BrainStuff

The Day of the Dead celebrates life by inviting the spirits of loved ones back home for feasting and fun. Learn about the history and traditions surrounding the holiday in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-other/day-dead.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When concerns about being accidentally buried alive swept Europe and North America in the 1800s, inventors (and showmen) came up with coffins that could let a living person escape -- or at least alert someone to come dig them up. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/afterlife/premature-burial-safety-coffins.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Genetics says "probably." In this episode of BrainStuff, learn what researchers found when they submitted supposed Yeti samples for genetic testing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warm foods can feel more filling than chilled foods, but why? Learn the possible explanations behind the cravings in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/why-hot-food-more-satisfying-than-cold.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the fascinating history of paternity testing, from ancient methods to modern advancements in DNA technology. Explore the controversial electronic blood test called the acylophore and its role in a high-profile paternity suit. Delve into the complexities of paternity and fatherhood, examining the case of Charlie Chaplin and the challenges in determining paternity based on biological versus social relationships.

Discover how pilots make up time during flights by adjusting flight plans and working with wind conditions. Explore the concept of block time and the limitations imposed by airport infrastructure. Learn how modern planes are slower than their predecessors due to various factors.

Discover the puzzling condition of misophonia, where specific sounds can trigger intense anger and anxiety. Researchers study the impact of these trigger sounds on individuals and explore the brain's emotional processing. Learn about the physiological responses and unique body perceptions experienced by people with misophonia.

The Chernobyl nuclear accident caused a lava-like flow of radioactive fuel and other materials that hardened into a giant mass now known as the Elephant's Foot. Learn how corium like this forms in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/chernobyl-elephants-foot.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These toothy fish are some of the largest in North America. Learn how they've lasted 100 million years in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/alligator-gar-100-million-years-old-and-still-kicking.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home burials are largely a thing of the past, but they're perfectly legal in most states -- once you check a few boxes. Learn how home burials work in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/afterlife/can-you-bury-someone-your-backyard.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.