James Woodford, an Australia reporter for New Scientist, covers the urgent Antarctic summit addressing alarming sea ice loss. Jeremy Su, a brain-computer interface expert, shares insights on a groundbreaking brain implant made from living neurons, opening up possibilities for patients with ALS and stroke. Meanwhile, Bethan Ackerley, culture critic, reviews the most exciting science fiction TV and films of 2024, including titles like 'Fallout' and 'Dune Part 2', highlighting their innovative narratives and cultural relevance.
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insights INSIGHT
Antarctic Ecological Changes
Antarctic vegetation, like mosses, relies on melting snow and ice.
Sea ice loss threatens emperor penguins and seabed ecosystems.
insights INSIGHT
Brain Implant Applications
Brain implants aim to read brain activity, allowing control of devices or robotic arms.
Stimulating brain regions could treat neurological conditions.
insights INSIGHT
Living Neuron Implants
Traditional brain implants use metal, risking tissue damage.
This new implant uses living neurons for less invasive, natural connections.
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Antarctic sea ice is melting at an unprecedented rate. A collapse like the one we’re seeing was given just a 1 in 700 billion year chance of happening, based on climate models - we basically thought it was impossible. Melting ice in Antarctica will have global scale, knock-on ecological and climate consequences. To address the crisis, five hundred researchers met in Australia for an emergency summit for the future of the Antarctic. Sarah Thompson, one of the scientists at the conference, is working in Antarctica right now and shares her experiences assessing the damage in the region. Also hear from Sharon Robinson from the University of Wollongong, who explores how the ecology of the region is changing.
A new type of brain implant technology is being developed that will allow direct access to a patient’s brain in a more intimate way. Most devices place metal electrodes and wires into the brain, but this method is instead using living neurons to form a connection with the brain. Brain-computer interfaces are used to help treat conditions like ALS or stroke, as well as allowing patients to control technology with their mind. Researchers at the Science Corporation in California have tested their new method on mice - but can it be done in humans?
If you’re looking for a great science-based TV series or film to get stuck into this December, our resident TV critic Bethan Ackerley is here with all the highlights of 2024. She discusses everything from the unconventional superhero show ‘Supacell’, to the fabulous ‘3 Body Problem’ and the latest ‘Planet of the Apes’ film. Read Beth’s complete TV and film review here:
The World, the Universe and Us