Taken any selfies lately? Dermatologist Zakia Rahman studies both the science of healthy skin and the effects of the exponential increase in skin images on self-esteem. As a result, skin health is linked to mental health, she says. It’s not about vanity, it’s about vitality, Rahman 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 thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Zakia RahmanStanford Center on LongevityConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Zakia Rahman, a professor of dermatology at Stanford University.(00:02:24) The Impact of Digital TechnologiesHow digital technologies and frequent image exposure affect dermatology and self-perception.(00:03:40) Effects of Self-Image on DermatologyBalancing vanity and vitality in modern skincare trends.(00:05:05) The Role of Lasers in DermatologyThe use of laser technology in dermatology, including types and applications.(00:08:44) Lasers in Skin Cancer TreatmentHow laser technology aids in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer.(00:10:11) Progress in Skin CancerThe effectiveness of sun protection measures and how we can better prevent skin cancer.(00:13:29) Effectiveness of Physical Sun ProtectionThe protective benefits of everyday clothing versus specialized sun-protective gear.(00:18:56) Ethnic Differences in Skin HealthThe differences in skin health and sun exposure effects across various ethnic groups.(00:23:43) Aesthetic and Cultural Implications in Skin CareHow cultural perceptions of beauty intersect with skincare and overall health.(00:26:08) Therapeutic Effects of LightThe potential skincare benefits of red light therapy and its popularity.(00:28:55) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The Future of Everything

The future of skin longevity

Arvind Karunakaran studies the intersections of work, AI, and organizational behavior. He says AI can enhance speed and productivity in the short run, yet degrade skills over time. But it is in organizational power dynamics where AI has had its most marked impact, he says, telling host Russ Altman about situations in law firms where AI has fostered tension between paralegals and junior attorneys. It’s AI and the modern workplace 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 thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Arvind KarunakaranConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Arvind Karunakaran, a professor of management science and engineering at Stanford University.(00:02:47) Productivity vs. Skill DevelopmentThe broader impact of AI on workplace productivity and the potential skill loss among workers.(00:04:39) New Skills for the AI EraWhether new skill sets required by AI tools are emerging or if it's still too early to tell.(00:06:17) AI and Power DynamicsHow AI is influencing authority and power dynamics in the workplace.(00:09:16) Challenges of Role Re-Design with AIThe need for systemic changes in job roles and organizational structures to accommodate AI.(00:11:02) Accountability and AI in Decision-MakingThe complexities of accountability when AI is involved in decision-making processes.(00:15:14) Platforms and Power DynamicsThe role of platforms as intermediaries and their impact on authority and power dynamics.(00:20:28) AI Experimentation in the WorkplaceHow organizations are experimenting with AI and the importance of trust in these processes.(00:23:29) Rethinking Training for AI IntegrationThe necessity of innovative training methods to effectively integrate AI in workplace settings.(00:25:30) Management Strategies for AI AdoptionWays managers can approach AI integration in their organizations to foster productivity and innovation(00:28:12) AI in Gig Work PlatformsChallenges and opportunities AI presents within gig work platforms.(00:32:20) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of AI at work

We want to wish our listeners in the states a happy Labor Day weekend. We hope, wherever you are, you’re taking some time to savor the last bit of summer. After a couple months full of travel and news about the airplane industry, we can’t help wondering — are there better ways to build airplanes? Our previous guest, Ilan Kroo, an expert in aeronautics, discusses how recent developments in fuels, engines, materials, and computer controls are leading to a new era of airplanes. We hope you’ll tune in and learn something new.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 thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Ilan KrooConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Ilan Kroo, a professor of aeronautics and astronautics at Stanford University.(00:01:33) The Future of Airplane DesignThe technological advancements that are enabling new types of aircraft designs.(00:03:52) Designing Airplanes with Active ControlActive control systems and their impact on airplane safety and efficiency.(00:05:03) Personal Flying VehicleseVTOL vehicles as a promising future technology for personalized and commercial travel.(00:06:54) Scaling eVTOL and Air Traffic ControlHow companies and regulatory bodies are preparing for the rise of eVTOL vehicles.(00:10:21) Sustainable AviationNew engine concepts, composite materials, and sustainable fuels in commercial aviation.(00:16:42) Hydrogen-Powered AircraftHydrogen's potential as a sustainable fuel source and its impact on airplane design.(00:19:44) Climate Modelling in Airplane DesignThe intersection of climate science and airplane design for a more sustainable future.(00:22:04) Unconventional Airplane DesignsNew designs that may become the future of aviation, with benefits in sustainability and performance.(00:25:55) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Best of: Better ways to build an airplane

