Science Weekly

Catherine Price, co-writer of Reclaim your brain newsletter, investigates the science behind excessive phone use. Prof Barbara Sahakian explains why we are drawn to bad news on our phones. Topics include app addiction, the impact of smartphones on attention and memory, negative effects of doomscrolling on mental health and brain function, and strategies to stop doomscrolling and redirect attention.

Can flying become guilt-free? In this podcast, they discuss the use of sustainable aviation fuel, the limitations of biofuels, the potential of hydrogen as an alternative fuel, the concept of electrophools, and the environmental impact of flying.

The hosts discuss key science stories from last year and make predictions for 2024, including moon missions and brain-computer interfaces. They also explore advancements in AI and artificial wombs, and the power of computing in climate modeling and material science.

Martin Gibala, Professor of kinesiology at McMaster University in Canada, discusses the benefits of regular physical activity and exercise, including improved cardiovascular health and muscle efficiency. He explores the concepts of exercise snacks and personalized exercise routines for maximum results. The importance of adapting to specific conditions as we age is highlighted, as well as factors for sticking to an exercise routine such as starting small and having a workout partner. Even a few minutes of physical activity can make a difference.

Australian climate scientists Lesley Hughes, Ove Høegh-Guldberg, and Graeme Pearman reflect on their life's work and the burden of knowing about the climate crisis. They discuss the urgent need for action on climate change, the impact on coral reefs, frustrations with politicians' insufficient actions, and the concept of assisted colonization to save species. They also highlight the fear of runaway climate change and the power of renewable energy.

Three Australian climate scientists, Lesley Hughes, Graeme Pearman, and Ove Hoegh-Guldberg, talk about the professional and personal toll of their climate change predictions. They discuss the axing of Australia's Climate Commission, pushback from government and industry, personal attacks and death threats they faced, skepticism towards climate science, the importance of being scientist advocates, and the responsibility to find solutions for climate change.

Science Weekly revisits episode one of this 2023 mini-series from Full Story. Pioneering Australian scientists Graeme Pearman, Lesley Hughes and Ove Hoegh-Guldberg saw the climate crisis coming. Pearman predicted the increase of carbon dioxide levels, Hughes foresaw the alarming number of species extinctions and Hoegh-Guldberg forecast the mass coral bleaching events we’re seeing today. All three went on to become some of the country’s most respected experts in their fields, travelling the globe, briefing leaders, and assuming the world would take action having heard their alarming findings. In part one of this three-part series, these climate change scientists reveal the moment they realised the planet was heading for certain catastrophe. What did they do when they found out? How did they think the world would respond? And how do they feel today, looking back on that moment of cognisance?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod

In this final episode, the podcast explores the cultural and economic factors behind bird of prey killings, including an interview with a local resident. They discuss the controversial shooting practice and the economic benefits it brings. The podcast also examines the challenges and lack of convictions in Scotland regarding raptor persecution. The episode investigates the landowner and industry organizations' responses to the incident and discusses tackling raptor persecution within the shooting community. Lastly, they introduce Susie, a bird, and her chicks.

Investigation into illegal killing of birds of prey on grouse moors. Surprising silence around the killing of hen harrier’s chicks. Exploring efforts to protect endangered species. Mysterious circumstances and bird conservation. Teaser for final episode on bird species extinction.

Phoebe Weston and Ruth Tingay discuss the illegal killing of birds of prey on grouse moors, focusing on the case of Susie, a hen harrier whose chicks were killed. They delve into the world of grouse shooting, its history and conservation conflict, as well as personal challenges and harassment faced by conservationists.