Curiosity Weekly
Discovery
Welcome to Curiosity Weekly from Discovery, hosted by Dr. Samantha Yammine. Once a week, we’ll bring you the latest and greatest in scientific discoveries and break down the details so that you don’t need a PhD to understand it. From neuroscience to climate tech to AI and genetics, no subject is off-limits. Join Sam as she interviews expert guests and investigates the research guiding some of the most exciting scientific breakthroughs affecting our world today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 8, 2023 • 13min
OCD Decisions, Albatross Sound Waves, Ice & Fungi
Discover counterintuitive findings about OCD and decision making, the remarkable abilities of Albatrosses, and the role of fungus in ice formation. Explore new insights into the mechanisms of OCD, challenges to the belief of certainty in decision-making. Understand how Albatrosses navigate using magnetic fields and the voice of the sea. Delve into the role of PBAPs in Arctic ice formation and the impacts of climate change in the region.
Dec 7, 2023 • 12min
Bionic Hand, Satellites Watch Crops, AI & Our Moral Compass
Groundbreaking bionic hand merges with user's nervous and skeletal systems, remaining functional after years of daily use. Satellites watch crops from space to assess nutrition. Study explores humans' feelings about AI judging their morals.
Dec 6, 2023 • 11min
Brain & Chronic Pain, Frogs Play Dead, Avian Flu Gene Edit
The podcast discusses a brain-based treatment for chronic pain, the fascinating strategies used by female frogs to avoid undesirable mating, and a breakthrough study on genetically editing chickens to resist avian influenza virus infections.
Dec 1, 2023 • 12min
Nasal Vaccine, Dino Killer Volcano, Pied Tamarins
Breakthrough in fight against Strep A with nasal vaccine, alternative theory on dinosaur extinction due to volcanic activity, and adaptation of pied tamarins in noisy city through scent communication.
Nov 30, 2023 • 12min
Hair Loss Clues, Renewable Energy Transition, Citrus History
Discover new genetic clues to male hair loss, the future of renewable energy, and the juicy origins of citrus fruit. Uncover rare genetic variants related to hair loss, explore the potential for genetic treatments, and learn about a significant reduction in renewable energy costs. Researchers analyze wild citrus varieties, uncovering the oldest citrus fruits' origin. Gain insights into the genetic sequences aiding the development of resilient citrus varieties.
Nov 29, 2023 • 12min
Stopping Superbugs, Powerful Pulsar, Hippo Poop
In this episode, you'll learn about new ways to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the discovery of the most powerful pulsar ever seen, and the truth about hippo poop. They discuss potential innovations like phage therapy and CRISPR-Cas gene editing to combat antibiotic resistance. They also explore how the study of hippos' teeth and eating habits provides insights into the evolution of other herbivores. Overall, an interesting mix of topics from science and nature.
Nov 24, 2023 • 11min
Genetic Vegetarianism, Roman Sarcophagus, Homework
Discover the genetic link to vegetarianism, uncover an ancient Roman sarcophagus holding a woman of 'special status,' and explore the ongoing debate about homework assignments for kids.
Nov 23, 2023 • 11min
3D Print Stem Cells, Puzzling Elephants, Believing Delusion
Today's podcast covers the fascinating topics of printing stem cells, elephants' puzzle-solving abilities, and the trend of delusional thinking. Scientists have developed a 3D printing method for repairing brain injuries. Elephants showcase their intelligence by solving puzzles. The podcast also touches on a TikTok trend promoting delusional thinking and milestones in stem cell research.
Nov 22, 2023 • 13min
Steroid Psychopathy, Iceberg Crash, Stand Up Dizziness
Psychological toll of steroid use, penguin-iceberg collision in Antarctica, and why we get dizzy when standing up too fast discussed on the podcast.
Nov 17, 2023 • 14min
Hypno Pain Killer, Mosquito Secrets, Important Worms
Today on the podcast, learn about the potential benefits of hypnotherapy for cardiac patients, engineering mosquitoes to prevent disease transmission, and the important role of earthworms in agriculture.