Political scientist Kathryn Stoner is the Director of the Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law (CDDRL) at Stanford and an authority on Russian/Ukrainian politics. She says views on the current war depend on which side someone is on: Many Russians and their leader Vladimir Putin say Ukrainians are Russians and have been since the 10th century. Ukrainians strongly disagree, likening the two nations to the U.S. and Great Britain. How the present conflict is resolved has important implications for other former Soviet states and the future of the European Union, as Stoner 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 thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford CDDRL Profile: Kathryn StonerConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Kathryn Stoner, director of the Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law at Stanford University.(00:02:09) Historical Context of the Russia-Ukraine ConflictHow historical narratives shape perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.(00:05:38) U.S. and International PerspectivesThe strategic implications of the Russia-Ukraine conflict for the United States and its historical agreements.(00:08:49) The Domino Effect and Regional RisksThe potential risks to other former Soviet republics and the concept of the domino effect.(00:12:43) Democracy in the Post-Soviet StatesAnalysis of the state of democracy in Ukraine, Georgia, and other former Soviet republics(00:18:59) The Unexpected StalemateWhy the Russia-Ukraine war has not gone as expected and the strategic missteps by Russia.(00:22:39) Domestic Impact in RussiaThe impact of the war on Russian public opinion and why Russians are not openly protesting against it.(00:28:46) Hope for the FuturePotential sources of optimism for the future of Russia and its younger generation.(00:31:40) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of Russia and Ukraine

Dan Schwartz is a cognitive psychologist and dean of the Stanford Graduate School of Education. He says that artificial intelligence is a different beast, but he is optimistic about its future in education. “It’s going to change stuff. It’s really an exciting time,” he says. Schwartz imagines a world not where AI is the teacher, but where human students learn by teaching AI chatbots key concepts. It’s called the Protégé Effect, Schwartz says, providing host Russ Altman a glimpse of the future of education on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Daniel SchwartzConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Dan Schwartz, a professor of education and a dean of the School of Education at Stanford University.(00:02:06) The Role of AI in Modern EducationThe widespread reactions and implications of AI, particularly ChatGPT, in education.(00:03:22) The Role of Technology in the ClassroomThe historical and evolving relationship between technology and education.(00:05:14) Engaging Students with AIHow AI can enhance student engagement through innovative teaching methods.(00:08:08) Impact of AI on Student LearningThe balance between AI tools and maintaining educational standards.(00:13:42) Industry's Role in Educational TechnologyChallenges and opportunities in collaborating with educational technology companies.(00:15:44) Teacher's Role in Adapting to AIThe critical role of teachers in effectively integrating AI into the classroom.(00:18:39) Assessment and Grading with AIThe potential and concerns of using AI for educational assessment.(00:22:34) Learning Strategies and Conceptual UnderstandingThe importance of understanding the underlying concepts rather than just using AI tools.(00:25:08) Physical Activity and LearningThe connection between physical activity and improved learning outcomes.(00:29:17) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of educational technology

