Nature Podcast

In this episode:00:46 What will be left of US science after Trump 2.0?100 days into his term, President Donald Trump and his administration have already caused the biggest shakeup in modern scientific history, slashing funding, bringing large swathes of US research to a standstill and halting many clinical trials. But many fear these actions are just the beginning. We look at what the long-term impacts of these decisions might be for science in the United States and the world.Nature: Will US science survive Trump 2.0?13:42 Research HighlightsA distant planet that orbits two stars, at a right angle, and how fringe-lipped bats’ hearing helps them find palatable amphibians.Research Highlight: ‘Tatooine’-like planet orbits two stars ― but at a weird angleResearch Highlight: For these bats, eavesdropping is a valuable learnt skill16:07 Briefing ChatThe first skeletal evidence from bones that Roman gladiators fought lions, and scientists finally pinpoint the genes responsible for three of the pea traits studied by Gregor Mendel.BBC News: Bites on gladiator bones prove combat with lionNature: Century-old genetics mystery of Mendel’s peas finally solvedSubscribe to Nature Briefing, an unmissable daily round-up of science news, opinion and analysis free in your inbox every weekday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Research shows that, over the past two decades, rates of mental illness have been increasing in adolescents in many countries. While some scientists point to soaring use of smartphones and social media as a key driver for this trend, others say the evidence does not show a large effect of these technologies on teenagers’ psychological health.At the heart of the dispute is a large, complex and often conflicting body of research that different researchers interpret in different ways. This has left parents unsure what to do.This is an audio version of our Feature: Do smartphones and social media really harm teens’ mental health? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this lively discussion, science journalists Lizzie Gibney and Sharmini Bandel dive into the creation of a brand-new color called ‘olo,’ visible only to a select few, highlighting how laser technology can enhance our understanding of color perception and aid those with color blindness. They also unpack the FDA's approval for a groundbreaking pig-liver transplant trial, aiming to address organ failure with genetically modified livers. Finally, they explore an impressive lab-grown meat development, discussing its potential to revolutionize food production.

Dive into the intriguing world of scientific terminology and its impact on physics research. Discover how terms like 'dark matter' and 'Big Bang' can mislead and distract researchers. Explore the evolution of these concepts and the historical rivalries that shaped them. Unravel the mysteries of quantum 'spin' and how its misleading implications arise. Lastly, examine the broader consequences of naming conventions in science, affecting public understanding and inclusivity within the field.

Craig Dent, a member of the potato pan-genome team at the Max Planck Institute, delves into groundbreaking research on the genetic diversity of potatoes. He explains how compiling a pangenome can enhance breeding efforts for resilience and disease resistance. The conversation touches on the challenges posed by the potato's complex genetics and the implications for food security. Dent also highlights the interplay of ancient genetic studies and modern agricultural advancements, revealing the potential future of potato cultivation.

In this intriguing discussion, Adam Levy, a reporter specializing in ape genome research, joins Andy Meyer, an author from DayZ in Germany. They delve into the complete sequencing of six ape genomes, shedding light on the evolution of our closest relatives and what distinguishes us as humans. The conversation also touches on the development of revolutionary laser plasma accelerators, which could transform particle physics by enabling more compact designs. Prepare for a fascinating exploration of genetics and cutting-edge technology!

Carl Zimmer, a renowned science writer and New York Times columnist, dives into the fascinating world of airborne diseases. He discusses the surprising airborne spread of COVID-19, drawing from a dramatic choral rehearsal outbreak. Zimmer also traces the contentious history of aerobiology, detailing the struggles of pioneering researchers like William and Mildred Wells. He highlights the significant impact of government censorship on public health and stresses the lessons from the past in understanding the transmission of pathogens today.

Journalist Max Kozlov dives into the recent upheaval at the NIH, where several prominent leaders were dismissed amid political pressures. He discusses the fallout from the Trump administration's focus on controversial topics like regret in transgender health research, which has raised alarms in the scientific community. Kozlov highlights the potential long-term effects on public health research and the integrity of scientific studies, as budget cuts threaten critical areas of inquiry. It's a revealing look at the intersection of politics and science.

Pascal Geldsetzer, a researcher at Stanford University known for his work on the shingles vaccine and dementia risk, shares insights on groundbreaking medical innovations. He discusses a millimeter-sized dissolvable pacemaker that can be injected, minimizing the need for invasive procedures. This innovative device is controlled by light and shows promise in various medical applications. Geldsetzer also highlights a study linking the shingles vaccine to a significant reduction in dementia risk, suggesting exciting implications for public health.

Delve into the fascinating world of molecular clocks and how they reveal your biological age versus chronological age. The podcast explores the evolution of molecular tests, highlighting both their health implications and commercialization concerns. Discover the balance between scientific excitement and public apprehension regarding these aging assessments. Learn about innovative methods such as brain scans and the popular engagement with DNA methylation, blending science with cultural trends.