Host Russ Altman, a professor of bioengineering, genetics, and medicine at Stanford, is your guide to the latest science and engineering breakthroughs. Join Rus...
Materials scientist and physicist Guosong Hong is an expert in getting materials to do remarkable things. Recently, he and collaborators used a common food dye found in snack chips to turn living tissue transparent, allowing light to penetrate through skin and muscle. Hong is now working to realize a new age of medical imaging that lets doctors see deep into the body – without surgery. It’s a miracle of physics but it could change medicine, Hong tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Guosong HongGuosong's Lab: THE HONG LABConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Guosong Hong, an expert in physics, material science, and biology from Stanford University.(00:02:52) Material Science Meets NeuroscienceHow Guosong’s research blends nanomaterials and brain science.(00:04:01) Why Tissue Isn’t TransparentThe challenge of light penetration in biological tissues.(00:05:55) A New Approach to Tissue ClearingThe physics behind tissue transparency and refractive index manipulation.(00:08:57) UV Light and TransparencyHow manipulating UV absorption can align refractive indexes.(00:11:17) First Experiments and ResultsInitial tests that demonstrate successful tissue clearing.(00:13:19) Applications in MedicineThe potential of transparent tissues in dermatology and medical imaging.(00:15:36) Testing on Live TissueThe results of testing transparency techniques on live mice.(00:19:30) Transparency in NatureHow some species have naturally transparent tissue.(00:20:52) Human Eye and Protein TransparencyThe unique proteins that keep our lenses clear using similar physics.(00:23:24) Wireless Light Inside the BodyThe development of ultrasound-activated light sources for tissue imaging.(00:26:56) Precision of Ultrasound LightHow precisely ultrasound can trigger tiny particles to emit light.(00:29:14) Conclusion
Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
--------
30:03
Best of: The future of science education
With the tremendous amount of information available to us today, the ability to discern what’s reliable from what’s not is crucial to combating the spread of misinformation. In 2023, we sat down with Jonathan Osborne, an expert in science education to talk about the tools our students (and really all of us!) need to critically evaluate science news and information. We hope you’ll tune into this episode again to hear about the three valuable skills Osborne says we should be teaching our students so they can debunk scientific misinformation.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jonathan OsborneConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Jonathan Osborne, a professor of education at Stanford University.(00:01:50) State of Science EducationCurrent education's failure to prepare students for misinformation.(00:03:46) Internet-Age ChallengesWhy younger generations struggle with evaluating credibility online.(00:05:07) Tools for Evaluating ClaimsThree key questions to assess scientific credibility.(00:08:10) Teaching CredibilityUsing interactive challenges to teach critical thinking.(00:10:46) Attitudes Toward ScienceFlaws in the way science education is currently taught to youth.(00:14:28) Barriers to ReformResistance to curriculum changes and systemic challenges.(00:19:02) Scientific ArgumentationThe importance of teaching reasoning behind scientific discoveries.(00:24:03) Modes of Scientific ArgumentationDeductive, abductive, and inductive reasoning as key scientific methods.(00:25:45) Inspiring Curiosity in ScienceFraming science as imaginative, evidence-backed ideas to engage students.(00:28:06) Adapting Science StandardsThe need for flexible standards to address evolving education challenges.(00:29:57) Conclusion
Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
--------
30:44
The future of seaweed
Oceanographer Kristen Davis, an authority on ocean physics and climate sustainability, discusses the growing excitement around seaweed and kelp as tools to combat climate change. Like trees on land, these underwater plants use photosynthesis to absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into organic matter. When they die, some of that carbon may sink to the ocean depths. However, the science is still evolving and there’s a lot we don’t yet understand about how seaweed farming might impact carbon sequestration. Davis shares insights into the ongoing research and its promise on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast with host Russ Altman.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Kristen DavisConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Kristen Davis, a professor of oceans at Stanford University.(00:03:20) Understanding the CO2 ProblemThe origins of the CO2 problem and its connection to ocean dynamics.(00:06:11) Seaweed as a SolutionSeaweed's potential as a carbon sink and its comparison to terrestrial trees.(00:09:02) Challenges in Seaweed CultivationEcological impacts and practical challenges of scaling seaweed farming.(00:12:00) How a Seaweed-Based Solution WorksLogistics for seaweed farming nearshore and in deep ocean settings.(00:15:08) Genetic Advances in Seaweed FarmingBioengineering seaweed for resilience and optimizing carbon capture.(00:16:43) Seaweed Beyond Carbon StoragePotential uses of seaweed for biofuel, food, and reducing methane.(00:20:20) Internal Waves in Ocean DynamicsInternal waves and their role in mixing and nutrient distribution.(00:24:18) Currents vs. Internal WavesThe relationship between ocean currents and internal waves.(00:26:47) Measurement TechnologiesInnovations in fiber-optic sensors for mapping internal waves.(00:30:22) A Global Wave MapThe vision for a comprehensive, global study of internal wave dynamics.(00:31:22) Conclusion
Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
--------
32:40
The future of kidney dialysis
Nephrologist Manjula Tamura discusses the downsides of kidney dialysis, especially for old or frail patients. Her field has set its sights on offering alternatives, including supportive medical management without dialysis, dialysis in increments, wearable artificial kidneys, and transplanted kidneys from genetically modified pigs – in addition to advances in preventive care that can help humans avoid kidney failure in the first place. Dialysis can extend life, she says, but it is a lifestyle change. The goal is to ensure that every patient’s choice aligns with their values and life goals, Tamura tells host Russ Altman in this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Manjula Kurella TamuraConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest, Manjula Tamura, a professor of medicine and nephrology at Stanford University Medical School.(00:02:58) The Kidney’s Vital RoleThe kidney’s role and why its failure is life-threatening.(00:04:51) Causes of Kidney FailureThe leading causes of kidney failure in developed countries.(00:07:58) Kidney TransplantationThe feasibility, barriers, and supply challenges of kidney transplantation.(00:09:50) The Dialysis ProcessHow hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis work and patient experiences.(00:14:07) The Evolution of Dialysis TreatmentThe history of dialysis and how Medicare’s expansion influenced its use.(00:18:48) Study Design: Emulating Clinical TrialsUsing VA electronic health records to simulate trials on dialysis.(00:25:31) Findings: Survival vs. Time at HomeThe trade-offs between extended survival and reduced time at home.(00:27:02) Quality of Life and DialysisMeasuring quality of life impacts through electronic health records.(00:30:32) The Future of Kidney TreatmentsInnovations like xenotransplantation and wearable artificial kidneys.(00:33:04) Conclusion
Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
--------
33:43
The future of robotic surgery
Guest Renee Zhao works at the cutting-edge of robotic surgery – literally. Emboldened by advances in 3D-printing and miniaturization, she builds “millibots,” magnet-controlled, millimeter-scale soft robots that navigate the bloodstream to remove blood clots and treat brain aneurysms. While the millibot’s promise is clear, much work remains before the devices are commonplace. Revolutionizing health care with surgical robots will require a delicate balance of design, buildability, and functionality, Zhao tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Renee ZhaoConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Renee Zhao, a professor of mechanical engineering at Stanford University.(00:03:34) Robotic Surgery and HealthcareRenee’s inspiration for soft robotics and its potential in healthcare applications.(00:05:49) Current Status of Robotic SurgeryCurrent robotic surgery technologies and the push for more advanced solutions.(00:09:32) Nature-Inspired Soft RoboticsHow soft robotic systems are ideal for working within delicate human tissues.(00:11:41) Millirobotic SystemsRecently developed millimeter-sized robots that swim and navigate blood vessels.(00:14:46) Millirobot ControlThe role of magnetic fields and imaging technology for robot navigation.(00:17:18) Treating Blood Clots and AneurysmsThe multifunctional abilities of robots to deliver drugs and treat blood clots.(00:19:46) Doctor’s Reaction to New TechnologyExcitement for the new robotic advancements amongst the need for better tools.(00:21:04) Trends in Robot Size and FunctionalityThe design challenges for creating small yet functional robots.(00:25:52) AI and Machine Learning in Robotic DesignAI’s role in optimizing robot design for specific patients.(00:28:59) Why Millimeter-Scale RobotsWhy millirobots strike the right balance for performance and functionality.(00:32:34) Conclusion
Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
Host Russ Altman, a professor of bioengineering, genetics, and medicine at Stanford, is your guide to the latest science and engineering breakthroughs. Join Russ and his guests as they explore cutting-edge advances that are shaping the future of everything from AI to health and renewable energy.
Along the way, “The Future of Everything” delves into ethical implications to give listeners a well-rounded understanding of how new technologies and discoveries will impact society. Whether you’re a researcher, a student, or simply curious about what’s on the horizon, tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments that are transforming our world.
South Africa