Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast

Groks Science Show

2008-07-23T10:54:00.000-07:00

The Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast Blog has moved...

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Holistic Birding

2008-07-16T00:38:00.000-07:00

Observing birds in nature is a rapidly growing past time for many birding enthusiasts, which is especially rewarding when combined with a holistic approach. On this program, Ted Floyd discussed holistic birding.

My favorite bird is the phoenix... ;)

Genetic Toxicology

2008-07-09T17:12:00.000-07:00

Toxicology tests have typically relied on outmoded and non-specific measures. On this program, Dr. Bruce Gillis discussed advances in genetic toxicology. In addition, Prof. Jerry Crabtree discussed transgenic technology.

Where's my frankenfood?

Fructose Consumption

2008-07-02T01:23:00.000-07:00

Fructose in the diet is the cause of many health problems. On this program, Prof. Richard Johnson discussed the effects of high fructose consumption.

But, I love my sugar high... ;)

Aging Memory

2008-06-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

The normal decline of our cognitive abilities is one of the hallmarks of the aging process. But, what is the dividing line between normal and abnormal memory loss? On this program, Martha Weinman Lear discussed normal memory loss.

Why did I write this... ;)

Sport Science

2008-06-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

While sports may thrill fans and spectators, professional athletes continue to make use of the latest developments in science and technology to improve their performance. On this program, Davin Coburn discussed the science of sports.

Can they explain why Tiger is so good? ;)

Exercising Brain

2008-06-11T00:03:00.000-07:00

While exercise is widely known to be beneficial for physical health, it can also greatly improve mental abilities as well. On this program, Dr. John Ratey discussed the effects of exercise on the brain.

What about the blueberries? ;)

NASCAR Energy

2008-06-04T00:31:00.000-07:00

Developing clean energy is a major challenge for both policy makers and scientists. On this program, Dr. Lester Brown discussed clean energy technology. In addition, Prof. Diandra Leslie-Pelecky discussed the physics of NASCAR.

When will NASCAR run on biofuels? ;)

Visual Thinking

2008-05-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Solving complex problems can be aided by the use of visual tools. However, these methods are often unknown outside of the scientific and engineering arenas. On this program, Dan Roam discussed visual problem solving.

How many licks does it take to get to the tootsie roll center of a tootsie pop? ;)

Alternative Energy Markets

2008-05-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Developing alternative energy sources will require extensive capital resources. On this program, Matthew Feller discussed methods for carbon sequestration. In addition, Miriam Horn discussed developing capital infrastructure for alternative energy technology.

Why not try the 7/11? ;)

Music Notes:
Intro: Japanese Telecom
Segue: Pancho Sanchez
Outro: Garage Groks

Negotiation

2008-05-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Effective negotiation is a skill that is necessary for resolving conflict peacefully, but the strategies and practices of negotiation are often not properly taught. On this program, William Ury discussed the power of a positive negotiation.

They obviously haven't met my mother... ;)

Music Notes:
Intro: Japanese Telecom
Segue 1: Miserlou
Segue 2: I'm in a hurry
Outro: Garage Groks

Nuclear Renewables

2008-05-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

The current peak oil crisis has intensified the search for renewable energy sources. One possible option is nuclear power. On this program, William Sweet discussed kicking the carbon habit.

Why can't they renew my hair? ;)

Music Notes:
Intro: Japanese Telecom
Segue 1: Amelie
Segue 2: Wallace and Grommit
Outro: Garage Groks

Dropsy Dialysis Transplant

2008-04-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

The kidneys are an often unappreciated organ in the human body. But, the importance of their function becomes readily apparent when something disrupts their normal operation. On this program, Dr. Steven J. Peitzman discussed a short history of failing kidneys.

What about my failing brain... ;)

Music Notes:
Intro: Japanese Telecom
Segue: Yellow
Outro: Garage Groks

Urban Development

2008-04-23T21:43:00.000-07:00

Developing the infrastructure of poor urban environments remains a major challenge for sustainable growth. On this program, Dr. Timothy Campbell discussed capacity building and urban development.

