Nature Podcast

Bong Ng Kho, an author focused on skull bone marrow's role in aging, discusses how this area becomes vital for blood-cell production as we age, offering potential insights into neuroinflammation. Guy Leckenby, a researcher studying lead-205 isotopes, illuminates new methods for dating the Solar System, showcasing how stellar conditions influence their decay. Together, they highlight the surprising resilience of skull marrow and innovative cosmic dating techniques, leaving listeners intrigued by aging and the cosmos.

Samantha Harvey, author of the Booker Prize shortlisted novel Orbital, sets her narrative aboard an International Space Station-like vessel. She delves into the contrasts astronauts face, balancing the awe of space with daily life’s mundanity. Harvey discusses how distance offers new insights on climate change and humanity's vulnerability against nature. She emphasizes the emotional depth of astronauts, urging a deeper connection to their journeys and the importance of environmental stewardship.

In this insightful discussion, Nick Petrich-Howe, a reporter delving into mitochondrial research, joins metabolism expert Craig Thompson and Stony Brook's Jiayung Chia, who introduces a groundbreaking imaging technique. They unveil a surprising discovery: mitochondria split into two types when nutrients are scarce, optimizing energy production and biosynthesis. This adaptability may explain cancer survival in hostile environments. Additionally, Chia discusses innovative methods for visualizing atomic nuclei, reshaping our understanding of atomic structures.

This discussion features Deborah Blum, an accomplished science journalist, Bruce Lewenstein, an insightful academic, and Beth Simone Noveck, a researcher dedicated to evidence-based policymaking. They delve into the intricate ties between science and politics, exploring how journalism shapes public perception of scientific facts. The dangers of politicization and the manipulation of scientific data are examined, particularly in contexts like climate change and mask mandates, highlighting the call for transparency in governance and the ethical role of science communicators.

Shobita Parthasarathy, a researcher in science and policy, and Mayana Zatz, a geneticist from São Paulo, delve into the intricate dance between politics and scientific research. They discuss how political decisions directly impact funding for research, revealing alarming threats to science in Brazil. The conversation also covers the chilling effects of policies like the Dickey Amendment on gun violence studies. Together, they highlight systemic inequities within the scientific community, stressing the importance of diverse perspectives in fostering objective inquiry.

Melinda Baldwin, a historian of scientific publications, reveals Nature's intricate ties with politics. Philosopher Chiara Ambrosio dives into the demarcation problem, questioning what truly defines science. Shibita Parthasarathy shares insights about how power dynamics shape science and policymaking. Together, they challenge the myth of science as an objective domain, illustrating how societal influences and political funding can sway scientific inquiry. Their discussion uncovers the complex relationship between science and politics through history, including key moments like World War II.

Mariana Linearo, a reporter at Nature, explores the mental health challenges faced by communities in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, after devastating floods. She highlights personal stories of resilience and the importance of community support in recovery. Jeff Tollefson discusses a recent poll revealing scientists’ concerns about the upcoming US election's impact on climate policies, with many expressing willingness to relocate if former President Trump wins. Together, they tackle pressing issues linking climate trauma and political action.

As global elections approach, the debate over electoral systems intensifies. Proportional representation gains favor, but challenges arise regarding its impact on democracy. Analyzing majoritarian versus proportional models reveals varying effects on voter satisfaction and turnout. Discover how New Zealand's mixed-member system reshaped its political landscape and learn about ranked choice voting initiatives in the U.S., highlighting efforts to boost democratic engagement while navigating their complex implications.

Join Michael Frischetti, an archaeological expert, as he shares insights into the astonishing discovery of two ancient cities in Uzbekistan, using cutting-edge LiDAR technology. He reveals that one city was vastly larger than believed, showcasing unprecedented urban development. Lizzie Gibney discusses the innovative method for watermarking AI-generated text, which aims to differentiate it from human content, as well as highlights concerning environmental findings related to sewage in coastal waters. Both guests offer a fascinating dive into technology's role in understanding our past and present.

In this discussion, physicist Xiaojie Wang, renowned for his work on gamma-ray microquasars, and researcher Jamie Holder delve into the exciting discovery of a high-energy gamma-ray producing microquasar. They explore its potential as a natural particle accelerator and its role in unraveling the mysteries of galactic cosmic rays. They also highlight intriguing recent research on comb jellies fusing their bodies and archaeological findings from Siberian burials, drawing fascinating connections between biology and ancient cultures.