Researchers at universities in Canada and Austria have completed a study of almost half a century's worth of Playboy centerfolds, from 1953 to 2001

National Review, July 26, 2004

* Researchers at universities in Canada and Austria have completed a study of almost half a century's worth of Playboy centerfolds, from 1953 to 2001. Their conclusion is that the characteristic differences between men and women are becoming less pronounced. Women shown in the centerfolds are now less shapely and closer to male proportions than they were in the first Eisenhower administration.

"Over time, bust size and hip size decreased, while waist size increased ... Waist:hip ratio, waist:bust ratio, and androgyny index increased." The way things have been going lately, it's just good to know that the centerfold playmates are still female. Still, you have to admire the diligence and persistence of these researchers. The things people put themselves through in the name of science!