Mar 19th, 2010 · Researchers studying the microbes that inhabit human skin say the bacteria left behind when an object is touched can be used to identify who did the touching. Microbe researcher Rob Knight explains how these bacterial "fingerprints" could one day be used in solving crimes.
Mar 17th, 2010 · In a notable turnaround, the International Monetary Fund recently acknowledged that some developing countries might benefit from controls on capital inflows. IMF research found that countries with such regulations were better equipped to weather recent global economic crises.
Mar 15th, 2010 · Research shows hearing loss in one ear during critical periods of brain development can rewire the auditory cortex, changing the way the brain processes sound. After hearing is restored, the brain eventually catches up.
Mar 7th, 2010 · Atrazine is widely used as weedkiller on American farms. And a new study shows this common chemical may have gender-bending effects on frogs. Host Guy Raz talks to biology professor Tyrone Hayes about his work with atrazine and frogs. Hayes found that 9 of every 10 male frogs he exposed to atrazine became chemically castrated. And that other 1 out of every 10? Well, he became a she.
Mar 5th, 2010 · Energy Star labels and miles-per-gallon vehicle ratings aren't enticing enough consumers toward energy-saving options, according to economist Hunt Allcott. Allcott explains how new research in behavioral economics might help lead consumers to more energy-efficient choices.
Feb 28th, 2010 · There may be no polar bears at the South Pole, but there sure is a lot of ice. In fact, more than 90 percent of the Earth's glacial ice is in Antarctica. Now, new research shows the continent's ice is melting in more places than previously known. Host Guy Raz speaks to scientist Jane Ferrigno of the U.S. Geological Survey about the Antarctic Peninsula's ice retreat.
Feb 22nd, 2010 · A new study finds African-American women may be especially vulnerable to being evicted from their homes. As reported by The New York Times , new data about evictions in Milwaukee, Wis., shows that women in black neighborhoods are twice as likely as male tenants to be kicked out of their homes. University of Wisconsin sociologist Matthew Desmond talks about the study. And Clarissa Adams shares her very personal story about being evicted. Adams was one of the people Desmond profiled in his research.
Feb 19th, 2010 · Before whales, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth, giant filter-feeding fish swam the prehistoric seas. By going back and searching through museums for misunderstood or overlooked fossil specimens, a researcher found evidence that these fish swam the Earth for more than 100 million years — far longer than scientists had previously thought.