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.
12:09
Pittsburgh’s Bridge Collapse Spotlights America’s Infrastructure Woes
Larger vehicles, increased traffic, and climate change are putting pressure on America’s aging infrastructure. How did things get so dire?
7:50
Why Did Ancient Ferocious Cat-Like Creatures Go Extinct?
A combination of factors led to a period known as the “Cat Gap,” a stretch of 6.5 million years where there were no cats or cat-like animals living in North America.
9:36
Why Are Mice The Most Frequently Used Lab Animal?
Despite mice’s genetic similarity to humans, treatments that work in mice often don’t work in humans.
7:50
The Science Behind ‘Power Of The Dog’
A leading contender for an Oscar for Best Picture has a somewhat hidden science theme.
9:26
Blast Off To The Red Planet With The Spring Book Club
A planetary scientist explores the history of Mars in her book, “The Sirens of Mars.”
Get Outta This World With Our Mars Book Club Events
This spring, The SciFri Book Club team is gathering to explore this season’s Book Club pick, ‘The Sirens of Mars.’
12:17
Third Person Cured From HIV, Thanks To Umbilical Cord Stem Cells
Stem cell transplants can’t cure everyone. But could the latest advance still help point to a more accessible treatment for HIV?
8:50
New Energy Record Set By Fusion Reactor
Results from the JET fusion experiment have scientists hopeful that a coming reactor called ITER will succeed.
12:12
New Device Helps People With Paralysis Walk Again
Patients with complete lower body paralysis are able to walk, cycle or swim using new spinal cord implants.
9:57
Could Protein-Based Vaccines Help Close The Global Vaccination Gap?
Vaccines made with recombinant protein technology are cheaper, and easier to manufacture and distribute around the globe.
7:25
How Cuba Developed Five COVID-19 Vaccines
The country’s robust biotech industry has long been on the leading edge of vaccinations.
17:12
Fish Make More Noise Than You Think
Far from being silent, many fishes either have been observed to make sounds, or have the capability to do so.
25:37
How To Close Gaps In Healthcare Access
Dr. David Satcher discusses his journey from poverty to surgeon general, and how he thinks healthcare can be more equitable.
What Would American Healthcare Look Like If It Were More Equitable?
Former Surgeon General David Satcher writes about his efforts to eliminate healthcare disparities in the U.S.
11:58
An Abrupt Departure For Biden’s Science Adviser
Eric Lander, the Presidential science advisor, resigned this week following an investigation into bullying behavior.
17:33
New COVID-19 Antiviral Pills: How Do They Work?
Two new antiviral drugs have joined remdesivir as treatments for people with COVID-19. How they work, and why they’re complicated.
28:49
How Grief Rewires The Brain
A neuroscientist explores the science behind heartache.
9:21
One Step Closer To Curing Cancer
Doctors say these are the first patients to be cured using CAR-T Cell therapy.
7:41
Team USA’s Skiers Are Using Battery-Heated Shorts At The Olympics
University of Oregon grad students designed heated shorts to keep Olympians’ muscles warm for peak performance.
17:20
Meet The Drag Artists Who Are Making Science More Accessible
Drag performers, like Pattie Gonia and Kyne, are using social media to bring science communication to a wider audience.