Science for the Public Presents Archive

"Nutrition for a Healthy Aging Brain". Dr. Susan B. Roberts is well known for her research on the relationship between nutrition and cognitive development. She is currently expanding that work to evaluate how nutrition affects the aging brain. in this discussion she explains the brain-nutrition relationship in general, and how these two studies underscore the need to provide a healthy diet for all ages. She is particularly interested in how specific dietary adjustments improve child cognitive development and, for the aging, prevent cognitive decline. 

Harnessing Geothermal Energy: One of the most abundant sources of renewable energy is the heat deep in the earth. This geothermal energy could provide clean heat and energy to whole cities, and in some parts of the world, such as Iceland, it does. But accessing this resource can be difficult. Dr. Woskov is developing a way to convert abandoned coal and gas mines which are drilled very deep into geothermal wells. He discusses the abundance of geothermal energy, the challenges of accessing it, and the geothermal project using a microwave-emitting mechanism called a gyrotron.

"The James Webb Space Telescope: A New Era for Astrophysics". Launched far from Earth in December 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope is the most sophisticated telescope ever created. It will reveal stars, galaxies and other objects in the very early universe. Astronomer Silas Laycock describes the technical achievement and the incredible images the telescope has produced so far.

Why Are We Spending Billions on Carbon Capture & Storage? Despite the hype, carbon capture and storage (CCS) is not a solution to the CO2 problem that has caused climate warming. Taxpayers have paid billions of dollars for research and experimental projects that subsidize the fossil-fuel industry but those projects failed to reduce CO2. Dr. Harvey discusses how these ineffective CCS projects continue to be promoted and explains the necessity of shifting to renewable energy. Charles Harvey, Ph.D., Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, MIT. 

"Weighing In On Metabolism". Dr. Susan B. Roberts is a leader in the science of metabolism. She has concentrated a great deal of her research on the rise of obesity, especially in Western nations. In this program, she discusses how metabolism works under normal conditions, the relationship between metabolism and obesity, and the impact of certain diets (e.g., processed foods) on the metabolic system.

America’s healthcare system is the most expensive in the world but it ranks at the bottom for quality. We have excellent medical research, medical facilities, and medical professionals, but our healthcare “system” is inaccessible for many people because of expense and other factors. Dr. Garrido explains what good healthcare systems look like, the problems with American healthcare, and the potential solution to our healthcare system. 

"Run 3 at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC)" - What's the Excitement? Markus Klute’s research team played a major role in the 2012 identification of the Higgs boson. He has also contributed significantly to the analysis of the data collected by the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). In this discussion, he explains how understanding the origins of our universe depends on the discovery and analysis of sub-atomic particles. This investigation is advanced by the much-anticipated 3rd Run of the LHC. Run 3 will attempt to reveal unknown particles, possibly even dark matter particles, and will help to explain the nature of mass and numerous other mysteries about the origin of matter. Markus Klute, Ph.D., Professor of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; and Humboldt Professor of Physics, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany. 

The Bionic Leaf: Clean Energy for All. Daniel Nocera, famous for the invention of the first viable “artificial leaf,” explains how this silicon-based catalytic device separates hydrogen and oxygen from water to create clean energy and fuel. The system can be distributed for localized use --each household could have its own power supply. Goodbye grid. The bionic leaf uses sunlight, ordinary water and readily available materials for the device. Dr. Nocera describes the numerous updates of the bionic leaf, the particular challenge of hydrogen, and the present status of this promising innovation. 

For almost 30 years, Dr. Philip Landrigan and other distinguished scientists appealed to the EPA to ban chlorpyrifos and widely used pesticides known to impair brain development. The link between chlorpyrifos and brain disorders such as autism and ADHD was well known for years, but the manufacturers of this toxin were able to block efforts to ban chlorpyrifos. Dr. Landrigan explains the effects of this toxin, and also scientists’ decades-long effort to protect pregnant women, children, and farm workers and communities. This struggle has raised the question: Who does the Environmental Protection Agency protect: industry or the public? 

