The Future of Everything

David Rehkopf, an expert in population health, discusses the influence of environment on longevity. He explores genetic factors in determining lifespan and the impact of lifestyle choices. The podcast also delves into the relationship between dietary patterns and health, the effects of the Earned Income Tax Credit on health outcomes, and the influence of corporations on employee health.

Expert in health policy, Alyce Adams, discusses disparities in healthcare, addressing socioeconomic factors and cultural competence. Focus on improving care delivery for underserved populations. Highlight integration of patient voices in research and interventions for health equity.

Researcher Johan Ugander discusses the spread of misinformation online, revealing false news is not only more contagious but also spreads faster. He explores the similarities between information dissemination and viral infections, highlighting strategies to combat misinformation during election seasons.

David Miller, an electrical engineer in photonics, discusses the potential of silicon photonics in revolutionizing chip manufacturing and addressing the increasing demand for computing power. Explore the limitations of electronic systems, challenges of copper wire interconnects, and the benefits of optical interconnects. Discover how optical technology offers solutions for high-speed computing and the future of information processing.

Chaitan Khosla is a chemical engineer who says that the world’s most advanced drug factories are not behemoths of the industrial age, but microscopic bacteria. These tiny creatures have evolved enzymatic assembly lines that ingest raw materials and churn out valuable other molecules, like life-saving antibiotics. By engineering new microbes, we hope to create next-generation drugs, Khosla tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Chapter Show Notes:(00:00:43) Introduction to Assembly Lines and AntibioticsRuss welcomes Professor Khosla and introduces the intriguing world of bacterial assembly lines and their crucial role in antibiotic synthesis. He emphasizes the significance of antibiotics and their intricate molecular structures.(00:06:19) Enzymatic Assembly Lines: The Automotive AnalogyDrawing an analogy between assembly lines in nature and automotive assembly lines, discussion highlights the remarkable efficiency and meticulous organization of bacterial assembly lines.(00:08:17) The Scale of Antibiotic Assembly LinesRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla delve into the scale of antibiotic assembly lines, using erythromycin as a prime example. They explore the multitude of enzymes involved in the assembly line process.(00:10:34) Challenges in Antibiotic SynthesisThe conversation centers around the challenges faced by human chemists in synthesizing antibiotics compared to the remarkable efficiency and complexity of bacterial assembly lines.(00:12:00) Uncovering Nature's Engineering MarvelsRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla discuss the awe-inspiring engineering feats found in nature's assembly lines, exploring the intricacies of their construction and their functional significance.(00:15:15) Expanding the Search for Assembly LinesRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla broaden the scope of assembly line research, discussing the potential for discovering novel assembly lines in previously unexplored organisms and environments.(00:19:00) The Mystery of Orphan Assembly LinesRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla explore the enigmatic world of orphan assembly lines, discussing the fascination and curiosity surrounding these assembly lines whose functions remain unknown.(00:22:00) Decoding the Language of GenesRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla delve into the process of deciphering the genetic code to unravel assembly line functions. They discuss the techniques and strategies employed in this intricate decoding process.(00:24:00) Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Assembly Line AnalysisThe hosts discuss the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in analyzing assembly line data, showcasing the potential of these technologies to accelerate the discovery of assembly line functions.(00:26:00) A Window into Nature's Medicine CabinetRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla explore the remarkable potential of assembly lines in antibiotic discovery, unveiling how studying these assembly lines can unlock nature's vast repertoire of medicinal compounds.(00:28:32) Novel Insights from Recent Assembly Line DiscoveriesRuss Altman and Chaitan Khosla highlight the groundbreaking insights gained from recent assembly line discoveries, discussing the exciting prospects and implications of these findings.(00:30:30) Conclusion and Show Wrap-up Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Professor Joseph DeSimone from Stanford University discusses how 3D printing is revolutionizing healthcare by improving vaccine delivery and creating implantable chemotherapy with fewer side effects. The conversation highlights personalized prosthetics, implantable devices like bone replacements, and the impact of 3D printing on precision chemotherapy delivery and personalized cancer treatment.

Neuroscientist Kalanit Grill-Spector discusses the similarities and differences between human and computer vision, highlighting how advancements in computational modeling and imaging technologies are revolutionizing our understanding of the brain's visual processing. Topics include the influence of experience on brain development, specialization for word processing, and the study of brain development in infants.

