“Diving Lizards, Finger Counting Kids, and Dorito Dust: The Wild World of Science News!”
In this week’s science news roundup from NPR’s Short Wave podcast, three fascinating stories caught the attention of hosts Regina Barber and Emily Kwong.
The first story delves into the scuba-diving capabilities of water anoles, a type of lizard found in the tropical forests of southern Costa Rica. Researchers observed these lizards using a bubble of air around their heads to breathe underwater, allowing them to stay submerged for extended periods. This discovery could have implications for understanding predator-prey dynamics in the ecosystem.
The second story explores the benefits of teaching young children to use their fingers for counting in math. A study conducted in France found that kindergartners who learned finger counting performed better on math problems than those who did not. While some educators have discouraged finger counting in the past, this research suggests it may actually enhance children’s understanding of numbers.
Lastly, researchers have found an unexpected use for the dye used in Doritos – it can make mouse skin transparent, allowing scientists to study internal organs without invasive techniques. This breakthrough could have significant implications for biomedical research, particularly in studying chronic illnesses like cancer and aging diseases.
Overall, these stories highlight the diverse and innovative ways in which science continues to push boundaries and uncover new possibilities. Stay tuned for more exciting discoveries on NPR’s Short Wave podcast.