The Nature Podcast festive spectacular 2024
Nature Podcast
Deep Dive
What is Ozempic (Semaglutide) primarily used for, and what other potential applications are being explored?
Ozempic, or Semaglutide, is primarily used for treating diabetes and obesity. It is also being explored for other applications, such as slowing down digestion and reducing appetite, potentially for conditions like addiction or arthritis.
Why is there a shortage of Ozempic for those with diabetes?
The shortage is due to increased demand, with prescriptions exceeding the available supply. This has led to constraints at manufacturers and backmarket dealings.
What are CAR-T cells, and what are their primary uses in medicine?
CAR-T cells are engineered immune cells that have shown promise in fighting cancer by modifying lymphocytes to target tumor cells. They are personalized treatments approved by the FDA for certain types of cancer.
What are some of the drawbacks of CAR-T cell therapy?
CAR-T cell therapy is not without drawbacks, including potential side effects and the risk of secondary lymphoma. Researchers are still exploring the best ways to optimize and revolutionize this treatment.
Who are some of the individuals featured in Nature's 10 for 2024?
Nature's 10 for 2024 includes Muhammad Yunus, an economist turned interim leader of Bangladesh; Anna Abalkina, a Russian science sleuth investigating scientific fraud; Placide Mbala, an epidemiologist sounding the alarm on Mpox; and Caitlin Carras, who successfully campaigned for better pay for PhDs and postdocs in Canada.
Why was Muhammad Yunus included in Nature's 10?
Muhammad Yunus was included for his unexpected role as the interim leader of Bangladesh, following a student-led revolution demanding his leadership. He is now tasked with reforming the country's institutions and addressing corruption.
What is Anna Abalkina's contribution to science?
Anna Abalkina is a science sleuth who specializes in identifying fake papers, plagiarism, and hijacked journals. She has exposed international scientific fraud and has been instrumental in uncovering scams in the publishing industry.
What is Placide Mbala's role in the Mpox outbreak?
Placide Mbala is an epidemiologist who led a team that identified a new strain of Mpox virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His work has been crucial in raising alarms about the outbreak and coordinating the response to the virus.
How did Caitlin Carras contribute to improving the research ecosystem in Canada?
Caitlin Carras led the Support Our Science campaign, which successfully pushed for the largest pay raise in 20 years for graduate students and postdocs in Canada. Her efforts also secured more government scholarships and increased funding for researchers.
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