Science, Spoken

Latest Episodes:

This Is Your Brain Under Anesthesia May 27, 2021

Show notes

For the first time, researchers were able to observe, in extra-fine detail, how neurons behave as consciousness shuts down.

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Hurricane ‘Price Tags’ Could Reveal the Cost of Global Warming May 26, 2021

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A new study shows that climate-driven sea level rise made the damage from Superstorm Sandy $8 billion worse around New York City.

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What’s the Point of Wasps, Anyway? May 25, 2021

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A new study says the reviled stinging insects play a critical ecological role—and their venom might even be useful to people.

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Sharks Use the Earth’s Magnetic Field Like a Compass May 24, 2021

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Biologists have long believed that these animals rely on magnetic sensing to migrate across oceans. Someone finally figured out how to prove it.

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It’s Already Time to Stop the Next Pandemic. Can a Prize Help? May 21, 2021

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Covid-19 is still raging, but so are efforts to nip its successor in the bud—thanks to data sharing, political cooperation, or a multimillion-dollar challenge.

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How Weird, Bouncy Cell Signals Can Help Track Wildfire Smoke May 20, 2021

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A hazy atmosphere makes data ricochet all over the place. Now scientists think they can use that signal to better predict severe smoke events.

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When You Jump to Hyperspace, Make Sure You Wear a Seatbelt May 19, 2021

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May the 4th be with you! If you're hitching a ride on theÂ Millennium FalconÂ today,Â you should know a little bit about the bumpy physics of acceleration.

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Why Not Turn Airports Into Giant Solar Farms? May 18, 2021

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Airports have vast swaths of empty land and rooftops. But it’s not so easy as just covering everything with solar panels.Â

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The Race to Save St. Mark’s Basilica From Salty Floodwaters May 17, 2021

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As Venice faces a four-foot sea level rise, the historic cathedral—and its marble—could succumb to damaging tides.

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The Brain ‘Rotates’ Memories to Save Them From New Sensations May 14, 2021

Show notes

Some groups of neurons process sensory data and memories at the same time. New work shows how the brain pivots those representations to prevent interference.

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