Goggles Optional Shorts: Recent Episodes
Stanford Scientists
This is the Goggles Optional, Shorts Feed! On Goggles Optional, scientists from Stanford University provide their professional yet humorous takes from the world of science. Join us as our hosts explore the significant news and discoveries of the week using a combin…
If you previously thought that humans were the only creatures on Earth who can count, think again. Researchers have discovered that similarly to humans’ thought processes when counting and visualizing numbers, newborn chicks also have the ability to assemble a number line. Episode 66: Chicks dig counting
As scientists continue to experiment with strains of bacteria and viruses with hopes of developing vaccinations, there must be a way to ensure that those potentially harmful organisms are contained. We investigate the future of biocontainment and how scientists are using this concept to create organisms that do not rely on nature to survive. Episode […]
We explore the findings of the BICEP2 telescope and discuss why it’s discovery of microwave polarization validating the presence of gravitational waves on early Earth is inaccurate. Episode 66: Chicks dig counting
Physical aging is inevitable but on the molecular level, our cells are aging constantly. Although the source of aging has not yet been discovered, several theories have linked aging to specific processes that our DNA undergo such as damaging and telomere shortening. Episode 65: An eggcellent solution to aging and drugs
Would our bodies make viable landing sites for nanorockets? Scientists are currently researching these minuscule flying objects which can be directly targeted towards specific locations in the human body, potentially aiding and enhancing successful drug delivery. Episode 65: An eggcellent solution for aging and drugs
Scientists from UC Irvine and Australia have teamed up to discover a fascinating method of unveiling egg whites. Join us as we “egg-amine” and discuss this unlikely phenomenon on a molecular level. Episode 65: An eggcellent solution for aging and drugs
The mitochondria is the powerhouse of a cell. We discuss the interesting correlation between mitochondria and cancer cells, specifically what it means for a cancer cell to be devoid of it’s mitochondria. Episode 63: We nose how to stop colds
Put down the Kleenex and sit down with a hot cup of tea as you join us for this exciting segment. We welcome Ellen Foxman, a Postdoctoral Fellow in Laboratory Medicine at Yale University, and discuss her intriguing research using a strain of the common cold known as a rhinovirus to investigate how our immune […]
We introduce an exciting breakthrough in the field of television display, specifically known as Quantum Dot TVs. Unlike LCD or plasma TVs where the brightness of the display decreases, Quantum Dot TVs are designed to channel energy towards creating light directly, thus having the capability of producing a wider array of colors. Episode 62: Drunk finches are […]
Join us as we explore how studying zebra finches and their unique song patterns in a drunken state parallel our speech patterns and can provide insight into the processes we undergo when we are drunk. Episode 62: Drunk finches are the radio stars!
What is Brownian motion and what does this phenomenon have to do with measuring the speed of colliding particles present in liquids? Episode 62: Drunk finches are the radio stars!
Dogs eating grass to vomit? Birds lathering themselves with ants to kill lice? White pregnant elephants consuming plants to induce labor? Join us as we describe what all of these absurd scenarios have in common and why animals do in fact “self-medicate.” Episode 59: Charlie, the Smoking Chimp
A revolutionizing one-atom thick material called graphene that only allows electrons and protons to pass through it is gaining prominence. Now how can this “two-dimensional” material be used efficiently in fuel cells? Episode 59: Charlie, the Smoking Chimp
We unveil an intriguing research study which examines the possible cause-and-effect relationship between smoking and a loss of the Y-chromosome. On the molecular level, we discuss why such chromosome abnormalities may explain the disproportionate number of males who contract certain forms of cancer. Episode 59: Charlie, the Smoking Chimp
You might have learned a little bit about black holes already, but have you ever stumbled upon the theory of hawking radiation? Join us as we discuss this phenomenon using quantum mechanics as well as attempt to break down what it takes to “build” a black hole. Episode 58: Black hole cats
We welcome Dr. Yula Paluy as she describes her unique research concerning the positive impact of humor on our relationships and why it is essential to human nature. Episode 58: Black hole cats
Did someone say pumpkins, squash, or cucumbers? That’s right; during Thanksgiving, you may or may not have had one, two, or all three of these deliciously sweet members of the Cucurbitaceae family. But in fact, the sweetness of these vegetables has been the product of decades and decades of domestication. Join us as we look into […]
How cool would it be to be Geckoman for a day? It just so happens that we could potentially have the ability to run up walls and stick to ceilings after a group of mechanical engineers at Stanford built adhesive gloves for humans that are modeled after gecko feet! Episode 57: Geckos Optional
How can queen termites alone produce a fully functioning colony? Join us as we explore how queen termites have the ability to sexually produce other queen termites through a process known as parthenogenesis. Episode 57: Geckos Optional
Get ready for an action-packed segment where we travel into space and answer the Top 10 science-related questions from the movie Interstellar! Episode 55: Black Holes and Banana Phones
We cover a recent study which explores how cell phone usage can be utilized to track the number of people at a specific location at any given time because after all, a large percentage of the world’s population owns a cell phone! Episode 55: Black Holes and Banana Phones
Is it possible to use synthetic biology techniques to equip bacteria with memory? We explore this latest possibility and explain the benefits of such “sensor” bacteria in using stored information to trace illnesses as well as target specific infected sites in the body with the release of a particular drug. Episode 55: Black Holes and Banana […]
How do bats catch their prey? Through chirping! We discuss this method of survival, as known as echolocation, which allows bats to “see” their food through creating sound waves. Episode 54: Jamming colon cancer!
