Science Weekly

Heather F Smith, a Professor of Anatomy at Midwestern University, shares fascinating insights into the often-misunderstood appendix. Once deemed dispensable, the appendix is now thought to play a role in immune system development and gut health. Smith discusses how recent research aligns with the emerging interest in the microbiome, suggesting the appendix could be more crucial than previously believed. She also touches on non-surgical treatments for appendicitis, challenging long-held assumptions about this enigmatic organ.

The conversation dives into a fascinating study ranking global well-being, revealing the UK sits near the bottom. A daring individual shares his journey of enduring over 200 snake bites to help create a universal antivenom. Additionally, cutting-edge x-ray technology offers fresh insights into the charred Herculaneum scrolls, potentially unlocking the wisdom of ancient philosophers. These topics highlight the relationship between health, history, and the pursuit of happiness in a rapidly changing world.

Brian H Chen, an epidemiologist at the California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, dives into the fascinating world of biological age vs. chronological age. He explains epigenetic clocks and their ability to measure our biological age based on DNA methylation patterns. The discussion covers the accuracy of these tests, potential lifestyle changes to lower biological age, and their intriguing applications in forensic science and clinical trials. Chen emphasizes that while these tests are popular, a healthy lifestyle remains key to aging well.

Authorities are still trying to understand what triggered the massive power outage that left the majority of the Iberian Peninsula without electricity on Monday. To understand what might have been at play, and whether there’s any truth to claims that renewable energy sources were to blame, Ian Sample hears from Guardian energy correspondent Jillian Ambrose. And Guardian European community affairs correspondent Ashifa Kassam explains what it was like to experience the blackout and how people reacted. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod

In this engaging discussion, Damien Gayle, an environment correspondent at The Guardian, reflects on the rise and fall of Just Stop Oil. He delves into the group’s iconic protests, from motorway blockades to soup attacks on art. Damien reveals how shifting policies and stringent laws contributed to their disbanding. He also speculates on the future of climate activism in a landscape altered by legal challenges and evolving protest tactics. Join him as he unpacks the implications of their actions on public and governmental responses to climate issues.

This week, hosts discuss a tantalizing hint of alien life with possible biosignatures found on the exoplanet K2 18b. They tackle the alarming rise of colorectal cancer among those under 50, linking it to specific E. coli strains. The conversation also dives into groundbreaking findings about gut bacteria's role in childhood cancer risk, influenced by diet and breastfeeding. Finally, they unveil a new color named 'Olo,' discovered through innovative research, merging health and the wonders of visual perception.

In this engaging discussion, Nicola Davis, Science correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the controversial world of de-extinction. She explores the recent claims of reviving the dire wolf and questions whether these wolves are truly extinct or just genetically modified. Nicola highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding species revival and the challenges faced in dramatically altered environments. She also introduces innovative conservation projects like the 'poo zoo,' showcasing the fusion of genetic tech with traditional methods to save endangered species.

Jessica Glenza, a US health reporter for The Guardian, dives into the mixed messages from Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding vaccines amid a measles resurgence. She highlights his contradictory stance on vaccination, promoting nutrition as a treatment while downplaying vaccine safety. Glenza addresses how these statements are influencing public perception and scientific research funding, leading to workforce reductions in health departments. The episode reveals the ongoing struggles within the U.S. research community and the potential global implications of these developments.

Robin McKie, the outgoing science and environment editor for The Observer, reflects on his remarkable 40-year career. He shares insights into the revolutionary discovery of DNA's structure and the lessons learned about misinformation during the HIV/AIDS crisis. McKie discusses high-profile scientific flops like cold fusion and the Millennium Bug, illustrating the gap between public expectation and reality. He also addresses the challenges of science journalism today, balancing visual appeal with urgent climate issues and the complexities of space exploration.

Phoebe Weston, a biodiversity reporter at The Guardian, shares insights on Switzerland's impressive water purification efforts. She details how the country transformed its rivers from polluted hazards into pristine swimming spots, driven by a public health crisis in the 1960s. The discussion highlights the ecological impact of pharmaceuticals in waterways and showcases Switzerland’s innovative treatment practices. Phoebe emphasizes what the UK could learn from Switzerland's proactive approach to preserving clean water resources.