Science Quickly
Scientific American
Host Rachel Feltman, alongside leading science and tech journalists, dives into the rich world of scientific discovery in this bite-size science variety show.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 7, 2015 • 3min
Mars Travelers Could Suffer Radiation Brain Damage
Recent research on lab mice suggests that exposure to cosmic radiation, similar to what astronauts would experience on a trip to Mars, can cause cognitive impairment. This highlights the importance of developing better protective measures for space missions.
May 6, 2015 • 3min
Wheat Genes Could Bring Back Chestnut
Scientists are using genetic modification to restore the American chestnut tree by crossbreeding it with the Asian chestnut and introducing genes from wheat and other plants to increase resistance to the fungus that caused the tree's devastation.
May 5, 2015 • 5min
Pop Music Gets Its Fossil Record Analyzed
Join Christopher Intagliata, a talented reporter specializing in the analysis of popular music trends, as he explores the fascinating evolution of hit songs. Discover how over 17,000 tracks from the Billboard Hot 100 reveal periods of shifting diversity in music. Intagliata draws intriguing parallels between musical evolution and biological changes, capturing the essence of cultural transformations from 1960 to 2010. Tune in for enlightening insights on how new styles emerge in bursts, reshaping the soundscape of popular music.
May 4, 2015 • 3min
Space Supervoid Sucks Energy from Light
Discover the massive supervoid in space that aligns with a cold region of the cosmic microwave background light, revealing the impact of the lack of mass.
May 1, 2015 • 3min
Latex Lining Could Quiet Plane Rides
Engineers develop latex-laced honeycomb material to reduce noise in airplane cabins
Apr 30, 2015 • 3min
Parkinson's Pen Vibrates to Improve Legibility
Researchers have developed the ARK Pen to assist Parkinson's patients in enhancing their handwriting by using vibration to activate hand muscles. Initial tests show positive outcomes with the majority of patients experiencing improvement in their writing clarity and size.
Apr 29, 2015 • 3min
Infants Already Glued to Multiple Screens
New survey reveals that infants are engaging in second screening, using tablets and smartphones while watching TV.
Apr 28, 2015 • 3min
Old Cats Can Get Seizures from Sound
Discover FARS, a type of epilepsy in elderly cats triggered by certain sounds. Explore the study, age of onset, and treatment with Levituracetam.
Apr 27, 2015 • 3min
Musical Performance Activates Specific Genes
Karen Hopkin, a seasoned reporter on scientific findings, delves into fascinating research on how musical performance activates specific genes in professional musicians. Blood tests revealed that playing an instrument triggers genes linked to neural growth and motor control. This intriguing discovery draws parallels with songbirds, shedding light on the evolutionary ties between music and genetic expression. Join her as she uncovers the science behind what makes music not just an art but a biological phenomenon!
Apr 24, 2015 • 3min
Shipwreck Champagne Reveals Old Wine Secrets
Exploring the discovery of well-preserved champagne bottles in a shipwreck, revealing differences in alcohol and sugar content, and emphasizing the unique storage environment of the deep sea for aging wine.
