Ukraine missile deal could set war on new course

Why does the Senate confirm Trump’s picks for key posts — and how? A legal scholar explains the confirmation process and the ‘constitutional loophole’ of recess appointments

Jennifer Selin, Arizona State University

Senators have the power to approve or reject a president’s cabinet nominees. A loophole allows presidents to do an end run around the Senate – but Senate leaders have to agree to it.

Trump’s criminal conviction won’t stop him from getting security clearance as president

Dakota Rudesill, The Ohio State University

Under normal circumstances, Trump’s criminal record and other aspects of his life, including financial history, would disqualify him from getting access to classified information.

Black entrepreneurs are often shut out from capital, but here’s how some are removing barriers

SherRhonda Gibbs, Morehouse College; Eric Liguori, Florida State University; Michael H. Morris, University of Notre Dame; Susana C. Santos, Florida State University

Black business owners are often frustrated by systemic racial disparities, but a new study shows how they are using race to capitalize on their ventures.

Workplace diversity training programs are everywhere, but their effectiveness varies widely

Yekaterina Bezrukova, University at Buffalo

Diversity training programs work best, our research shows, when they form part of a broader, ongoing company effort against intolerance.

Carbon offsets can help bring energy efficiency to low-income Americans − our Nashville data shows it could be a win for everyone

Zdravka Tzankova, Vanderbilt University; Carol Ziegler, Vanderbilt University; James Muchira, Vanderbilt University

Insulating attics, replacing windows and adding heat pumps can save money and reduce emissions − if residents can afford the upgrades. Carbon-offset purchases by local companies could help.

Did a short story by Borges predict a dark future for the web?

Roger J. Kreuz, University of Memphis

Borges imagined an endless library that contained every possible permutation of letters. The truth is out there, but it’s embedded among hoards of lies and gibberish.

The ‘Death Mother’: Horror’s most unnerving villain

Kerry Hegarty, Miami University

Disturbing ideas about motherhood are pushed into our collective unconscious, a film scholar writes. Little wonder they’re at the heart of several chilling films.

Rethinking screen time: A better understanding of what people do on their devices is key to digital well-being

Rinanda Shaleha, Penn State

Screen time is more than just hours spent on devices. By studying diverse digital habits, researchers can help people adopt a balanced approach to technology.

Climate change is encouraging unsanitary toilet practices among vulnerable communities

James Harper, University of Colorado Boulder

Cambodian study finds climate vulnerability hurts toilet functionality and leads to more open defecation.

Why do I feel better when I wake myself up instead of relying on an alarm? A neurologist explains the science of a restful night’s sleep

I’m a neuroscientist who taught rats to drive − their joy suggests how anticipating fun can enrich human life

Americans face an insurability crisis as climate change worsens disasters – a look at how insurance companies set rates and coverage