The world, the universe and us

Madeleine Cuff, a journalist focusing on China's pollution impact, discusses several fascinating topics. She explains how skin transplants in plants could lead to hybrid crops that are more pest-resistant or tastier. Cuff also highlights the unintended consequence of China's pollution reduction, which, while boosting health, paradoxically spikes global temperatures. Lastly, she notes the discovery of 400,000-year-old ivory tools, revealing new insights into the intelligence and skills of our ancient ancestors.

In this enlightening discussion, Alexandra Thompson, a researcher on pregnancy's physiological effects, shares groundbreaking insights about the brain's remodeling during pregnancy and the often-overlooked recovery timeline postpartum. The conversation shifts to smartphone use, challenging common beliefs about its impact on sleep and mental health, especially in children. Lastly, listeners are treated to the bizarre chemistry of water transforming into a superacid in space, leading to the fascinating phenomenon of diamond rain on distant planets.

Discover potential evidence of microbial life on Mars, uncovered by the Perseverance rover in the Jezero Crater. Explore the implications of a drastic shift in our understanding of dark energy, possibly indicating a future cosmic collapse. Dive into the mystery of dark oxygen, revealed to potentially sustain deep-sea ecosystems and hint at life beyond Earth. These groundbreaking findings challenge long-held beliefs and open new doors for scientific exploration.

Political cuts are endangering NASA and global health initiatives, sparking urgent concerns about the future of critical missions like the Hubble. Meanwhile, new research reveals that increased CO2 levels boost photosynthesis but only to a limit, potentially jeopardizing forest ecosystems. On a mind-bending note, scientists explore how experiencing events repeatedly warps our perception of time, revealing that memory is far from straightforward. Each topic intertwines science, environment, and the intricacies of human cognition.

Sophie Berdugo, a recent PhD graduate specializing in chimp behavior, shares fascinating insights from her research in Guinea. She reveals surprising similarities between chimps and bonobos, especially in their use of sexual interactions for social cohesion. Beyond this, she discusses chimps' unique tool use for cracking nuts, a vital skill that's at risk of extinction. The conversation also delves into groundbreaking archaeological findings that push back the timeline of ancient human tool use, reshaping our understanding of evolution and innovation.

Catherine de Lange, a sleep science expert, and Alison George, a science journalist focused on the microbiome, dive into the intricacies of our sleep patterns. They challenge the belief that modern humans sleep less than hunter-gatherers, revealing surprising truths about sleep efficiency. The duo discusses the elusive nature of sleep debt and its effects on health, alongside the fascinating link between our gut microbiome and sleep quality. They also evaluate sleep tech, including trackers, and share dietary tips to enhance sleep, from polyphenol-rich foods to gut health.

Mice are performing CPR-like actions to save their buddies, revealing unexpected empathy in these creatures. Scientists are also making tiny human brains in labs, raising ethical questions about consciousness and pain. Meanwhile, wood is being transformed into sustainable materials, from skyscrapers to innovative bio-based hair conditioners. The podcast dives into these fascinating developments, showcasing how animals and technology intersect in surprising ways.

Researchers have successfully revived frozen mouse brains, opening doors to the future of cryonics and human preservation. A looming asteroid, 2024 YR4, poses a potential collision threat to Earth, prompting global monitoring efforts. Farmers are joining the fight against climate change by enhancing rock weathering techniques, while a delightful phenomenon known as 'dessert tummy' reveals how our brains make room for sweet treats, even after a hearty meal. Discover the intersection of science, ethics, and our cravings!

Dive into the tumultuous landscape of American science as government actions threaten access to vital climate data and health discussions. Discover how researchers are decoding whale songs, revealing astonishing similarities to human language, and ponder what it means for interspecies communication. Plus, find out the science behind boiling the perfect egg with a method that promises delicious consistency. This blend of politics, animal linguistics, and culinary science will keep you engaged and wondering!

In this discussion, Jeremy Hsu, a reporter for New Scientist, dives into the rise of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model that rivals ChatGPT at a fraction of the cost. He explains the innovative technologies behind DeepSeek and its implications for the AI arms race. The conversation also tackles the alarming rise in ocean temperatures, attributed to accelerated heat absorption. Lastly, there's a light-hearted exploration of Amazon river dolphins engaging in an unusual urine projection behavior, shedding light on their unique social interactions.