Science Magazine Podcast

Zack Savitsky, a freelance science journalist, delves into the enigmatic world of strange metals, discussing how their unique electron behavior could pave the way for room-temperature superconductors. Nora Zannoni, a postdoctoral researcher, returns to explore how personal oxidation fields interact with common products like hand lotion, impacting indoor air quality. Their intriguing conversation unveils connections between quantum physics and everyday life, revealing the hidden science behind the air we breathe and the products we use.

Freelance journalist Jonathan Moens discusses the problematic use of brain electrical oscillation signature profiling in Indian law enforcement, highlighting its shaky scientific basis. Life sciences editor Sacha Vignieri shares insights into new research on horses, revealing genetic mutations that contribute to their athleticism and how climate influenced their migrations. They explore the implications of these findings not only for equine science but also for broader species conservation efforts.

In this engaging discussion, Dan Baciu, a professor at the Münster School of Architecture, dives into the fascinating world of ancient Greek and Roman music. He explores the complexity of translating ancient musical notations and the mathematical secrets behind harmonics. The conversation also touches on how these historical compositions have shaped modern musical theory. Additionally, the podcast reviews the impact of political changes on the scientific community, revealing broader implications for research funding and global health.

Andrew Curry, a Contributing Correspondent for News from Science, shares his fascinating exploration of 17th-century crypts in Italy, where researchers are uncovering secrets about the health and diets of Milan’s working poor through ancient remains. Annabelle Wong, an associate professor in molecular and cellular endocrinology, discusses her groundbreaking research on how specific progenitor cells contribute to fat gain in middle age, offering insights into the science behind the 'dad bod' phenomenon. It's a blend of history and biology that reveals how our bodies change over time.

Daniel Rubinoff, a professor at the University of Hawaii, discusses a remarkable carnivorous caterpillar that haunts spiderwebs, camouflaging itself with spider parts for survival. Erik Stokstad, a Science Magazine staff writer, shares challenges in identifying genes in peas, linking Mendel's historic work to modern genetic research. They also explore ecological findings, like how wavy mowing patterns can boost insect habitats, and the surprising resilience of trees struck by lightning. A sneak peek into a new book series on death and dying wraps up an engaging conversation.

David Grimm, Online News Editor for Science Magazine, examines the intriguing connection between an ancient Egyptian cult that sacrificed cats and the domestication of these beloved pets. Agnit Mukhopadhyay, a research affiliate at the University of Michigan, discusses a fascinating magnetic pole shift that occurred 41,000 years ago, its environmental implications, and how it might affect us today. Together, they unravel the intersections of animal history and Earth's magnetic mysteries, shedding light on our past and future.

Jocelyn Kaiser, ScienceInsider Editor, discusses alarming budget cuts and layoffs at NIH, revealing their potential impact on science funding and public health initiatives. Jennifer Tudor, an associate professor at Saint Joseph’s University, dives into the metabolic consequences of sleep deprivation, highlighting how it hampers brain function and muscle efficiency. Her research emphasizes the need to prioritize sleep for better cognitive health and metabolic well-being, challenging the notion that we can afford to skimp on rest.

Rebekah White, a freelance science journalist, discusses the challenges of public engagement in climate engineering projects, emphasizing the need for collaboration and transparency. Marlena Fejzo, a scientist at the Center for Genetic Epidemiology, shares her journey from battling hyperemesis gravidarum to uncovering genetic links and potential treatments for this serious pregnancy complication. The conversation highlights the importance of community trust in geoengineering and recent advancements in women's health.

Warren Cornwall, a contributing correspondent for Science Magazine, dives into the destructive urban wildfires in Los Angeles, exploring their impact on air quality and health. He highlights innovative research aimed at understanding pollution from urban fires. Mingze Chen, a mechanical engineering grad student, discusses the challenges of integrating AI into tiny robots. His team’s work with memristors offers a breakthrough in energy-efficient data processing, which could revolutionize robotics and drone technology. A fascinating exploration of science at the intersection of environment and technology!

First up this week, Newsletter Editor Christie Wilcox joins host Sarah Crespi to discuss stories from the sea, including why scientists mounted cameras on seabirds, backward and upside-down; newly discovered organisms from the world’s deepest spot, the Mariana Trench; and how extremely venomous, blue-lined octopus males use their toxin on females in order to mate. Read more or subscribe at science.org/scienceadviser. Next on the show, J. Chris McKnight, a senior research fellow in the Sea Mammal Research Unit at the University of St. Andrews, talks about testing free-living seals to see how they respond to different carbon dioxide or oxygen levels in the air. It turns out they don’t respond like other mammals, which go into panic under high carbon dioxide; instead, seals appear to directly detect oxygen, a safer bet when your life is mostly spent diving deep underwater. This week’s episode was produced with help from Podigy. About the Science Podcast Authors: Sarah Crespi; Christie Wilcox Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices