Unbiased Science

Dr. Christopher Labos, a cardiologist and epidemiologist, joins the discussion to unravel the myths surrounding seed oils. He clarifies the differences between saturated and unsaturated fats and addresses the omega-3 versus omega-6 debate. The conversation highlights how seed oils have been unfairly demonized and emphasizes the importance of understanding food processing. Labos advocates for evidence-based nutrition, recommending moderation rather than fear-based eliminations, while tackling broader misconceptions about diet trends and the politics of food choices.

Recent advancements in Alzheimer's diagnostics are making early detection more promising. The ongoing fluoride debate uncovers public health implications, while new studies reveal heavy alcohol's detrimental effects on brain health. Fascinating insights into autism research highlight its complexities, and groundbreaking brain-computer interface technologies show promise for stroke recovery. Additionally, discussions on Denisovans offer intriguing perspectives on human ancestry. Throughout, the importance of scientific literacy in health policy is stressed.

Dr. Aimee Pugh-Bernard, an Associate Professor of Immunology and Microbiology, dives into the complex world of autoimmunity. She discusses how autoimmune disorders develop, particularly focusing on systemic lupus erythematosus, and the challenges faced in diagnosing these conditions. The conversation highlights the critical roles of genetics and environmental triggers, while also debunking common myths, especially around vaccinations. Listeners gain insights into evidence-based management strategies and the alarming rise of autoimmune diseases.

In this discussion, Claire Knapp, CEO of Havas Lynx and advocate for healthcare mental health, and Dr. Tapas Mukherjee, former NHS physician and medical educator, delve into the alarming issue of healthcare provider burnout. They explore the Healing the Healers campaign, revealing the emotional toll, complex factors, and pressing statistics behind this crisis. The duo emphasizes the urgent need for systemic changes and innovative solutions to better support medical workers, highlighting the importance of community and advocacy in addressing this growing challenge.

In this episode, hosts Dr. Jess Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman engage with Suhanee Mitragotri, a Harvard undergraduate and co-founder of the Naloxone Education Initiative, to discuss the opioid crisis in the United States. They explore the scale of the crisis, the importance of naloxone in reversing overdoses, and the gaps in education regarding opioids and harm reduction. The conversation emphasizes the need for increased awareness and education, particularly among youth, to combat the ongoing epidemic.Email Suhanee: suhaneemitragotri@college.harvard.eduhttps://steppingstrong.bwh.harvard.edu/naloxone-administration-program/https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/how-fda-failures-contributed-opioid-crisis/2020-08https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8154745/https://www.fcc.gov/reports-research/maps/connect2health/focus-on-opioids.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/about/understanding-the-opioid-overdose-epidemic.html-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional.Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman explore the complex world of psilocybin, or magic mushrooms. The scientists examine the substance's historical significance and neurobiological mechanisms, while discussing the emerging practice of microdosing and psilocybin's evolving legal status across different jurisdictions. They investigate the potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin for various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize contextual factors that influence psychedelic experiences and highlight the critical need for continued research to better understand psilocybin's full therapeutic potential.(00:00) Intro(02:25) Understanding Psilocybin: Definition and Classification(03:51) Historical Context of Psilocybin(10:59) Mechanism of Action: How Psilocybin Works in the Brain(14:58) Microdosing: Trends and Effects(17:00) Legal Status and Policy Changes(33:37) Therapeutic Potential and Research Findingshttps://www.rand.org/news/press/2024/06/27.htmlhttps://www.nature.com/articles/s41429-020-0311-8https://www.cuttersguide.com/pdf/Periodical-Publications/life-by-time-inc-published-may-13-1957.pdfhttps://tripsitter.com/magic-mushrooms/legal/https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Psilocybin-2020.pdfhttps://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2018/09/reclassification-recommendations-for-drug-in-magic-mushroomshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10069558/https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-017-0542-yhttps://doi.org/10.1080/14740338.2022.2047929https://doi.org/10.2147/DDDT.S443177https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.124.002237https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1359088https://doi.org/10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.1767https://doi.org/10.1021/acsmedchemlett.0c00048https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811221092508https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.16017https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811231190858-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional.Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and science communicator, unpacks the complexities of SSRIs, addressing their mechanisms and actual effects on mental health. He highlights the controversies surrounding their use, including misconceptions linking SSRIs to violence. The conversation touches on withdrawal symptoms, the importance of individual treatment plans, and the critical evaluation of scientific research. Through anecdotes and insights, listeners gain a balanced understanding of SSRIs in the context of depression and anxiety treatment.

Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatric infectious disease specialist and author, sheds light on the alarming resurgence of measles. He discusses the extraordinary contagiousness of the virus and the role of vaccine hesitancy in recent outbreaks. The conversation tackles common myths about the MMR vaccine, emphasizing its safety and the importance of maintaining high immunization rates. Dr. Ratner also explains the serious complications of measles, such as SSPE, and the need for herd immunity to protect vulnerable populations.

Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman dive into the potential of Ozempic to help curb alcohol consumption, showcasing promising findings. They tackle current public health issues, including tuberculosis and the resurgence of measles outbreaks fueled by misinformation. The hosts also shed light on the rise of cannabis advertising targeting youth, drawing parallels to past tobacco strategies. Amidst these discussions, there are updates on bird flu vaccine developments and a reassuring note on asteroid monitoring, emphasizing the need for preventive health measures.

Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman delve into the intricate relationship between alcohol and public health. They explore its biological effects and the serious health risks, including links to cancer. The conversation touches on the growing trend of alcohol-free alternatives and cultural attitudes towards drinking. Additionally, they analyze the implications of blood alcohol concentration limits and the push for better labeling on alcoholic beverages. Listeners gain insights into responsible consumption, societal norms, and the importance of informed choices.