Today, we’re re-running a fascinating conversation with Sara Singer, a Stanford professor of medicine, and an expert on integrated healthcare. Anyone who’s had to navigate the healthcare system knows it’s extremely complex, and care can often feel disjointed or inefficient. In this episode, Sara highlights new technologies that could improve integration within the healthcare system, ultimately enhancing a practitioners’ ability to care for patients. We hope you’ll take another listen and enjoy.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Sara SingerConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Sarah Singer, a professor of medicine and organizational behaviour at Stanford University(00:02:25) Defining Integrated CareThe concept of integrated care and its significance in improving patient experience.(00:03:37) Global Implementation of Integrated CareThe global challenges and successes in implementing integrated care.(00:04:45) Cost Implications of Integrated CareThe potential cost-saving benefits of integrated care through efficient coordination.(00:05:34) COVID-19’s Impact on Healthcare IntegrationThe pandemic's dual role in exposing challenges and providing opportunities for integrated care.(00:07:45) The Role of AI in Healthcare's FutureAI’s potential in healthcare and the importance of user collaboration.(00:09:38) Importance of Iterative DevelopmentThe need for continuous collaboration in healthcare technology development.(00:12:16) Patient Perspectives in Tech DevelopmentThe value of integrating patient feedback into healthcare technology.(00:13:20) Consumer Suggestions for Health CareHow patient feedback has influenced health care improvements.(00:16:49) Iterative Development of Health Care TechnologiesThe iterative process of developing health care technologies with continuous input from end users.(00:24:29) Advice for Healthcare TechnologistsAdvice for technologists on developing useful and accepted healthcare tools.(00:27:22) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Best of: A more thoughtful approach to technology can improve medical care

Psychologist Judy Fan is an expert in how physical objects facilitate learning. In the classroom, these include pencils, pens, paper, and whiteboards. But in any learning situation, the physical world provides tools for learning and communicating, often trumping the speed and reach of today’s digital technologies. These objects are cognitive tools – physical representations of human thought, she says. They help us think, solve problems, and communicate with others better and more effectively, as she tells host Russ Altman in this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast. Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Judy FanConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Judy Fan, a professor of psychology at Stanford University.(00:02:02) The Essence of Cognitive ToolsWhat cognitive tools are and their importance from ancient times to the present.(00:03:37) Historical Context of Cognitive ToolsThe historical evolution of cognitive tools and their role in education.(00:06:57) Cross-Cultural Insights on Cognitive ToolsThe universality of cognitive tools and cross-cultural variations.(00:12:39) Developmental Trajectories in Visual CommunicationHow children develop the ability to visually communicate concepts and the differences between cultures.(00:17:01) The Influence of Cultural Artifacts on PerceptionHow cultural exposure shapes our perception and depiction of the world.(00:22:15) The Future of Learning TechnologiesThe impact of technological advancements on cognitive tools and potential directions for the future.(00:24:29) Hands-On Learning and Interactive ToolsThe importance of interactive learning activities that allow students to engage with scientific processes.(00:27:44) Enhancing Creative Processes Through TechnologyWays technology can aid creative professionals and the development of tools for high-level experts.(00:30:44) Bridging Novice and Expert NeedsThe challenges of designing technology that serves both novices and experts.(00:33:19) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of cognitive tools

From witchcraft to shamans to those with schizophrenia, voices and visions have always been part of human experience and they have always intrigued anthropologist Tanya Luhrmann. She now studies how various cultures understand these mysterious mental phenomena. Luhrmann has observed and talked to hundreds who’ve experienced voices and visions and learned there are “different pathways” to understand them, as she tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Tanya Marie LuhrmannTanya Luhrmann: WebsiteConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Tanya Luhrmann, a professor of anthropology at Stanford University.(00:02:18) Origins of InterestTanya shares her background and how it influenced her studies on the human mind and its perceptions.(00:05:53) Methodologies in Anthropological ResearchThe methods used to understand experiences like hearing voices and seeing visions.(00:07:04) Cultural Variability in Human ExperiencesHow hearing voices varies across cultures, and their implications on mental health.(00:13:42) The Clinical and Non-Clinical SpectrumThe clinical aspects of hearing voices, and how they are perceived and treated in different contexts.(00:18:01) Non-Clinical Manifestations and PracticeThe influence of practices and beliefs on non-clinical supernatural experiences.(00:22:24) Characteristics of LeadersFactors that make certain individuals leaders in perceptual practices.(00:23:43) AI and Relationships with ChatbotsParallels between relationships with imagined entities and modern AI chatbots.(00:28:40) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of perceptual phenomena