Guest Debra Kaysen is a psychologist specializing in treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who says that promising new cognitive and behavioral therapies are, quite literally, giving people “their lives back.” These therapies work without drugs to help patients manage their disease and its symptoms and, perhaps, even cure PTSD. We’re providing tools to change how they think, Kaysen tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.For interested listeners, Kaysen offers a list of PTSD resources:ResourcesPrevious TFoE episode with Shaili Jain on treatments for PTSDhttps://istss.org/public-resources/trauma-basicshttps://istss.org/public-resources/find-a-clinicianhttps://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/what-youre-feeling-ptsd-what-do-helpFree apps from the VA for PTSD and other related concernshttps://www.ptsd.va.gov/appvid/mobile/https://www.abct.org/get-help/For a Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) trained therapisthttps://cptforptsd.com/cpt-provider-roster/Stanford’s PTSD clinichttps://med.stanford.edu/psychiatry/patient_care/ptsd.htmlInternational resource for a Prolonged Exposure (PE) trained therapisthttps://www.med.upenn.edu/ctsa/find_pe_therapist.htmlChapter Timestamps:(00:00:00) Introduction to Trauma Therapy and Digital Mental Health Russ Altman introduces the topic of trauma therapy and discusses the advancements in digital mental health. (00:01:45) Support Apps for Trauma SurvivorsDebra Kaysen explores the use of mobile applications as a means of support for sexual assault survivors in the immediate aftermath of trauma.(00:03:15) Overcoming BarriersFinding Therapists: Debra Kaysen highlights the challenges survivors face in finding therapists and the potential of apps to bridge that gap.(00:05:10) Bridging the Gap: Challenges in Accessing SupportDebra Kaysen discusses the difficulties survivors face in accessing timely support and how apps can provide a solution.(00:08:00) The Power of Telehealth for PTSD TreatmentDebra Kaysen emphasizes the effectiveness of telehealth in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its growing acceptance in the field.(00:10:15) Equivalence of Telehealth and In-Person TherapyDebra Kaysen shares her personal experience of providing therapy to her patients via telehealth and highlights its equivalence to in-person sessions.(00:12:30) Exploring Asynchronous Therapy with Text MessagesDebra Kaysen delves into the use of text messages as a form of asynchronous therapy for PTSD treatment, offering flexibility and convenience.(00:14:20) Enhancing Support: Immediate Response and Accessibility  Debra Kaysen discusses the immediate response and accessibility benefits of asynchronous therapy with text messages.(00:16:00) Building Trust and Establishing Rapport  Debra Kaysen emphasizes the importance of building trust and establishing rapport in digital therapy settings.(00:18:00) Honesty and Reduced Fear of Judgment Russ Altman discusses the potential for reduced fear of judgment in digital therapy, allowing individuals to be more open and honest in their communication. (00:20:00) Exploring Effective Therapeutic TechniquesDebra Kaysen explores various therapeutic techniques used in trauma therapy and their effectiveness in promoting healing.(00:24:15) Long-Term Outcomes and PreventionDebra Kaysen explores the long-term outcomes of trauma therapy, highlighting its potential to prevent symptom recurrence and equip individuals with lifelong resilience skills.(00:26:00) Empowering Individuals: Coping StrategiesDebra Kaysen discusses empowering individuals with effective coping strategies to navigate future traumas.(00:28:00) Sustaining Progress: Follow-up and ResilienceDebra Kaysen discusses the importance of follow-up care and how trauma therapy helps individuals develop resilience. Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hi everyone, Russ here, we’re running a best-of episode this week to re-share a conversation I had in 2021 with Karen Liu, an associate professor of computer science here at Stanford Engineering. The conversation is relevant today because, as we all know, AI is having a moment, and robotics is an important part of that. Karen and her lab have a goal of enabling robots to contribute in caregiving roles - think of tasks like helping medical patients get dressed each day - and they’re using physics-based simulations to do that. I hope you’ll take some time to tune into this discussion, it’s a timely and relevant one given larger societal conversations about AI. Enjoy!Chapter Time Stamps:(00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman interviews Karen Liu, a Stanford professor in computer science, to explore the advancements in exoskeleton technology and their impact on human augmentation.(00:01:12) Defining ExoskeletonsKaren Liu provides an overview of exoskeletons as wearable devices that enhance human capabilities and become an integral part of the wearer's body.(00:02:30) Wearable Devices and Human Augmentation The discussion delves into the concept of wearable devices augmenting human abilities, drawing parallels to popular culture references such as Iron Man.(00:05:40) Incorporating Sensors and CamerasKaren Liu explains how sensors and cameras are integrated into exoskeletons to understand the wearer's environment, enabling the exoskeleton to anticipate future actions.(00:07:55) Parallels with Self-Driving Car TechnologiesExploring similarities with self-driving cars, the conversation highlights how exoskeletons can leverage environmental awareness to guide the wearer's movements.(00:09:20) Modeling Human Behavior and IntentionsThe discussion shifts to the modeling of human behavior and predicting user intentions to ensure exoskeleton assistance aligns with user expectations and maintains their independence.