Science Friday

Dr. Sofiya Milman, an expert in longevity studies, and Sally Froelich, a vibrant 95-year-old participant, share insights on what defines 'SuperAgers.' They explore genetic factors and lifestyle choices that contribute to remarkable longevity. Sally recounts her uplifting experiences maintaining cognitive health, emphasizing the joys of family life. The conversation also dives into potential interventions for healthier aging and encourages the importance of social connections and happiness for a fulfilling life as we age.

Jola Ajibade, an Associate Professor of Environmental and Climate Justice, and Jesse Keenan, an expert in Sustainable Real Estate, explore the myth of Asheville as a climate haven. They debunk this idea, illustrating how Hurricanes Helene and Milton exposed vulnerabilities in the region. The conversation emphasizes the urgency of resilient infrastructure and smart planning for communities facing climate disasters. They also discuss the influence of decision-makers and the private sector on risk management and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.

In this discussion, climate reporter Juan Pablo Ramirez-Franco explores the alarming warming trends in the Great Lakes, particularly Lake Michigan. He highlights how the lake's surface temperature has been consistently above average, impacting local ecosystems. The talk also covers Hurricane Milton's unusual behavior, including a calmer-than-expected storm surge. Additionally, they touch on the important implications of climate change on hurricane intensity and the broader environmental challenges this poses for cities like Chicago.

Dr. Jon Krosnick, a Stanford University professor specializing in political psychology, dives deep into the psychology behind voter behavior just before a presidential election. He discusses the impact of emotional appeals and personal interactions in campaign strategies. Krosnick explains how voter opinions can shift dramatically as election day approaches, particularly regarding key figures like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. He also reveals how ballot order can sway decisions, and critiques the reliability of polling in capturing the electorate's mood.

Dr. Arpana Church, co-director of UCLA’s Microbiome Center, dives into the fascinating link between gut health and stress resilience. She reveals how certain microbiome features correlate with emotional regulation and cognitive performance in stressful situations. The conversation highlights the potential of probiotics as a treatment for mental health issues and discusses the intricate mind-body connection that underscores the importance of gut microbes. This research paves the way for new approaches in mental well-being inspired by our microbiomes.

Dr. Nolan Williams, an Associate Professor at Stanford and director of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab, discusses groundbreaking advancements in treating treatment-resistant depression through transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He highlights the recently developed SAINT protocol, which has shown up to 80% remission rates and received FDA approval. Williams explains how this innovative approach offers fast-acting relief for patients and could revolutionize mental health treatment. Patient experiences illustrate its life-changing potential amidst a global mental health crisis.

Mario Livio, an acclaimed astrophysicist and co-author of 'Is Earth Exceptional?', explores the origins of life on Earth and its implications for extraterrestrial existence. He discusses the critical role of RNA in early life development and how the building blocks of life could arise elsewhere in the universe. The conversation dives into the search for Earth-like exoplanets, modern technologies to detect biosignatures, and the societal impact of discovering intelligent life. Livio also reflects on the importance of extraordinary evidence in substantiating claims of extraterrestrial life.

Umair Irfan, a senior correspondent at Vox, and Dr. Jason Burdick, a professor at CU Boulder, dive into intriguing topics. They discuss the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on quartz mines in North Carolina and its ripple effects on the global tech industry. Irfan also highlights a completed map of a fruit fly’s brain, which could reveal insights into human cognition. Meanwhile, Burdick introduces a 3D-printable material, inspired by worms, that acts as a dynamic Band-Aid for heart and cartilage injuries, showcasing a breakthrough in medical technology.

The Bureau of Land Management has approved seven new herbicides to combat invasive plants threatening native ecosystems in the West. This urgent action addresses the loss of native species across millions of acres. In an intriguing twist, scientists reveal how Van Gogh's 'The Starry Night' captures the essence of fluid dynamics and atmospheric turbulence. Their analysis connects art with physics, showing how the painting's swirls reflect chaotic natural forces, merging creativity with scientific inquiry.

The podcast dives into the alarming rise in youth suicide rates, emphasizing the urgency for improved support in emergency departments. A revealing study of nearly 16,000 teens highlights the critical need for direct questions about suicidal thoughts during evaluations. Experts discuss the role of pediatricians and caregivers in addressing mental health crises, advocating for better training and follow-up care. The conversation underscores the necessity of community resources and ongoing policy change to effectively support struggling adolescents.