Whether you’re taking a summer road trip, planning a long plane ride, or simply enjoying walks in the warm weather, we want to take a moment to recommend to you a few recent episodes of The Future of Everything to listen to along the way. You’ll find a list of these episodes in the show notes, but as a brief preview we’ve got conversations on robotics, brain science, cybersecurity, the universe, and exercise waiting for you. If you’re interested in any one of these topics, check out this summer playlist and be sure to download these episodes before you head out for summer fun.Curated Episode Links:The future of robotics (Jeannette Bohg): Website / YouTubeThe future of brain science (Sergiu Pasca): Website / YouTubeThe future of cybersecurity (Amy Zegart): Website / YouTubeThe future of the universe (Risa Wechsler): Website / YouTubeThe future of exercise (Jonathan Long): Website / YouTubeConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Russ’s Summer Playlist

Alberto Salleo is an expert in the long, chain-like molecules known as polymers. The world relies on polymers and the most common are in plastics. Salleo is now working on a new generation of organic polymers made of Earth-abundant materials that could lead to flexible electronics that can biodegrade or be easily recycled. These polymers could be game-changers, Salleo tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Alberto SalleoAlberto’s Lab: Salleo Research GroupConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Alberto Salleo, a professor of materials science and engineering at Stanford University.(00:03:02) Defining PolymersA fundamental definition of polymers, emphasizing their structure as long molecules composed of repeating subunits.(00:04:43) Everyday Applications of PolymersThe commonplace polymers that people encounter daily and their broader impacts.(00:05:42) Organic Polymers and ElectronicsThe unique properties of organic polymers, their applications in electronics and potential for biodegradability.(00:07:52) Advanced Polymer ApplicationsThe development of flexible electronics using organic polymers, including the challenges and current research status.(00:11:27) Neuromorphic ComputingThe role of polymers in neuromorphic computing, highlighting how their properties could mimic brain functions.(00:14:42) Human-Brain Interface and Computing ApplicationsThe dual potential of polymers in interfacing with human brains and creating new generations of computers.(00:18:04) Emerging Research and TechnologiesThe integration of electron microscopy from biology to study polymers and their structures.(00:22:22) Electron Microscopy and Cryo-EM TechniquesAdvanced electron microscopy techniques, such as cryo-EM, to study polymers.(00:26:19) Electrochemistry and Sustainable BatteriesThe application of polymers in electrochemistry, particularly in creating high-density, recyclable batteries.(00:29:26) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of polymers

We have another best-of episode for you today. This one is a conversation with Irene Lo about the work she’s doing to study and leverage markets for social impact — think markets for public school assignments, or medical school residency matches. Irene reminds us that markets exist to help effectively allocate limited resources, and not all marketplaces are based in cash. We hope you’ll tune in again to this thought provoking conversation to hear Irene talk about the changing face of markets.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Irene LoConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Irene Lo, a professor of management science and engineering at Stanford.(00:03:23) Unique Challenges of Non-Financial MarketsThe unique challenges in markets where monetary transactions are not feasible or ethical.(00:04:21) School Choice and District PerspectivesThe multifaceted decisions parents and school districts face in school choice.(00:06:54) Collaboration with San Francisco School DistrictConnecting with the San Francisco School District to redesign their student assignment system.(00:08:27) Algorithms and Testing of School Assignment PoliciesThe extensive simulations and community engagement involved in testing the new school assignment policies algorithm before implementation.(00:11:18) Goals and Issues of the Old SystemWhy the old school assignment system failed to achieve its goals of predictability, proximity, and diversity.(00:12:52) Algorithm Adaptation for Broader UseThe potential for adapting the San Francisco school assignment algorithms for use in other cities and districts.(00:14:42) Applying Market Design to Medical Residency MatchesAdapting market design principles to medical residency placements, emphasizing multifactorial considerations.(00:19:07) Market Design in the Developing World: Indonesian Palm Oil MarketInsights into the challenges and solutions in improving the supply chain for palm oil in Indonesia.(00:24:08) Crowdsourcing InformationHow crowdsourcing information can help improve market efficiency for palm oil farmers and the challenges involved.(00:26:32) Market Manipulation and AlgorithmsThe future application of advanced algorithms to improve market dynamics once sufficient data is gathered.(00:28:08) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Best of: How math makes markets fairer