Who Funds the FDA And Why Does It Matter? The Food and Drug Agency (FDA) was established in 1938 to ensure the quality of foods and medications. At the time, many medications and processed foods contained impurities and toxins that were threatening public health. When the FDA took charge of testing and guaranteeing the safety of products it represented the public interest and was funded by the taxpayer, not the pharmaceutical and food companies. That situation began to change in the 1980s when a special arrangement was initiated in which pharmaceutical companies paid fees to the FDA that were meant to expedite the testing and approval of new medications. The public is largely unaware of this partnership between the regulator (FDA) and the regulated (pharma industries). Dr. Kesselheim explains the background and the concerns about this arrangement. Aaron S. Kesselheim, M.D., J.D., M.P.H., is a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and a faculty member in the Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics in the Department of Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 

"Reconstructing the Ancient Viking Colonies". Norsemen/Viking seafarers navigated unpredictable waters to create colonies in remote lands. Dr. Bolender explains how archaeologists locate and reconstruct the far-flung settlements in Greenland, Iceland and elsewhere. The ancient ruins suggest how the Norsemen/Vikings adapted to new territories and transformed the environment in ways still felt today. Dr Bolender discusses the known settlements and also the question of Viking settlements in North America. : Douglas Bolender, Ph.D., Research Assistant Professor at the Andrew Fiske Memorial Center for Archaeological Research and the Department of Anthropology, University of Massachusetts, Boston. 

"Hard Facts About Carbon Capture and Storage" How much CO2 does the much-promoted carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology actually extract from the atmosphere—and at what cost? Answer: very little extraction and at great cost with serious environmental risks. CCS keeps the fossil fuel industry going at taxpayer expense, although renewable energy and biological sequestration are available, much less expensive, and environmentally beneficial --definitely the only viable solution to the excess atmospheric CO2 crisis. This discussion provides important facts the public rarely gets. Featuring June Sekera, MPA, Senior Research Fellow, Visiting Scholar, The New School and Neva Goodwin, Ph.D., Co-Director, Global Development and Environment Institute, Tufts University. 

"Finding Their Way: How Migratory Creatures Get Where They’re Going: Guest: Charles Walcott, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Neurobiology and Behavior; Cornell University. Migratory birds and creatures can navigate vast distances to annual retreats and nesting sites because they are endowed with magnetoreception. Dr. Walcott explains the biological adaptations that enable the connection to Earth’s magnetic field. He describes his pioneering work on the homing pigeon, one of the major sources of evidence for magnetoreception. Dr. Walcott also discusses some other interesting sensory mechanisms, such as how spiders “hear” with their legs.

Distinguishing Scientific Facts from Disinformation and Distortion. Guest: Elliott Negin, Senior Writer, Union of Concerned Scientists. Vested interests and corporations have the resources to distort public “information” about important issues such as climate change, fossil fuels, nuclear energy. Elliott Negin has been confronting artificial facts for years. He provides examples of disinformation and explains when to be suspicious and how to get the real facts. 

A Potential Solution to the Methane Problem. Methane is a greenhouse gas that is released by farming, mining, fossil fuel drilling, and by melting permafrost. For climate scientists, the increasing emissions are a major concern but reduction is a serious challenge. A potential solution has been developed by the Plata lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In this discussion, Dr. Desiree Plata explains the serious challenge of methane emissions and an ingenious solution created in her lab: an inexpensive system using zeolite clays and copper. This solution is still in development, but is receiving a lot of attention. Guest: Desiree Plata, Ph.D., Gilbert W. Winslow (1937) Career Development Professor in Civil Engineering; and Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, MIT 

How to Talk to a Science Denier. Philosopher and popular author Lee McIntyre discusses his latest book, How to Talk to a Science Denier. This is a must-read for people who confront denialism on the one hand, and misinformation/disinformation on the other. 

William Detrich’s pioneering research on the Antarctic icefish was among the first efforts to reveal how certain DNA features enable some creatures to adapt to extreme environmental conditions. As climate change accelerates extinctions, that genetic advantage of certain species is of great interest. Relatively few creatures have that endowment. Dr. Detrich explains what the genetic advantage is, how it works, and what species seem to be predisposed to successful adaptation in extreme conditions. 

Among the numerous “green” (clean) energy resources being developed, one that has received significant government and industry support is “blue” hydrogen. But this alternative fuel is actually very questionable. Dr. Robert Howarth explains what blue hydrogen is, how it is produced, and why we must consider the environmental and climate risks of developing this particular resource.  

Arjun Dey is a core member of the Dark Energy Spectroscropic Instrument (DESI) survey project, the largest cosmic cartography project ever undertaken. DESI will provide the most precise measurements to date of the expansion history of the universe and the role of dark energy. In this program, Dr. Dey discusses the enigma of dark energy and the accelerating expansion of the universe, the scope of the DESI project, and the broad impact it will have on astrophysics and cosmology. 

