How Germany’s long-time leader, Angela Merkel, shaped the European Union. Then, a new understanding of dopamine’s effect on the brain has us rethinking addiction treatment. And, the founder of the Ig Nobel Prizes explains why recognizing silly scientific research is serious business. Also, on today's show: why the fertility industry has relatively little regulation; why girls and women outperform boys and men at all levels of education; a type of co-parenting that helps maintain stability for children while a couple divorces. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader)

The reason why tens of thousands of migrants from Haiti arrived at the US/Mexico border. Then, a look at the risks and opportunities in Tesla’s plans to create a human-like robot. And, is it good for science that many of the most impressive dinosaur discoveries end up on the auction block? Also on today’s show: how scientists are trying to grow meat from animals cells; dancing can help children cope with trauma; NASA is preparing to launch an enormous new telescope into space and everything has to go just right. (AP Photo/Felix Marquez)

Today on Top of Mind: First, how a salute used by characters in The Hunger Games novels became a real-life symbol of revolution. Then, police reform negotiations fell apart in Congress this week over the topic of qualified immunity; we’ll find out what that is. And, training plants to detect soil contamination and send word to the lab. Next, the real history of how McDonald’s became so ubiquitous in Black neighborhoods across America. Also, only Congress can declare war. But that’s not how things have worked in America for decades. Finally, a solution to the overflowing outhouses plaguing remote corners of state and national parks. (AP Phioto/Sakchai Lalit)

We get to the bottom of all this news about COVID vaccine booster shots. Then, how a weird internet joke made ‘80s pop legend Rick Astley a legend. And, the CDC is now funding research for gun violence and insists the goal is not to restrict gun access. Also, on today’s show: a new book studies the incarceration of Japanese-Americans during World War II; at-home tests for COVID-19 could help to end the pandemic, but first they need to be cost-effective. (Photo courtesy of KnowYourMeme.com)

What the recent recall election in California tells us about the current political climate in America. Then, the latest developments in treating food allergies. And, the gray wolf may be back on the decline not long after being removed from the endangered species list. Also, on today's show: making the MRI machine mobile; fuzzy puppets may be useful in therapy for children with autism; the story behind the first all-black high school rowing team in the country. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)

Who are the Taliban officials now leading Afghanistan’s government, and what do their appointments signal for the country’s women? Then, will America’s prisons be able to keep up with their aging population and age-related illnesses? And, how some states are trying to hold companies that make products responsible for dealing with the packaging waste those products create. Also, on today’s show: how approval voting works and why some grassroots activists say it can help with America’s political polarization; movies where Cinderella gets a say in her own life; how tourist sites commemorating tragedy can be adapted for kids’ understanding. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)

Is it possible for a judge to set aside their political and religious beliefs when they’re ruling on issues like abortion or gun rights? Then, why relaxing isn’t a waste of time. And, “Little Women,” by Louisa May Alcott, gets reimagined. Also, on today's show: some human rights are so fundamental they’re wired into our brains; why infectious disease researchers are releasing more mosquitoes into communities already suffering from Dengue fever; how the pandemic transformed our relationship with celebrities.

Salt is becoming a serious pollution problem. Then, a newly invented bracelet can help women subtly escape dangerous situations. And, the heart really does affect our emotions. Also, on today’s show: scientists help a songbird remember its tune; the little-known story of resisters who survived years of Nazi occupation; a debate over the building of a peace monument in Washington, DC.

Why is abortion the source of the most heated debate in American politics? Then, the trouble with how police handle hate crimes. And, that annoying song stuck in your head might be messing with your sleep. Also, on today’s show: the rise of hyper education in America; the benefits of eating together as a family.

What’s the Supreme Court’s Shadow Docket—and why does it matter? Then, how—and why—scientists tickle lab rats. And, talking to strangers could make us happier, smarter, and more interesting. Also, on today's show: why people don’t often report sexual harassment; how your personality affects your ability to wake up early or stay up late; radio dramas are making a comeback.