Science Friday

Joining the discussion are Matthew Cooperberg, a urologic oncologist from UCSF, and Andrew Vickers, a statistician at Memorial Sloan Kettering. They delve into the complex role of PSA testing in prostate cancer screening, highlighting the balance needed for effective diagnosis and treatment. The conversation also sheds light on the stark racial disparities in prostate cancer incidence, particularly among Black men, urging equitable health access. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving recommendations for screenings and the importance of informed decision-making.

Biochemist Virginia Man-Yee Lee, renowned for her groundbreaking work on neurodegenerative diseases, shares her inspiring journey from a musical upbringing in Hong Kong to a pivotal career in science. She emphasizes the importance of happiness in achieving success. Joined by neurologists Ken Kosick and Alice S. Chen-Plotkin, they delve into the challenges of Alzheimer's research and the vital discoveries about proteins like TDP-43. Their collaboration showcases the power of teamwork and the determination required to advance medical understanding.

Sophie Bushwick, Senior News Editor at New Scientist, and Shahla Farzan, a science journalist with American Public Media, dive into recent changes in the CDC vaccine panel, discussing the implications of adding vaccine skeptics. They also tackle high-stakes topics like SpaceX’s Starlink satellite interference with radio astronomy, innovative water extraction technologies, and groundbreaking advances in brain-computer interfaces for communication. Plus, they explore the challenges of cleaning up Superfund sites amid political pressure and funding cuts.

Ling Xin, a science reporter at the South China Morning Post, discusses China's impressive advances in space exploration, including the Tianwen-2 mission aimed at the asteroid Kamoʻoalewa. She contrasts China's lunar aspirations with NASA's Artemis program and highlights future plans for a moon base using 3D printing technology. Also featured is astronomer Dean Regas, who introduces his tactile astronomy book designed for visually impaired readers, helping them connect with the stars in a hands-on way. It's a fascinating journey through the cosmos!

Environmental reporter Dave Hage, co-author of Sea of Grass, shares insights on the often overlooked American prairie. He discusses the dramatic shift from diverse grasslands to industrial farmlands, leading to significant biodiversity loss. Hage highlights the essential role of pollinators and the historical importance of bison in the ecosystem. With a nod to successful conservation efforts, he underscores the hope that sustainable farming brings for restoring the prairie’s health and combating climate change.

Lindsay Miles, an entomologist at Virginia Tech, dives into the fascinating world of bedbugs, revealing they've been around for 245,000 years, long before beds existed. She discusses how their population fluctuations mirror human growth, making them our first pest. The conversation also explores their surprising genetic abilities that contribute to their resilience against insecticides. Meanwhile, Dr. Lars Vilhelmsen shares insights about a newly discovered prehistoric wasp with a quirky method of capturing prey—using butt flaps!

Manu Prakash, a biologist, engineer, and professor at Stanford, embarks on an ambitious quest to map every organism on Earth with the help of innovative, low-cost microscopes. Alongside co-inventor Jim Cybulski, he shares insights on the Foldscope, a tool designed to make science accessible to all. They highlight the potential of democratizing scientific exploration and emphasize the importance of creativity in learning. With a passion for enabling curiosity, Manu aims to inspire a global community to engage in discovering the wonders of life.

Eli Cahan, a Boston-based journalist and physician specializing in emerging diseases, talks about the alarming rise of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a polio-like illness causing paralysis in children. He discusses the urgent need for a vaccine and what this reveals about our healthcare readiness for outbreaks. Sylvia Plevritis, a Stanford professor in Biomedical Data Science, explores the overlooked role of non-cancerous cells in tumors, which could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Together, they highlight the critical intersections of infectious diseases and cancer research.

Felice Frankel, a science photographer and research scientist at MIT, discusses the challenges facing U.S. science amid federal cuts and dwindling public trust. She emphasizes the critical need for improved communication and visual storytelling to bridge the gap between scientists and the public. Frankel argues for a cultural shift among researchers to enhance clarity in scientific discourse and advocates for a federal initiative on effective science communication. Her insights highlight the urgency of engaging the public in vital scientific discussions.

Biologist Rick Shine of Macquarie University discusses his pioneering project using CRISPR to create cannibalistic tadpoles that feast on cane toad eggs, aiming to tackle Australia’s invasive cane toad crisis. Elizabeth Kolbert, a journalist from The New Yorker, shares her insights on similar conservation efforts and the ethical dilemmas they entail. Together, they explore the unexpected consequences of manipulating nature, the tragic history of the cane toads’ introduction, and the fragile balance of ecosystems.