A conversation with Andrew Knoll (A Brief History of Earth: Four Billion Years in Eight Chapters). about “Human Planet” –the story of the Anthropocene and how the November COP26 international meeting underscores the human impact on our planet. 00:32:55

The sophistication of modern telescopes and advances in data collection combine to make planetary systems one of the most exciting areas of astronomy. Dr. Najita explains how astronomers today investigate the formation and structure of planetary systems, and especially the great diversity of these systems. Joan Najita, Ph.D. is Astronomer and Head of Scientific Staff for User Support at NSF’s National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab) 

The Menace of Agrochemicals Guest: Sheldon Krimsky, distinguished professor, popular author and public advocate, discusses the environmental and health issues of agrochemicals, especially glyphosate (Roundup). He also explains the related issues of GMOs and corporate influence on science research and government policies. 

The Real Key To Feeding The World. Industrial agriculture –“Big Ag”– destroys soil on a massive scale and is a major source of atmospheric CO2, environmental toxins, and ecosystem collapse. Contrary to corporate claims, it is not the best or only way to feed the world. David Montgomery discusses the numerous myths of industrial agriculture and explains how farmers around the world are restoring, through regenerative agriculture, soil and environments, and harvesting much healthier food. In addition, restorative methods are the best form of carbon capture, which is essential for dealing with global warming. 

Dr. Livio discusses his newest book Galileo and the Science Deniers (2020), a timely account of Galileo's struggle for recognition that the planets orbit the Sun. Dr. Livio considers the similarity between the resistance to scientific facts in Galileo’s era and anti-science today. 

Dr. Khan explains the relationship between global warming and the excess atmospheric CO2 due to fossil fuels. Even if we could switch today to entirely renewable energy, it will be necessary to remove trillions of tons of CO2 from the atmosphere. Of the various methods being developed, the carbon capture and conversion system Dr. Khan and his colleagues have devised is of particular interest. The capture and conversion system is efficient and can produce useful products. 

Can Seagrasses Weather Ocean Warming? Dr. Daru discusses the vital importance of seagrasses in maintaining the health of the oceans: how seagrasses sustain marine life, stabilize shorelines, and reduce ocean acidification. He explains the impact of rising ocean temperature on seagrasses and the urgent need to conserve these undersea meadows. Barnabas Daru, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Biology; Curator of the Ruth O’Brien Herbarium, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi.

There are many unknowns about the structure of the universe. Researchers in the field of particle physics have long anticipated new discoveries that will lead to “new” physics –beyond the Standard Model. In April 2021, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), announced exciting first results from the Fermilab’s Muon g-2 experiment. Fundamental particles called muons behaved in a way not predicted by the Standard Model of particle physics. If confirmed, the results are expected to reveal some of the biggest questions about the universe. 

Concern about environment and climate change has increased interest in the fundamental importance of soil. Dr. DeAngelis describes the microbes that preserve soil health, the complex interdependence of these microbial ecosystems and the larger environment, and how healthy soil contributes to healthy climate.

Dr. Baumgartner describes how a warming climate some 20 million years ago led to a major environmental development: the emergence of the famous grasslands of Kenya and other areas of East Africa. The grasses and other plants introduced a better and more abundant form of nutrition for many creatures. As flora and fauna diversity thrived, so did evolution –including that of our earliest human ancestors. Dr. Baumgartner explains those changes and also how scientists use fossils to reconstruct the complex historical record of the Miocene. Aly Baumgartner, Ph.D., Collections Manager of Paleontology, Sternberg Museum Natural History, Hays, Kansas. 

Philip Lieberman, Ph.D., George Hazard Crooker University Professor Emeritus, Brown University. Dr. Lieberman is one of the foremost authorities on the evolution and distinction of human language. In this discussion, he addresses numerous misunderstandings. First, he explains what language is and how the cognitive and physical apparatus for language evolved. He then discusses the issue of whether Neanderthals developed real language. Finally, he explains the distinction between real language and the communication systems of diverse animals. Philip Lieberman is the distinguished author of numerous books that address the nature of language and its evolution. 

The accelerating pace of glacial melting in Greenland and in Antarctica will increase sea level rise in different areas of the globe. But the locations most affected are often counter-intuitive. Further, the rapid melting affects the land under the glaciers in unexpected ways. Dr. Gomez discusses the dynamics of these melting patterns and how scientists study them. Natalya Gomez, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Earth & Planetary Sciences, McGill University, Canada; Canada Research Chair in the Geodynamics of Ice Sheet - Sea Level Interactions; McGill Space Institute Member. 

Dr. Shawn K. Kelly explains a challenging project underway: the design and testing of a wearable brain stimulation and recording device that will target neural circuits with great accuracy. This device will help in the development of precise therapeutic interventions to treat neurodegenerative diseases. 

