February 7, 2025
Some research shows that e-cigarettes can be a useful tool for quitting cigarettes, but that strategy is hotly contested by scientists. Plus, an investigative journalist outlines how fraud and misconduct have stalled the search for effective Alzheimer’s treatments in a new book. And, why snow has that crisp, clean smell.
17:36
Learning to Walk Like a Gecko, See Like a Lobster
Biomimicry is the practice of using nature to inspire new technology and innovations.
7:03
For Your Protection, a New Kind of Metal
Metal foam can disintegrate bullets on impact, reduce the impact of car crashes, and more.
10:19
Could ‘Brainprints’ Unlock Your Future Phone?
Researchers created a system that could match EEG readings to an individual with 100 percent accuracy.
17:18
What Is the Future of Coral Reefs in Warming Ocean Waters?
Ninety-three percent of Great Barrier Reef corals have been affected by a recent bleaching event.
Are Humans Smarter Than Chimps? Think Again
Author Frans de Waal deconstructs the notion that a chimpanzee’s intelligence is inferior to a human’s.
These Researchers Have Figured Out a New Way to Kill Cancer Cells
The team reports that they’ve figured out how to elude a tumor cell’s defenses.
10 Questions for the Nation’s First Chief Data Scientist
DJ Patil reflects on his first year as chief data scientist in the White House’s Office of Science and Technology Policy.
11:42
Internet White Spaces, Pollen Protein, and Tiger Conservation
Logging online through unused TV frequencies, and the good and bad of tiger conservation efforts.
16:12
Computer Device Allows Paralyzed Man to Regain Movement
A computer hooked to Ian Burkhart’s brain reads his thoughts and translates those into electrical signals, which stimulate his arm muscles and allow him to move his hand.
7:18
The Science Club Wants You to #TakeASample
This month’s project from Science Friday’s Science Club asks participants to answer a question about a big or complex thing by looking at a sample of the whole.
11:55
That Emoji You’re Sending Is Open to Interpretation
Emoji, the tiny graphics used in text communications, can be interpreted in a variety of ways.
17:37
Listening In on Scientific Data
Proponents of sonification hope that listening to data could lead to more scientific discoveries.
9:57
Zika Virus Transmission Still Mysterious
Many questions remain about the Zika virus, such as how it passes from mother to child.
17:13
Orchids: Masters Of Deception
Orchids use mimicry, fraud, and deception to attract pollinators, fascinating home gardeners in the process.
#TakeASample
Sample a vast or complex thing to reveal something new about it, then share your discovery with the hashtag #TakeASample
Unraveling The Orchid Mantis Mystery
This elusive praying mantis lures insect prey by exploiting flower-like attributes.
How Many Genes Are Necessary to Create a Living Cell?
A team led by biologist Craig Venter found that they only needed 473 genes to create a living, stripped-down version of a cell.
The Week-After SciFri Quiz! 4/12/16
How much do you know about the “Boiling River”?
Sex, Lies, And Orchids
With their pungent aromas and vibrant blooms, orchids lure insects, green-thumbs, and romantics alike.
16 Pieces of Pop Culture About Climate Change, From Atwood to Spielberg to the Pixies
Let’s talk about cli-fi!