We welcome Dr. HoJoon Lee, an expert in colon cancer, and speak with him about how studying large amounts of data can indicate cancer progression. Episode 54: Jamming colon cancer!
We welcome Toly Rinberg and Andrew Bergman and speak with them about their humanitarian efforts trying to develop a better means of locating displaced individuals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Episode 53: Finding people in DisPlace
Join us as we explore Google’s exciting, new project aimed at using magnetic nanoparticles to diagnose cancer. Episode 53: Finding people in DisPlace
What happens after bacteria consume sugar? We investigate where the electrons travel through looking at the relationship between bacteria and nanowires on the molecular level. Episode 52: Super viruses and Snickers!
We all know the familiar feeling of being hangry. But is it possible that our hanger has more serious implications then our trivial craving for that burger down the street? It is very possible as we uncover a new study which focused on how our “hanger” can catalyze the development of cancer cells. Episode 52: Super […]
Equipping viruses with new means of destruction: good or bad? Join us as we discuss the importance of creating and studying these “super viruses” in the advancement of medical treatments and solutions. Episode 52: Super viruses and Snickers!
Join us as we highlight the recipients of the Nobel Prize for physics, chemistry, and medicine, or physiology, and their breakthrough inventions. Episode 50: A Nobel recovery from surgery
We welcome Dr. Brice Gaudilliere and Gabi Fragiadakis who give us a closer look at their study on the length of recovery after surgery and whether or not a patient’s immune system can be a clear indication of how long it takes the patient to make a full recovery. Episode 50: A Nobel recovery from surgery
We may think that Coca-Cola Zero, Diet Pepsi, and Sprite Zero lessen our intake of both sugar and calories, but in actuality that is not the case. Join us as we uncover the truth about artificial sweeteners and how these seemingly healthier sodas may be “not so sweet” after all. Episode 47: Planet of the […]
As outrageous as it may sound, chimps go to war. Some might be motivated to war over resources, habitats, or purely out of aggression. But what truly spurs their warlike nature? We investigate this on a deeper level and draw connections to how these tendencies may have impacted and led to our violent nature. Episode […]
What do plankton and science have in common? We welcome biologist Dr. Meike Wittmann who introduces us to her fascinating work studying the Allee effect, a phenomenon depicting the rapid decline in the growth of a population which can lead to even smaller populations or in extreme cases, extinction. Episode 48: Where have all the unicorns gone?
Is there a solution to dwarfism? We study the causes of particular types of dwarfism such as chondroplasia and the effects of such mutations on the body. Episode 48: Where have all the unicorns gone?
What happens when a whale dies? We dive deep into the sea to uncover the aftermath of a whale’s death and how this occurrence positively affects the growth of the deep sea community. Episode 46: Biologist-fall
We all know solar flares as bursts of light coming from the sun, but what causes and goes on behind this magical occurrence? Episode 46: Biologist-fall
The 2nd law of thermodynamics, entropy, a demon and a buffalo: how are all of these terms related? We further explore an experiment conducted at Aalto University in Finland which used quantum mechanics to study a system tying these ideas together. Episode 46: Biologist-fall
We welcome Dr. Kat Arney, a producer for The Naked Genetics podcast, who explores her interest in science communication and education. She sheds insight on her prior experiences in the lab and offers advice to those who want to share their discoveries and breakthroughs in the world of science. Episode 45: The Naked Geneticist
More caffeine anyone? Researchers at the University of Buffalo have sequenced the genome of a coffee plant with hopes of eventually creating “supercoffee” plants. We further investigate the growth of the coffee plant and the effects of caffeine on our bodies. Episode 45: The Naked Geneticist
Diego shares recent discoveries about “sliding rocks” in Death Valley which explain why these boulders appear to “move” on their own. These findings are astounding! Episode 44: Beer Goggles 3, Labor Day Edition!
Listen up as Dave shares a number of his (impossible and possible) ideas that all revolve around the world of science. Decide for yourself whether his ideas deserve a ‘yay’ or a ‘nay’. Episode 44: Beer Goggles 3, Labor Day Edition!
