Unbiased Science

Jane Metcalf, co-founder of Wired Magazine and board chair of the Human Immunome Project, teams up with Dr. John Tsang, a Yale systems immunologist, to discuss the ambitious Human Immunome Project. They explore how mapping the immune system can revolutionize personalized healthcare by integrating diverse data and methodologies. Listeners learn about the complexities of immune responses, advances in immunotherapy, and the critical need for longitudinal research to understand health disparities and improve disease treatments.

Dr. Caitlin Rivers, a distinguished epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University, dives into the intricate dynamics of infectious diseases. She discusses how outbreaks evolve into pandemics and the global threats posed by pathogens like COVID-19 and the emerging Marburg virus. Rivers emphasizes the necessity for effective public health communication and outlines the challenges healthcare officials grapple with post-pandemic. The conversation also highlights the importance of preparedness for future infectious disease threats.

Dr. Joey Munoz, a PhD in nutrition sciences and fitness coach, joins the discussion to unveil the transformative power of exercise. Highlights include the benefits of both aerobic and strength training for physical health, the surprising cognitive perks of regular activity, and how exercise can enhance brain function and mood. They tackle common exercise myths while encouraging listeners to find joy in their workouts. Practical tips for integrating fitness into daily routines make this conversation both informative and inspiring!

Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman dive into the sugar and hyperactivity myth, unraveling its historical roots. They critique early studies and highlight a meta-analysis showing sugar has minimal impact on behavior. The hosts playfully discuss our sweet cravings, linking them to our evolutionary past and the brain's reward system. They tackle the controversial topic of sugar addiction and emphasize the need for balanced intake. Listeners gain insight into how moderation and informed choices shape our understanding of sugar's role in health.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Nicole Lippman-Barile joins to discuss the intricate world of anxiety and panic disorders. She differentiates between healthy and pathological anxiety while exploring various disorders. The conversation dives into the neurobiological aspects and the impact of diet on mental health, highlighting the gut-brain connection. They debunk myths around anxiety treatments, particularly the effects of alcohol and the lack of evidence for certain holistic remedies. Listeners gain valuable insights and coping strategies for managing anxiety.

Dr. Jess Steier, an epigenetics scientist, teams up with Dr. Sarah Scheinman, a research expert on nature versus nurture, to dive into how our environment shapes gene expression. They unravel the mysteries of DNA methylation and histone modifications, highlighting landmark studies like the Dutch Famine Birth Cohort. The discussion extends to the influence of nutrition and stress on health, and how experiences impact identical twins differently over time. Together, they explore the exciting implications of epigenetics for personalized medicine and mental health.

This episode of Unbiased Science is proudly sponsored by the Champions for Vaccine Education, Equity and Progress (CVEEP). Drs. Jess Steier and Sarah Scheinman discuss respiratory virus season and the importance of vaccines with guest Dr. Bertha Hidalgo, an epidemiologist. They share their personal experiences with COVID and the flu, highlighting the severity of these illnesses. The conversation covers viruses and vaccines, explaining that viruses are microscopic bundles of genetic material requiring host cells to replicate, while vaccines prime the immune system to fight off infections. The hosts explore the constant evolution of viruses and the need for updated vaccines to match circulating strains, mentioning the shift from a quadrivalent to a trivalent flu vaccine and the importance of genomic surveillance in predicting circulating strains. They give lots of practical guidance on ways to stay protected this season!Dr. Jen Brull, a family physician and president elect of the American Academy of Family Physicians joins the pod to discuss vaccines and address common questions and concerns. She emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated for both flu and COVID as soon as they are available. She also discusses the possibility of a combined COVID and flu vaccine and the need for regular updates to vaccines due to new variants. Dr. Brull highlights the benefits of vaccination for individuals and the global community, debunking myths and addressing vaccine hesitancy. She recommends having a trusted relationship with a family physician and provides reliable sources of information.All our sources from this episode are available at: https://www.unbiasedscipod.com/episodes/(0:00:17) Sponsorship (0:01:00) Introduction (0:03:00) Personal experiences with Covid (0:09:45) Defining viruses and vaccines (0:13:05) How viruses are changing (0:20:30) How vaccines are updated (0:23:55) Nice Genes promo(0:25:06) Different types of vaccines (0:27:30) RSV(0:32:23) Updated Covid vaccine (0:39:59) Jen Brull intro (0:41:15) Vaccine Q&A(0:46:00) Why get vaccinated?(0:49:45) Busting vaccine myths (0:54:10) Practical considerations (0:59:05) Herd immunity (1:04:00) Vaccine effectiveness 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 are joined by Dr. Julie Bruene, a sports medicine physician, to discuss concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They cover essential topics including the definition of a concussion, the impact of concussions on the brain, the difference in concussion severity between children and adults, signs and symptoms of concussions, and the assessment and treatment of concussions. The conversation highlights that concussions increase susceptibility to damage from subsequent injuries. They discuss Second Impact Syndrome (SIS), which occurs when a second mild TBI follows closely after an undiagnosed first concussion, emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and awareness. They also explore Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and how it relates to high-risk sports for concussions, such as boxing and full-contact football.This episode provides valuable insights into the complexities of concussions and TBIs, emphasizing the need for education, proper diagnosis, and appropriate management strategies. The comprehensive discussion offers listeners a deeper understanding of the risks associated with brain injuries and the importance of proper care and prevention.All our sources from this episode are available at: https://www.unbiasedscipod.com/episodes/heads-will-roll-tackling-the-impact-of-concussions(00:01) Music and Intros(03:46) Understanding Concussions and TBIs(05:35) Concussions in Children vs. Adults(09:28) Signs and Symptoms of Concussions(16:47) Assessment and Diagnosis of Concussions(21:20) Treatment and Management of Concussions(24:42) Monitoring for Severe Brain Injuries(28:17) Promoting Education and Awareness about Concussions(28:42) The Impact of Subsequent Injuries on Concussions(30:26) Understanding Second Impact Syndrome (SIS)(35:40) The Long-Term Effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)(42:50) The Limitations of Helmets in Preventing Concussions(47:17) Final Thoughts: High-Risk Sports for Concussions: Boxing and Full-Contact FootballEpisode contains samples from the following:"The World is Waiting for the Sunrise," by Marie Dawson Morrell (Vocalion, 1922)"Swing Song" by Marie Dawson Morrell. (Vocalion, 1920)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

Dr. Jessica Steier, a scientist in Alzheimer's research, and Dr. Sarah Scheinman, a genetic expert in neurological disorders, delve into the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. They discuss symptoms, the role of genetics and epigenetics, and modifiable risk factors. Prevention strategies like healthy lifestyle choices take center stage. The conversation also addresses the latest treatments and their controversies, highlighting the importance of both current therapies and ongoing research. Listeners gain valuable insights and effective ways to support brain health.

Dr. Jonathan Stea joins the host to debunk mental health misinformation in the wellness industry. They discuss the commercialization of wellness, the impact of alternative medicine, and challenges in countering predatory practices. They explore pseudoscience, cultural factors, and specific mental health wellness grifts that shock. A critical look at the harmful effects and challenges within the multi-trillion dollar industry.