Sounds of Science Podcast

Neurogenesis

NJN Public Broadcasting (NJN Public Broadcasting) — July 22 2008

Ideas about the brain have changed dramatically in the past decade or two, in part because of insights into neurogenesis, the production of new brain cells throughout life. There's strong evidence, for example, that learning causes more of the neurons 'born' every day to survive. Other findings suggest that it may one day be possible to enhance the brain's ability to repair itself. Steve Levison of the New Jersey Medical School and Rutgers researcher Tracey Shors discuss recent discoveries and what they might mean for health and healing.

Antarctic Perspectives

NJN Public Broadcasting (NJN Public Broadcasting) — June 24 2008 19:00:00 EST

The continent of Antarctica offers a unique vantage point for scientific research, from marine biology to astrophysics. Studies aimed at better understanding of the global carbon cycle and climate change – past, present, and future – are the focus of this conversation. Geoscientists Michael Bender of Princeton University and Sandra Passchier of Montclair State University also talk about what it's like to live and work 'on the ice'.

Launching Ocean Observatories

NJN Public Broadcasting (NJN Public Broadcasting) — Tue, 27 May 2008 19:00:00 EST

Ship-based studies of ocean physics, chemistry, and biology are being augmented by measurements from undersea robots, moored instruments, satellites, and coastal radar installations. At the same time, ocean research is becoming increasingly collaborative, interdisciplinary, and global. Potential payoffs include better understanding of climate change and better management of fisheries. Rutgers oceanographers Scott Glenn and Oscar Schofield review progress toward a network of 'ocean observatories' that could operate year-round, worldwide.

Alternative Energy Timelines

NJN Public Broadcasting (NJN Public Broadcasting) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST

What technological options, available or on the horizon, appear best suited to the goals of ensuring the availability of energy, reducing risks associated with reliance on oil, and stabilizing greenhouse gas emissions? In this conversation, Rutgers researcher Paul Falkowski and NJIT R&D Vice President Don Sebastian explore alternative ways to meet future energy needs and consider possible timelines for different scenarios. A professor of geology and biological oceanography, Falkowski serves as acting director of the Rutgers Energy Institute. Sebastian is a chemical engineer and research manager who has led statewide initiatives in areas such as nanotechnology and stem cell research.

Strange Days in Your Universe: Precision Cosmology and the Trouble with Physics

NJN Public Broadcasting (NJN Public Broadcasting) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST

The scientific picture of our universe seems to become more alien to human experience and intuition with every big advance in observation and theory. For instance, less than five percent of the universe is thought to consist of the stuff that we're made of, 'ordinary' matter and energy. Princeton University astrophysicists Neta Bahcall and Paul Steinhardt lead the way through this strange cosmology and consider what might lie beyond it.