Curiosity Weekly - podcast cover

Curiosity Weekly

Discoverywww.discovery.com

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.  


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Episodes

Body Map, Brain 2.0, Pig Bystanders

Today we discuss how the body can physically feel emotions, how axolotls can regenerate their brains, and how pigs can play peacemakers during pig-on-pig fights. Body Map “Where Are Emotions Felt In The Body?” by Juliana Ukiomogbe https://greatist.com/connect/emotional-body-maps-infographic#infographic “Bodily maps of emotions” by Lauri Nummenmaa, Enrico Glerean, Riitta Hari, and Jari K. Hietanen https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1321664111 Brain 2.0 “Axolotl Weirdos Can Regrow Their Br...

Dec 14, 202216 min

Astronaut Blood, Screen Wrinkles, Save the Snow Crab

Today we explore how astronauts’ blood mutates when coming back from space, how our screens are aging us, and the potential extinction event of the snow crab. Astronaut Blood “Astronauts' blood shows signs of DNA mutations due to spaceflight” by Elizabeth Howell https://www.space.com/astronaut-spaceflight-cancer-dna-mutations-study “Researchers Find Spaceflight May Be Associated With DNA Mutations and Increased Risk of Developing Heart Disease and Cancer” by Mount Sinai https://www.mountsinai.or...

Dec 09, 202210 min

Happy Healthy Kids, Hearing Data, Oystersong

Today you’ll learn about how kids’ well-being can affect adult heart health, what our ears can tell us about the cosmos, and how playing music meant for oysters can help them adapt to climate change. Happy Healthy Kids “Protecting Children’s Psychological Well-being Could Help Strengthen Their Hearts as Adults” by Boehm, J. K. https://www.psychologicalscience.org/publications/observer/obsonline/2022-sept-childhood-psychological-health-adult-hearts.html “Psychological Well-Being in Childhood and ...

Dec 08, 202214 min

Healthy Breaks, Diarrhea Gene, Motorcycle Light

Today we discuss the benefits of taking breaks during work, how milk led to death, and a new configuration of lights that might lead to a massive decrease in the amount of motorcycle accidents that happen at night. Healthy Breaks “Microbreaks may help to prevent workplace burnout” by Neil McKim https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/microbreaks-may-help-to-prevent-workplace-burnout/ “Microbreaks can increase your well-being, but only if you do these types of activities, experts say” by Megan Marples ...

Dec 07, 202213 min

Techno-Lonely, TV Glasses, Snooze Button

Today we explore how technology is making us lonely, how a new pair of glasses may be expanding your idea of a computer screen, and how hitting the snooze button too many times could ruin your sleep hygiene. Techno-Lonely “Cultivate Deeper Connections Using the Science of Friendship” BY Ryan Jenkins https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-case-connection/202209/cultivate-deeper-connections-using-the-science-friendship “Teens around the world are lonelier than a decade ago. The reason may be ...

Dec 02, 202215 min

Mental Health Robot, Seaweed Coffee, Brain Stimulation for ED

Let’s talk about a recent study that shows children are more likely to be honest with their emotions when talking to a robot, a revolutionary new way to make single-use coffee pods from seaweed, and, trigger warning, how deep brain stimulation might help those suffering from eating disorders. Mental Health Robot “Children more candid about mental health when talking to robot, study finds” by Hannah Devlin https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/sep/01/children-mental-health-talking-robot-stu...

Dec 01, 202211 min

Health and Connection, 3D Dam, Reliance on English

Today you’ll learn about the behaviors researchers say can make us more connected with each other, how China is building an AI-powered, 3D Printed dam, and how an over-reliance on the English language is causing problems in the field of cognitive science. Health and Connection “Feeling connected enhances mental and physical health – here are 4 research-backed ways to find moments of connection with loved ones and strangers” by Dave Smallen https://theconversation.com/feeling-connected-enhances-m...

Nov 30, 202217 min

Shower Ideas, Medicinal Chocolate, Black Holes Burping

Today we explore the science behind getting great ideas in the shower, how regular chocolate consumption can slow down cognitive decline, and how a black hole recently burped out the remnants of a star it absorbed four YEARS ago! Shower Ideas “The Science of Why You Have Great Ideas in The Shower” by Stacey Colino https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/the-science-of-why-you-have-great-ideas-in-the-shower/ar-AA10ANav “An improved neuroanatomical model of the default-mode network reconciles pr...

Nov 25, 202216 min

Smart Contacts, Stoned Dolphins, Birdsongs vs Traffic

We discuss how scientists have developed a cancer-detecting contact lens, the behaviors of inebriated dolphins, and how listening to birds singing can help our mental health! Smart Contacts “Scientists Create Smart Contact Lenses That Diagnose Cancer” by Ophthalmology Breaking News https://ophthalmologybreakingnews.com/scientists-create-smart-contact-lenses-that-diagnose-cancer “A Microchambers Containing Contact Lens for the Noninvasive Detection of Tear Exosomes” by Shaopei Li, Yangzhi Zhu, Re...

Nov 24, 202217 min

Cognitive Bias, Body Battery, 3D Printed School

Today you’ll learn about the science of cognitive bias, how scientists may have found a way to turn your body into a battery, and how the first 3D-printed school in Europe is about to be built in Ukraine. Cognitive Bias “Cognitive Biases and Brain Biology Help Explain Why Facts Don't Change Minds” by Keith M. Bellizzi https://theconversation.com/cognitive-biases-and-brain-biology-help-explain-why-facts-dont-change-minds-186530 “Misinformation and Its Correction: Continued Influence and Successfu...

Nov 23, 202216 min

Asthma Cure, Shark Intestines, Human Brain Cells in Rats

Today we explore whether there is a potential long-term cure for asthma based on recent studies, how shark intestines are shaped exactly like a Tesla Valve, and what happens when you transplant human brain cells in newborn rats. Asthma Cure “Potential Long-Term Treatment for Asthma Found” by Aston University https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/08/220809141233.htm “A Potential Long-Term Asthma Treatment Has Passed Early Trials in Mice” by DAVID NIELD https://www.sciencealert.com/a-potentia...

Nov 18, 202214 min

Small Talk, Crab Battery, Ancient Dragons

Today we discuss how only four minutes of small talk with a stranger can help you predict their personality traits, an exciting biodegradable battery option on the horizon, and a new discovery into the origins of dragons! Small Talk “Four Minutes of Small Talk Can Reveal Key Personality Traits” by Sascha Pare https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/aug/31/four-minutes-of-small-talk-can-reveal-key-personality-traits-study-says “Small Talk and Theory of Mind in Strategic Decision-Making” by Neha ...

Nov 17, 202215 min

Remote Mines, Mouse Embryos, Down Syndrome Treatment

Let’s talk about a potential new high-tech mine in Minnesota, how scientists have created a synthetic mouse embryo using stem cells, and a major breakthrough in the cause of and treatment for Down Syndrome. Remote Mines “This Remote Mine Could Foretell the Future of America’s Electric Car Industry” by Ana Swanson https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/30/business/economy/electric-cars-us-nickel-mine.html “Fight over Minnesota nickel mine plan by Talon Metals is local — and global, too” by Mark Reilly h...

Nov 16, 202214 min

A Wandering Mind, Song of the Humpback, Robocap

Today we discuss the science behind a wandering mind, the ins and outs of songs composed by humpback whales, and how an innovative new robotic capsule might help our digestive systems absorb drugs that aren’t as effective to take orally. A Wandering Mind “The science of a wandering mind” By Tim Vernimmen https://knowablemagazine.org/article/mind/2022/science-wandering-mind “How Self-Generated Thought Shapes Mood—The Relation between Mind-Wandering and Mood Depends on the Socio-Temporal Content o...

Nov 11, 202214 min

Frog Skin Cells, Shrimp Robots, Oral Insulin Tablet

Today we discuss how frog skin stem cells were recently used to create microscopic living machines, how scientists are trying to replicate the powerful punch of a mantis shrimp, and a new breakthrough in the creation of an oral insulin tablet. Frog Skin Cells “Frog skin cells turned themselves into living machines” by Laura Sanders https://www.sciencenews.org/article/frog-skin-cells-self-made-living-machines-xenobots “A cellular platform for the development of synthetic living machines” by Dougl...

Nov 10, 202212 min

Robot Squirrels, AI Labor Prediction, Dolphin Gangs

Today you’ll learn about how squirrels are parkour experts and can be used to teach robots to move in a similar way, how artificial intelligence can help expectant mothers predict childbirth risks, and the gangs of dolphins that are roaming our oceans. Robot Squirrels “Science’s next great leap: using squirrels to teach robots how to ‘parkour’” by Joe Pinkstone https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/08/05/sciences-next-great-leap-using-squirrels-teach-robots-parkour/ “Squirrel parkour: How leapin...

Nov 09, 202212 min

Music and Dementia, Microbe Rocket Fuel, Bitcoin Mining

Today you’ll learn about how music is being used to combat dementia, how scientists are making more efficient rocket fuel from bacteria, and the environmental effects of bitcoin mining. Music and Dementia “Music Helps Patients With Dementia Connect With Loved Ones” by Marla Paul https://neurosciencenews.com/music-alzheimers-connection-21316/ “Music: Bridging Memories for People With Alzheimer's” by Dennis Thompson https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2022-09-06/music-bridging-memorie...

Nov 04, 202214 min

The Myth of Man Flu, Arctic Lakes, Buzzing Bats

Let’s talk about whether “man flu” is fact or fiction, how the Arctic lakes just threw a curveball at our climate change projections, and the genius new way bats are tricking their predators. The Myth of Man Flu “Man flu is not a thing – Gender-specific secondary analysis of a prospective randomized-controlled trial for acute rhinosinusitis” by Reidl et al. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022399922003324?via%3Dihub “Stop accusing men of overreacting – 'man flu' really does ex...

Nov 03, 202212 min

Hacking Device, Designer Seaweed, Accent Exposure

We discuss the latest in phone hacking technology, how aquaculture may be able to help the global food crisis, and how engaging with people who speak in a foreign accent may help us retain language. Hacking Device “Hacking device can secretly swipe and tap your smartphone screen” by Jeremy Hsu https://www.newscientist.com/article/2335970-hacking-device-can-secretly-swipe-and-tap-your-smartphone-screen/ “‘Invisible finger’ demo hacks the touchscreen” by Billy Hurley https://www.itbrew.com/stories...

Nov 02, 202211 min

Flirting Cats, Walking Sharks, Preventing Cerebral Palsy

We discuss a new app that can translate a cat’s meow into human languages, how the Epaulette shark is teaching us about climate change, and a potential treatment that might prevent cerebral palsy. Flirting Cats “Did My Cat Just Hit On Me? An Adventure in Pet Translation” by Emily Anthes https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/29/science/cats-pets-ommunication-artificial-intelligence.html “Melody matters: An acoustic study of domestic cat meows in six contexts and four mental states” by Susanne Schötz​​,...

Oct 28, 202214 min

Geckos & Skin Cancer, Music in Childhood, Underwater Camera

Today we discuss the connection between skin cancer and a leopard gecko named Mr. Frosty, how playing a musical instrument in childhood can affect brain function as we age, and how a new underwater camera can help us explore previously-unseen parts of the ocean. Geckos & Skin Cancer “This Gecko Named Mr. Frosty and His 900 Babies May Inspire Human Skin Cancer Treatments” by Elizabeth Gamillo https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/reptiles-frosty-yellow-skin-may-reveal-future-treatments-sk...

Oct 27, 202213 min

Pee and Seagrass, Heart Sound Maps, Modified Mosquitos

Today we talk about how crystallizing human urine can help save seagrass, a new AI program that can detect early signs of heart disease, and how mosquitos can be used to vaccinate against malaria. Pee and Seagrass “Human Pee Might Just Be the Key to Saving Seagrass” by Jesse Kathan https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/human-pee-might-just-be-the-key-to-saving-seagrass-180980368/ “Use of a wastewater recovery product (struvite) to enhance subtropical seagrass restoration” by C. MacDonnella, ...