The detection in 2017 of gravitational waves created by the collision of two neutron stars is a major resource for astronomers. Dr. Berger discusses the wealth of information from this event: the confirmation of Einstein’s predicted gravitational waves; new insights about the structure of neutron stars; and the accuracy of Hubble’s Constant. Edo Berger, Ph.D., Professor of Astronomy, Harvard University; Science Advisor, Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study; Distinguished Visiting Research Chair, Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics. 

Dr. Denis is a leading researcher in the study of breast cancer, with a particular focus on the disproportionate occurrence of breast cancer in economically and socially stressed minorities. He considers the combination of socioeconomic factors and certain (BET) proteins in both breast and prostate cancers. This mix of social and biological drivers of certain cancers is of increasing interest in medical research. Dr. Denis explains how this broader research is designed and tested –and how it will affect the fight against cancer today.

Dr. Douam is an expert on viruses and vaccines. He explains how scientists unravel the mechanisms by which viruses such as covid-19 invade cells and and overcome the body’s defenses. Dr,. Douam describes the challenge of developing effective vaccines. The use of humanized mice –mice engrafted with human tissues– has advanced the understanding of human immune responses against viral pathogens and improved the development of vaccines. Florian Douam, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Microbiology; Investigator, National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University School of Medicine 

I Wonder Why? Magic, Mystery and Mathematics in the Mundane. Dr. Mahadevan shares his extraordinary gift for revealing the underlying structures of objects, systems and processes in Nature. One does not need to be a mathematician to appreciate the extraordinary properties of what seems ordinary when Dr. Mahadevan demonstrates how to look, how to think in a whole new way. Lakshminarayanan “Maha” Mahadevan,Ph.D., Lola England de Valpine Professor of Applied Mathematics; Professor of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology; Professor of Physics, Harvard University

Contemporary Science Issues and Innovations: How Ocean Acidification Harms Shellfish - Dr. Cameron marine ecologist and carbonate chemist. She studies the impacts of ocean acidification and warming on marine bivalves and their fisheries. In this discussion Dr Cameron explains the cause of ocean acidification, the harm to ocean life, and especially to shellfish. She also describes what can and must be done to address ocean acidification. Louise Cameron, Ph.D., Postdoc Investigator, Marine Chemistry & Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Dr. Diaz Artiles describes how space life in zero gravity affects the human body and how space engineers are taking on the challenge. Her field of bioastronautics develops engineering innovations like artificial gravity, specialized spacesuits, and physical analyses of the effects of space environment on the human body. As we move toward colonization of space, this is the science to watch! Ana Diaz Artiles, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University Bioastronautics and Human Performance Lab. 

Dr. O’Dwyer says that “ecological systems are the archetypal complex systems.” He describes how these systems, regardless of scale, and despite their diversity, share underlying signatures and patterns. How the components of ecosystems interact and adapt to their environments is a matter of intense study today when so many species are under threat by environmental and climate changes. James O’Dwyer, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Plant Biology, University of Illinois (Urbana); Hrdy Fellow, Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study (Harvard) 2020-2021

Neural Disruption and Motor Dysfunctions. Dr. Crittenden describes the complex neural mechanisms that make ordinary movement possible. She explains how neural disruptions cause Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and other dysfunctions. This research uses sophisticated analysis, very advanced technology, and genetic engineering. Jill R. Crittenden, Ph.D., Scientific Advisor, McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT. 

Matt Fernandes and his team at SEAS look to Nature for examples of quality engineering, And one of their investigations is attracting attention. The skeletal structure of the Venus Flower sea sponge (a.k.a. glass sponge) can bear extraordinary weight. And Fernandes hopes to apply this unique structure to next-generation architecture and engineering design. 

Dr. Basu explains the growing concern in medical circles that climate change is introducing unexpected diseases and other health conditions. He describes how medical training is changing to prepare future professionals. Gaurab Basu, MD, MPH, Primary physician and Co-Director, Center for Health Equity Education & Advocacy (CHEEA) Cambridge Health Alliance; and Instructor Affiliate, Department of Global Health & Social Medicine Harvard Medical School. 

