Science Quickly

Christopher Intagliata, an insightful reporter specializing in science, explores the remarkable benefits of nectar for bumblebees. He discusses how nectar isn't just a food source; it's a complex mix of compounds that helps reduce gut parasites affecting these pollinators. By highlighting the intricate chemistry of nectar, he reveals its critical role in both plant health and bee survival. Listeners will uncover the surprising ways nature equips bees to thrive despite challenges.

Exploring how marijuana affects hunger signals in the brain, leading to increased appetite. The podcast discusses potential medical applications for treating appetite loss.

Rodents fed capsaicin voluntarily exercised more, preventing weight gain in mice on a high-fat diet.

New evidence suggests that mastodons went extinct in the arctic and subarctic regions of North America before humans arrived due to reasons unrelated to human activity. The research involved re-dating mastodon specimens and distinguishing them from mammoths based on their teeth.

Exploring the fear of the number 13, known as Triskaidekaphobia, and delving into the origins and superstitions surrounding why Friday the 13th is viewed as unlucky. Dr. 13 sheds light on the negative connotations associated with the number 13.

A study shows that contraception could prevent 15 million unwanted pregnancies in low and middle income countries, exploring the consequences of unwanted pregnancies and barriers to contraception use.

Analyzing pre-industrial pollution in Peru through ice core analysis, revealing a rise in heavy metal air pollution 240 years before the industrial revolution, likely from metallurgy and mining.

Scientists analyze DNA from New York City subway stations, finding a multitude of bacteria including anthrax and plague fragments. Almost half of the DNA remains unidentified, indicating unknown organisms inhabit the subway.

In this engaging discussion, reporter Karen Hopkin uncovers a fascinating page from Isaac Newton's college notebooks, where he theorized about plant transpiration long before it was widely understood. She shares insights into Newton's observations on how water moves in plants, highlighting his connections between sap movement and light. This intriguing examination offers a glimpse into the early scientific mind of Newton and his significant contributions to plant biology.

Podcast discusses the economic implications of hosting the Olympics and World Cup, including high costs, lack of benefits for most countries, and the 'winning curse' of bidding process.