Science Refresh

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18. Conspiracy Theories

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:36:21 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg wander into the world of conspiracy theories.

Grace delves into the science to help explain why people believe certain conspiracy theories, from fight or flight to biases.

Meg explores how interest in conspiracy theories may, or may not, have changed over time.

As always, Grace and Meg share their top headlines from the past month, as well as those quirky science stories that grabbed their attention.

Also mentioned in this episode:

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

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“Flabby” by Coma-Media

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17. The Science of Online Dating

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:21:21 GMT

Roses are red🌹, violets are blue🪻, Meg and Grace have a new episode for you!

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg are getting into Valentine’s spirit, diving into the science behind online dating💌

From looking at the role of AI-generated photos, how Chat-Bots are being used to come up with witty one-liners, or the claims of the additive nature of dating apps themselves, Science Refresh is diving into the world of online matchmaking❤️

But Valentine’s was not the only hot topic this month, February saw a novel way to print a heart tissue model❤️, the first US moon landing in 50 years🚀, and an increase in hedgehog sightings🦔.

Plus, Meg and Grace also delve into the mysterious case of a pregnant Stingray, and the “art” of gossiping 👀

But what about you? What science stories caught your eye last month? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod), Instagram (@sciencerefreshpodcast) and TikTok. You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Also mentioned in this episode:

Attractiontruth AI Report
Detecting deepfakes in audio
Bumble’s catfishing policy
Class action Lawsuit against Dating Apps
eHarmony Survey

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

“Flabby” by Coma-Media

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16. Veganuary

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Science news in 2024 is starting as it means to go on, with a potential new antibiotic on the block, a 60 year low for CO2 emissions and a resignation honours list that celebrates maths advocacy.

On the topic of Veganuary, Meg walks us through what happens to your body when you stop eating meat and dairy, how altering your diet can cause your microbiome to rapidly adapt, and what nutrients are perhaps reduced if you don’t take steps to ensure your vegan diet is varied.

Grace talks about the relationship between diet and the climate crisis, how reducing meat intake can reduce nitrogen waste, and some of the technologies being developed to try to overcome these problems.

And finally, Grace and Meg share some science stories with a quirky twist, from a plant that can survive in space, to love’s signature on the brain, to understanding 10,000 year old diets by analysing chewing gum.

But what about you? What science stories caught your eye last month? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod), Instagram (@sciencerefreshpodcast) and TikTok.

Also mentioned in this episode:

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

“Flabby” by Coma-Media

Rishi Sunak takes a private jet once every eight days

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15. December Recap

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 22:16:27 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of December.

Grace sparks a conversation about electric eels, and how electricity from electric eels can promote the uptake of DNA into animals.

Next Meg shares a sweet study looking towards glycans to help improve cancer diagnostics!

Finally, to jump on the festive bandwagon, Grace shares some festive stories and the girls reflect on their favourite science picks of 2023!

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14. COP28

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:00:20 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg dive into COP28, spilling the tea on this year’s climate conference.

From the first ever global stocktake, to the decision to ‘transition’ away from fossil fuels, this year's COP in UAE was filled with negotiations and pledges, as well as its fair share of controversy.

Grace shares a new insight into the politics of COP28, talking about the role of big emitters as well as the issue of individual vs governmental responsibility.

Meg dives deeper into the money at the heart of COP28, talking about the multi-billion dollar schemes that are being funded to help tackle the climate crisis.

But what about you? What happened at COP28 that piqued your interest? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod) and Instagram (@sciencerefreshpodcast). You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Keep your eyes peeled for our weekly newsletter, sharing some of the latest science stories from the past week…

Also mentioned in this episode:

What is COP28?

Kyoto Protocol

Global Carbon Budget 2023

Arrests of peaceful climate protestors

How many attendees

$700 million investment into the loss and damage fund

The UK TRUTHS mission

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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13. November Recap

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 18:34:56 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of November.

Grace talks about the recent NICE recommendation for cognitive behaviour therapy to be offered as a treatment for menopause.

We all know Meg loves coffee - but this month she walks us through the newly introduced coffee beans in Colombia, one of the largest coffee exports in the world, which have nutritional, economic and environmental benefits.

Finally, following the topical news of CRISPR-Cas9 approval in the UK for Sickle Cell disease, Grace and Meg discuss their thoughts, as well as alternative research about CRISPR-Cas9 and other diseases.

Also mentioned in this episode:

Nature - UK first to approve CRISPR treatment for diseases: what you need to know

Nature - The world’s first CRISPR therapy is approved: who will receive it?

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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12. Is interest in the gut microbiome just a trend?

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 12:00:23 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg deep dive into the gut microbiome, discussing what it is, why it’s of interest at the moment, and how it impacts your body more broadly.

Meg shares some historic insights into the gut microbiome, talking about what the poop of our ancient ancestors could tell us about their diet and gut health.