Director of MIT's Global Engineering & Research Laboratory (GEAR) Amos Winter speaks with Yvonne about his work providing low-cost prosthetic feet to underdeveloped nations as well as his de-salinization projects in India and elsewhere. Dr. Winter discusses the humanitarian commitment of the GEAR Lab, some of the award-winning innovations that have produced real changes for people in developing nations - and even here in the US for Native American reservations. 00:39:16

The typical American diet can be considered a health threat. The combination of processed food, excess red meat, high salt and excess sugar are associated with the high incidence of obesity, diabetes-2, heart disease, certain cancers, and other diseases. But there is a solution. Walter C. Willett, M.D., Dr. P.H., Professor of Epidemiology and Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Guest Amy Bower, Ph.D., Senior Scientist; Chair Dept of Physical Oceanography, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI). Dr. Bower explains the structure and dynamics of deep ocean currents and their vital role in maintaining the Earth’s climate. She discusses the importance of long-range international studies on these very complex currents. Dr Bower focuses especially on one of the major systems, the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and the implications of a slowdown in that system. 00:39:32

Most children in the world are not healthy, and many –especially in impoverished nations or communities– suffer very serious illnesses. Dr. Hamer explains why the World Health Organization is the indispensable lifeline for children around the world. 00:25:28

Dr. Cziczo explains the difference between millions of years of natural warming cycles and the more recent anthropogenic warming caused by the production of more CO2. He discusses the implications of atmospheric CO2 buildup and the limitations of geoengineering and sequestration as solutions to this problem. Daniel Cziczo, Professor and Head, Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Science, Purdue University. Recorded at Purdue University. 00:34:24

Dr. Martini explains the relationship between dark energy and the acceleration, and also the sophisticated instruments that measure the universe’s expansion. He is the Instrument Scientist for the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI). The DESI will produce a five-year survey of over 35 million galaxies and quasars to better understand the nature of cosmic acceleration. Dr. Martini also describes his extensive work on the evolution of galaxies and active galactic nuclei (AGN). 00:46:11

Dr. Madin provides an expert’s understanding of jellyfish –those maligned creatures that are such a nuisance to those who flock to ocean beaches. This summer the stories focus on the lion’s mane jellyfish, the largest known species. Just how large, how dangerous? The attention this species has attracted has also raised interest in the great diversity of jellyfish and other marine invertebrates. Laurence Madin, Ph.D. Marine Biologist, WHOI Senior Science Advisor; and retired Deputy Director/VP for Research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)

Dr. Zoeller has been a leader among researchers emphasizing the need for much stronger regulation of endocrine disruptors. He discusses the chemistry of prenatal and infant brain development and the ways in which endocrine disruptors –even in very low dosage– impact the hormones involved in development. He also addresses the tension between federal regulators and the scientific community on this issue. Guest: R. Thomas Zoeller, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus of Biology, University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Director, Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Endocrinology; Visiting Professor at Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden. 

Erika Spanger-Siegfried, climate analyst for Union of Concerned Scientists, provides an update on the growing threat of rising seas to coastal cities and smaller communities. She discusses the need to prepare for coastal communities to prepare for more frequent coastal flooding. 

Maria Ivanova and Candace Famiglietti detail the very serious consequences of the international wildlife trade. While there has been much media attention on the health consequences of wildlife food markets, the authors provide a much broader picture. Wildlife for exotic pets, wildlife in high fashion. In their article and in this interview, they discuss the abuse inherent in wildlife trade, and the impact on ecosystems and environment, economies and human health. Maria Ivanova, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Global Governance and Director of the Center for Governance and Sustainability at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She is also a visiting scholar at the Center for Collective Intelligence at MIT. and Candace Famiglietti, Doctoral Student, Global Governance and Human Security and Research Associate, Center for Governance and Sustainability at John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston. 

Physics Beyond the Standard Model at the Large Hadron Collider: The Standard Model is incomplete. The projects at the Large Hadron Collider search for the missing information. Markus Klute’s group played a central role in the discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012, and continues the search for subatomic particles that can reveal the origin of the universe and the nature of matter. In this update on the LHC Dr. Klute explains how the LHC experiments probe for unknown particles. And he discusses the recent announcement of the future plans of the LHC. Guest: Markus Klute, Ph.D., Professor of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Spillover, the transfer of viruses from wild animals to humans, is a by-product of hunting, wild-animal trade, and proximity of humans to wild creatures. Dr. Jonathan Runstadler explains how spillover can cause pandemics in the modern global community, and why control of these viruses requires an understanding of the relationship between humans and these animal disease reservoirs. Guest: Jonathan A. Runstadler, DVM, PhD, Professor of Virology, Immunogenetics, Disease Ecology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University.

Dr. Sameer Sonkusale’s Nano Lab at Tufts University is a major hub of nano-tech research in medicine and medical engineering. The nano-scale represents a unique space for physical processes and the Tufts Nano Lab has developed many distinctive innovations. Dr. Sonkusale discusses how such innovations provide detailed monitoring of medical problems and the development of precise delivery of medications to affected areas of the body. 