Sleep deprivation can trigger a strange phenomenon called “sleep drunkenness”. What is this all about and does everyone experience it? We delve into a study conducted at Stanford surveying the sleep habits of a number of individuals. Episode 44: Beer Goggles 3, Labor Day Edition!
Are art and science compatible? Our very own Nora expands on the creation of a machine-learning algorithm that studies fine art paintings and identifies certain types of influences between artists. Now that’s what we call an artsy robot! Episode 44: Beer Goggles 3, Labor Day Edition!
Is it a coincidence that different animals have different tastes? Not at all! Animals gravitate towards certain “tastes” because their diet and survival are dependent upon them. We add a scientific spin on the traditional “food chain” as we reveal why animals taste what they taste. Episode 43: Evolutionary Tastes
We dive into a study conducted by 12 marine biologists who ventured in submarines to an affected area of the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. Due to concerns of the oil spill causing unseen damages beneath the surface of the ocean, these marine biologists primarily focused their research on how particular coral communities are impacted. […]
Why and how are humans able to communicate? Are we modeling animal language incorrectly? We study the evolution of language and how our speech patterns and habits contribute to our language abilities. Episode 43: Evolutionary Taste
How can Tibetan people survive at high altitudes? Because they possess rare genes! What are the positive effects of these particular genes and how did this group acquire such beneficial mutations? Episode 42: Goggles Optional’s Guide to the Galaxy
What are zombie fungi and why are they parasites? We dig deeper into how this fascinating parasite functions, as it is dependent upon other organisms to survive. Episode 42: Goggles Optional’s Guide to the Galaxy
Researchers at Harvard University have unveiled what they call a “kilobot”, composed of 1,000 tiny penny-sized robots that can solve tasks as a team. What does this mean for the future of robotics and in what ways are we going to use these robots to aid our daily lives? Episode 42: Goggles Optional’s Guide to the Galaxy
We welcome special guest Holly Moeller, a PhD student who is studying trees and working to preserve our forests. We learn about the different facets of studying the unique relationship between trees and fungi and some conclusions Holly has drawn which contribute to her research. Episode 13: The Secret Life of Fungi
Are mice accurate models of human behavior? We share our thoughts on a recent medistudy which states that mice do not mimic human responses and that any drug used to treat diseases in the mice will therefore be an ineffective solution for humans with those diseases. Episode 41: Duckageddon
In 2004, a satellite would be orbiting a comet for the first time ever. We welcome Erik Adli, a visiting physicist at Stanford University who sheds insight on his involvement and contributions to the Rosetta Project since it started 10 years ago and what we should expect as this project continues to develop throughout the years. Episode […]
Ebola outbreaks are going viral. Contracting ebola is fatal, with the disease taking the lives of 70% to 90% of its victims. What is ebola and how are doctors and researchers nationwide trying to put an end to this epidemic? Episode 40: Apocalypse!
Bee colonies are on the decline, what does this mean for us? As daunting as these tiny yellow creatures may seem, they are quite essential in producing crops and sustaining the agriculture industry. Without bees pollinating crops, numerous fruits and vegetables could disappear entirely from the market. Episode 40: Apocalypse!
Why is California turning to groundwater systems? We discuss a NASA project called G.R.A.C.E., aimed at using gravitational satellites to estimate groundwater depletion in the Colorado River Basin. We further explore these satellites, how they operate, and how they are able to detect groundwater levels on Earth. Episode 40: Apocalypse!
Why is California still in a drought and what does this tell us about our environmental conditions? We go beyond the simple definition of a drought into the specific factors that are at play during this period and analyze some of the solutions to putting an end to our current, water-less state. Episode 14: Breaking […]
What are phages and what is their role inside of our bodies? We further investigate how viruses prey on bacteria in our bodies and how scientists can detect the location of the viruses, in areas such as our gut, using a technique known as “metagenomics”. Episode 39: Phage Noir
Millions have joined the global quest to cure HIV, but none have been completely successful. We address the real reasons why HIV is so difficult to cure and introduce a new technology that could possibly be a step towards finding a permanent solution. Episode 39: Phage Noir
MIT engineers recently invented a two-layered material that can generate steam from light! We dive into how this material produces steam and what this breakthrough means for the future of cheaper energy. Episode 39: Phage Noir
How can we curb the HIV epidemic? We explore a few methods of prevention and treatment that can lower one’s chances of contracting this virus. Episode 21: The inflation of space and waistlines
Why use compressed air to store energy? We welcome Rebecca Motola-Barnes, Chief of Staff at LightSail Energy and get the inside scoop on the mission of LightSail Energy and how this company is advancing the phrase “alternative energy storage”. Episode 15: Yer an Onion, Harry!
