Tattoos: Are They Toxic?
In this episode of Science Versus, host Rose Rimmler and tattoo enthusiast Blythe Terrell explore the health implications of tattoo ink, discussing recent research that shows ink particles migrate to lymph nodes and can trigger immune responses, including chronic inflammation. Toxicologist Santiago Gonzalez’s mouse studies and case reports of severe allergic reactions illustrate potential risks, while epidemiologist Christelle Nielsen examines epidemiological data linking tattoo ink—especially black soot-based pigments—to possible carcinogenic effects. The conversation balances these concerns with personal anecdotes and highlights the need for more rigorous human studies to determine long‑term health outcomes.
Boredom: Is It Good For You?
In this episode Wendy Zuckerman and producer Michelle Dang explore the neuroscience and psychology of boredom, interviewing cognitive neuroscientist James Dankert and organizational psychologist Gihan Park. They explain how boredom activates the brain's default mode network and suppresses the salience...
Running: Will It Wreck Your Body?
In this episode of Science Versus, hosts Akedi Foster-Keys and senior producer Meryl Horn examine the science of running, focusing on injury risk, optimal training progression, and the physiological benefits of the activity. They cite research showing that about half...