10:58
What’s So Bad About Being Alone With Your Thoughts?
A study finds that many people would rather shock themselves than be alone with their thoughts.
23:02
The Surprisingly Predictable Patterns of Random Choice
In his new book, “Rock Breaks Scissors,” author William Poundstone decodes the patterns in big data, sports, and human behaviors.
12:03
Shedding Light on the Science of Sunscreen
How does sunscreen protect our skin from harmful radiation, and what is the meaning behind SPFs?
12:21
3-D Mammography Detects More Cancers, But Will It Save Lives?
A new study suggests that 3-D mammography detects more cancers than traditional digital mammography. But the technology is expensive, and there’s no indication yet that it catches more dangerous cancers, or is saving more lives.
3:05
Arnold Relman, Health System Critic, Dead at 91
Relman called the American health care system a “new medical-industrial complex.” We remember him here with two archival clips.
Teaching Ancient Nautilus New Tricks
A series of experiments involving fish juice, blue lights, and mazes dispels the notion that the ancient Nautilus is incapable of basic learning and memory.
12:19
Pre-Surgery Routine Needs an Update, Says Doc
Robert Cima of the Mayo Clinic says science doesn’t back up pre-surgical practices like fasting and colon cleanses.
16:34
‘Do Fathers Matter?’ Explores Dad’s Influence
In his new book, Paul Raeburn writes of the surprising biological and genetic connections fathers have with their children.
12:01
How Touch Helps Us Emotionally Experience the World
Researchers describe a type of nerve that helps us understand social interactions and emotion.
8:27
Laser Blast Can Regrow Teeth, in Rats
Zapping dental stem cells with lasers appears to switch on production of new dentin, the hard stuff under tooth enamel.