When will they get around to fixing the potholes? ;)

Body Rhythms

2008-04-16T23:41:00.000-07:00

The human body is regulated by multiple physiological processes that cycle throughout the day. On this program, Jennifer Ackerman discussed the science of body rhythms.

My body is in 5/4 time... ;)

Planet Hunting

2008-04-09T22:13:00.001-07:00

Astronomers searching for extrasolar worlds have recently discovered several fascinating planets orbiting other stars. On this program, Dr. Jason Wright discussed the science and technology behind the search for extrasolar worlds.

When will they find the lollipop planet?

Telephone Gambit

2008-04-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

Alexander Graham Bell is widely regarded as the inventor of the telephone. However, few may know the story of Elisha Gray, who may have been the first inventor of the telephone. On this program, Seth Shulman discussed the controversy and history of the telephone.

But, who invented 1-900-numbers? ;)

Napoleonic Science

2008-03-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

The exploration of Egypt and the middle east remained largely unknown to European scientists until 1798. At that time, a group of scientists, engineers, and artists began exploring the region under the leadership of Napoleon Bonaparte. On this program, Nina Burleigh discussed Napoleon, his scientists, and the exploration of Egypt.

Why didn't he explore the Bahamas... ;)

Alzheimer's Prevention

2008-03-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Degenerative diseases of the brain such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's have until recently been accepted as a normal possibility of old age. However, recent advances in modern medicine are changing this view. Preventative measures can reduce the chance of developing these diseases, and effective treatments are being developed. On this program, Dr. Marwan Sabbagh discussed methods for preventing Alzheimer's disease.

But, can they prevent me from losing my hair? ;)

Quantum Hoops

2008-03-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

Science and sports seem strangely dissimilar, but both strive to bring out the best in human endeavors. On this program, Rick Greenwald discussed this quest for such consilience in Quantum Hoops.

Sports aggravates my asthma... ;)

Malaria

2008-03-05T00:24:00.000-08:00

Malaria has often been regarded as a third world disease. Yet, it has been found worldwide, with socioeconomic factors largely contributing to its prevalence or absence in different regions. On this program, Prof. Randall Packard discussed the history and treatment of malaria.

My blood gives mosquitoes diseases... ;)

Computer Malware

2008-02-27T08:48:00.000-08:00

As computers have become increasingly ubiquitous, so too has computer malware. How can we protect our computers from this onslaught of viruses, worms, and Trojan horses? On this program, David Perry discussed effective solutions to combat computer malware.

There's nothing on my computer to protect... ;)

Gorilla Behavior

2008-02-20T10:38:00.000-08:00

Gorillas are genetically very similar to humans, however our behavior seems widely divergent. But, we may have more in common with our primate relatives than one might suspect. On this program, Andrew Grant discussed lessons from gorilla behavior.

I like tropical fruit... ;)

Snake Oil Science

2008-02-13T20:45:00.001-08:00

Complementary and alternative medicine claims cures for ailments spanning the range from allergies to cancer. But, does scientific research support any of these claims? On this program, Prof. R. Barker Bausell discussed the problems with complementary and alternative therapies.

My insurance won't even let my doctor shake my hand... ;)

Supervolcanoes

2008-02-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

Supervolcanic eruptions have the potential to drastically alter the environment and seriously affect human civilization. Understanding the geological consequences of these events continues to challenge scientists. On this program, Dr. John Savino discussed the impact of a supervolcanic eruption.

I always have trouble controlling my eruptions... ;)

Bird Conservation

2008-01-30T00:46:00.000-08:00

Changes in the global environment are threatening the existence of many species of birds. But, what can be done to help? On this program, Dr. Jeffrey Wells discussed current bird conservation efforts.

