Short Wave

Nate Rott, an NPR science correspondent, dives into the heated debate over using synthetic biology for conservation. He explores the alarming decline of endangered frogs and the potential of genetic engineering to help them resist disease. The discussion raises critical questions about unforeseen risks and the ethics of altering nature. Nate also reveals a narrow vote by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, which ultimately rejected a moratorium on gene-edited species, showcasing the urgency and division surrounding this controversial topic.

Discover how quitting smoking at any age can boost brain health and lower dementia risk, backed by research showing cognitive improvements in quitters. Learn about the harmful effects of smoking on brain blood vessels and why quitting can still benefit older individuals. The discussion shifts to fascinating studies on helping preterm infants develop language skills through maternal voice recordings, and investigate a viral urban animal mystery that concludes with a surprising revelation: it's a squirrel!

Dr. Alopi Patel, an anesthesiologist and expert in patient comfort, discusses the intriguing world of anesthesia. She shares her unique approach of using guided imagery as 'verbal anesthesia' to ease patients before surgery. The conversation delves into the history of anesthesia, from chloroform to modern techniques, and the various types used during procedures. Dr. Patel explains how anesthesia affects the body and mind, making surgeries safer while ensuring patients feel cared for during their vulnerable moments.

Teresa Carr, an independent health and science journalist, shares her eye-opening investigation into the safety of legal cannabis. She discusses how state regulations vary dramatically due to the absence of federal oversight. Carr reveals shocking findings of contaminants, like mold and pesticides, in cannabis products. She highlights the dangerous incentives that can lead growers to falsify testing results. Finally, she provides valuable tips for consumers on how to safely navigate the cannabis market.

Drew Endy, a leading engineer and synthetic biology researcher at Stanford University, discusses the quest to build synthetic cells from the bottom up. He explains how visualizing a cell as a building helps comprehend its functions. The conversation delves into the historical and engineering approaches that have made this possible. Endy highlights the freedom of designing synthetic cells without lineage constraints and emphasizes their potential to revolutionize bioengineering and sustainability. It's an intriguing exploration of life's fundamental building blocks!

In this engaging discussion, atmospheric scientist Ángel F. Adames-Corraliza, a MacArthur Fellow, shares his insights on the unique weather patterns in the tropics. He reveals how humidity, rather than temperature, drives tropical variability, and highlights the historical reliance on mid-latitude models that fail in these regions. Ángel reflects on his personal connection to Hurricane Maria and his mission to improve forecasting accuracy for tropical communities. He also explains the significance of the Madden-Julian Oscillation in global weather dynamics.

Alejandra Borunda, an NPR climate correspondent, shares her adventurous journey reporting from Greenland’s northernmost Island, Kaffeeklubben. She dives into the expedition's goal of identifying the farthest northern plant species and recounts the challenges faced, including logistical setbacks and thawing permafrost. The team celebrates the discovery of an Arctic poppy and a mysterious moss at 88.665030° north. Alejandra also touches on the impact of climate change in the region and the value of curiosity-driven exploration in science.

Science journalist Katie Wu from The Atlantic dives into the fascinating world of hybridization, revealing how some hybrids can be beneficial rather than disastrous. She shares intriguing examples like the plains spadefoot toads that adaptively mate across species to produce faster tadpoles. Wu also unravels the potato's mysterious origins, pinpointing a single hybrid event that gave rise to this staple food. The discussion highlights the potential of hybrids to drive evolutionary innovation and inspire new agricultural advancements.

Join psychiatrist Arash Javanbakht, a fear aficionado and author of 'Afraid,' as he explores the intriguing science behind fear and anxiety. He explains the thrill of horror movies, suggesting they're therapeutic thanks to our brain's overlapping response to fear and excitement. Arash breaks down the differences between fear and anxiety, revealing that a significant portion of people experience anxiety disorders. He also delves into the evolution of fear, the therapeutic potential of exposure therapy, and how augmented reality can transform treatment for phobias.

A swarm of hoverflies baffled scientists on an oil rig in the North Sea, revealing their migratory patterns and role as pollinators. These tiny insects can carry pollen from over 100 plant species across vast distances. Meanwhile, researchers uncover surprising growth rates in Amazon trees due to increased CO2, though concerns about deforestation remain. Plus, the intriguing sounds of coral reef fish are explored, as scientists document their vocalizations to monitor reef health in a non-disruptive way.