We explode with new information about the iMush (Imaging Magma Under St. Helens) project where volunteer scientists study patterns and clues in the magma which could help predict future eruptions with greater accuracy. Episode 38: Mosquito Eruption!
We further examine the inflation theory as it pertains to the “Big Bang”. We form analogies that better illustrate this theory and the effects of it during the early stages of the universe’s formation. Is it possible that inflation and dark energy could be related? Episode 38: Mosquito Eruption!
We all know mosquitoes are dangerous insects, but exactly how dangerous are they? We dive into why mosquitoes threaten our population and how we can combat mosquito-borne diseases in the future. Episode 38: Mosquito Eruption!
What happened right after the “Big Bang”? We analyze new data depicting how gravity waves point to a concept known as the inflation theory, which might account for what happened following the Big Bang billions of years ago. Episode 21: The inflation of space and waistlines
How do we control the rapid growth of malaria? We discuss how malaria spreads via mosquito to person and how we can more closely monitor the effects of climate and altitude on the proliferation of this disease. Episode 19: Memory
Scientists in the UK have developed a new “black” material that allows a very small amount of light to surface. Is this even possible? We shed “new light” on what this mysterious new material is and how it is able to create an optical illusion effect. Episode 37: GO Add(a)gene!
A virtual marketplace for DNA; a wild idea? We interview Dr. Joanne Kamens, executive director of Addgene, and get the full scoop on the types of services Addgene offers and how Addgene hopes to aid scientific research through this concept of “sharing genes”. Episode 37: GO Add(a)gene!
How does a 3D mammogram differ from a 2D mammogram? We discuss both the pros and cons of this new technique and preview what the future holds in terms of breast examinations. Episode 36: Armed with Mammograms!
Our diet does in fact determine how healthy our immune system is and how successfully we combat diseases. We report on the newest nutritional findings concerning an increase in inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergies caused in part by certain unhealthy diet trends. Episode 36: Armed with Mammograms!
Thanks to Dr. Trisha Stan for breaking down how to get a PhD into a couple steps for us! Episode 36: Armed with Mammograms!
What happens when we combine two abstract topics: octopi and self-awareness? With 8 legs, an octopus has an infinite range of motion but how exactly does an octopus “dictate” which legs and muscles to use? Episode 36: Armed with Mammograms!
Is it possible to catch “emotional contagion” on Facebook? We discuss a recent study conducted by Facebook and Cornell which depicts how user-to-user interaction on Facebook strongly influences positive or negative statuses. Episode 35: Facebook: more than meets the (lazy) eye
We count down which animals have the strongest bite. Episode 35: Facebook: more than meets the (lazy) eye
BREAKING NEWS: Tesla releases its patents to the public. What does this mean for the future of eco-friendly car technology? Lets take a closer look at the anatomy of this energy efficient vehicle. Episode 34: Power to the Cells!
We discuss a strange phenomenon called dark matter which cannot be detected by light but its effects can be observed when looking at stars and bending light-rays. Will we ever be able to “see” dark matter? Episode 32: Legos, Lectures, and Learning
Can being able to regulate pain increase lifespan? We discuss everything from spicy food to mice longevity, touching upon specific factors that play a role in sustaining life. Episode 31: Spy encryption
We dissect the process of quantum encryption and how to securely deliver top-secret messages. Episode 31: Spy encryption
Radioactive waste is extremely toxic, but how can we properly dispose of it? What are some possible solutions? We dive into options that could very well save not only our environment, but our Earth as a whole. Episode 31: Spy encryption
We travel back in history to ancient Greece where individuals would tattoos the decoding algorithm for their message onto head of a slave and send the slave along to the recipient of the message. How could the encrypted message be intercepted halfway? Episode 31: Spy encryption
Build-a-bear or build a genome? We highlight the remarkable creation of a semi-synthetic organism with an expanded genetic alphabet. Episode 28: The Rice of Synthetic Biology
Mice? Men? A cardboard cutout of Paris Hilton? We delve into how mice can detect the gender of a person through exhibiting fewer signs of pain when handled by male experimenters. Episode 27: Of Mice and Men
We break down exactly what antibiotic resistance entails and the future ramifications of being unable to control widespread diseases such as malaria or tuberculosis as the body becomes immune to drugs. Episode 27: Of Mice and Men
How are RNA-protein interactions different than DNA-protein interactions? Grad students Jason Buenrostro and Lauren Chircus explain that it might be just as simple as a wavy piece of silly string versus a linear rope. Episode 25: A new way to Array
Dr. Travis Maures breaks down his study on nematodes and answers some of our questions concerning how the presence of male worms affects the lifespan of neighboring worms. Episode 7: He’ll be the death of me!
Authors Jessica Ferreyra and Katharine Ng discuss why the community of germs in our intestines is beneficial. Episode 6: You’ve got a friend in poo