But, who will help conserve my sanity? ;)

Darwinian Fashion

2008-01-23T09:56:00.000-08:00

The theory of evolution states that selective pressures result in the survival of the fittest. But, what selective pressures are placed on humans? It turns out that our worst enemy may be ourselves. On this program, Wendy Northcutt discussed the Darwin Awards. In addition, Caltech scientists discussed recent advances in geek fashion.

My fashion hasn't evolved in decades... ;)

Body Maps

2008-01-15T23:57:00.000-08:00

Sensory events are conveyed to our brains and interpreted in specialized maps of the outside world. On this program, Sandra Blakeslee discussed the function of these body maps in the brain.

I need a map just to find my brain... ;)

Peking Man Fossils

2008-01-09T10:33:00.000-08:00

The discovery of the Peking Man fossils in China was a landmark discovery for archaeologists and anthropologists. On this program, Dr. Amir Aczel discussed the discovery of the fossils and the tale of one of the main investigators involved in the project, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin.

The only thing I've ever discovered is belly button lint...in my ear... ;)

Reading Brain

2008-01-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

Written language has evolved as a unique human trait for communicating ideas. But, how have human brains evolved to read and write? On this program, Prof. Maryanne Wolf discussed the evolution and development of the reading brain.

I'm still learning to play... ;)

Incentive Economics

2007-12-26T10:04:00.000-08:00

Economics is often viewed as the dismal science, but everyday decisions are often guided or aided by economic considerations. On this program, Prof. Tyler Cowen discussed incentive economics.

I still can't decide what I'm looking for... ;)

Sino-US Technology Relations

2007-12-19T15:40:00.000-08:00

The relationship between China and the United States has far reaching implications in terms of politics, economics, and technology. On this program, Prof. June Dreyer from the University of Miami discussed Sino-US relations.

Where's Chairman Mao when you need him... ;)

Ambiguous Math

2007-12-12T09:50:00.000-08:00

Mathematics may appear to be constructed on absolute foundations derived from first principles. But, are mathematical tenets as absolute as they seem? On this program, Gaurav Suri discussed the philosophical implications of ambiguity in math.

I'm not sure certain what this was about... ;)

Musical Brain

2007-12-05T08:53:00.000-08:00

Music has powerful emotive and expressive qualities that transcend its description as a purely physical phenomenon. This is of course due to how the brain processes musical information. On this program, Prof. Daniel Levitin discussed the musical brain.

My brain sounds like a kazoo... ;)

Rocketeers

2007-11-28T09:18:00.000-08:00

Space travel is quickly becoming part of private enterprise, with several entrepreneurs developing technologies that will enable future space flight. On this program, Michael Belfiore discussed the development of the privatized space industry.

When will they privatize the atmosphere? ;)

Gratitude

2007-11-21T10:59:00.000-08:00

Gratitude and thankfulness are often in short supply. But, what can science tell us about increasing our sense of thankfulness? On this program, Prof. Robert Emmons discussed the psychology of gratitude.

I'm grateful to be here... ;)

Medical Ethics

2007-11-14T16:17:00.001-08:00

Medical practitioners must put the interests of their patients first and foremost. But, do doctors always follow this maxim? On this program, Dr. Joshua Spanogle joined us to discuss issues in medical ethics.

Is it okay to pop a zit? ;)

Planet History

2007-11-07T23:00:00.000-08:00

Scientific observation of the planets in our solar system has a long and florid history. With the increased exploration of the planets, fascinating insights have quickly emerged. On this program, Dr. Richard Corfield presented the natural history of the solar system.

We still weep for Pluto... ;)

Scientific Faith

2007-10-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

Science relies on empirical evidence to support its central theories and tenets, while religious belief relies on the faith of the believer. Can these two separate worldviews be reconciled? On this program, Dr. Francis Collins, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute discussed science and religious faith.

I believe in the great pumpkin... ;)

Altered Oceans

2007-10-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

Changes in the ocean environment are rapidly affecting the well being of both human and marine life. On this program, Kenneth R. Weiss from the L.A. Times examined the altered oceans.

