Science Friday

Emergency medicine physician Erica Fisher shares harrowing tales from her time at Charity Hospital during Hurricane Katrina, reflecting on the chaos, courage, and emotional challenges faced by healthcare workers. She emphasizes the lessons learned about disaster preparedness and the ongoing vulnerabilities in our healthcare systems. Science writer Maggie Koerth discusses the intriguing connections between heat waves and aging, updates on COVID vaccine guidelines, and the potential for ancient life on the dwarf planet Ceres.

Join archaeologist Aaron Deter-Wolf, who studies ancient body modification, and tattoo artist Danny Riday as they explore the intriguing world of ancient tattoos. They discuss the incredible revelation of a 2,300-year-old Siberian woman's tattoos, shedding light on cultural beliefs and artistry. The duo examines how ancient ink reflects identity and status, especially among Scythian women. They also highlight the evolving significance of tattooing from ancient times to modern artistry, revealing how it shapes individual and cultural expression.

Astrophysicist Steve Schulze, a research associate at Northwestern University’s Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics, discusses groundbreaking discoveries about supernovae. He reveals what lies beneath the hydrogen and helium of stars, particularly in the case of supernova 2021yfj, which showcased a silicon- and sulfur-rich inner shell after its outer layers were stripped away. Schulze compares the structure of stars to a cosmic onion, uncovering layers of complexity and intriguing questions about stellar composition and evolution.

Heath Druzin, host of the podcast "Howl" from Boise State Public Radio and The Idaho Capital Sun, dives into the gray wolf's journey in the Western U.S. He discusses the dramatic recovery since their reintroduction in 1995, alongside the emotional and polarizing views humans have toward these majestic creatures. Druzin highlights the Nez Perce Tribe's critical role in wolf management and the ongoing challenges they face with hunting regulations. The conversation offers insights into the ecological benefits of wolves and the complexities of wildlife preservation.

Asa Bradman, a professor of public health at UC Merced and expert on food dyes, joins to delve into the vibrant world of artificial food colorings. They discuss how these dyes have evolved from natural roots to synthetic forms, with mounting health concerns, especially regarding children's behavior and ADHD. The conversation highlights the controversial cancer implications tied to certain dyes, calls for more research, and evaluates the risks associated with food dyes compared to other environmental factors, urging caution and informed choices.

Dr. Vinod Balachandran, an expert in cancer vaccines at Memorial Sloan Kettering, shares exciting insights about a new mRNA vaccine targeting pancreatic cancer. Despite substantial funding cuts, early trials show promise, with half of participants generating strong immune responses. He delves into the challenges of this notoriously tough cancer and the innovative approaches tailored to individual tumors. Balachandran also discusses the emotional journeys of patients involved in trials and the potential for personalized vaccines to transform cancer treatment.

Bill McKibben, a climate activist and founder of Third Act, dives into the solar power revolution and its potential to reshape energy landscapes. He highlights the surge in solar installations in states like Texas and California amidst federal rollbacks. The discussion also covers global advancements, particularly in China, and the urgency of solar adoption to combat climate change. Additionally, McKibben introduces agrovoltaics, showcasing how solar energy can harmonize with agriculture, benefiting both farmers and the environment.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Sarah Lower, an associate professor at Bucknell University, reveals the fascinating world of fireflies. She shares insights into over 2,600 species, their unique communication methods beyond just blinking lights, and the chemistry behind their glow. The conversation explores the implications of firefly bioluminescence for medical research, including its role in monitoring biological functions. With urban adaptability and conservation needs also on the table, listeners will gain a newfound appreciation for these magical beetles.

Mathematician Adam Kucharski, author of 'Proof: The Art and Science of Certainty,' explores the evolving concept of truth from ancient philosophies to today's challenges. He discusses the impact of misinformation and AI on our understanding of truth and emphasizes the importance of navigating uncertainty in decision-making. Kucharski highlights the complex relationship between scientific evidence and political agendas, particularly during crises like COVID-19, revealing how these factors shape public perception and trust in science.

Join Kathryn Harkup, a chemist-turned-author, as she unravels the deadly secrets behind Agatha Christie's use of poison in her mysteries. With a background in pharmacy, Harkup explains how Christie's chemistry knowledge enriched her storytelling. Discover the allure of toxicology, the dual nature of poisons, and the science behind crime-solving. Harkup also reflects on how societal perceptions of toxicity have shifted, shedding light on Christie's personal encounters with lethal plants that inspired her infamous plots.