Grace explores the gut-brain axis, sharing research that links the nervous system within the gut and the development of neurodegenerative disease Parkinson’s.

Finally, Meg and Grace speak about the wider implications of trying to maintain a healthy gut, asking questions that many don't associate with the gut microbiome.

Don’t forget to catch up on the latest science and technology news with our weekly newsletter, posted each Friday on our Instagram.

Also mentioned in this episode:

GutTok

What exists in the gut

Phage “morons”

The evolution of the diet and gut microbiome

Specific microbes are higher and lower in Parkinson’s patients

August 2023 study published in Nature, linking socio-economic status and microbiome diversity

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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Mouse mummies found at volcano summit

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11. October Recap

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of October.

Grace talks about new research investigating the benefits of using chicken feathers to generate renewable electricity. This poultry-farming by-product is currently burnt, producing greenhouse gases that contribute to the climate crisis. So how do feathers generate clean energy? Listen to this week’s episode to find out…

Meg shares the international work being carried out to produce teeny tiny nano-engines, with one component part being the code to life itself: DNA.

Finally, to get into the spooky season spirit, Meg and Grace play a little game of Halloween Headlines, hoping to either trick or treat the other into believing the science story.

‘Halloween Headlines’ mentioned in this episode:

Fossil gives clues into ancestry of predatory marine reptiles

Mummified faeces reveals insight into pre-Columbian diets

Despite having no brains, jellyfish shown to learn from previous experience

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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“Let the Mystery Unfold” by Geoff Harvey

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UK Atomic Energy Authority

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10. New Scientist Live

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 11:41:23 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg record from New Scientist Live 2023, as they hunt for the most refreshing piece of science at this year's event.

Experience the latest advances in science and tech, and explore the current questions that are facing popular science at the moment as Grace and Meg reflect on the future of meat production, producing virtual simulations to track your health, and more!

Also mentioned in this episode:

New Scientist Live

Dr Jonathon Illiff

Prof Tom MacMillan

Prof Niamh Nic Daéid

Roger Highfield

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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Wellcome Trust “When Science Finds a Way” Podcast

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09. September Recap

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 14:24:34 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of September.

Just as we enter into October, Breast Cancer Awareness month, Meg shares some research that sheds some light on new ways of combatting an aggressive form of cancer, called Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Meg and Grace also fan-girl over CoppaFeel, a charity that empowers everybody to check their chest and to know their normal. As discussed, here’s the link to sign up for a monthly reminder to check your chest!

Grace’s love of the gut expands into this month's Recap, with some new research about a smelly bi-product of a new species of microbe found in the guts of mice. Grace and Meg fan-girl about the wonders of the gut microbiome, but we also reflect on some of the microbes that are not so wonderful. With the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, we consider the harms as well as the benefits of the tiny germs we find day to day.

Though these stories may not have featured on your feed this month, the UK Prime Minister’s U-turn away from 2030 climate targets may have. Meg and Grace discuss this, reflecting on their own opinions and its impacts beyond the UK.

Also mentioned in this episode:

YouGov Polls

The News Agents Podcast

BBC Science Focus - The human microbiome

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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08. Diss Tracks

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:56:53 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg discuss their long-awaited Master’s Dissertation projects.

Grace explains from concept to production, her project that explores the invisible illness of Endometriosis. From speaking to people with endometriosis, and researchers of the condition, Grace’s project hopes to initiate more conversations surrounding the chronic disease of Endometriosis.

Meg then explains her project, surrounding the very common condition of Migraines. Titled, “It’s not just a headache”, she explains her project that walks through a migraine attack but uses the creative use of sounds to help share some of the symptoms people with migraines experience, which can be difficult to communicate.

If you would like to listen to these podcasts, look out on our social media for the release of these projects. Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod) and Instagram (sciencerefreshpodcast). You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com

Presented by Megan Thomas and Grace Tyrrell

Edited by Grace Tyrrell.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

British Orthopaedic Association Press Release

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07. August Recap

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of August.

Grace talks about a protein cocktail that is able to reprogram cells and make muscle stem cells in the lab.

Meg shares some news about a matchmaking strategy for monkeys, involving genes, endangered animals and poo.

Finally, Meg and Grace give their science spin on a major headline in the month of August: the women’s World Cup, exploring how ACL injuries might be linked to the menstrual cycle, as well as how using equipment designed for men can increase injury risk.

Also mentioned in this episode:

How sports kit is failing our female athletes: From ill-fitting bras to equipment designed for men

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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The TeachFirst STEMinism Report

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06. The STEM Gap

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 16:22:54 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg discuss the STEM gap, the underrepresentation of women and BIPOC in science, technology, engineering and maths careers and courses.

Meg shares some of the latest statistics from UCAS, talking about the most popular courses from the 2023 round of applications.

Grace has a chat with Hania Tayara, about organisation Native Scientists, and their work to connect children with scientists in order to break down the barriers facing STEM equity.

