Science Vs

Meryl Horn, a senior producer and on-the-ground reporter, dives into the intriguing link between the full moon and human behavior. She interviews New Yorkers about their experiences, revealing perceptions of chaos and sync in menstrual cycles. Dr. Wendy Coates discusses research into emergency room visits during full moons, uncovering no rise in trauma cases despite popular belief. Additionally, studies on sleep patterns show lunar cycles may disrupt rest. The findings highlight potential subconscious effects, leaving many questions about the moon's influence still unanswered.

Joining the discussion is Ed Yong, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer and the mind behind 'An Immense World,' which delves into animal senses. Ed shares fascinating insights into how animals perceive their environments, from dogs’ incredible sniffing abilities to the stunning world of ultraviolet vision. He explains how whales communicate using infrasound and how certain creatures like the emerald jewel wasp interact with their surroundings. They also touch on the challenges facing scientific research and the impact of pollution on sensory biology.

The podcast dives into the contentious debate over acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and its potential link to autism and ADHD. It highlights early studies suggesting hormonal interference and discusses a major Swedish study that found no significant risk after adjusting for maternal factors. Experts weigh in on whether something else might be at play, advocating for cautious use while emphasizing the importance of treating fevers. The intriguing mix of conflicting research keeps listeners eager for clarity on this hot-button issue.

AI chatbots are transforming companionship, with some people experiencing deep emotional attachments, even romantic feelings. While these digital friends can help alleviate loneliness, there's a darker side; excessive reliance may lead to mental health struggles. Personal stories reveal the joy and pain of these interactions, raising questions about the balance between AI support and real human connections. Experts caution against unhealthy dependencies, stressing that moderation is crucial for maintaining mental wellness.

In this engaging talk, Prof. Charan Ranganath, a psychology and neuroscience expert from UC Davis, unpacks the quirks of human memory. He explains why forgetting is totally normal and how memory can be enhanced. Discover the power of sleep, emotional engagement, and even 'downtime' as memory hacks. Ranganath shares fascinating techniques, like memory palaces, and evaluates the effectiveness of popular supplements. Tune in for practical insights and surprising science that can help you boost your memory!

The podcast dives into whether sugar is a poison or not, challenging common beliefs. It examines the rising trend of AI 'girlfriends' and what that means for human connection. Discover how to enhance memory, confront the implications of forever chemicals, and explore the science behind the full moon's influence on us. The hosts also humorously tackle quirky trends like 'No Nut November', blending scientific insight with entertainment.

The conversation dives into why autism diagnoses are climbing, examining factors like environmental toxins and genetics. Experts weigh in on the myths surrounding vaccines and discuss the impact of screen time. Historical shifts in the definition of autism are explored, revealing how perceptions and diagnosis have evolved. There’s a focus on community support for families and the strengths of the current generation on the spectrum. The analysis is thorough, shedding light on an important and complex issue.

Dive into the world of the all-meat diet, where influencers share incredible health transformations despite warnings of serious risks like heart disease and scurvy. Experts reveal the fine line between testimonials and scientific evidence, debating the long-term effects of such restrictive eating. Can you truly thrive on meat alone? The discussion balances potential benefits for certain health issues against the nutritional pitfalls and environmental concerns of a carnivore lifestyle. Prepare to rethink what you know about food!

Michelle Dang, a producer and researcher, joins experts to dissect the buzz around creatine. They explore its muscle-building properties, addressing whether gains stem from true growth or just water retention. The discussion also ventures into creatine’s potential cognitive perks, particularly for memory during sleep deprivation. The team clarifies dosage guidelines and safety concerns, tackling common misconceptions while revealing varied responses among users. It’s a deep dive into whether this popular supplement lives up to the hype.

This discussion features DT Maxx, a writer at The New Yorker, and Robert Klitzman, a Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University. They dive into the recent claim of bringing dire wolves back to life, exploring the ethical and scientific challenges of de-extinction. The conversation highlights the excitement surrounding genetic engineering and its implications for biodiversity. They also address the motivations behind such groundbreaking efforts and the potential consequences for wildlife conservation, providing a thought-provoking perspective on this controversial topic.