Science Friday

Genetic remnants from Neanderthals impact our pain tolerance. Nose shape was inherited from Neanderthals living in cold climates. Dr. Kaustubh Adhikari discusses how Neanderthal DNA influences various traits in modern humans.

In this podcast, they discuss the impact of climate change on agriculture, innovative farming techniques, and the future of farming in Iowa. They touch on challenges like extreme weather events, the resilience of Proso-Millet, and the importance of regenerative agriculture. They also explore the history of a family's farming legacy and the role of hope and technology in overcoming farming challenges.

Discover the secrets of preserving historical treasures like the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives. Learn about the use of argon gas, the history of papermaking in the US, and the challenges faced by restoration experts. Dive into the world of conservation science and the importance of protecting these invaluable documents.

Delving into the intriguing history of panda diplomacy and its impact on panda conservation efforts, including the political decisions behind panda relocation and international collaborations. Exploring China's use of pandas as diplomatic tools and the challenges faced in panda conservation, such as natural breeding difficulties and global research collaborations for genetic diversity. Highlighting the importance of funding and iconic species in conservation initiatives.

Science writer Riley Black joins the podcast to discuss the best science books for summer. Topics include prehistory, fossil, chemistry, toxicology, road ecology, intelligence in other species, and the impact of refrigeration on society. Recommendations include books on climate change, paleontology, and the influence of the moon on Earth's evolution.

Barbecue expert Meathead Goldwyn discusses myths about marinades, the science behind the 'smoke ring', and tips for controlling smoke, temperature, and moisture when grilling. The episode delves into distinctions between barbecue and grilling, essential grilling tips, the science behind red smoke rings, and how marinades work on meat.

Explore how life has transformed Earth, from altering the sky's color to reshaping continents. Author Ferris Jabr argues that life is Earth and the planet is alive, challenging traditional views. Learn about ancient microbes, the Gaia hypothesis, and modern initiatives like Pleistocene Park.

A recent study confirms that kids are getting their periods younger, with non-white and low-income groups experiencing early menarche and irregular periods more. These can signal future health issues like pregnancy complications and mental health changes. Dr. Zifan Wang discusses the findings and implications, emphasizing the importance of education and research to improve long-term health outcomes.

Exploring the significance of publishing negative results in scientific research, the podcast features Dr. Sarahanne Field discussing the mission of the Journal of Trial and Error. The conversation highlights the need to embrace failure in science to drive progress and advance research integrity.

China's Chang'e 6 returns with moon samples for research. Paris invests $1.5B to clean Seine for Olympics. Topics include dengue fever warning, butterfly migration, and stellar novas. Challenges remain in sewage treatment for safe swimming.