

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

Nov 20, 2024 • 12min
Static Electricity, Stroke Headband, Exploding Craters
Discover the science behind static electricity, including its historical significance and the peculiar ways it occurs in our daily lives, like when petting your cat. Learn about a revolutionary laser-equipped headband that could provide real-time stroke risk assessments, replacing outdated methods. Lastly, delve into the mysterious exploding craters in Siberia, caused by melting permafrost and trapped methane, and their alarming implications for climate change. It's a blend of innovative tech and intriguing nature!

Nov 15, 2024 • 14min
Water Molecules, Mount Everest Growth, Turtle Backpacks
Discover how scientists have observed water forming at the molecular level, potentially paving the way for understanding life on Mars. Dive into the geological wonders that keep Mount Everest growing taller each year, revealing the mysteries behind its dynamic nature. Learn about innovative research techniques using tiny backpacks to monitor the movements of sea turtle hatchlings, shedding light on their perilous journeys from nest to ocean. These fascinating topics blend cutting-edge science with the wonders of the natural world!

Nov 14, 2024 • 11min
Solar Cell Charging, Nazca Glyphs, Singing & Brain Health
Discover how transparent solar cells could power homes by replacing windows. Uncover the mystery of newly discovered Nazca Glyphs, which include fascinating depictions like llamas and human sacrifices. Explore the cognitive benefits of choir singing, revealing how it may enhance brain health, especially in older adults. The intersection of innovative solar technology, ancient mysteries, and the power of music offers intriguing insights into both sustainability and our minds.

Nov 13, 2024 • 12min
Heart Cells in Space, Ancient Log, Day Chapters
Discover the challenges that heart cells face in the weightlessness of space and the promising research aimed at mitigating these effects. Uncover how a 3,775-year-old log reveals innovative solutions for carbon reduction and its potential to combat climate change. Explore the intriguing way our brains organize daily experiences into narrative chapters, influenced by attention and memory formation. The podcast intertwines these fascinating topics, shedding light on the intersection of science and our everyday lives.

Nov 8, 2024 • 12min
Plant Jet Fuel, 3D-Printed Glass, Feeding Coral
Discover how trees can be transformed into sustainable jet fuel, paving the way for greener aviation. Learn about revolutionary techniques allowing 3D printing of glass, reshaping manufacturing processes. The podcast also delves into feeding coral reefs, revealing that it might enhance their resilience against rising ocean temperatures. Together, these innovations present exciting prospects for sustainability and marine conservation.

Nov 7, 2024 • 11min
Asteroid Blast, Power Wash Positivity, Picky Eaters
Discover how nuclear explosions could one day save Earth from asteroids, a fascinating proposal by scientists. Dive into the uplifting effects of playing Power Wash Simulator, which proves that gaming can boost your mood. Lastly, explore the genetic roots of picky eating, revealing why some kids are fussy about food and how this behavior can linger into adolescence. Join for a mix of science, psychology, and a bit of fun!

Nov 6, 2024 • 12min
Stem Cells & Diabetes, Rare Earth Metals, Leaping Sharks
Discover the groundbreaking use of stem cells as a potential cure for diabetes, showcasing a case that retrains the body to produce insulin. Explore how extinct volcanoes might be the key to unlocking valuable rare earth elements for tech advancements. Dive into the fascinating world of sharks and rays, revealing the reasons behind their impressive leaps out of water—ranging from feeding strategies to communication. Each topic reveals innovative solutions and surprising behaviors in the natural and technological worlds.

Nov 1, 2024 • 12min
Gold Nuggets, New Cell Type, Redefining Sustainability
Discover how earthquakes can create gold nuggets by shaking quartz and piezoelectricity. Uncover the exciting revelation of a new type of cell that can turn into either endothelial or macrophage cells, originating from the yolk sac. Dive into the urgent challenges of ocean health, exploring the impacts of overfishing and plastic pollution. Scientists propose redefining sustainability in our oceans to ensure responsible fishing practices that protect both marine ecosystems and community livelihoods.

Oct 31, 2024 • 13min
Defib Placement, Octopus Hunting, Keys to Happiness
Discover a game-changing method for defibrillator placement that boosts survival rates by over 250%. Learn about octopuses that hunt alongside fish, showcasing their surprising intelligence and social behavior. Dive into the keys to happiness with research indicating that harmonious passion and how we manage daily tasks greatly influence our well-being. This intriguing blend of health, animal behavior, and the psychology of happiness will keep you engaged!

Oct 30, 2024 • 11min
Cow Slime, City Rainfall, Golden Lettuce
Discover the remarkable synthetic slime derived from cow mucin that aids recovery for back surgery patients. Cities are getting more rain than their rural counterparts, a trend significant for urban planning amid climate change. Plus, explore the innovative golden lettuce, engineered to be rich in vitamins, battling nutritional deficiencies. These fascinating scientific advancements illustrate the intersection of health, nutrition, and the environment.