What about the altered states of consciousness, dude... ;)

General Ignorance

2007-10-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

There are some facts that are common knowledge, but these often turn out to be completely wrong. When does common knowledge become general ignorance? On this program, John Lloyd and John Mitchinson from the BBC program, QI, will discuss the book of general ignorance.

But, what if you don't even have common knowledge... ;)

Nobel Prizes 2007

2007-10-10T22:58:00.000-07:00

The Nobel prizes in chemistry, physics, and medicine for 2007 were awarded this week. On this program, we discussed the importance of each of these awards.

We're still holding out for the Ig-Nobel... ;)

Bright Young Minds

2007-10-03T03:15:00.000-07:00

Early childhood is the period when most of the mental faculties of the brain are formed. Yet, much of our education takes place much later in life. What can be done to assure a bright childhood? On this program, Dr. Jill Stamm discussed early childhood learning and development.

Maybe this explains why I'm not potty trained... ;)

Heart Depression

2007-09-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

Heart disease and depression seem like unrelated ailments. However, new research is finding that the occurrence of one can result in the manifestation of the other. On this program, Dr. Lawson Wulsin discussed the link between heart disease and depression.

Does depression also affect my stocks? ;)

Darwin and Religion

2007-09-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

The theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin has served as the basis for modern biological research. But, is evolution at odds with religious beliefs? On this program, Prof. Francisco Ayala from U.C. Irvine discussed Darwin and Religion.

My beliefs evolve daily... ;)

Fecal Science

2007-09-12T07:06:00.000-07:00

While most might experience revulsion by fecal matter, the constitution of poo can actually tell a lot about gastrointestinal health. On this program, Dr. Anish Sheth and Josh Richmond discussed the science of poo.

Maybe I need more fiber... ;)

Wikinomics

2007-09-05T00:47:00.000-07:00

Collaboration in business is important for the development of ideas and products. Technological innovations are facillitating this process. On this program, Don Tapscott discussed Wikinomics, how mass collaboration is changing business.

Why can't they organize a date for me? ;)

Nitric Oxide Disease

2007-08-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

Nitric oxide is a ubiquitous molecule in the body that is involved in several important physiological processes. However, diseases may arise when the regulation of nitric oxide is disrupted. On this program, Prof. Martin Pall from Washington State University discussed the role of nitric oxide in disease.

Does that mean viagara causes disease? ;)

Low Energy Space Flight

2007-08-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Space travel has typically relied on conventional high energy routes, known as Hohmann Transfers, to transfer their payloads. However, low energy routes do exist, and are currently being explored. On this program, Dr. Ed Belbruno from NASA discussed low energy space flight.

Stop the planet of the apes, I'm getting off... ;)

Surgical Faux Pas

2007-08-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

Surgical procedures, while often necessary for curing ailments, can sometimes be over-prescribed by clinicians. On this program, Peter Moore, editor at Men's Health, discussed unnecessary surgeries.

Can they reverse a vasectomy? ;)

Optical Telescopes

2007-08-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

The invention of the telescope 400 years ago opened a window to the universe that continues to amaze. On this program, Dr. Geoff Andersen discussed the history and invention of the telescope.

Bigger IS better... ;)

Efficient Energy

2007-08-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

How does the US stack up to others in energy efficiency? On this program, Arthur Rosenfeld joined us again to discuss some of the encouraging lessons in energy development around the world.

What lessons are to be learned from natural gas? ;)

Cancer Therapy

2007-07-25T03:56:00.000-07:00

Cancer is a disease that strikes fear by its mere mention. But, rapid advances in medical science are developing new treatments. On this program, Prof. David Nathan from Harvard MGH discussed new cancer therapies.

What about therapies for my broken heart? ;)

Starstruck Science

2007-07-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

Continued developments in space exploration hold the promise for advancing human knowledge about the universe. But, how can humans reconcile these findings with their past beliefs. On this program, Prof. Albert Harrison discussed science, religion, and folklore in space exploration.

