A trio of genes may be key to making cells young again, and ultra precise measurement of a fundamental physics constant.In this episode:00:47 Reversing ageingResearchers claim to have identified a method to revert cells in mice eyes back to a younger state.Research article: Lu et al.News and Views: Sight restored by turning back the epigenetic clockNews: Reversal of biological clock restores vision in old mice09:39 CoronapodWe discuss emergency-use approvals for COVID-19 vaccines. Approvals are coming in fast, which presents a dilemma for scientists - they’re critically needed, but what could it mean for research?News: Why emergency COVID-vaccine approvals pose a dilemma for scientistsNews: The UK has approved a COVID vaccine — here’s what scientists now want to know27:04 Research HighlightsAncient megalodon nurseries, and predicting mud volcanoes.Research Highlight: Even Earth’s largest-ever sharks needed nurseries for their babiesResearch Highlight: How mud volcanoes are born under the sea29:38 Fine measurement of the fine-structure constantThe fine structure constant is a fundamental number that gives researchers an understanding of the laws of the universe. For years, scientists have been trying to get better measurements of it. This week, we see the most precise measurement yet.Research Article: Morel et al.News and Views: Fine-structure constant tests standard model35:00 Briefing ChatWe discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, a holistic plan to tackle climate challenges, and the rarest pollinator of them all - a lizard.Washington Post: An ancient people with a modern climate planThe Guardian: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.