Science Magazine Podcast

Kai Kupferschmidt, a contributing correspondent for Science, shares his expedition to Svalbard, where ancient RNA viruses may be trapped in permafrost. He discusses the mysteries of RNA virus evolution and the potential dangers of thawing pathogens. Meanwhile, Nathalie Stroeymeyt, a senior lecturer in biological sciences, reveals how ants employ social distancing and redesign their nests to combat disease spread. Her intriguing findings highlight nature's public health strategies and suggest architectural lessons for humans.

Michael Greshko, an associate online news editor, discusses how wildfires cause 'smoke taint' in wine and shares fascinating insights into ancient DNA and neanderthal hunting. Meanwhile, Kimberly Rosvall, a biology professor, and Liz Aguilar, a Ph.D. student, reveal their citizen-science project studying bird behavior during the 2024 solar eclipse. They highlight significant species responses and the excitement of public involvement, showcasing how light changes can inform us about bird physiology. A captivating blend of science and community engagement!

Robert F. Service, a staff writer specializing in nuclear medicine, discusses the latest advancements in radiopharmaceuticals, highlighting their ability to target cancer cells with unprecedented precision. Maria Clara Novaes-Silva, a doctoral student from ETH Zurich, explores the intriguing mechanics of sighing and its role in lung health, noting how deep breaths can optimize lung function and potentially improve outcomes for ventilated patients. Together, they bring fresh insights into the realms of cancer treatment and respiratory physiology.

First up on the podcast, Science News Editor Tim Appenzeller joins host Sarah Crespi to discuss why a salty layer of permafrost undergirding Arctic ice is turning frozen landscapes into boggy morasses.    Next on the show, glucose isn’t the only molecule in the body that can be monitored in real time; proteins can be, too. Freelancer producer Zakiya Whatley talks with Jane Donnelly, an MD/Ph.D. candidate at Northwestern University, about what we could learn from the live monitoring of key proteins, from the status of a transplanted organ to the early signs of a flare up in autoimmune disease. Finally, philologist Robert Garland joins books host Angela Saini to talk about ancient cultures and their death practices in his book What to Expect When You’re Dead: An Ancient Tour of Death and the Afterlife. This week’s episode was produced with help from Podigy.  Authors: Sarah Crespi; Angela Saini; Tim Appenzeller Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leslie Roberts, a freelance science journalist, discusses the urgent need for a group B streptococcus vaccine to protect newborns from this deadly microbe. She highlights the vaccine's potential to save thousands of lives and outlines the complex development journey hampered by safety concerns and investment hesitance. Ben Belton, a food policy researcher, explores the rising adoption of agricultural drones, emphasizing their ability to enhance productivity and sustainability in farming across diverse nations. His insights on the future role of drones are both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Join Elie Dolgin, a freelance science journalist, as he unveils an exciting approach to tackling aggressive tumors by targeting extrachromosomal DNA that helps them evade treatments. Meanwhile, Weidong Sun, director at the Center of Deep Sea Research, reveals a groundbreaking discovery of a vast hydrogen field beneath the ocean floor, potentially reshaping our understanding of clean energy. They explore the geological processes behind this hydrogen and the shocking implications for our planet's energy resources.

Jon Cohen, a staff writer for Science, discusses the Last Gift Study, revealing how rapid autopsies help identify the hidden reservoirs of HIV in the body. This innovative research aims to inform future therapies. Christine Elliott, a doctoral candidate in entomology at Purdue University, shares insights about the Bug Bowl, an engaging event that celebrates the wonders of insects. Listeners will learn how music embodies the sounds of crickets, enhancing public connection to entomology in ways that traditional lectures can't achieve.

Rodrigo Pérez Ortega reveals a major discovery of mammoth fossils near Mexico City, reshaping our understanding of these ancient creatures. Kimberly Prather discusses how pollution from the Tijuana River affects air quality, highlighting urgent cleanup needs. Susana Monsó delves into animal perceptions of death in her book 'Playing Possum', challenging our views on grief in the animal kingdom. This conversation bridges science and philosophy, exploring the emotional depth of different species.

Meredith Wadman, a staff writer for Science, shares cutting-edge insights on endometriosis, emphasizing how immune system research could lead to new diagnostics and treatments. Talia Quandelacy, an assistant professor at the University of Colorado, reveals the factors behind dengue's varying intensity in Latin America, such as rainfall and climate patterns. Their discussions highlight the importance of understanding these health challenges to improve diagnosis, treatment, and public health responses.

Melanie Mitchell, a professor at the Santa Fe Institute and an expert on public perceptions of AI, joins the discussion. She explores innovative alternatives to animal testing like heart-on-a-chip and mini-organs, highlighting their potential benefits. The conversation shifts to why chatbots often lie, emphasizing the stress tests they endure to expose vulnerabilities. Mitchell explains the complexities of AI decision-making and the need for critical awareness about AI's reliability and reasoning, sparking thought on how we interact with these technologies.