Do they have fairytales in space? ;)

Evolution versus Intelligent Design

2007-07-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

Evolution continues to be a contentious idea in modern society, especially in the United States, where it has spurred numerous legal battles over the right to teach the competing concept of Intelligent Design in public schools. On this program, Matthew Chapman discussed evolution vs. intelligent design in the Kitzmiller v. Dover Board of Education case.

They should have taken it to the People's Court... ;)

Roswell Investigations

2007-07-04T14:50:00.001-07:00

While the incident that occurred in Roswell, NM is nearly 60 years old, theories and speculation remain as to what occurred. On this program, Donald Schmitt discussed investigations into the Roswell incident.

Special note: this is our special "Independence Day" episode. If you don't get the joke, try checking the IMDB.

I think the bigger mystery is what is in a Twinkie? ;)

Richter's Scale

2007-06-27T00:28:00.000-07:00

The Richter Scale is well known to anyone who has experienced an earthquake. But, many are unaware of the man who invented the scale. On this program, Dr. Susan Hough discussed the life and science of Dr. Charles Richter.

What about the inventor of the slinky?

Space Age History

2007-06-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

Since the launch of Sputnik, human space endeavors have rapidly evolved. On this program, Dr. Martin Collins discussed the history of the space age.

What about the history after beatniks? ;)

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Also Sprach Zarathustra
Segue 2: ET Over the Moon
Outro: Garage Groks

Preventing Disease

2007-06-13T00:46:00.000-07:00

The occurrence of preventable disease in the United States can be lowered by simple lifestyle changes. On this program, Dr. Raymond Francis discussed the project to end disease.

But, what about the project to end split ends? ;?

Energy Policy

2007-06-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

Setting energy policy continues to be a challenge for government officials. On this program, Dr. Arthur Rosenfeld, California Energy Commissioner, discussed energy policy.

Sure, but what's their policy on UFOs? ;)

Insect Songs

2007-05-30T14:57:00.001-07:00

Crickets, cicadas, and katydids are the noise makers among the insects. But, how are their sounds distinguished from one another? On this program, Lang Elliot discussed the songs of insects.

If they're so good, why aren't they on Idol?

Prehistoric Females

2007-05-23T01:25:00.000-07:00

Archaeological findings have generally focussed on the prehistoric activities of males, while neglecting those of females. However, recent archaeological findings are challenging this framework. On this program, Jake Page discussed these new archaeological findings.

Sure, but what about the prehistoric thundercats? ;)

Dark Matter and Energy

2007-05-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

Dark matter and dark energy comprise most of the known universe. But, what are the constituents of dark matter and energy? On this program, Dr. Dan Hooper from Fermilab discussed the dark cosmos.

Why don't they just turn on the light? ;)

Rubik's Cube

2007-05-09T16:03:00.000-07:00

Mathematical puzzles are not usually associated with entertainment. However, the Rubik Cube continues to amaze, confound, and entertain. On this program, Tyson Mao discussed solving the Rubik Cube.

Sure, but can he put a square peg in a round hole... ;)

Carbon Taxes

2007-05-02T14:16:00.001-07:00

What is the appropriate market mechanism for moving away from a fossil fuel economy? On this program, Lester Brown from the Earth Policy Institute discussed how carbon taxes could better represent the true cost of energy.

Can I get a rebate, I think I overpaid... ;)

Moral Brains

2007-04-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

Morality often is considered a largely sociological issue. However, recent advances in neurobiology are demonstrating that human brains are wired for morality. On this program, Prof. Marc Hauser from Harvard University discussed the biology of morality.

So, is it wrong to pick your nose? ;)

Pet Behavior

2007-04-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

Pets often perplex their human companions with their eccentric behavior. On this program, Dr. Marty Becker discussed the intricacies of pet behavior.

Humans perplex me even more... ;)

Cavitation Bubbles

2007-04-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Bubbles created via the process of cavitation have many applications. On this program, Prof. Christopher Brennen from Caltech discussed the physics of cavitation.