Jonathan Long is a biochemist who studies the chemicals produced during exercise. In Long’s world, “you always start with molecules,” which offer “clean handles” to understanding complex processes. His lab has identified a chemical produced in the digestive tract during exercise that can make a person stop eating. Long now studies this “gut-brain axis” for ways to treat obesity, diabetes, and, perhaps, even age-related conditions like dementia, as he tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jonathan Z. LongJonathan’s Lab: LongLab@StanfordStudy on Endocannabinoids and Exercise Motivation: The Endocannabinoid System and Physical ExerciseConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Jonathan Long, a professor of pathology at Stanford University(00:02:30) Effective Weight Loss DrugsThe increase of effective weight loss drugs, and the history and development of these GLP-1 receptor agonists.(00:04:03) Understanding Metabolism and ExerciseOutline of metabolic chemicals released during physical activity and their potential to combat obesity and diabetes.(00:05:38) Animal Models in Exercise StudiesThe use of animal models in exercise studies and the discovery of Lac-Phe.(00:07:15) Psychological Preparation for ExerciseThe psychological aspects of exercise and the involvement of endocannabinoids in exercise motivation.(00:09:28) Lac-Phe's Role and MechanismThe role of Lac-Phe and its production in the gut.(00:12:21) Differences in Exercise ResponseDifferences in exercise response between trained athletes and untrained individuals.(00:13:25) Diabetes and Metabolic DiseasesThe relationship between diabetes, exercise, and metabolic diseases.(00:15:29) Lac-Phe as a Potential TherapeuticThe potential of Lac-Phe as a weight loss drug, and parallels to GLP-1 drug development.(00:16:48) Importance of How Weight is LostWhether the method of weight-loss matters, and the importance of preserving lean muscle mass.(00:19:40) Exercise as MedicineThe concept of exercise as medicine, and defining physical activity at the same resolution as modern medicines.(00:22:39) Metformin and Exercise PathwaysThe unexpected connection between metformin and the Lac-Phe pathway.(00:24:08) Prospects of an Exercise PillThe future of an exercise pill, and the scientific challenges associated with its development.(00:27:33) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of exercise

We’re digging back into our archives with an episode with bioengineer Polly Fordyce. Polly studies the form and function of proteins. She refers to proteins as the “workhorses” that make things in the body happen, and her study of these molecules reveals a greater understanding of human life. We hope you’ll tune in to this conversation again, and enjoy.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Polly FordycePolly’s Lab: The Fordyce LabConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Polly Fordyce, a professor of bioengineering and genetics at Stanford University.(00:01:51) What are Proteins?The basics of proteins and their crucial roles in the body.(00:05:01) Protein Structure and FunctionThe relationship between protein structure and function.(00:07:07) Innovations in Protein ResearchThe high-throughput technologies used in the lab to study protein functions.(00:09:44) Mutant Proteins and Functional VariantsHow mutations in proteins affect their function and structure, using the example of the protein PafA.(00:14:24) The Impact of Protein Research on MedicineInsight into how protein mutations can aid in developing targeted therapies.(00:17:37) Proteins and DNA InteractionThe role of proteins in reading DNA and regulating gene expression.(00:21:41) Transcription Factors and DNA BindingThe relationship between transcription factors and specific DNA sequences.(00:25:36) Mechanisms of Transcription ActivationThe process of transcription activation and the role of co-activators and RNA polymerase.(00:28:15) Future Directions in Protein ResearchThe future of protein research, including making advanced research tools more accessible.(00:30:36) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Best of: The future of proteins

