Science Magazine Podcast

Paul Voosen, a staff writer for Science Magazine specializing in climate science, discusses the complexities of predicting when peak carbon emissions might occur, highlighting challenges with measurements and recent trends. Vani Rajendran, a senior researcher in cognitive neuroscience, shares intriguing findings on macaques that can synchronize to beats, challenging previous beliefs about rhythm in animals. Their exploration covers implications for evolution and potential therapies for motor disorders, making for a captivating conversation.

Andrew Curry, a contributing correspondent for Science, dives into the eerie mystery behind Europe’s ancient Neolithic farmers who vanished, leaving behind mass graves with headless bodies. He explores their rapid cultural collapse and surprising archaeological findings. Meanwhile, Sacha Vignieri, Life Sciences editor, shares intriguing insights on dog research, including their co-evolution with humans and distinct morphological traits. They discuss how breeding affects behavior and health, emphasizing the complex bond between dogs and humans through history.

David Grimm, Online News Editor at Science, dives into fascinating topics including a lichen that feasts on dinosaur bones and the physics behind the notorious golfer's "lip-out". He uncovers how a new model simplifies the understanding of this phenomenon. Then, Jeremy Munday, a professor at UC Davis, explores innovative energy generation using a heat engine directed at the night sky, leveraging the cold of space. This approach challenges conventional power methods and could shape nighttime energy solutions in arid regions.

Sofia Moutinho, a contributing correspondent from Brazil, shares insights from her collaboration with the Kuikuro to uncover the complex history of early Amazon communities using technology like drones and LiDAR. On a different note, researchers Aryn Wilder and Debra Shier discuss the Pacific pocket mouse recovery program, tackling the challenges of increasing genetic diversity among isolated mouse populations despite chromosomal mismatches. They explore innovative breeding strategies and wildlife tracking methods aimed at enhancing survival in the wild.

Join Paul Voosen, a dedicated climate reporter, as he unveils a groundbreaking acoustic method to detect ocean acidification, revealing the hidden effects of rising CO2 levels. Alysson Muotri, a researcher of brain organoids, explains how studying ancient and modern gene responses to lead exposure may offer insights into human evolution and resilience. Plus, Katie Mack, a theoretical cosmologist, shares fascinating theories about the universe's ultimate fate—including heat death and vacuum decay—provoking thoughts on our place in an ever-evolving cosmos.

Warren Cornwall, a contributing correspondent focused on Arctic ecosystems, discusses the comeback of snow crabs after a massive die-off, including the challenges of predicting future health. Meanwhile, Fei Peng, a psychology professor, shares fascinating research on the emotional lives of bumblebees, revealing how optimism can spread among them through brief interactions. Elah Feder conducts an insightful interview, exploring how these tiny creatures communicate affect, hinting at broader implications for understanding emotions in animals and even AI.

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