In New England, rising temperatures will lead to a smaller winter snowpack and increased frequency of soil freeze/thaw cycles, which may damage trees and decrease the ability of our forests to sequester carbon and serve as habitat for some animals and microbes. Dr. Pamela Templer describes how her lab determines the effects of these changes in climate on the health of northern hardwood forests and the implications for water and air quality. 

Probing the Health Molecules of Plants. A visit to the Weng Lab at Whitehead Institute/MIT to see how Professor Jing-Ke Weng and his research team investigate plant molecules for their medical potential.

The Impact of Air Pollution On Health. Dr. Jonathan Levy discusses the increasing and serious health issues associated with air pollution, particularly in urban areas. Health and environmental scientists are particularly concerned about the effects of particulate matter (PM2.5), which enters the bloodstream via the lungs, on human health. The result is seen in rising rates of heart disease, asthma, and cognitive problems.

Our “normal” matter is stuff made of atoms –like stars, planets, creatures –everything in nature. But that’s only a very small amount of the actual matter in the universe. Most matter is invisible “dark matter,” and scientists do not know what it is. The idea of some type of “different” matter emerged in the 1800s –and was ignored-- the early 1900s—ignored again- and finally was confirmed in the 1970s. 

Sustainable Urban Development. Modern urban development requires a multi-dimensional design approach to encompass energy-efficient architecture, pedestrian-friendly access to shops, entertainment, work and schools, and vibrant outdoor spaces. Using sophisticated computer-modeling, the Sustainable Design Lab at MIT combines and analyzes many elements for optimal, healthy urban environments. In this presentation, Dr. Reinhart outlines such a model based on a neighborhood proposal in Boston.

The concept of THE ATOM originated in ancient India and Greece in roughly 500 BCE. The concept was dismissed by many leading thinkers through the ages. Finally, the atom concept began to gain acceptance in the Europe in the 1600s, more so in the 1800s, and finally gained full respect in the late 1900s. The concept also evolved over those centuries. Today, of course, no one doubts the existence of the atom. 

Cell Architecture: Self-Organization and Scale. Regardless of any cell’s size, its components (organelles) are always proportional. Scientists do not know how size of cells and their organelles are determined. Cells just self-assemble effortlessly. Biophysicist Jane Kondev, Ph.D. discusses this mystery –one of the most challenging in Nature– and how scientists try to unravel the cell’s self-assembly code.

Herbal Medicines Decoded: How Medicinal Plants Soothe and Cure. Professor Jing-Ke Weng’s lab at MIT and the Whitehead Institute focuses on the distinctive chemistry and genetics of medicinal plants. Dr. Weng explains the process, the discoveries, and the challenge of simulating plant chemistry for large-scale medical purposes. 

Light From Darkness? Searching For Dark Matter. Dr. Tracy Slatyer explains how dark matter –the mysterious 85 percent of the matter in the universe—continues to elude scientific understanding. She describes how dark matter collisions might create observable signals, and how we can attempt to pick out those signals from telescope observations.

Mathematical Prediction of a Sixth Mass Extinction. Dr. Daniel Rothman explains how mathematical modeling clarifies the intricate dynamics of our planet’s carbon cycles and geophysical components. His model shows the relationship between ancient mass extinctions and the likely sixth extinction of the future.

Nectar, Pollen, and the Health of Bees. Professor Lynn Adler, Ph.D., explains how some bee infections may be transferred via plants that bees visit, and how some types of nectar and pollen may help to reduce certain pathogens.

In an era when science has contributed so much to the progress of humanity, there is a resurgence of anti-reason and rejection of scientific facts. These challenges call for a mental adjustment: the scientific attitude. Dr. Lee McIntyre explains how to adapt that attitude and why it is necessary today.  

How Science Fiction Has Inspired Science. David Toomey, Ph.D. examines the relationship between science and science fiction. In particular he explains how science fiction often anticipates discoveries in science.

The Great Potential of Offshore Wind Farms. Dr. Andrew Myers explains why and how offshore wind farms will be a major source of renewable energy. Although a number of European countries have built offshore wind farms, the U.S. has been slow to develop this resource. We learn that the east coast of the US is one of the best areas in the world to locate offshore wind farms, and that that location would in principal supply enough energy for the entire US. Dr. Myers discusses the engineering and logistical aspects of developing wind farms and the exciting future for this area of renewable energy.

Psychiatric Drugs: Why They Often Fail Us Over Long Term. More than one in five Americans now takes a psychiatric medication. Yet, as our use of these medications has soared, so too has the burden of mental disorders in our society. Why would this be so? Unfortunately, research has shown that long-term outcomes for medicated patients are poor. As a result, new initiatives are emerging that lessen the use of medications and focus instead on creating supports that help children and adults struggling with mental difficulties get well and stay well. 

