Science Weekly

Prof. Nik Money, a seasoned mycologist and author, dives into the booming world of medicinal mushrooms. He explains the biological wonders of fungi and their relation to molds and yeasts. They discuss the shaky scientific evidence supporting health claims and identify promising research areas like lion's mane and its potential benefits. The popularity of these products is linked to wellness trends and a desire to reconnect with nature. While mushrooms offer some nutritional benefits, Money emphasizes skepticism regarding their medicinal properties.

Matthias Gruber is a researcher at Cardiff University specializing in the neuroscience of curiosity, while Mary Whatley is an assistant professor at Western Carolina University focusing on age-related changes in curiosity. They discuss how curiosity evolves with age, revealing that it becomes more focused rather than diminishing. Curiosity activates brain circuits linked to memory retention and learning, and maintaining it in older age can safeguard cognitive health. However, they caution about the potential risks of curiosity, including vulnerability to misinformation.

In this engaging conversation, Michael Snyder, a professor of genomics at Stanford, dives into the fascinating science of aging. He reveals that aging occurs in three significant bursts around ages 40, 60, and 80. Snyder discusses how metabolism and fat distribution shift in your 40s, while immunity declines in your 60s. He highlights the risks associated with aging, including stem cell loss in the 80s. To mitigate these effects, he advocates for a combo of strength training, a Mediterranean diet, and social connections.

Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a renowned space scientist and educator behind instruments for the James Webb Space Telescope, discusses her upcoming Royal Institution Christmas Lectures. She passionately argues for the probability of life beyond Earth while exploring the challenges of searching for it. The conversation delves into Webb's groundbreaking discoveries and the excitement of exoplanets. Maggie shares her enthusiasm for space travel, contrasting it with the hosts' preferences for Earth, while also offering stargazing tips for the holiday season.

Madeleine Finlay, a science journalist, delves into the contentious debate between sugar and artificial sweeteners. She explains how sugar drives cravings and contributes to various health issues like obesity and diabetes. With insights from experts, she outlines the mixed results from research on sweeteners, revealing both short-term benefits and long-term concerns. The discussion touches on the impact of these substances on gut health and the need for clearer labeling and dietary moderation. In the end, a balanced approach to sweetness is recommended.

Nicole Garrison, a suburban New Jersey woman and former member of the Free Birth Society, shares her harrowing journey into free birthing. She reveals how the group’s radical ideology almost cost her life during a near-fatal postpartum hemorrhage. Nicole recounts her initial draw to the group's empowering messaging, but ultimately reflects on the dangers of following their teachings against medical advice. The stark contrast between her experience and hospital care highlights the chilling effects of isolation and disinformation within the FBS community.

Dive into the intriguing connection between social media use in children and rising ADHD diagnoses, exploring the nuances of a landmark study. Uncover how humans may have harnessed fire 400,000 years earlier than believed, reshaping our understanding of evolution and social behavior. Plus, learn about a new recombinant mpox strain in England, its potential risks, and vaccination guidelines. Each topic reveals layers of scientific discovery that challenge our perceptions and inform public health.

Nicola Davis, a science correspondent focused on health and behavior, shares her intriguing experience at a rage room, detailing the exhilarating yet temporary release of smashing objects. She discusses expert skepticism about the effectiveness of rage rooms in addressing underlying issues. Joining her is Brad Bushman, a professor acclaimed for his work on anger and aggression, who highlights the downside of venting and offers healthier alternatives like yoga, mindfulness, and specific breathing techniques to manage anger effectively.

Hannah Devlin, Science correspondent for The Guardian, dives into groundbreaking research in neuroscience and health. She discusses how our brains develop through five distinct phases, with adult functionality kicking in during our early 30s. The conversation takes an intriguing turn with new evidence linking the shingles vaccine to reduced dementia risk. Finally, Devlin explores the altruistic behavior of ants, showcasing their self-sacrificing acts to protect colony health against pathogens.

Sam Gilbert, a cognitive neuroscience professor at University College London, dives into the fascinating intersection of AI and human cognition. He discusses how AI's efficiency could dampen our critical thinking and problem-solving skills. With evidence from MRI studies, he explains how cognitive offloading shifts our memory priorities. The conversation also explores concepts like 'digital amnesia' and 'desirable difficulty', debating when technology enhances versus hinders our learning. Ultimately, Gilbert advocates for intentional cognitive engagement in a tech-driven world.