Bubbles have never been more deadly... ;)

Primal Healing

2007-04-04T06:56:00.000-07:00

The sources of emotional pain are wide and varied, but are firmly rooted in the deepest centers of the brain. Treating such mental anguish thus requires accessing these deeply ingrained structures. On this program, Drs. Arthur and France Janov discussed Primal Healing.

Why can't my thromboxane do that? ;)

Biological Evil

2007-03-28T00:43:00.000-07:00

The problem of evil has confounded philosophers and scientists alike. Is there a biological basis for evil? On this program, Prof. David Buss discussed the biology of evil.

Where is the evil gene and how can I get one? ;)

Chaotic Systems and Condensed Matter

2007-03-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

The work of Poincare on the three-body problem later became the framework for studying chaotic systems. Since then, mathematicians have made progress in these and other dynamical systems. On this program, Mason Porter talked about exciting developments in this field. Travis Heime also discussed condensed matter physics.

I wish they could stop the condensation on my chaos...

Sustainable Fisheries

2007-03-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

Environmentalists have been concerned about pollution in the sea and the depletion of fisheries, but are these worries overblown? On this program, Stacey Viera of the National Fisheries Institutes, explains the health effects of mercury and NOAA's work in promoting sustainable fishing.

I hope they don't overfish the lamprey... ;)

For Peat's Sake

2007-03-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

Scientists estimate that one-third of today's increase in greenhouse gas emissions come from changes in the land-use. One way to sequester the carbon emissions is plant more trees but are other crops out there better? On this program, special correspondent Terry Yen talked about the promise of anthropogenic peat.

And I thought holding my breath would stop global warming. :)

Disease Evolution

2007-02-28T23:09:00.000-08:00

Disease has a negative connotation in evolutionary thought. But, in some instances, a selective advantage may be conferred by disease processes. On this program, Dr. Sharon Moalem discussed the survival of the sickest.

But, what's the evolutionary advatage of my telekinesis? ;)

Ocean Burps

2007-02-21T03:30:00.000-08:00

A huge potential for our energy needs lies at the bottom of the ocean in the form of methane hydrates. But what happens when the ocean "burps" and large amounts of natural gas are liberated into the atmosphere? On this program, MBARI scientist Charles Paull discusses how these greenhouse gases could be abruptly released.

Maybe some antacid would help... ;)

Everyday Equations

2007-02-14T11:44:00.000-08:00

Do I have a chance with them? Should I drink the milk at the back of the refrigerator? Solving everyday problems like these can be especially problematic without the proper tools. Luckily, math can provide the answer. On this program, Garth Sundem discussed mathematical solutions to everyday problems.

But can math help house train my dog? ;)

Size Matters

2007-02-07T01:38:00.000-08:00

Size matters... especially in biology. But the dimensions of living organisms are often disregarded, while it is arguably essential to their study. On this program, Prof. John Tyler Bonner discussed why size matters in biology.

Now I feel a little inadequate... ;)

Altruistic Evolution

2007-01-31T01:54:00.000-08:00

Altruistic behavior is seemingly at odds with the classic notion of evolution. How can altruism be reconciled with the survival of the fittest? On this program, Prof. Lee Alan Dugatkin discussed the altruism equation.

All you need is love... ;)

Comet Dust

2007-01-24T13:11:00.000-08:00

Billions and billions of years ago, stars in the universe created elements that scattered throughout the galaxies. Until recently, these dust particles from the early universe were frozen in comets. On this program, Dr. Andrew Westphal discussed the StarDust project, the challenges in collecting comet dust and the surprising discoveries made from these samples.

A good vacuum should clean that right up... ;)

Molecular Evolution

2007-01-17T01:50:00.000-08:00

Tracking the evolutionary changes that give rise to new species has become more refined with the advent of molecular biological tools. Changes in DNA sequences over time can now be measured across species to provide a genetic picture of evolution in action. On this program, Prof. Sean B. Carroll discussed these new findings.

