Curiosity Weekly

Neuroscientists discuss brain rewiring and debunk the myth of magical brain rewiring, exploring the imagination of rats through virtual reality, and the positive effect of dogs on people with PTSD.

Discover a cutting-edge invention called 'lab on a chip' that can diagnose viruses in minutes. Explore the connection between childhood traumas and persistent headaches. Uncover the mystery of strange blobs in the Earth's mantle and their origins. Learn about the formation of the moon and its impact on Earth's evolution.

Learn about the potential of a new blood test to diagnose bipolar disorder, the relationship between music and pain relief, and the impact of climate change on puffins in Norway.

Kathryn Gilliam, author of “Ancient tongue diagnosis for the 21st century dental hygienist,” discusses machine learning's use in diagnosing diseases through tongue selfies. The podcast also explores the link between curiosity and seeking immediate answers, and the value of curiosity in scientific discoveries such as AI diagnosis of diseases and the behavior of water droplets on a microscopic coating.

Stephen Hawking, a person who received a voice through AI, discusses how AI can help reconstruct speech from brain activity. Ran Wang, a researcher, dives into the complex neural processes involved in speech production. The podcast also explores the benefits of weighted blankets for children with ADHD and the recent discovery of an 8-billion-year-old blast of radio waves from outer space.

Today's podcast discusses the hunt for the elusive sixth taste, HIV's ongoing battle with the immune system, and the altruistic behavior of bees. The hosts explore the concept of taste, including the potential sixth taste related to ammonium chloride. They also highlight advancements and challenges in HIV treatments, emphasizing the importance of understanding the reservoir of infected cells. Additionally, they delve into the topic of altruism in honeybees and the genetic battle for behavioral dominance.

Michael Irving, a science journalist, discusses how an arthritis drug can mimic blood transfusions to reverse aging in mice. They also explore the potential of cinnamon improving brain health and cognition, and a new filter that removes 99.9% of microplastics from water.

Science journalist Katie Hunt joins the show to discuss the revival of a 'zombie' virus from the arctic permafrost, the recovery of 26 Australian animal species from the brink of extinction, and the potential benefits of a new pill in reducing 'bad' cholesterol.

Discover the magic behind ancient Roman concrete's self-healing capability and how it compares to modern concrete. Dive into the groundbreaking discovery of a virovore organism that exclusively consumes viruses. Explore a study on the use of placebos to reduce feelings of guilt, revealing ethical challenges and potential benefits in healthcare.

Scientists are using AI to talk to animals, discovering massive galaxies that challenge our understanding of cosmology, and finding a new layer in Earth's inner core. The podcast also includes an introduction of identity theft protection and a podcast recommendation for Milk Street Radio.