Mass Extinctions. Dr. Andrew Knoll describes the causes of the previous five extinctions on Earth and the possibility of a sixth. He explains how the specific causes of different mass extinctions tend to impact ecosystems in distinct and unexpected ways. He discusses the threat of a sixth mass extinction. A key issue is how well evolutionary mechanisms can adapt to this type of destruction. 

Innovative Solutions to Antibiotic Resistance. Dr. Gautam Dantas discusses the present crisis of antibiotic resistance, its causes, and how this problem manifests itself in very different areas of the world. He explains the innovative technical and biological approaches of the Dantas Lab toward a solution to antibiotic resistance, including a possible cure for MRSA, a particularly deadly staph infection. Dr. Dantas also talks about the importance of serendipity in scientific breakthroughs.

Why the Earth Needs Its Oceans. Dr. Amala Mahadevan discusses the crucial relationship between oceans and atmosphere, and how that partnership makes the Earth a life-sustaining planet. She describes how excess CO2, ocean warming and acidification all threaten that balance.

12/11/18 Professor Markus Klute provides an update of the work at the Large Hadron Collider (CERN), where he is a member of of the team involved in the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment. He explains the complexity of the LHS - the challenges of both engineering and data collection– and the great importance of the investigation of the most fundamental level of the universe.

11/27/18 Dr. Andrew Rosenberg explains how the present administration impedes environmental and health regulations, rejects facts about climate change, and undermines the work of science-related government agencies. He also explains what the informed public can and must do to diminish resistance to scientific facts and information (and how the UCS helps in that effort).

11/15/18  Dark Matter and Other Cosmic Mysteries - Dr. Julian Munoz discusses the decades-old problem of identifying the nature of dark matter in the universe. He has led a collaboration that is exploring the possibility that charged dark matter particles interact with normal matter by electromagnetic force. He explains a related collaboration, called EDGES; together, these very new investigations are offering a real possibility of solving the dark matter mystery.

11/13/18 00:34:02 The Geometric Basis of Structure and Motion - Geometry determines the limits of structures and motion. Knowing how those constraints work is very important for modern biology, physics and chemistry, engineering and materials science. Dr. Streinu and Dr. Borcea discuss that relationship between geometry and science, and their forthcoming book on the subject.

How does the brain acquire and process language? How about multiple languages? And how about a whole lot of languages? Dr. Fedorenko describes what cognitive science knows and what is still to be learned. She and her associates focus on how the brains of multilingual people (polyglots) process very different types of languages. They also investigate those rare individuals who learn dozens of languages (hyperpolyglots).

Dr. Philippe Grandjean, a prominent endocrinologist discusses the health and environmental impact of perfluorinated compounds (PFAS, PFOS), chemical compounds used in many products -from popcorn bags to fire-fighting foam to upholstery materials. These compounds are now found globally -- in people, animals, and environment. They affect, among other things, the brain, kidneys and the immune system, and are associated with a number of diseases. The producers of PFOAs were aware of the toxicity of these chemicals even in the late 1970s, but only recently have scientists been able to obtain that data. Because PFAS remain in the body over the lifespan, the withholding of data for decades has undermined medical research.

We visit the Jasanoff Lab at MIT to learn about advances in imaging the brain. Dr. Jasanoff and several research associates in his lab explain the importance of this research and several innovative approaches used in this lab to improve brain imaging.

Susan Heideman and Michelle Lougee, currently in a joint exhibit at the Maud Morgan Arts Chandler Gallery in Cambridge, discuss their respective artworks and artistic approaches to Nature’s variety. They also describe some similarities in the way that artists and scientists look at Nature. 08/30/18

Wendy Jacobs, Emmett Clinical Professor of Environmental Law, and Director of the Emmett Environmental Law and Policy Clinic at Harvard Law School discusses how citizens can utilize the law to restore protective regulations for our environment. This video includes a link to the Clinic’s excellent online manual that contains all the information concerned citizens need to guide environmental action.

This is the fifth and final presentation in our Science Literacy series at MIT. Dr. Sonkusale describes the advantages of nano-scale science and the remarkable nano-innovations in sensory devices for environment and medicine that his lab has produced. He also discusses how the Tufts Nano Lab creates devices that can be used around the world –a democratizing of nanotechnology.

