Short Wave

Amanda Adeleye, a reproductive endocrinologist from the University of Chicago, dives into the implications of a recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that redefines embryos as 'extrauterine children.' She discusses the science of in vitro fertilization, revealing how nearly half a million babies have been born through IVF in the U.S. since its inception. Adeleye highlights challenges like financial barriers, social stigma, and legal uncertainties that affect access to fertility treatments, especially in a post-Roe landscape.

Wake up to the enchanting sounds of love songs from skywalker gibbons in Myanmar’s lush canopies! Discover how researchers identified the largest population of this endangered species through their melodic duets. Delve into the surprising health benefits of Tai Chi, particularly for lowering blood pressure in older adults, and learn why gentle exercise can be as effective as more intense activity. The podcast blends captivating animal news and insightful health research, making science both fascinating and accessible.

Dr. Samaiyah Farid, a solar physicist from Yale University, shares her expertise on the Sun's activity during the current solar maximum. She discusses the historical Carrington event of 1859, illuminating its dramatic effects, including dazzling auroras and havoc on telegraph systems. Dr. Farid emphasizes the potential dangers of modern solar storms to our electrical grid and stresses the importance of preparedness. She also highlights the thrill of safely observing the Sun and how future solar events can inspire awe in the cosmos.

Audrey Rowe, a paleoecologist and PhD candidate at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, dives into the life and death of a woolly mammoth named Elma. She explores how environmental changes and early human settlements in Alaska 14,000 years ago may have led to Elma's extinction. By analyzing Elma's tusk, Audrey uncovers insights into mammoth movements and dietary habits. The discussion highlights lessons from the past that can inform modern conservation efforts for megafauna facing similar challenges today.

In this discussion, Amy Frankel, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species, unveils crucial insights from the first-ever global assessment of migratory animals. She reveals that 44% of these species are declining, with one in five facing extinction. The conversation highlights unique challenges like climate change and habitat disruption, and emphasizes the urgent need for collective action to protect these vital species. Frankel also shares practical solutions for individuals to contribute to conservation efforts.

Christine Wilkinson, a wildlife ecologist and creator of the "Queer is Natural" TikTok series, shares fascinating insights about queerness in the animal kingdom. She reveals the love story of a gay anteater couple at the National Zoo and explores the prevalence of same-sex relationships across hundreds of species. The discussion includes unique reproductive strategies and challenges common myths about animal sexuality. With heartwarming examples, Christine encourages appreciation for queer relationships in nature beyond human norms, especially as Valentine's Day approaches.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year by exploring the fascinating relationship between the Chinese lunisolar calendar and the Gregorian calendar. Discover how these timekeeping systems shaped agriculture, culture, and the rise and fall of empires. Delve into the role of Jesuit missionaries in introducing calendar reforms and influencing European leaders. Learn about the historical impacts of lunar and solar calendars and their significance in today's cultural practices. The intertwining stories reveal the essential role of calendars in human history.

A team of researchers proposes that clownfish may possess the ability to count the vertical white stripes on other fish, a skill that could help them identify their species. This intriguing behavior sheds light on their cognitive abilities and complex social interactions. Meanwhile, ermine moths showcase their own extraordinary adaptations, using unique wing clicks to evade bat predators. The podcast also introduces “super” purple tomatoes, rich in antioxidants, highlighting the evolving landscape of genetically modified foods.

Discover the fascinating physics behind the perfect spiral pass in football. A dedicated physicist spent two decades unraveling the mystery of how these throws seem to defy gravity. Enjoy a lively discussion filled with insights on aerodynamics, Newton's laws, and the intricate balance of forces involved. Hear about late-night debates with fellow scientists and the breakthrough that finally brought clarity to this sports puzzle. It's a compelling blend of science and sport that reveals how physics shapes the game we love.

In this discussion, Shane Campbell-Staton, an evolutionary biologist, unpacks the fascinating resurgence of gray wolves in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. He reveals how their population density has skyrocketed, exceeding that of even protected areas, and explores the intriguing possibility that these wolves may be genetically resilient to cancer due to their unique environment. Their thriving existence raises important questions about wildlife adaptability and the potential benefits of studying these animals for insights into human health.