Short Wave

Michaeleen Doucleff, an NPR science desk correspondent focusing on global health, discusses the urgent issue of zoonotic spillover—viruses jumping from animals to humans. She reveals concerning insights about Influenza D, an emerging virus in livestock, and its potential impact on public health. The conversation highlights recent findings related to dairy farm workers' exposure, the critical need for early detection, and the shortcomings in virus surveillance among domestic animals. Doucleff emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to mitigate future pandemics.

Discover the remarkable story of Eunice Foote, a forgotten pioneer of climate science. Her groundbreaking glass tube experiments revealed how carbon dioxide traps heat, predating contributions from her male contemporaries. The podcast highlights her struggles against historical neglect and emphasizes the need to recognize women's pivotal roles in science. It also connects her legacy to broader themes of social justice and climate advocacy, calling for an inclusive dialogue in today's climate discussions.

NPR science correspondent Jon Hamilton, a neuroscience enthusiast, dives into groundbreaking research on the complete wiring diagram of a fruit fly larva's brain. He discusses how this mapping of synapses can illuminate the complexities of human brain architecture. The conversation reveals how understanding insect brains can shed light on learning, behavior, and even neurological disorders. The teamwork involved in this ambitious scientific pursuit underscores its potential impact on our identity and consciousness.

Explore the revolutionary concept of perennial rice, a crop that regrows after harvest, promising significant boosts to food security and environmental sustainability. Discover how this innovation could save farmers time and resources, particularly benefiting smallholders. The podcast also sheds light on other groundbreaking agricultural practices, including newly developed perennial grains, demonstrating how science is redefining our approach to farming. Tune in for expert insights and the transformative potential of sustainable agriculture.

This week's discussions dive into some fascinating science headlines! The Virgin Islands' state of emergency due to a massive blob of floating algae raises concerns about climate change and marine life. We also explore groundbreaking asteroid discoveries that hint at life's building blocks arriving from space. Plus, the bee waggle dance impresses with its role in navigation and food sourcing, showcasing the remarkable intelligence of these tiny creatures. Join the hosts as they connect these tales from the sea to the cosmos!

Katherine Wu, a Staff Writer at The Atlantic who has reported on the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, delves into the intriguing role of raccoon dogs in the origins of the virus. She discusses recent genetic evidence linking these animals to the Huanan Seafood Market, shedding new light on the natural origins of COVID-19. Wu highlights challenges in pandemic research, including data transparency and political influences. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding wildlife in preventing future outbreaks and the need for ongoing dialogue in scientific communities.

Geoff Brumfiel, an NPR science correspondent, dives into the intersection of AI and rocket science. He discusses the surprising limitations of AI like ChatGPT when faced with complex tasks, such as rocket design. Despite AI's advancements, it still stumbles with fundamental concepts and mathematical tasks. The conversation explores how AI has changed the landscape of rocket science since the 1960s, managing intricate operations. Brumfiel also highlights the need for precision and mechanisms to ensure accuracy in AI-generated outputs.

Kirk Sigler, an NPR correspondent, takes listeners on a captivating audio journey to the Great Salt Lake, an ecological treasure hanging by a thread. He discusses the lake’s crucial role for migratory birds and local health, warning that climate change and water diversion could lead to its disappearance within five years. The conversation highlights the dire consequences of toxic dust storms and emphasizes urgent environmental activism. Kirk illustrates the lake’s beauty and complexity, reminding us why preserving this unique ecosystem is essential for our future.

Dr. Martha Gilmore, a planetary geologist at Wesleyan University, reveals groundbreaking findings on Venus, showing that it has active volcanic activity for the first time. She discusses the striking differences between Venus and Earth, exploring how their paths diverged despite sharing origins. Gilmore also touches on upcoming missions to explore Venus’s geology and chemistry, shedding light on its once potentially habitable state. The conversation emphasizes what our neighbor can teach us about climate change and the geological mysteries of our own planet.

Manoush Zomorodi, host of NPR's TED Radio Hour, engages with Tom Oxley, a leading physician and CEO of Synchron, on the intriguing world of brain-computer interfaces. They explore how this groundbreaking technology can allow individuals to control devices with their minds. The discussion dives into the medical benefits for patients with ALS, the ethical implications of merging technology with human cognition, and the transformative potential of BCIs for communication and emotional connectivity.