Professor Daniel Cziczo provides an overview of the climate change issue and then a critique of geoengineering. He explains the options, and --more importantly—the misinformation that seems to accompany the solar radiation management option in particular. He lists the kinds of questions the public needs to ask in the effort to determine a policy for reducing the CO2 in the atmosphere that is rapidly warning the planet.

Very little is known about most of the deep-sea organisms on this planet. Since these organisms represent “extreme life,” they provide potential insights about how life might emerge on other worlds. Dr. Peter Girguis describes innovative studies of some deep-sea organisms, the technological advances that are making these investigations possible, and the exciting collaboration between marine biologists and astrophysicists.

Dr. Alan Jasanoff discusses his book, "The Biological Mind: How Brain, Body, and Environment Collaborate to Make Us Who We Are". In his new book and in this discussion, Dr. Jasanoff explains why the brain must be considered within its biological, natural and social environment. The tendency to see the mind as completely autonomous, a view he calls the “cerebral mystique” doesn't hold up. Jasanoff’s discussion includes brain dysfunctions as well as recent trends such as brain hacking –and the transhumanist aspiration that our brains can someday be preserved and then revived much later.

Dr. Mara Prentiss, explains the vital need to switch to renewable energy and she describes here –and in her book Energy Revolution- just how that change can be implemented. Mara Prentiss, Ph.D., is Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics at Harvard University, and author of Energy Revolution: The Physics and Promise of Efficient Energy.

Dr. Julie Guthman discusses the important role of California’s massive strawberry crop, the toxins used to protect the crop from pests and fungi, and the effect of toxins on the environment and health.

Dr. Helmuth and Dr. Coley combine their expertise to discuss how we respond to uncomfortable facts of climate change.

This is the first presentation in the Citizens Literacy program, a joint project between Science for the Public, Belmont Library and Belmont Media Center. The Citizens Literacy program will present speakers on science issues, civic issues and media issues in an effort to promote public awareness and response to important concerns of our time. Dr. Cziczo explains climate change, plus how we can help shape policy.

Dr. Sandro Galea discusses the numerous socio-economic factors that impact health. He also provides some comparisons between the cost of health and the state of health between the U.S. and other wealthy nations.

Dr. Andrew Kemp explains the cycles of ocean rise and fall over the past 2000 years. For most of that time these changes were due to natural forces; but the present sea level rise is due to human-produced climate change.

Astrobiologist Dr. Sukrit Ranjan discusses the potential importance of UV radiation as a trigger for the emergence of life, and whether red dwarf stars might provide the necessary UV spark to generate life on optimal exoplanets.

Dr. Justin Solomon discusses how the gerrymander distorts the voting population to favor one group of voters over others. Today, mathematicians have the tools to analyze the gerrymander and recommend more equitable structuring of voting districts. This effort is an outstanding demonstration of mathematicians representing the public interest. Dr. Solomon's discussion is of great importance at this time and we will likely hear much more about this group (MGGG) in the future.

Mycologist David Hibbett introduces us to the fascinating world of mushrooms and fungi, their role in Nature and in evolution. Mushrooms do not get much media attention, but they serve an important function in many ecological systems, and Dr. Hibbett is committed to raising awareness of their role.

Dr. Galea discusses his new book Healthier: Fifty Thoughts on the Foundation of Population Health and his distinctive work in public health, which emphasizes complexity. He is especially renowned for his emphasis on the connections between social environment and population health.

The Sonkusale Nanolab at Tufts University is currently engaged in cutting-edge research in several interdisciplinary areas, including nano-devices that benefit medicine and the life sciences. A major interest is the development of flexible, embedded sensors for diagnostics. Dr. Sonkusale and his team also work on zero-cost "do-it-yourself" diagnostics for the developing world. BIO INFO: Sameer Sonkusale, Ph,D, is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Tufts University; Principal Investigator, Nanoscale Integrated Sensors and Circuits Laboratory (NanoLab).

In June 2017, President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord, an accord that represents the commitment of almost all nations to address global warming. The U.S., which, under the Obama administration, was a major force in creating the 2015 Paris accord, is now almost alone among nations in rejecting this commitment. Professor Selin describes the long struggle to commit the international community to prepare for the worldwide climate crisis and he explains why tackling the crisis requires global action.

Atmospheric scientist Dr. Alexandria Johnson describes how scientists in her field apply their expertise to the young field of exoplanet atmospheres.

Alán Aspuru-Guzik, Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Harvard University is a member of an interdepartmental Harvard team or researchers developing "green" batteries. Such batteries are made from organic molecules (or synthesis) and are environmentally friendly. Dr. Aspuru-Guzik explains how candidate plant molecules are selected (his role in this project) and how such batteries work and store energy.