Alan was all set on majoring in biology, but then he realized he liked writing about science more than doing research, so he left Hong Kong and went to study journalism in the U.S. After interning at NPR and WBEZ in Chicago, he has never wanted to work anywhere outside of public radio. He covers space and all other kinds of innovation. He enjoys comic books, LEGO, and dragon boating.
More from the Contributor
Why put carpets in cars, when they’re so hard to clean?
Leaves, paper, crumbs and other bits of trash cling to auto carpets — don’t even mention the liquid stains and smells.
6 years ago
Listen 7:23
Scientists say Gab, social network with Philly ties, is an incubator of hate
The suspected gunman in Saturday’s shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue frequently posted anti-Semitic comments on the social media site Gab, which is headquartered in Philly.
6 years ago
Pa., N.J., and Del. upgrading voting machines — not in time for midterms
The three states use electronic voting machines that can be hacked, and don’t have a paper trail to facilitate vote audits.
6 years ago
Pa. moves to loosen requirements for court-ordered outpatient mental health treatment
The state is one of the last to move away from a 1970s standard that said someone had to be a “clear and present danger.” But the shift is controversial.
6 years ago
So what’s the climate change/asthma connection?
Warming temperatures worsen ozone pollution. Excess carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) causes plants to grow faster and release more pollen — extending the “allergy” season.
6 years ago
Listen 8:46
Acupuncture: real relief or theatrical placebo?
Alan Yu heads home to Hong Kong to investigate the ways acupuncture is used in the medical system there.
6 years ago
Listen 13:20
Opera raises curtain on living with schizophrenia
The idea is to address the stigma of mental illness with music. The opera is based on a memoir from a law and psychiatry professor.
6 years ago
Delaware, other state Medicaid programs consider acupuncture as opioid alternative
State governments are thinking about how to treat pain other than opioids.
6 years ago
To prove a point, Drexel prof goes on monthlong McDonald’s diet
She says the 2004 movie 'Super Size Me' sent the wrong message, and she wants to destigmatize fast food.
6 years ago
E-sports injuries send gamers to physical therapy
When video gamers get tendinopathy or wrist pain, Caitlin McGee has a recovery and plan — and suggestions for better ergonomic play.
6 years ago
Listen 5:32
Drugs detected in private well water in north central Pennsylvania
Simply put, drugs leave the body and go down the toilet. There are similar types of drugs in similar concentrations in water in Canada, the U.S., and most of Europe.
6 years ago