Science Friday

A new rule paves the way for an electric grid update to handle increasing demands while exploring the use of nanoparticles for stable vaccines. Topics include the impact of AI and cryptocurrency on the grid, ocean heatwaves affecting marine life, self-collection tests for cancer, and a beetle's bat evasion tactics. Additionally, advancements in mRNA vaccines, nanoparticle-based vaccines, and innovative vaccine delivery methods are discussed.

Learn how climate change is impacting sports worldwide, from ski resorts facing warmer conditions to athletes at risk of heat stroke. Dr. Madeleine Orr discusses the intersection of climate change and sports, emphasizing the importance of adapting sports culture and promoting athlete safety. Discover the vital role sports play in health and community amidst climate change challenges.

Exploring the challenges of understanding and treating tinnitus, the podcast discusses causes ranging from loud noise exposure to ear infections. Current research involves regrowing nerve cells and using electrical stimulation devices for treatment. Innovative approaches like stimulating the tongue to rewire brain synapses show promise for alleviating tinnitus. Additionally, non-scientific techniques and future drug interventions are also explored for potential relief.

Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, a wildlife ecologist, shares her adventures from tracking bears to hosting a nature TV show. She discusses her memoir, 'Wild Life', highlighting her conservation efforts and breaking barriers in nature television.

Discover the significance of a newly unveiled Archaeopteryx specimen at The Field Museum, shedding light on the transition from dinosaurs to birds. Explore the environmental impact of trees and shrubs encroaching on the Great Plains Prairies, known as the 'green glacier', and its irreversible effects on grasslands. Learn about efforts to preserve the unique prairies of the Great Plains region, including the management practices of rancher Daniel Mushrush.

Astronomers detect atmosphere on rocky exoplanet 55 Cancri e using JWST; Earth-like planet likely too hot for life. Boeing plans human space mission to ISS, showcasing advancements in space tech. Other topics include new virus research rules, snake behavior, private space taxis, and environmental sponsorships.

The podcast discusses the historical gender gap in sports science, highlighting the lack of research on women athletes. It explores the implications of the gender data gap on women's health and athletic performance, specifically focusing on ACL injuries and concussions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of inclusive research practices and creating opportunities for women to excel in sports.

Exploring the geological similarities between Mars and Earth, including volcanic activity, plate tectonics, and the absence of a magnetic field. Discussing how studying Mars rocks can provide insights into early Earth conditions and the challenges of obtaining samples for analysis. Guest also touches on the fascination with Venus and upcoming missions to uncover its mysteries like volcanic activity.

Guest Emily Dalfrey shares the challenges of coping with flooding in cemeteries in Louisiana, where graves were submerged and caskets washed away. The community enlisted help to locate and rebury loved ones impacted by the natural disaster, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding burial grounds from climate change.

Explore the preservation of plant specimens at Iowa State's Ada Hayden Herbarium. Learn about the unique science-inspired art created by listeners, including a mile-long poem in Reno and sound sculptures by a former punk rock guitarist. Discover the challenges and importance of managing herbarium collections and the inspiring journey of an artist overcoming Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.