Why do we hiccup?
AdultsBiologyScienceHealthThe longest recorded case of hiccups lasted for 68 years ... and was caused by a falling hog. While that level of severity is extremely uncommon, most of us are no stranger to an occasional case of the hiccups. But what causes these 'hics' in the first place? John Cameron takes us into the diaphragm to find out.
We Can Now Edit Our DNA. But Let's Do it Wisely
AdultsBiologyGeneticsScience...Geneticist Jennifer Doudna co-invented a groundbreaking new technology for editing genes, called CRISPR-Cas9. The tool allows scientists to make precise edits to DNA strands, which could lead to treatments for genetic diseases.
Why do some people have seasonal allergies?
AdultsHealthHumanBiology...Ah, spring. Grass growing, flowers blooming, trees budding. For those with allergies, though, this explosion of new life probably inspires more dread than joy. So what's behind this annual onslaught of mucus? Eleanor Nelsen explains what happens when your immune system goes rogue.
The science of skin color
AdultsHumanScienceTechnology...When ultraviolet sunlight hits our skin, it affects each of us differently. Depending on skin color, it'll take only minutes of exposure to turn one person beetroot-pink, while another requires hours to experience the slightest change.
How do schools of fish swim in harmony?
AdultsBiologyHumanNeuroscienceHow do schools of fish swim in harmony? How do the tiny cells in your brain give rise to the complex thoughts, memories, and consciousness that are you?
What would happen if you didn't drink water?
AdultsBiologyHealthHumanWater is essentially everywhere in our world, and the average human is composed of between 55 and 60% water. So what role does water play in our bodies, and how much do we actually need to drink to stay healthy? Mia Nacamulli details the health benefits of hydration.
Self-healing concrete
AdultsBiologyConstructionTechnologyThe secret? Believe it or not, it's bacteria.
How do dogs "see" with their noses?s
AdultsBiologyPetsScienceYou may have heard the expression that dogs 'see with their noses.' But these creature's amazing nasal architecture actually reveals a whole world beyond what we can see. Alexandra Horowitz illustrates how the dog's nose can smell the past, the future and even things that can't be seen at all.