Nature Podcast

Polio could be eradicated within 3 years. Challenges after eradication, including containment of the virus and individuals carrying the virus. Conservation challenges of seabirds and monkey smuggling for research. Potential impact of using wild monkeys in scientific research. Exploring mysterious space explosions and signals.

Writer and researcher Jay Owens discusses her book 'Dust: The Modern World in a Trillion Particles' in this episode. The podcast explores the global impacts of microscopic dust particles on health, environment, and the role of humanity in their creation. Topics covered include the definition and sources of dust, historical perceptions of cleanliness, the role of clean rooms in science and manufacturing, the legacy of atomic bomb tests, and reflections on interconnectedness and long-term effects of human actions.

3D printers can now create fully-formed robots using multi-material printing guided by machine vision. The podcast also discusses the neural processes of humor, the effectiveness of behavioral change programs in preventing type 2 diabetes, the disappearance of snow crabs due to warming seas, and the development of a robot chemist for extracting oxygen on Mars.

Researchers modify a toxic antifungal drug, potentially reducing side effects. Fossilized hyena dung yields woolly rhino DNA. A robot performs surgery inside a beating heart. Phosphorus, key for life, found in outer regions of the galaxy. Insights from Osiris Rex capsule re-entry and genetic research on wildcats are highlighted.

The podcast discusses the impact of generative AIs on science and research, including the development of ChatGPT. They explore the perspective of a big publisher on using AI in scientific communication and discuss the challenges and collaboration required for regulating AI tools. The podcast also delves into the transformative power of AI in research and the potential for synthesizing information, while cautioning about the risks of fake papers.

Researchers have developed an injectable gel that can heal and regenerate damaged muscles in rats, showing promise for human applications. Ancient human genomes provide insights into Europe's first humans, and ferns inspire pest-resistant crops. Scientists are using wallbakia-infused mosquitoes to control dengue fever. Researchers study the genetic basis of starfish body plans, challenging previous theories. The hosts wrap up the episode and offer special discounts on scientific journal subscriptions and skincare products.

This podcast discusses the limitations of BMI as a measure of obesity. Scientists are calling for alternative metrics that consider age, sex, and race. The history and flaws of BMI are explored, highlighting the lack of correlation between BMI and mortality risk. The importance of considering factors other than weight in assessing health outcomes is emphasized. Challenges of using BMI as a diagnostic tool and efforts to redefine obesity are discussed. The introduction of EOSS as a more comprehensive measure of obesity is explored, taking into account physical, mental, and functional health.

Researchers use seismology to study Mars' interior structure. New research reveals the size and composition of Mars' core. Challenges in analyzing Marsquakes and capturing clear seismic data. Insights into Mars' core composition and its implications for the planet's evolution. Insightlander's data collection ends due to a malfunctioning seismometer.

Researchers use AI and animal sounds to monitor wildlife recovery during forest restoration. Algae-based living materials that glow when squeezed and a 50-million-year-old bat skull with ancient echolocation skills are discussed. The influence of food texture on eating habits and the neuroscience of sleep are explored. The potential use of AI to study sleep and promote a Nature Plus subscription are also mentioned.

Researchers discuss a new RNA-based anti-CRISPR system that protects viruses. The podcast also covers the powerful Viking queen, a fluffy exoplanet, Greenland's ice sheet melt, variation in ecological research results, and creating a solid surface on the moon.