How Putin uses calls to 'cancel' Russia to his advantage

Russia faces first foreign default in over a century – here’s how it could complicate Putin’s ability to wage war in Ukraine

Michael A. Allen, Boise State University; Matthew DiGiuseppe, Leiden University

Russia is on the verge of defaulting on its foreign debt, which not only could have severe economic consequences but could also complicate Putin’s ability to wage a prolonged war in Ukraine.

Is Ukrainian a language or a dialect? That depends on whom you ask and how the war ends

Joshua Holzer, Westminster College

The difference between a language and dialect is just as much about politics as it is linguistics.

Health insurance coverage for kids through Medicaid and CHIP helps their moms too

Sebastian Tello-Trillo, University of Virginia

When states reduce barriers for low-income children to get coverage, their mothers are more likely to be married and less likely to smoke.

Elon Musk’s bid spotlights Twitter’s unique role in public discourse – and what changes might be in store

Anjana Susarla, Michigan State University

Twitter, more than other social media platforms, fosters real-time discussion about events as they unfold. That could change if Musk gains control of the company.

What is that rash? Genetic fingerprints can help doctors diagnose and treat skin conditions more effectively

Raymond J. Cho, University of California, San Francisco

Many doctors currently diagnose skin conditions by eye. Advances in molecular testing could lead to more precise and accurate diagnoses for ambiguous rashes and skin lesions.

Climate change will transform how we live, but these tech and policy experts see reason for optimism

Robert Lempert, Pardee RAND Graduate School; Elisabeth Gilmore, Carleton University

Solutions already exist. What’s holding humanity back is the will to get past the status quo and embrace innovation.

Is it possible to heal the damage we have already done to the Earth?

Scott Denning, Colorado State University

The Earth is a resilient planet, but people are altering it in ways that may take centuries to reverse.

How hypersonic missiles work and the unique threats they pose – an aerospace engineer explains

Archaeological site along the Nile opens a window on the Nubian civilization that flourished in ancient Sudan

Sacred hares, banished winter witches and pagan worship – the roots of Easter Bunny traditions are ancient