Oct 26, 202214 min

The Dead Speak, Egyptian Discoveries, Pyramid Building

Join us for a deep dive into the latest and wildest new discoveries from Ancient Egypt to get you ready for the release of DC’s new film Black Adam, only in theaters. The dead speak! Yes, scientists have recreated the voice of a 3,000 year old mummy and we’ll tell you all about it as well as how some ancient Egyptian tombs contain more than just gold, and a recent discovery as to how the pyramids were built. The Dead Speak “The dead speak! Scientists recreate voice of 3000-year-old mummy” by Eri...

Oct 21, 202216 min

Magic Addiction Fix, Parkinson’s Detection, Wind Turbines

Today we talk about how psilocybin from magic mushrooms can help those struggling with alcohol addiction, a new device that can detect Parkinson’s disease from breathing patterns, and how we can recycle wind turbines. Magic Addiction Fix “Psychedelic ‘Magic Mushroom’ Ingredient Could Help Treat Alcohol Addiction” by Margaret Osborne https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/psychedelic-magic-mushroom-ingredient-could-help-treat-alcohol-addiction-180980658/ “Psilocybin shows promise for treating ...

Oct 20, 202211 min

Reverse Aging, Cooperation Increase, Time & Covid

Today we explore a potential scientific fountain of youth, how cooperation among strangers has, contrary to popular belief, actually increased in recent years, and how the pandemic has caused the perception of time distortion. Reverse Aging “Scientists actually reversed human aging using a revolutionary new treatment” by Mike Wehner https://bgr.com/science/age-reversal-oxygen-therapy/ “Human aging process biologically reversed in world first” by Sarah Knapton https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/202...

Oct 19, 202211 min

Parents & Screens, BFFs Smell the Same, Locusts Find Cancer

We discuss how digital media affects parents and caregivers, how friends often have similar body odor, and the cancer-sniffing abilities of locusts. Parents & Screens “Using digital media to relax is related to lower-quality parenting” by Media Relations, University of Waterloo https://uwaterloo.ca/news/media/using-digital-media-relax-related-lower-quality-parenting “Parents attached to digital devices more likely to yell at their kids, are less ‘present’ in their lives” By Chris Melore http...

Oct 14, 202215 min

Food for Climate Change, New Water Planet, Stormchasers

We delve into which foods that research shows will become more popular as we adjust to climate change, the discovery of a new planet covered in water, and the effects of Arctic storms on ice levels. Food for Climate Change “These six foods may become more popular as the planet warms” by Anna Gibbs https://www.sciencenews.org/article/food-climate-future-nutrition-millet-seaweed-cassava-mussels “What Is Cassava? Health Benefits and How to Prepare It” by Healthline https://www.healthline.com/nutrit...

Oct 13, 202213 min

VR & Transcendence, Stonehenge Calendar, Pregnant With Covid

We discuss how VR is as effective as psychedelics at helping people reach transcendence, whether Stonehenge may have been an ancient calendar, and how COVID-19 has affected women in late pregnancy. VR & Transcendence “VR is as good as psychedelics at helping people reach transcendence” by Hana Kiros https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/08/06/1056727/vr-virtual-reality-psychedelics-transcendence/ “VR Experience Simulates The Feeling Of LSD & Mushrooms” by Kyle Melnick https://vrscout.com...

Oct 12, 202211 min

Dating App Data, Mass Frog Grave, Cure for Colorblind

Let’s talk about how dating apps stress us out, the discovery of a massive ancient frog grave, and how gene therapy can potentially cure colorblindness. Dating App Data “The agony of partner choice: The effect of excessive partner availability on fear of being single, self-esteem, and partner choice overload” by Marina F. Thomas, Alice Binder, and Jörg Matthes. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563221003009 “Science of Dating: How Many Times Should You Swipe on a Dating App?...

Oct 07, 202214 min

Bee Venom Kills Cancer, Giant Manatees, Monkey Masturbation

Our stories today discuss how bee venom can potentially help fight cancer, the history of manatees, and recent discoveries in how monkeys use tools. Bee Venom Kills Cancer “Honeybee venom kills aggressive breast cancer cells: Australian study” by Rachel Arthur https://www.biopharma-reporter.com/Article/2020/09/07/Honeybee-venom-kills-aggressive-breast-cancer-cells-study “Honeybee venom 'kills some breast cancer cells'” by BBC https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-53994058 “Honeybee venom kill...

Oct 06, 202212 min
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