University of California Audio Podcasts (Audio)

Stem Cell research could unlock the mystery of what makes the human brain special. Researcher Alysson Muotri is using stem cells to grow tiny versions of developing human brains in his lab to study everything from autism to the Zika virus. His lab is even looking into how space flight impacts brain development. Series: "Health Matters" [Show ID: 35077]

Researcher Stephen McCabe is at the forefront of efforts to save Dudleya, a charismatic and rare plant from the hands of poachers—and possible extinction. Series: "UCTV Prime" [Show ID: 35254]

Ours is a water planet. Technology is shaping our uses, both as foe and ally. It has made humans the dominant predator and provides us food, gives us half the oxygen we breathe and created many maritime jobs. But technology has also raised CO2 levels, caused acidic oceans, threatened ocean biodiversity and created grand climate challenges. UCSB marine biologist Doug McCauley describes technology to promote ocean health and provide a balance. Series: "GRIT Talks" [Show ID: 35175]

UCSB Script to Screen interviewed this year's Emmy-nominated writers before the 2019 Sublime Primetime panel discussion at the Writers Guild Theater in Los Angeles. Series: "Script to Screen" [Show ID: 35180]

Kawasaki Disease is the most common cause of acquired heart disease in the developed world, but it is often misdiagnosed. Without proper treatment, 1 in 4 children will develop irreversible and potentially fatal heart damage. In this episode of Health Matters, leading Kawasaki Disease researcher Dr. Jane C. Burns explains the signs parents should be able to recognize. Series: "Health Matters" [Show ID: 35076]

Global prosperity over the last century has been powered by low-cost fossil fuels. Unfortunately, they are a finite resource and pose significant risks to our environment; therefore, they must be replaced. For the transition to a future energy economy making use of hydrogen as a fuel produced by nuclear power and renewables, Professor Eric McFarland predicts that methane will be the most important molecule for prosperity in the next century. McFarland’s research has shown that the methane in abundant natural gas can be cost-effectively converted by pyrolysis in high-temperature molten metals and salts to solid carbon and hydrogen gas. The cheapest heat and electricity in the U.S. comes from burning natural gas; however, increasingly major markets (e.g. California and Germany) have imposed carbon taxes which make this CO2-free process competitive today. Series: "Institute for Energy Efficiency" [Show ID: 35161]

Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, created paintings and sketches for his own enjoyment. Some of these pieces were on loan from the Geisel estate and exhibited at the UC San Diego Library for the 16th annual Dinner in the Library gala. Join a panel of distinguished speakers as they explore broad themes woven throughout Geisel’s works and its literary and artistic impact. Panelists Mary Beebe, Stuart Collection, Seth Lerer, Professor of Literature, and Rob Sidner, Mingei International Museum, each bring a unique perspective. Series: "Library Channel" [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 35062]

The ALERTWildfire camera network across California provides rapid confirmation of emergency wildfire 911 calls, situational awareness, and in the worst-case scenarios real-time data to help sequence evacuations. Join Neal Driscoll to learn how the great state of California is using technology to help firefighters and improve public preparedness during wildfire disasters. Series: "Jeffrey B. Graham Perspectives on Ocean Science Lecture Series" [Show ID: 35176]

Bones are dynamic and continue to rebuild themselves, even as we age. Bone remodeling is supported by a healthy diet and by regular physical activity. Join Vicky Newman, MS, RDN to learn more about dietary choices that help calcium stay in our bones and out of our blood vessels to support both bone strength and arterial flexibility. Adequate calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K, and several trace minerals are all important, as is enough protein and alkaline minerals like magnesium. Our food, supplement, and activity choices help protect bone strength and structural flexibility to help prevent injury and speed healing. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 35100]

The authors of a provocative new paper maintain that many of the behaviors common to autism—including low eye contact, repetitive movements, and the verbatim repetition of words and phrases—are misinterpreted as a lack of interest in social engagement. On the contrary, they say, many people with autism express a deep longing for social connection. Series: "UCTV Prime" [Show ID: 35251]