The Naked Scientists Podcast

What does it take to build a society in space? Today on the Naked Scientists, we explore efforts to make microgravity amenable to humans; including how to harvest energy, make fresh food, and even birth the next generation of space explorers... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: A new test to detect Alzheimer's disease long before symptoms first appear. Also, the study showing Earth can sequester only a tenth of the carbon we thought it could. And, how drones, traps and sniffer dogs are protecting the UK's timber industry from beetle attack... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this engaging discussion, Mike Waldrich, a Professor of AI Foundations at Oxford University, dives into how artificial intelligence is reshaping our thought processes. He highlights the risks of misinformation from large language models and the rise of predatory publishing that compromises research integrity. The conversation also addresses alarming mental health issues linked to AI, like 'AI psychosis.' Waldrich emphasizes the need for balanced use of AI, urging caution in how we rely on technology for knowledge and decision-making.

Neil Gilbert, a researcher at Oklahoma State University focusing on light pollution and bird behavior, discusses groundbreaking advancements in organ transplantation, including the controversial pig lung transplant in China. He highlights the urgent need for organ solutions while reflecting on implications for cross-species transplants. Additionally, the conversation delves into an intriguing theory connecting dark energy to black holes, revealing new cosmic insights. Gilbert also sheds light on how artificial light disrupts bird behavior, impacting their vocal patterns and migration.

This week’s guests are Justine Hextall, a consultant dermatologist, and Asim Shamalak, a Harley Street hair transplant surgeon. They delve into the causes of hair loss and the influence of hormones and aging. Justine discusses the psychological effects while Asim breaks down the hair transplantation process and its success rates. They also explore societal stigma around baldness, modern wig technology, and the evolving perceptions of hair transplants, shedding light on why confidence matters in addressing hair loss.

Emma Feinstone, an Associate curator at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, dives into fascinating discussions. She unpacks a recent showdown between Apple and the UK government over privacy and encryption. The conversation segues into groundbreaking research revealing that microbes are crucial in determining chocolate flavors, shedding light on how these tiny organisms can drastically enhance cocoa delights. They also touch upon significant findings related to early human tool use, offering insights into our evolutionary past.

Kirsty Sands, a researcher from the University of Oxford focused on antimicrobial resistance in malnourished children, joins experts Brad Spiller from the University of Cardiff and Colin Brown from the UK Health Security Agency. They discuss the rising crisis of antibiotic resistance in Niger, highlighting its ties to malnutrition and poor sanitation. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for surveillance, funding challenges, and innovative solutions in combating AMR. They address the global implications and disparities faced by vulnerable populations, urging a collective response to this escalating threat.

Join Solomon Hirsch, a PhD student at Imperial College London, who is pioneering methods to hunt for life on Mars using existing rover tools. He explains how identifying intact polar lipids can distinguish between living and dead organisms. The podcast also dives into fascinating research decoding our inner voice, which could empower those with speech limitations to communicate through brain signals. Additionally, explore the impact of ultra-processed foods on weight loss and the intersection of technology with dietary choices.

Doug Turnbull, a renowned clinical neurologist and expert in mitochondrial disease, discusses groundbreaking advancements in preventing inherited genetic conditions through 'three-parent' embryos. He explains the science behind mitochondrial DNA mutations and their health impacts. The conversation dives into innovative techniques like mitochondrial donation IVF and pronuclear transfer, emphasizing their potential to change lives. Turnbull also touches on recent clinical trials and the ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of these revolutionary medical practices.

Discover how engineered gut microbes could revolutionize kidney stone prevention by breaking down oxalic acid. Learn about mice's remarkable ability to sense social hierarchies through smell and behavior. Explore the fascinating dietary habits of dinosaurs analyzed through fossilized teeth, shedding light on their coexistence. Lastly, see how innovations in robotics are inspired by ant behavior, enhancing technology while bridging the gap between ancient and modern systems.