Short Wave

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR's science correspondent, dives into the enigmatic world of narwhals and their fascinating tusks. She discusses rare drone footage that has revealed new tusk activities, including their roles in social behaviors and hunting techniques. Personal stories from an Inuit community add depth to the conversation. Nell also highlights the challenges researchers face studying these elusive creatures and the implications of climate change on their habitat. Join her as she unveils the mysteries of the 'unicorn of the sea'!

Clara Hoppe, a biogeochemist at the Alfred Wegener Institute, dives into the fascinating world of Arctic microalgae. She reveals how these tiny organisms defy expectations during the extended darkness of winter, managing to photosynthesize and thrive. Clara shares insights from her research expeditions in the Svalbard Archipelago, illustrating their remarkable resilience and survival strategies. The discussion sheds light on how these microorganisms adapt to extreme conditions, reshaping our understanding of the Arctic ecosystem.

Frederic Bertley, CEO of COSI and an expert in science communication, joins to explore the fascinating intersection of baseball and physics. He discusses how climate change is impacting gameplay, specifically increasing home run distances as pitch speeds rise. Bertley dives into the science of hitting home runs, emphasizing the importance of angle and energy transfer. He also highlights the significance of precision hitting over home runs, drawing intriguing parallels with academic success. It's a must-listen for sports fans and science enthusiasts alike!

Sarah Zhang, a health writer for The Atlantic, dives into the unexpected twists of the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on how early predictions about the virus's mutation rate were fundamentally wrong. She reveals the plethora of mutations that emerged post-vaccine rollout and discusses the unique adaptations of the Omicron variant, which enabled it to dodge immune responses. The conversation sheds light on viral evolution and its future implications, particularly in tracking infections in immunocompromised individuals and enhancing disease surveillance.

Ever diagnosed yourself with a mental health disorder after watching TikTok? You're not alone! The discussion dives into the rise of ADHD representation on social media, revealing the pitfalls of self-diagnosis from viral videos. From there, the conversation shifts to fascinating studies on parakeets, uncovering brain activity that parallels human speech production. They also explore the role of animal communication in understanding human speech, linking innovative research to how we perceive mental health.

Ever wondered what's really in your lotions and shampoos? This podcast delves into the murky waters of personal care product safety. Discover the alarming lack of regulation by the FDA and the potential health risks posed by common ingredients like parabens and phthalates. Experts discuss the realities of ingredient labeling, guiding you on how to choose safer options. Tune in to learn how to audit your favorite products for harmful chemicals and consider paraben-free alternatives for better health.

Maria Godoy, NPR's health correspondent, shares critical insights into the recent measles outbreak, highlighting its extreme contagion—more infectious than even COVID-19. She discusses the alarming decline in vaccination rates contributing to this situation, particularly in West Texas. Godoy outlines symptoms and essential safety measures for communities at risk. The conversation also addresses the vital role of vaccination and the need to counteract misinformation surrounding vaccine safety and prevention.

Dr. Vijay Agarwal, a neurosurgeon and science consultant for the hit series 'Severance,' dives deep into the fascinating intersection of neurotechnology and memory manipulation. He explores the ethical implications of altering memories and how these ideas parallel the show's themes. Agarwal discusses the tension between work and personal identity, questioning if true healing can happen when memories are erased. With advancements in neuroscience rapidly progressing, he believes we may soon tread the line between fiction and reality.

Chris Doughty, an ecologist from Northern Arizona University, dives into the remarkable world after the dinosaurs. He discusses how their extinction triggered a fruit explosion, paving the way for modern ecosystems. Doughty explores the connection between the demise of these giants and the evolution of larger seeds and fruit-bearing plants. He also draws parallels between dinosaurs and today’s ecological influencers, urging reflection on our role in current extinction trends and their impacts on biodiversity.

Dive into the complex world of biological sex, where tradition meets nuance. Discover how chromosomes, hormones, and physical traits shape our identities from before birth onward. Intersex variations are spotlighted, challenging misconceptions and promoting better medical practices. The discussion sheds light on how societal norms and global perspectives influence our understanding of gender. This enlightening conversation invites listeners to rethink the limitations of binary classifications and embrace the rich complexity of human biology.