Science Quickly

A tragic measles outbreak in West Texas has resulted in the first death from the virus since 2015, highlighting the importance of vaccinations. Meanwhile, two mysterious health outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo are raising concerns among public health officials. In space, new research suggests that a diverse microbial environment is vital for astronauts' health. Lastly, geological findings hint at ancient oceans on Mars, while the eruption of Mount Vesuvius reveals how it turned a brain to glass, blending science with history.

In this discussion, Josh Fischman, a senior editor at Scientific American, sheds light on the quirky phenomenon of earworms—the songs that refuse to leave your brain. He reveals the psychological triggers behind why certain melodies cling to us. Listeners share their unforgettable earworms while Fischman explains the key traits of pop songs that make them so catchy. Lastly, he offers some amusing strategies to combat these musical intruders, like chewing gum and tuning into different tunes!

Lee Billings, Senior Space and Physics Editor for Scientific American and expert on the Gaia mission, reflects on the groundbreaking achievements of the Gaia spacecraft. They delve into its pivotal role in mapping the Milky Way, revealing discoveries like tidal streams and black holes. Billings discusses the mission's transition to a graveyard orbit and the significance of the collected data for future research. The conversation also touches on what lies ahead for astronomical missions aiming to continue Gaia's legacy.

Explore the mysterious light emitted by the black hole at the galaxy's center. Discover how astronaut candidate John McFall breaks barriers as the first physically disabled person cleared for space. Learn about the fluctuating risk of asteroid 2024 YR4 impacting Earth, which has shifted dramatically from over 3 percent to 1.5 percent. Plus, dive into a surprising outbreak of measles in West Texas and uncover fascinating studies linking human speech patterns to fish behavior.

Tina Lasisi, a biological anthropologist from the University of Michigan, dives into the evolution of human hair, particularly curls. She discusses why humans, unlike other mammals, have less body hair and the role of melanin in skin variation. Tina explores the genetic factors behind differing hair textures, including intriguing insights from "chemo curls." Their conversation reveals how hair can reflect health issues and captures the complex interplay between genetics and environmental adaptation throughout human history.

Carl Zimmer, a renowned science journalist and author of "Airborne: The Hidden History of the Life We Breathe," dives into the fascinating world of aerobiology. He discusses the evolution of beliefs about airborne diseases, tracing ideas from ancient miasmas to modern science. Zimmer highlights the crucial role of microbes in indoor air and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our understanding of airborne transmission. He also reflects on the historical ties between aerobiology and biological warfare, revealing unsettling truths about the life we share our air with.

Rhaina Cohen, a producer and editor for NPR's Embedded and author of The Other Significant Others, dives into the science of deep friendships. She explores how these non-romantic bonds can be just as fulfilling as romantic partnerships. The discussion highlights the evolution of friendship dynamics and the importance of companionship for emotional well-being. Cohen challenges traditional notions of family and love, advocating for the celebration of diverse connections, especially on Valentine's Day.

Lee Billings, Senior space and physics editor at Scientific American, discusses the alarming news about asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a 2% chance of hitting Earth in 2032. He outlines how astronomers monitor such celestial bodies and the technological strategies needed for risk mitigation, including kinetic impactors and nuclear methods. Billings emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in addressing this cosmic threat and describes both best and worst-case scenarios in the event of an impact.

A worrying discovery reveals that microplastics may be lodging in our brains. Researchers find that moods fluctuate throughout the day, with mornings being the most uplifting. The mantis shrimp showcases its remarkable punching abilities, intriguing scientists with its unique dactyl club. Additionally, the moon’s canyons were shaped by a dramatic cosmic event, prompting discussions about potential asteroid impacts in the future. As a bonus, bonobos have shown an impressive knack for recognizing when humans are confused and attempting to assist.

Max Kozlov, a biomedical science reporter at Nature, dives into the chaos affecting U.S. health and science agencies following Trump’s executive orders. He discusses a wide-ranging funding freeze impacting research on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation highlights the urgency of preserving critical datasets as essential online resources vanish. Kozlov sheds light on the anxieties of early career researchers facing job insecurity amid funding instability, emphasizing the need for supportive environments to foster innovation.