00:12:00
What Science Says About E-Cigarettes
Assessing risk, known and unknown, in the age of vaping.
17:11
Could Brain Infection Set the Stage for Alzheimer’s?
A provocative new study suggests that infection may spur the buildup of amyloid-beta, and that Alzheimer’s disease could be a toxic side effect.
The Real Guide to Imaginary Companions: Episode 1
Developmental psychologist have pieced together an unexpectedly diverse and nuanced profile of the children who create imaginary companions, while finding out how and why they create them.
The Real Guide to Imaginary Companions: Episode 3
Research by psychologists has revealed that imaginary companions can provide glimpses into the development of critical creative, social, and cognitive skills of children.
The Real Guide To Imaginary Companions: Episode 2
A trip into the lab of developmental psychologist Jacqueline Woolley reveals how children can become so enamored with their pretend friends, that they blur the lines between real and fantasy.
12:06
A Synthetic Human Genome? Not So Fast
Bioethicist Laurie Zoloth and biologist Jeff Way discuss the scientific and ethical challenges that lie ahead for large genome synthesis.
17:14
Lessons From the History of the Gene
Siddhartha Mukherjee’s new book, “The Gene,” is a reminder that the history of genetics is fraught with ethical conundrums.
Tracing Mental Illness Through a Family History
Author Siddhartha Mukherjee outlines his family’s genetic history with mental illness.
11:48
Bacteria Vs. (Zika) Virus, New Earth-Like Planets, and What Went Wrong With Theranos?
A new possible method for fighting Zika, plus a cautionary tale for biotech start-ups everywhere.
17:07
Shedding Pounds, Then Keeping Them Off
What “The Biggest Loser” can teach us about how the body loses and maintains weight.