My DNA hasn't seen action in years... ;)

Macworld 2007

2007-01-10T11:21:00.000-08:00

For many technophiles, Christmas comes a couple weeks after the fact. At Macworld 2007, we saw a glimpe of what future telephony will look like, but at the same time, developers have products ready to go. On this program, Jon Phillips from MacLife magazine discussed current trends in computing. Also, Kevin Ford talked about advanced telephone systems.

Still, the best wireless technology out there is our voices. :)

Music
1st Seg - Amelie
2nd Seg - Japanese Telecom
3rd Seg - Willow
Outro - Bolero (Moulin Rouge)

Snowflake Physics

2007-01-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. But, what are the physical processes that underlie the formation of snowflakes, and how can this process be reproduced? On this program, Prof. Kenneth Libbrecht from Caltech discussed the physics of snowflakes.

First step snow, next step gold... ;)

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Over the Moon
Segue 2: Let it snow
Outro: Garage Groks

Silent Earthquakes

2006-12-27T19:36:00.000-08:00

Most of us know earthquakes by their ground breaking nature but what has intrigued seismologists recently are silent earthquakes. On this program, Paul Segall discussed the significance of these imperceptible ground movements. Chuck McMinn also joined us to discuss combined heat and power energy systems at his winery Vineyard 29.

I thought cholesterol was the silent killer, but earthquakes? :)

Music notes
1st Seg - Born (Bond)
2nd Seg - Microworld (Hisaishi)
3rd Seg and Outro - Bolero (Mouline Rouge Sountrack)

Belief Biology

2006-12-20T01:14:00.000-08:00

The origin of our belief systems may have strong biological underpinnings. On this program, Prof. Andrew Newberg discussed the biology of our beliefs.

But, what if you don't believe anything? ;)

Music Notes:
Segue 1: The 5th
Segue 2: Faith
Outro: Garage Groks

Technology Woes

2006-12-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

Technological changes are occuring at a rapid pace, and keeping up with those changes is a challenge to even the most astute technophile, not to mention those averse to technology. On this program, the folks from the street, Martina and John, discussed dealing with technology.

If only I could figure out how to use the talking toaster... ;)

Concierge Medicine

2006-12-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

The growing disparities in health care provided by primary care physicians has caused some to offer a service known as concierge medicine. But, this potential cure may result in more problems than solutions. On this program, Dr. Robin Cook discussed the problems with concierge medicine.

I just wish I had coverage for my podiatry needs... ;)

Quantum Computing Bamboo

2006-11-29T22:42:00.000-08:00

Quantum computing makes use of the unique quantum states of a molecular system to store information. On this program, Dr. Michael Hartmann discussed quantum information theory. In addition, Chin Ong discussed the agricultural merits of bamboo.

I wish my fern had quantum merits... ;)

Longevity Habits

2006-11-22T01:41:00.000-08:00

The prevalent image of old age is one of infirmity, but studies of centenarians demonstrate that a vibrant lifestyle is possible. On this program, Dr. Maoshing Ni discussed everyday habits for ensuring a long and healthy life.

I'm more worried about the life of my car... ;)

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Techno Wong Fei
Segue 2: Live Forever
Outro: Garage Groks

Concerned Science

2006-11-15T21:19:00.000-08:00

The role of science in government has often been neglected. The Union of Concerned Scientists is a group that brings scientific opinion to major policy issues. On this program, Prof. Kurt Gottfried discussed the distortion of science by the government. In addition, Vikram Kukarni discussed geotechnical engineering.

Distortion by the government? Say, it aint so... ;)

Science and Spirituality

2006-11-08T08:02:00.000-08:00

Biomedical research often encounters vocal opposition from both sides of the political spectrum. On this program, Prof. Lee Silver discussed the clash of science and spirituality in biological research.

How about more science in theological research? ;)

Energy Switch

2006-11-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

While the United States has lagged in deploying renewable energy into its economy, others have pursued a more aggressive policy of lowering greenhouse gas emissions. On this program, Craig Morris discussed Germany and their move toward solar and wind power.

