Science Friday

Mark Loewen is a vertebrate paleontologist studying the evolution of dinosaurs, while Reagan Wytsalucy is a plant scientist dedicated to reviving traditional Native American crops. They discuss the exciting discovery of Lokiceratops, a newly identified dinosaur with unique horns, challenging current paleontological understandings. Reagan also shares her mission to locate the Southwest peach, an ancient fruit vital to Navajo culture, highlighting its historical significance and the need to reconnect with indigenous agricultural practices.

Bob Holmes, a science journalist, uncovers the surprising significance of interjections like 'um' and 'huh' in conversation, revealing how they regulate dialogue and foster understanding. Meanwhile, Ronan McCarthy, a biomedical sciences professor, shares groundbreaking research on saccharin, showing its potential to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by disrupting their membranes. Together, they discuss how these seemingly trivial elements can have profound implications for communication and health.

Join Flora Lichtman and Senior Producer Charles Bergquist as they dive into the Senate hearing featuring Jared Isaacman, Trump's NASA nominee. Isaacman champions a dual approach for lunar and Mars missions, sparking debate among lawmakers. The conversation also touches on the challenges of funding ambitious space goals. Additionally, learn about innovative developments in de-extinction science and groundbreaking rapid testing for bird flu. The duo even discusses how mind wandering might surprisingly boost learning!

Join Dr. Sylvia Owusu-Ansah, an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, as she sheds light on the making of ‘The Pitt.’ She discusses the intense emotional toll of working in emergency medicine, especially with pediatric cases. Sylvia emphasizes the rigorous training actors undergo to portray realistic medical situations and the importance of inclusivity in the show. Discover how 'The Pitt' authentically depicts the chaotic yet vital world of emergency care while highlighting the challenges faced by healthcare professionals.

Lauren Grush, a space reporter at Bloomberg News specializing in the commercial space industry, discusses the decommissioning of the International Space Station by 2030. She explores NASA’s plans to collaborate with private companies like Axiom Space and Blue Origin for future space stations, highlighting the shifts in research and tourism. Grush shares insights from her visit to Vast, a contender in this transformation, revealing its innovative approach tied to cryptocurrency and the competition's push towards a new era of space exploration.

Will Douglas Heaven, the Senior editor for AI at MIT Technology Review, dives into the fascinating world of artificial general intelligence (AGI). He explores the complex definitions of AGI and its implications for society. The conversation touches on the commercialization of AI and challenges in defining true intelligence. Heaven discusses the future of jobs in an AI-driven world and the ethical considerations surrounding AI development. Plus, the potential environmental impact of AI’s energy consumption sparks critical dialogue on sustainability.

Dr. Neeta Ogden, a leading allergist and director at the Allergy, Asthma, and Sinus Center in New Jersey, dives into the increasing severity of seasonal allergies due to climate change. She highlights that allergies are starting earlier and becoming more intense, affecting 25% of U.S. adults. The discussion covers the gut microbiome's role in allergies, effective treatments like immunotherapy, and the intriguing hygiene hypothesis, which links environmental exposure to a lower incidence of allergic reactions. Tune in for insights that could help you manage your allergy season!

Dr. Scott Sicherer, Director of the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at Mount Sinai Hospital, sheds light on the alarming rise of peanut allergies among children, with rates tripling over the past two decades. He discusses innovative research where microdosing peanut butter significantly increases tolerance in children without severe reactions. The conversation covers various treatments, the importance of early exposure to allergens, and the nuances between food allergies and intolerances, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in food allergy advancements.

Umair Irfan, senior correspondent at Vox, joins to discuss the shocking layoffs of 10,000 federal health workers that impact crucial health agencies like the FDA and CDC. The conversation dives into the potential fallout on public health initiatives and medical research. Irfan also highlights exciting advancements, like a tiny pacemaker injected through a needle, and explores groundbreaking studies on air pollution's effect on climate. Plus, find out about the fascinating science behind growing miso in space and the surprising role of sea turtle tears.

Emily Jones is a climate reporter for Grist and WABE, based in Savannah, Georgia. She discusses alarming funding cuts at NOAA and their potential impact on hurricane forecasting accuracy, raising concerns for coastal communities. Experts worry that fewer resources could lead to less reliable forecasts as the hurricane season approaches. Additionally, a board-certified music therapist shares insights on how music aids infant development, including preferences for certain types and the best ways to incorporate music into a baby's routine.