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The Safety of Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars are being developed more rapidly than most experts thought possible. But even if they’re technically possible, can we be assured of their safety? Trust is a major hurdle to adoption of what could be a major step forward in transportation, as …
High Risk Organ Donors
Skyrocketing drug overdose deaths are adding to the supply of transplantable organs. Contrary to the beliefs of many—and their designation as “high risk” donors–these are often high-quality organs from youthful people. Even organs carrying disease that …
Yawning
Virtually all animals with a backbone yawn, but scientists don’t know what purpose it serves or why yawns are so contagious. Experts discuss what’s known and what’s behind a yawn.
Guest Information:
Dr. Robert Provine, Professor of Psychology, University of …
Concussions and Camaraderie
Concussions have prompted many parents to question whether their sons should play high school football. A well known sportswriter and parent who was given nearly unlimited access to a high school team for a year shares the red flags he saw as well as the …
Lupus and the Skin
Lupus results when the immune system turns on the body, producing inflammatory attacks on virtually any organ. A minority of patients have lupus only on the skin, and while this is not life threatening, it can still be psychologically …
The Benefits of Fear
During the Halloween season, many people seek out frightening experiences. This controlled fear has a psychological and developmental purpose, as an expert explains.
Guest Information:
Margee Kerr, Professor of Sociology, University of Pittsburgh and author, …
Vaccination Refusal
A new survey shows more pediatricians are experiencing vaccination refusal among patients, and while the reasons are evolving, they still often result from misinformation. An increasing proportion of doctors are kicking these families out of their practices if …
Brain Injury and Homelessness
Research is showing that a remarkably high proportion of homeless men have suffered a traumatic brain injury in the past, raising the possibility that TBIs may cause behaviors directly leading to homelessness. Experts discuss their research.
Guest …
DTC Genetic Testing
Genetic testing is now available to consumers to satisfy a variety of desires—tracing heritage, gauging risk of inherited diseases in children, and screening for disease. However, risks come with what doctors say is incomplete knowledge. Experts discuss uses, …
Adoption Psychology (2016)
People who are adopted have more psychological problems than others, yet they also tend to have other psychological strengths. Experts, both themselves also adoptees, discuss the roots and outcomes of these issues as adopted children grow up.
Guest …
Tickling (2016)
Tickling is a unique application of the sense of touch that surprisingly has developmental and cultural importance. Experts discuss the science and sociology of tickling.
Guest Information:
Dr. David Linden, Professor of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University …
