
Curiosity Weekly
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.
Latest episodes

Aug 30, 2024 • 11min
Kidneys & Space, Boxing Pride, Art & The Artist
Keith Siew, a researcher studying spaceflight-induced renal dysfunction, shares fascinating insights about how extended missions in space may harm astronauts' kidneys. He discusses the potential for permanent damage and draws on historical astronaut health issues. The conversation also shifts to how nonverbal displays of pride can influence boxing matches and perceptions of victory. Additionally, the impact of an artist's reputation on art appreciation is explored, emphasizing how prior knowledge can alter emotional responses to artwork.

Aug 29, 2024 • 12min
Stroke Blood Test, Hate Speech Monitoring, Healthy Chocolate
Discover a revolutionary blood test that may change stroke detection, allowing for quicker responses and better patient outcomes. Learn how AI is stepping up to combat hate speech online, using advanced models to assist human moderators and improve safety. Plus, dive into the delicious world of healthier chocolate innovations, where scientists are finding ways to make this treat both nutritious and sustainable. Sweet solutions await!

Aug 28, 2024 • 12min
Space Firefighting, Sleep Schedules, Polystyrene
Discover how cutting-edge AI technology could revolutionize wildfire detection from space, potentially preventing devastating fires. Delve into the surprising impacts of sleep schedules on mental health, revealing the benefits of aligning sleep with natural rhythms. Lastly, learn about a groundbreaking recycling process for polystyrene that promises to be both economical and eco-friendly. Tune in for these fascinating insights!

Aug 23, 2024 • 11min
Nature & Healthy Food, T.Rex Intelligence, Baby Sawfish
Discover how a stroll through nature can steer you towards healthier eating choices. Learn about new research revealing that T. rex might not be the cognitive giant we imagined. Explore the fascinating anatomy of baby sawfish, which possess a unique sheath that prevents them from 'sword fighting' in the womb. The discussions highlight the links between nature, food preferences, and the surprising intelligence of dinosaurs, making for an enlightening listen.

Aug 22, 2024 • 12min
Cryopreservation, Personality Transplant, Fungal Azoles
Join Weiwei Xue, a pioneering researcher in cryopreservation techniques for human brain tissue, alongside Hao Chen, who focuses on brain organoids, and Brian Callahan, an expert on personality changes post-transplant. They discuss breakthrough cryopreservation methods that could change neuroscience. Fascinatingly, they delve into how organ transplant recipients often experience shifts in personality, possibly influenced by their donors. The conversation also touches on the impact of azole fungicides on combating fungal diseases, highlighting new mechanisms of action.

Aug 21, 2024 • 11min
Peanut Allergy, Ancient Cancer Treatment, Cuckoo Evolution
Discover how introducing peanuts to babies might help reduce allergies. Explore ancient Egyptian medical practices revealed by a 4,000-year-old skull that shows signs of cancer treatment. Lastly, learn about the fascinating way cuckoos evolve to mimic their host birds, facilitating their sneaky nest infiltration and species formation. Science unfolds stories from the past while presenting actionable insights for the future.

Aug 16, 2024 • 12min
Chimp Tools, Space Radio, Hyperthermia Treatment
Charles Mpaka, an author focused on chimpanzee tool use, and Mathieu Malherbe, a researcher studying tool skills in wild chimps, discuss the fascinating lifelong learning abilities of these animals. They highlight how elder chimps play crucial roles in sharing knowledge. The conversation shifts to a mysterious radio signal from space, potentially linked to a neutron star, sparking curiosity about undiscovered cosmic phenomena. Lastly, they explore innovative treatments for depression through whole-body hyperthermia, revealing its promising anti-inflammatory effects.

Aug 15, 2024 • 10min
Chimpanzee Learning, Breast Cancer Gel, Singing Brain Repair
Edwin J. C. van Leeuwen studies chimpanzee social learning, revealing that these clever apes can teach each other when faced with challenges. Cristen Hemingway Jaynes discusses their cultural learning, showing how skills accumulate over generations. The conversation then shifts to exciting advancements in breast cancer treatments with a new hydrogel technology. Lastly, the therapeutic benefits of singing emerge, highlighting how vocal music can aid in brain recovery after a stroke, improving language abilities and fostering social connections.

4 snips
Aug 14, 2024 • 12min
Chimp Memory, Bacterial Tumor Killer, Gene Disc Repair
Join science writer Carl Zimmer, animal behavior researcher Laura S. Lewis, and cancer scientist Marta Wegorzewska as they dive into fascinating findings. Discover how chimpanzees can recognize familiar faces for decades, revealing deep social memories. Explore the groundbreaking role of gut bacteria in enhancing immune responses against tumors, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment. The trio also discusses innovative gene therapy techniques aiming to alleviate chronic back pain, highlighting promising breakthroughs in spinal health.

Aug 9, 2024 • 13min
Elite Athlete Hearts, Oxytocin & Loneliness, Nail Diagnosis
Join journalist Jennifer Couzin-Frankel as she uncovers fascinating health insights. Discover why elite athletes might face unexpected heart issues like atrial fibrillation and how intense training can actually complicate heart health. Delve into the potential of oxytocin nasal sprays to combat loneliness, highlighting findings on social interactions. Plus, learn about alarming nail conditions that may signal genetic disorders linked to cancer risk, showcasing the surprising connection between fingernails and health.
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