(00:11:30) Ensuring User Safety and Comfort The focus turns to designing exoskeletons that prioritize user safety and comfort, considering factors such as ergonomics and personalized adjustments.(00:13:45) Real-Time Adaptive AssistanceThe conversation explores the potential for exoskeletons to dynamically adapt assistance levels in real time based on the wearer's needs and changing circumstances.(00:15:20) Balancing Assistance and User IndependenceThe importance of finding the right balance between providing assistance and preserving user independence is discussed, ensuring that exoskeletons empower rather than hinder.(00:17:05) Ethical Considerations and AccessibilityThe discussion touches upon ethical considerations surrounding exoskeleton technology, including accessibility, affordability, and ensuring equal opportunities for all users.(00:18:30) Optimizing Performance and EfficiencyThe conversation dives into strategies for optimizing the performance and efficiency of exoskeletons, including advancements in energy management and battery technologies.(00:19:45) User Feedback and Iterative DesignKaren Liu highlights the significance of user feedback and iterative design processes in refining exoskeleton technology to better meet user needs and preferences.(00:20:30) Future Possibilities and Advancements Looking ahead, the conversation explores potential advancements in exoskeleton technology, including advancements in artificial intelligence and personalized exoskeleton designs.(00:22:00) Collaborations and Interdisciplinary ResearchThe importance of interdisciplinary collaborations in advancing exoskeleton technology is discussed, emphasizing the need for expertise from various fields.(00:23:10) Summary and Key TakeawaysRuss Altman summarizes the main points discussed throughout the episode, highlighting key takeaways for listeners to reflect upon. Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Guest Bill Mitch says it’s no secret the world is running short of fresh water. As a civil and environmental engineer, he sees wastewater as a potential solution, if only we can eliminate the impurities. Mitch designs systems to remove toxic chemicals from wastewater to enable its reuse as a drinking water supply. It’s not easy, but it costs half as much as desalinating seawater, Mitch tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Show Notes & Chapters: The future of Wastewater(00:00:05) IntroductionRuss introduces the podcast and guest, William Mitch, who discusses the future of wastewater treatment.(00:00:38) Nitrogen in Wastewater TreatmentRuss and William kick off the conversation with an insightful discussion on the issues surrounding the nitrogen cycle in wastewater treatment. They discuss the nitrogen cycle, the role of nitrogen in wastewater treatment, and the challenges of removing it from wastewater, including the current technologies being used.(00:02:28) The Basics of Wastewater TreatmentMitch explains the fundamental process of wastewater treatment, highlighting the initial step of removing solids and the biological process of removing organic matter.(00:07:35) Understanding Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)Mitch explains the concept of BOD, its importance in water treatment, and how technology has evolved to measure it.(00:10:19) The Challenge of Nitrogen RemovalDiscussion about the difficulties and processes involved in removing nitrogen from wastewater, focusing on the traditional and newer approaches.(00:14:02) Energy Consumption in Wastewater TreatmentMitch talks about the substantial energy demand involved in wastewater treatment, especially in the nitrogen removal process.(00:17:32) Research on Nitrogen RemovalMitch discusses his lab's research on a more energy-efficient process for nitrogen removal from wastewater, explaining the concept of anammox bacteria and their role in this process.(00:20:49)  Phosphate Removal and RegulationMitch talks about the lack of regulatory pressure for phosphorus removal from water and its potential future implications.(00:21:30) Public Acceptance of Wastewater Treatment TechnologiesRuss probes into the public acceptance of wastewater technologies, specifically potable reuse of wastewater. William discusses the changes in public attitudes towards recycled water over the past decades, the importance of public relations campaigns and community education in shaping these attitudes, and the future of potable reuse facilities.(00:24:39) The Quality of Potable Reuse Waters vs. Conventional Water SuppliesWilliam discusses a recent study comparing the quality of water from potable reuse plants to conventional water supplies. He reveals that the treated waters were found to be of higher quality than surface waters and comparable in quality to groundwater supplies.(00:27:00) Chlorinated Taste in Drinking WaterRuss asks William about the common chlorinated taste in drinking water. William explains the chemical reactions that lead to this taste and why it isn't necessarily a red flag for consumers.(00:28:00) Future of Separate Infrastructures for Potable and Non-Potable WaterThey wrap up the conversation discussing the possibility and implications of having separate infrastructures for potable water and water used for other purposes. William explains the logistical challenges and why many utilities are moving towards potable reuse.(00:29:08) ConclusionRuss concludes the episode, thanking William for his insights into the future of wastewater, and invites listeners to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast for future episodes. Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.