Chris Piech is a professor of computer science who studies how computers can help students learn. In comparing human- and computer-aided education, he says humans are great one-on-one, but AI is more consistent at grading and feedback. He and colleagues have created several generative AI grading apps to take advantage of these relative strengths, as he tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Christopher PiechStanford Coding Program: Code in PlaceConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altmans introduces guest Chris Piech, a professor of computer science at Stanford University.(00:01:50) Defining Coding and Its ChallengesWhat coding entails for beginners and the challenges associated with learning to code.(00:03:37) Enhancing Learning with ComputersHow computers and AI can be used to make learning more enjoyable and effective.(00:05:12) Human Connection in EducationThe significance of teacher-student relationships and how recent learners can be effective teachers.(00:07:02) AI and Coding EducationThe impact of AI on professional coding and how it can enhance the learning experience for new coders.(00:08:48) Joy of ProgrammingThe creative joy of programming and how AI tools can elevate the creation process.(00:11:57) Comparing Human and AI TutorsResults from experiments comparing the effectiveness of human and AI tutors.(00:14:43) Fair and Effective AssessmentChallenges and strategies for fair and effective computational assessment of students' work.(00:16:42) Addressing Bias and Fairness in GradingDemographic fairness in grading algorithms and the potential biases in different subjects.(00:20:52) Interactive and Unstructured FeedbackUsing AI to provide feedback on unstructured and interactive student work, like games and apps.(00:25:30) Expanding Beyond Academic TestsApplication of AI in non-academic assessments, such as medical tests, to improve accuracy and efficiency.(00:27:42) Generative GradingIntroduction to generative grading, where AI generates potential misconceptions to help with grading and feedback.(00:31:37) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of computer-aided education

Guest Matt Abrahams is a master communicator who helps others overcome their fear of speaking — before live audiences, in small groups, or even one-on-one. His catchphrase, “Think Fast, Talk smart,” describes a mindset that, he says, is key to speaking well. Thinking fast is the ability to recognize and respond to patterns in order to talk smart — becoming more salient, relevant, and concise in the process. Abrahams coaches host Russ Altman on how to talk smart on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Matt Abrahams: WebsiteStanford Profile: WebsiteMatt’s Podcast: Think Fast, Talk Smart: The PodcastConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces Matt Abrahams, an expert on communication and lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business.(00:02:04) The Power of Thinking Fast and Talking SmartMatt explains the concept behind his catchphrase and podcast, "Think Fast, Talk Smart".(00:06:22) Addressing Speaking AnxietyThe prevalence of speaking anxiety, its evolutionary roots, and how it has evolved with modern communication tools.(00:08:46) Impact of AI on CommunicationHow LLMs like ChatGPT can aid in preparation for speaking engagements and assist non-native speakers with communication.(00:11:33) Virtual vs. In-Person CommunicationDifferences between in-person and virtual communication and how individuals can adapt to virtual communication environments.(00:13:59) Handling Difficult QuestionsStrategies for responding to questions when you don't know the answer or can't legally or ethically provide one.(00:17:18) Structuring Effective CommunicationsMethods for structuring communications to ensure clarity and impact.(00:22:10) Cultural Influences on CommunicationThe impact of cultural differences on communication styles and the importance of sensitivity and adaptation.(00:25:11) Reevaluating the Use of Presentation ToolsThe appropriate use of PowerPoint and other visual aids in presentations, with tips for making visuals effective and audience-focused.(00:29:21) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

The future of effective communication

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.

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The Future of Everything

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