Science, Spoken

Explore the history of space exploration and the Outer Space Treaty. Discuss the impact of SpaceX on low Earth orbit and concerns about violations of the treaty. Highlight the need for understanding space laws as more nations and commercial actors enter orbit. Emphasize the risk of space debris collisions and the need for a new generation of space lawyers.

Gene therapy trial in China restores hearing in six deaf children. Researchers discuss challenges and effectiveness of the treatment. Early intervention and delivering the gene into inner ear cells are important factors.

Ice climbing is becoming more treacherous and at risk of extinction due to global warming. The diminishing availability of climbable ice and changing temperatures are major risks. Climate change also affects mountain river freezing patterns and impacts mountain ecosystems. The evolution of dry tooling as a standalone sport is discussed, as well as the impact of rising temperatures on access to cliffs and mountain faces.

The podcast explores the rapid decline of essential aquifers globally and presents the results of a new study. It discusses the challenges faced by crucial aquifers, such as water contamination and land subsidence. The episode highlights specific examples like the sinking of land in California and Jakarta, and proposes solutions like reducing groundwater pumping.

Cameroon becomes first nation to establish routine childhood malaria immunizations, launching world's first malaria vaccine program for children. Discussions on the rollout of the malaria vaccine program in Cameroon and the promising results and challenges in the development of the R21 malaria vaccine.

A podcast discusses the potential of messenger RNA (mRNA) as a targeted treatment for cancer. They explore Strand Therapeutics' innovative approach to programming mRNA to activate only in certain cell types and discuss the ongoing clinical trial testing this treatment in cancer patients with solid tumors. Additionally, they delve into the use of synthetic mRNA to activate the immune system against tumor cells and the testing of localized mRNA effects directly injected into tumors.

A scandal emerges in the world of record-breaking dogs as doubts are raised about the age of a 31-year-old dog, leading Guinness World Records to pause its oldest living dog records. The controversy over the age verification process and succession of the world's oldest dog title is explored, including the impact of vet correspondence and the death of another record-breaking dog. The podcast also discusses the challenges and controversies surrounding the age verification process, the requirements for additional evidence, and the concerns raised by previous title holders about questionable paperwork.

Researchers explore using genetically engineered pig livers as a temporary solution for patients with liver failure. A pig liver with genetic edits successfully functions in a person, showcasing the potential of pig organs as donor organs for humans.

Europe, particularly the UK, is seeing a resurgence of scabies cases, due to a shortage of treatments and increased exposure during winter months. The global rise of scabies cases, treatment challenges, and the need for surveillance are discussed. The chapter also addresses misconceptions and stigma surrounding scabies, emphasizing the use of Ivermectin in treatment and the need for better public health campaigns.

2023 was declared the warmest year on record, breaking temperature records. The potential regime switch in Antarctica, extreme ocean heat, and the unusual behavior of El Nino were discussed. Factors contributing to the record-breaking year include new shipping regulations and the impact of a volcano eruption. Predictions suggest that 2024 may be even hotter.