Meg and Grace then reflect on what is being done, and what needs to be done to close the STEM gap.

But what about you? What science stories caught your eye last month? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod) and Instagram (sciencerefreshpodcast). You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

RSC Public Engagement Workshops

Presented by Megan Thomas and Grace Tyrrell

Edited by Megan Thomas and Grace Tyrrell

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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05. July Recap

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace and Meg each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of July.

Grace talks about a study that sheds light onto a mysterious mutation linked to asymptomatic infection with SARS-CoV-2, otherwise known as COVID-19 and the need to promote vaccine equity. Have a read of this news story for more information on how viruses can insert their DNA into the human chromosome, as mentioned by Meg on the episode.

Meg shifts the focus to a neurodegenerative illness you might not have heard about this month, sharing a recent revelation in motor-neuron disease research.

Finally, with global temperatures reaching a record high this year, Meg and Grace discuss the impact of the climate crisis on climate refugees as well as the politics that underlies this issue.

Presented by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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04. Sci-Fi and Sci-Fact

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 15:14:59 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace, Meg and Dom deep dive into everything sci-fi, discussing the relationship between science fiction and science fact. How has sci-fi in literature, art and film inspired the science and technology we take for granted today?

Grace talks about the upcoming film Oppenheimer, based on the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and his work developing the first atomic bomb. How will science get represented in one of its darkest moments? You can find out for yourself when Oppenheimer releases in cinemas on 21st July.

Meg has a chat with Science Museum curator, Glyn Morgan, about the Science Fiction exhibit. Diving deep into the links between reality and fiction, Glyn tells us how sci-fi is a lot more than just entertainment. Be sure to visit the exhibit yourself at the Science Museum in London.

Dom rounds things off with his favourite predictions from the series Star Trek. From touch screens to video calls, there’s a lot the show has gotten right in its almost 60-year history. We also talk about faster than light travel with the Alcubierre drive and how the film Interstellar inspired real scientific papers from its simulations of black holes.

But what about you? What science fiction inspired you to get into science? Have you been surprised by any predictions? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod), Instagram (@sciencerefreshpodcast). You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Presented by Grace Tyrrell, Dominic Sorrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell and Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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03. June Recap

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace, Meg and Dom each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of June.

Meg shares a study that investigates what the average 24 hours looks like across the world. From looking at work routine, to sleep and even time spent contributing to climate change, listen to this episode to hear how these day to day activities varied globally.

Grace talks about a jelly-like material, created by engineers at MIT, that has the ability to conduct electricity. The study, published in Nature, also highlights how this jelly-like polymer hydrogel can be used in 3D printing.

Finally, Dom shares the news about a new fleet of air taxis that will potentially be taking off in time for the Paris Olympics in 2024. But where does public opinion stand on this new driverless, helicopter-like transport? Are people on board?

But what about you? What science stories caught your eye last month? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod), Instagram (@sciencerefreshpodcast). You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Check out the Cut and Paste exhibition: https://www.crick.ac.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/cut-paste

Presented by Grace Tyrrell, Dominic Sorrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Megan Thomas.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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02. How Human is AI?

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Science Refresh, Grace, Meg and Dom look at the question: “How human is AI?”

Meg looks at AI from an interesting perspective, a psychologist's point of view. She explains how psychologists used tests to try and tease out how AI comes to certain decisions.

Dom has a great chat with Jack Stilgoe, Professor of Science and Technology Policy at UCL, hearing his thoughts on the emerging field of AI.

Grace then talks through the broader implications of making AI too “human-like”, and what problems AI is already presenting us with.

But what about you? What do you think about making AI too human-like?

Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod) and Instagram (@sciencerefreshpodcast). You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Presented by Grace Tyrrell, Dominic Sorrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Dominic Sorrell.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media

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01. May Recap

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 15:13:22 GMT

In the very first episode of Science Refresh, Grace, Meg and Dom each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of May.

Grace talks about a new study published in the prestigious Science journal that looks at an oral nanomedicine that could be used to treat colitis, a chronic inflammation of the gut. The drug impacts the gut-brain axis and we explore more about the fascinating way in which bacteria in the gut can be linked with our moods.

Dom shares a setback in the hunt for a special type of quasiparticle in quantum computing. Known as a Majorana particle, the exotic particle would have had major implications for tackling errors in quantum computing. Now, researchers at the University of Basel have thrown cold water on Microsoft’s claim to have found robust qubits.

Finally, Meg shares the quirky story of the flexitarian plant Triphyopyllum peltatum, affectionately called “snacky P”! This rare find off the west coast of Africa feeds both off photosynthesis and insects.

But what about you? What science stories caught your eye last month? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod), Instagram (sciencerefreshpodcast) and TikTok. You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Presented by Grace Tyrrell, Dominic Sorrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell.

“Jazzy Abstract Beat” by Coma-Media