […]
📚 Education
Most colleges score low on helping students of all faiths – or none – develop a sense of belonging. Faculty can help change that
Most colleges score low on helping students of all faiths – or none – develop a sense of belonging. Faculty can help change that Most colleges struggle to create a sense of belonging for students from diverse faith backgrounds, but faculty can play a crucial role in fostering respectful relationships and conversations. A sense of […]
📚 Education
What’s the difference between ghosts and demons? Books, folklore and history reflect society’s supernatural beliefs
What’s the difference between ghosts and demons? Books, folklore and history reflect society’s supernatural beliefs Ghosts and demons are often confused with each other, but they have distinct differences in their depiction in literature and folklore. In early modern Europe, ghosts were often represented as sad and pitiable, while demons were depicted as malevolent tricksters […]
📚 Education
Children learn to read with books that are just right for them – but that might not be the best approach
Children learn to read with books that are just right for them – but that might not be the best approach American literacy levels have begun to drop, with 12th graders’ average reading scores being 3 points lower than they were in 2019, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress. The traditional approach to […]
📚 Education
Travel
How tourism, a booming wellness culture and social media are transforming the age-old Japanese tea ceremony
How tourism, a booming wellness culture and social media are transforming the age-old Japanese tea ceremony The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu or chadō, is being transformed by tourism, wellness culture, and social media. Matcha, a key ingredient in the tea ceremony, has become a global commodity, with its popularity fueled by lifestyle […]
✈️ Travel
Hidden treasures of America’s national parks are closer than you might think
Hidden treasures of America’s national parks are closer than you might think There are over 400 national park sites managed by the National Park Service beyond the 63 formally designated as national parks, offering a wealth of natural and cultural treasures across the US. The National Park System provides free or low-cost access to popular […]
✈️ Travel
Green gruel? Pea soup? What Westerners thought of matcha when they tried it for the first time
Green gruel? Pea soup? What Westerners thought of matcha when they tried it for the first time Matcha has experienced a significant rise in popularity globally, with demand pushing supply chains to the brink, as reported by ABC News in July 2025. The powdered drink originated in China and was introduced to Japan around 1250 […]
✈️ Travel
As National Park System visitor numbers hit record highs, here’s how visitors can adapt for a better experience
As National Park System visitor numbers hit record highs, here’s how visitors can adapt for a better experience As national park visitor numbers hit record highs, visitors can adapt to have a better experience by planning ahead and being aware of potential barriers to recreational fun, such as physical abilities, social obligations, environmental factors, and […]
✈️ Travel
Plantation tourism, memory and the uneasy economics of heritage in the American South
Plantation tourism, memory and the uneasy economics of heritage in the American South Nottoway Plantation, one of over 300 plantation sites in the US, was destroyed by fire in May 2025, sparking a debate about how to remember its painful history and the role of tourism in shaping that narrative. The site’s owner plans to […]
✈️ Travel
The beach wasn’t always a vacation destination – for the ancient Greeks, it was a scary place
The beach wasn’t always a vacation destination – for the ancient Greeks, it was a scary place The ancient Greeks did not view the beach as a vacation destination, but rather as a scary place associated with hardship and death. The Greek literature of the time focused on the negative aspects of the sea and […]
✈️ Travel
American Express to Virgin Atlantic Points Transfer Promotions: A Historical Analysis and 2025 Prediction
American Express to Virgin Atlantic Points Transfer Promotions: A Historical Analysis and 2025 Prediction American Express has historically offered transfer bonuses to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club during May and June, but as of May 2025, there is no active bonus. However, Chase and Citi are currently offering 25% and 30% bonuses, respectively. The analysis […]
✈️ Travel
Politics
‘Which Side Are You On?’: American protest songs have emboldened social movements for generations, from coal country to Minneapolis
‘Which Side Are You On?’: American protest songs have emboldened social movements for generations, from coal country to Minneapolis “Which Side Are You On?” is an American protest song that has been used to empower social movements for generations, from coal country to Minneapolis. The song was written in 1931 by Florence Reece, a woman […]
🏛️ Politics
Why ‘The West Wing’ went from a bipartisan hit to a polarized streaming comfort watch over 2 decades, reflecting profound shifts in media and politics
Why ‘The West Wing’ went from a bipartisan hit to a polarized streaming comfort watch over 2 decades, reflecting profound shifts in media and politics The TV series “The West Wing” has undergone a significant shift in its appeal over the past two decades, reflecting profound changes in media and politics. The show’s transition from […]
🏛️ Politics
Why corporate America is mostly staying quiet as federal immigration agents show up at its doors
Why corporate America is mostly staying quiet as federal immigration agents show up at its doors Corporate America has largely remained quiet in response to federal immigration agents showing up at its stores, detaining employees and conducting work authorization inspections. The response from CEOs in Minnesota, including those from Target, 3M, and UnitedHealth Group, was […]
🏛️ Politics
Why Christian clergy see risk as part of their moral calling
Why Christian clergy see risk as part of their moral calling Christian clergy across the US are taking risks to protest harsh immigration enforcement actions and advocate for immigrant rights, seeing it as a moral calling. Their willingness to face arrest and bodily harm is rooted in their professional obligation to provide spiritual care for […]
🏛️ Politics
What is the American Dream, and has it become harder to achieve in recent years?
What is the American Dream, and has it become harder to achieve in recent years? The American Dream, coined by historian James Truslow Adams in the 1930s, has become a central concept to the nation’s identity and self-image. Most people interviewed defined the American Dream as consisting of three basic ideas: an economic bargain (financial […]
🏛️ Politics
There’s a competition crisis in America’s state legislatures – and that’s bad for democracy
There’s a competition crisis in America’s state legislatures – and that’s bad for democracy The competition crisis in America’s state legislatures is a growing concern for democracy, with over half of Massachusetts state House seats going uncontested by one party since 2010. The trend is not limited to Massachusetts; in recent election cycles, between 30% […]
🏛️ Politics
Local governments provide proof that polarization is not inevitable
Local governments provide proof that polarization is not inevitable Polarization is not inevitable at the local level, where communities with fewer than 50,000 residents are more resilient to partisan dysfunction. Local governments deal with concrete issues that keep leaders’ attention focused on specific problems, rather than lengthy ideological debates, which can reduce polarization. The national […]
🏛️ Politics
ICE and Border Patrol in Minnesota − accused of violating 1st, 2nd, 4th and 10th amendment rights − are testing whether the Constitution can survive
ICE and Border Patrol in Minnesota − accused of violating 1st, 2nd, 4th and 10th amendment rights − are testing whether the Constitution can survive Operation Metro Surge, an immigration enforcement initiative in Minnesota, has become a constitutional stress test, raising fundamental questions about law enforcement and executive power. The operation has been accused of […]
🏛️ Politics
How a 22-year-old George Washington learned how to lead, from a series of mistakes in the Pennsylvania wilderness
How a 22-year-old George Washington learned how to lead, from a series of mistakes in the Pennsylvania wilderness At 22 years old, George Washington embarked on a mission to deliver a letter from Robert Dinwiddie, governor of Virginia, to the commander of French troops in the Ohio territory, sparking an international war and teaching him […]
🏛️ Politics
Held captive in their own country during World War II, Japanese Americans used nature to cope with their unjustified imprisonment
Held captive in their own country during World War II, Japanese Americans used nature to cope with their unjustified imprisonment Between 1942 and 1947, nearly 127,000 people of Japanese ancestry were forcibly removed from their homes in parts of California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona due to Executive Order 9066, issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt […]
🏛️ Politics