Science

This Ivy League researcher says spirituality is good for our mental health

5:31pm July 30, 2023

by Rachel Martin

A Columbia University professor says spiritual beliefs can decrease our rates of anxiety and depression. I needed to understand how she came to these conclusions.

A Panagrolaimus kolymaensis nematode is seen under the microscope at the University of Cologne's worm lab in Germany.

Science

A worm that survived 46,000 years in permafrost wows scientists

5:00am July 30, 2023

by Emma Bowman

A nematode found deep in frozen sediment has proven its ability to survive extreme environments long term. Scientists studying the species say their work could inform the protection of other animals.

Science

How to maximize your summer meteor gazing

5:40pm July 29, 2023

by Nell Greenfieldboyce

It's the time of year when many people look to the skies in search of shooting stars. We learn a few tricks to get the best view of incoming meteors.

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Scientists fight to help protect the Florida coral that's dying from heat

5:56pm July 28, 2023

by Greg Allen

Marine scientists say record ocean temperatures have sparked widespread coral bleaching in the Florida Keys. The extreme heat and bleaching have been deadly — killing all coral on one popular reef.

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Science

Did an honesty researcher fabricate data?

7:32am July 28, 2023

by Nick Fountain

Duke professor and behavioral scientist Dan Ariely has been accused of using falsified data in research into ways to make people more honest. New info makes the case against him look stronger.

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This week in science: Peanut allergies, poop at the beach, and pet safety in heat

6:12pm July 27, 2023

NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks with Regina Barber and Aaron Scott of the Short Wave podcast about peanut allergies, potentially unsafe poop levels at beaches, and how to keep pets safe in the heat.

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A growing number of doctors and safe sleep advocates are warning about the potential dangers of weighted sleepwear for infants.

Weighted infant sleepwear is meant to help babies rest better. Critics say it's risky

4:02pm July 27, 2023

by Joe Hernandez

Parents are increasingly turning to weighted sleepwear to help lull their babies to sleep, but a growing number of doctors and safe sleep advocates warn it comes with risks that shouldn't be ignored.