A scientific odyssey
Summary
Hosted by Marnie Chesterton, this episode of Unexpected Elements explores science stories inspired by Christopher Nolan’s film The Odyssey. Topics include a viral "Trojan horse" mechanism, iguanas rafting to Fiji, and using soundscapes to restore coral reefs. The panel also discusses open-label placebos, sleep-inducing scents, and ancient DNA from Mycenae.
Topics discussed
Introduction and the theme of Odysseys
The Trojan Horse strategy of Delta viruses
The epic journey of iguanas to Fiji
Using soundscapes to restore coral reefs
The science of open-label placebos
Listener stories: dog cycles and echolocation
Quiz answer and the science of sleep scents
Ancient DNA reveals Mycenaean family secrets
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