Short Wave

Heather Smith, a Professor of Anatomy at Midwestern University and editor of The Anatomical Record, dives into the surprising functions of the appendix. Once deemed useless, she reveals its potential roles in gut health and immune function. After her own appendicitis at age 12, Heather became fascinated by this overlooked organ. She discusses revolutionary ideas for treating appendicitis that could reduce reliance on surgery, emphasizing the need for continued anatomical research to reshape our understanding of the human body.

Kenton Kerns, assistant curator at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and an expert on naked mole rats, shares the shocking tale of a violent power struggle erupting in the zoo's colony. After the queen is injured in a brutal incident by her offspring, sibling rivals engage in fierce battles for supremacy. Kenton discusses the extraordinary eusocial behavior of these rodents and the emotional turmoil he experiences as he witnesses their dramatic conflicts. Tune in for an inside look at the wild side of animal hierarchies!

Lightning is a powerful force, causing significant disasters and even deaths worldwide. Traditional lightning rods, invented centuries ago, offer limited protection but have sparked new ideas. Researchers are exploring cutting-edge technology, including high-powered lasers and rockets, as potential game-changers for safe lightning deflection. The science of static electricity and electric charges forms the foundation of these innovations. Plus, hear about one individual's humorous journey to confront their fear of lightning in an engaging narrative.

The podcast delves into the massive restoration efforts for the Everglades, which is facing critical challenges two decades after the initial plan. It highlights the unique ecosystems, including mangroves that protect against storms but are threatened by drought. The expedition to a remote monitoring station offers insights into local wildlife and long-term research. Additionally, the discussion on peatlands illustrates their vital role in carbon storage and biodiversity, underscoring the pressing need for better water management and pollution control.

In a wildlife haven in Kenya, tiny invasive big-headed ants have wreaked havoc on the ecosystem. By eliminating native ants, they've left acacia trees defenseless, leading to a dramatic decline as elephants trample them. This shift has upended the food web, altering how lions and other animals hunt. The discussion also ventures into ancient diets, revealing fascinating insights from Stone Age chewing gum, and teases the upcoming spectacle of cicadas emerging after years underground.

Nate Harnett, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, and Negar Fani, a clinical neuroscientist at Emory University, delve into the intricate relationship between racism and brain health. They discuss how experiencing racism may alter brain activity, linking it to increased risks for conditions like PTSD. The conversation covers the significant health disparities faced by Black communities, the psychological weight of microaggressions, and the urgent need for societal change to address these profound effects. A thought-provoking exploration into the science of trauma and resilience.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent, explores the fascinating bond between honeyguides and humans. These wild birds not only lead people to hidden beehives but also exhibit unique call responses tied to their locations. Nell shares insights from researchers studying this symbiotic relationship, highlighting the intricate communication methods between the Hadza community and honeyguides. The discussion reveals how childhood curiosity can shape scientific inquiry, fostering cooperation between humans and wildlife for mutual benefit.

Join Jon Hamilton, NPR's brain correspondent, as he dives into the chilling reality of brain injuries stemming from domestic violence. He highlights how these injuries, often overlooked compared to sports-related trauma, have unique patterns, particularly in women. The discussion reveals the long-term cognitive effects of domestic abuse and the urgent need for better detection methods. Hamilton also shares insights into how advanced imaging technologies could change the landscape for victims, shining a light on a crucial but under-researched issue.

In this insightful discussion, NPR health correspondent Ping Huang analyzes the looming tripledemic of RSV, flu, and COVID-19. She explains what makes this winter unique, highlighting increased virus activity linked to indoor gatherings. Huang emphasizes the importance of vaccination, especially for at-risk populations, and shares trends in respiratory illnesses compared to previous years. The conversation also covers the new JN1 variant and the critical role of public behavior in controlling outbreaks, all while stressing the need for individual health responsibility.

Geoff Brumfiel, NPR science correspondent known for his insightful reporting on physics, explores the perplexing nature of time. He delves into how time varies, from sea level to mountaintops, revealing it might not even be a fundamental reality. The discussion takes listeners to the National Institute of Standards and Technology to examine atomic clocks and their astonishing accuracy. Challenging societal perceptions, Geoff highlights how time may be a construct of social control, prompting a reevaluation of our understanding of the universe.