Do states with political power resemble the US overall?

Dow tops 40,000 as stock indexes continue to cross milestones − making many investors feel wealthier

Alexander Kurov, West Virginia University

The latest market breakthrough follows the S&P 500 topping 5,000 in February. But are these markers purely psychological?

What is pasteurization? A dairy expert explains how it protects against foodborne illness, including avian flu

Kerry E. Kaylegian, Penn State

Before World War II, pathogens in milk accounted for 1 in 4 cases of foodborne diseases in the US. Pasteurization reduced this figure to less than 1%.

History says tariffs rarely work, but Biden’s 100% tariffs on Chinese EVs could defy the trend

Tinglong Dai, Johns Hopkins University

The early timing of Biden’s move, changing supply chains and national security fears suggest the tariffs might work this time, at least for a while.

A silent Trump with eyes closed and a convicted liar on the stand − 2 experienced observers of Trump’s criminal trial discuss what stands out

David E. Clementson, University of Georgia; John E. Jones III, Dickinson College

Lying liars and closed eyes − both played roles in the most recent chapter of former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York City.

Newsrooms are experimenting with generative AI, warts and all

Nir Eisikovits, UMass Boston

AI may shore up an industry experiencing economic headwinds. But in a field where professional ethics and public trust are particularly important, it’s a risky endeavor.

Attempted assassination of Slovak prime minister follows country’s slide into political polarization

Alexandria Wilson-McDonald, American University

The shooting of Robert Fico was ‘politically motivated,’ authorities say.

Modi’s anti-Muslim rhetoric taps into Hindu replacement fears that trace back to colonial India

Archana Venkatesh, Clemson University

The Indian prime minister made reference to communities that have “too many children” in a veiled reference to Muslims.

Bats in Colorado face fight against deadly fungus that causes white-nose syndrome

Tanya Dewey, Colorado State University

Numerous bats have been found in Colorado with white-nose syndrome. The fungus has killed millions of bats in North America, leaving biologists concerned about its impact on bats in the state.

How Black teachers lost when civil rights won in Brown v. Board

Diana D'Amico Pawlewicz, University of North Dakota; Andrea Guiden Pittman, American University; Andrene J. Castro, Virginia Commonwealth University; Marvin G. Powell, George Mason University

As the nation marks the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board, one of its most significant side effects − the large-scale loss of Black teachers − continues to affect America’s schools.

I served as a college president for nearly two decades – I know choosing the right commencement speaker can be fraught with risks

Walter M. Kimbrough, University of Southern California

The right commencement speaker can create a memorable experience, generate favorable media coverage for the school and inspire donors. So why do colleges miss the mark on this once-a-year decision?

College sports fandom shows how a shared goal can bring people together

Amy Parsons, Colorado State University

Playing and watching sports can unite people − and provide lessons for democracy.

By not lip-syncing Amy Winehouse’s songs, actress Marisa Abela confronts impossible expectations in ‘Back to Black’

Thirsty in paradise: Water crises are a growing problem across the Caribbean islands

College students in Austin, Texas, have dwelled in windowless rooms for years − here’s why the city finally decided to ban them

Here’s the first question of this week’s edition:

On May 15, the Vatican began hosting a global conference on climate change. In a statement, whom did Pope Francis blame for the world's lack of climate action?

1. A. "The Devil, the Devil in us all"
2. B. "The greedy pursuit of short-term gains by polluting industries"
3. C. "Politicians who care not a fig for the Earth"
4. D. "The Koch brothers, or Koke brothers, however it's pronounced"

Test your knowledge