Scotty could get us more power... ;)

Music Notes
1st Seg - Flight of Bumblebee (McFerrin & Ma)
2nd Seg - Yellow Magic Orchestra (Sakamoto)
Outro - Flight of Bumblebee (Mrvica)

Long Emergency

2006-10-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

Oil dependence has ramifications beyond those of transportation. A shortage in its supply can affect many areas, including agriculture, business, and urban design. On this program, James Howard Kunstler will discuss this long emergency.

I hope they have plenty of ambulances... ;)

Large Scale Universe

2006-10-18T01:20:00.000-07:00

How did the universe begin? How will it end? And, what do we do in the mean time? On this program, Prof. P. James Peebles from Princeton University discussed cosmology, dark matter, and the large scale universe.

This universe ain't big enough for the both of us... ;)

Global Health Care

2006-10-11T14:06:00.000-07:00

Global health care disparaties are all to evident, made even more stark by the remarkable advances in medical science. But, what can be done to resolve these global health care inequities? On this program, Dr. Edward O'Neill, Jr. discussed global health care solutions.

I think the answer is money, lots of money...

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Return to life
Segue 2: Suicide is harmless
Outro: Garage Groks

Le Prix Nobel 2006

2006-10-04T20:21:00.000-07:00

What better way is there to celebrate the Big Bang than with a Nobel Prize? On this week's program, Alex Filipenko commented on the 2006 prize in physics. Caroline Kane also joined us to discuss this year's chemistry prize. Finally, Nobel Laureate Peter Doherty talked about what it takes to get one.

When I grow up, I want one too! :)

Music Notes
1st seg - Syncopated Clock (Tomita)
2nd Seg - Microoworld (Hisaishi)
3rd Seg - Theme from Amelie
4rth Seg and outro - Theme from Willow

Tsunami Warning, Greenhouse Planes, Travel Sites

2006-09-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

The devastating tsunami that engulfed southeast asia in 2004 has heightened awareness of the range and magnitude of this catastrophe. But, how can such events be ameliorated in the future? On this program, Dr. Patricio Bernal and Prof. Robert Dalrymple discussed tsunami warning methods. In addition, Nicola Stuber discussed night flying contribution to greenhouse gas, and Patricia Schultz discussed 1000 places to visit. Finally, Robert Bullock discussed the Taiwan Film Festival.

We tried to get more guests, but no one listens to the show... ;)

Probability Theory

2006-09-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

Chance occurrences often dramatically effect our daily lives. But, how can we evaluate randomness and weigh its influence appropriately? On this program, Prof. Jeffery S. Rosenthal discussed probability theory.

What are the chances of me getting a date? ;)

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Amelie
Segue 2: Take a Chance on Me
Outro: Garage Groks

Cosmological Views

2006-09-13T22:06:00.000-07:00

Cosmological theories address how the universe was created, and what awaits for the future. What do recent advances tell us about the universe? On this program, Prof. Joel Primack and Nancy Abrams discussed the view from the center of the universe.

What's the view from the center of my navel?

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Japan Train 1
Segue 2: Japan Train 2
Outro: Sway

Debunking 9-11 Myths

2006-09-06T08:41:00.000-07:00

Conspiracy theories surrounding the 9-11 tragedy have taken on a life of their own, divorced from the empirical data. Do these theories have any basis in fact? On this program, James Meigs, editor-in-chief of Popular Mechanics, debunked these conspiracy myths.

Where are the conspiracy theories about my non-existent love life?

Music Notes:
Segue 1: Faith
Segue 2: National Anthem
Outro: Garage Groks

Rural Internet

2006-08-30T22:56:00.000-07:00

Billions of people around the world still do not have access to basic power or commmunications. On this program, Laura Mellow joins us to talk about the Inveneo efforts to bring internet access to developing regions of the world.

I barely even have bathroom access... ;)

Music Notes:
Intro: Japanese telecom
Seg 1: Amelie theme
Seg 2: Syncopated Clock
Outro: Totoro