13 chapters across the catalog
Researchers at the Scripps Research Institute have identified a single mutation that could allow the H5N1 bird flu virus to latch onto human receptors. While the current strain in cattle has not yet made this leap, the study raises concerns about the potential for a new human pandemic.
A mention of yak meat on a previous episode led to an "explosion of orders" for a Colorado farmer. Yak meat is described as lean, healthy, and "fluffy," marketed by some as "Himalayan beef." This is contrasted with the push for "sustainable" food sources like insects, with researchers at the University of Adelaide promoting crickets and mealworms as the future of the human diet.
Colorado State University Racial Profiling Incident
Two Native American teenagers on a campus tour at Colorado State University were stopped and patted down by police after a parent on the tour reported them for being "too quiet" and wearing "strange clothing." The university president later apologized, stating that the boys were racially profiled. The school offered the family a "VIP tour," which they have yet to accept.
4/20 Marijuana Day, Federal Crackdown Fears and THC Health Studies
On April 20th, CBS News reported on the growing support for marijuana legalization despite threats of a federal crackdown from Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly. A University of Sydney study suggests that THC can stay in fat cells for months and may actually aid in weight loss when combined with exercise. The hosts discuss the "runner's high" and the different effects of Sativa and Indica strains.
Ted Cruz Criticizes Debate Moderators, Bolsheviks and Mensheviks
Ted Cruz delivers a viral response during the CNBC debate, listing the insulting questions asked of his fellow candidates to illustrate why the American people distrust the media. Cruz compares the Democratic debates to a fawning exchange between Bolsheviks and Mensheviks while refusing to answer a debt limit question until the moderators address substantive issues.
Atlantic Hurricane Cycle Study and Scientific Status Quo
A study from Colorado State University published in Nature Geoscience suggests the Atlantic is entering a quieter cycle for hurricanes, similar to the 1970s and 80s. The hosts note the irony of this being labeled "controversial" despite a decade of relatively low hurricane activity.
Science Denial Panel, University of Colorado Discussion
A panel at the University of Colorado, aired on C-SPAN, explored the concept of "science denial" as a political and religious issue. Moderator Blumenthal argued that established scientific facts are being undermined by individuals with financial interests or religious beliefs. The panel framed the rejection of scientific consensus as a threat to public policy and truth.
Cultural Marxism, Halloween Costume Bans, Honor Rolls
The University of Colorado Boulder issued guidelines discouraging "offensive" Halloween costumes, such as sombreros or geisha outfits. Meanwhile, a school in Calgary, Alberta, abolished its honor roll to avoid hurting the self-esteem of students who do not receive awards. These trends are attributed to the "self-esteem movement" and a shift away from competitiveness in Western society.
Gun Legislation, Self-Defense Tactics and Propaganda
Washington State is considering legislation to allow annual police inspections of semi-automatic rifle owners' homes. Meanwhile, the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs faced criticism for self-defense advice suggesting women tell attackers they are menstruating or vomiting to deter assault. The hosts analyze the "Run, Hide, Fight" propaganda videos produced in Houston and the push for biometric or RFID-enabled "smart guns."
Pre-Crime Beta Teams, Behavioral Evaluation and Threat Assessment
The University of Colorado's "Beta Team" (Behavioral Evaluation and Threat Assessment) is scrutinized following the Aurora shooting. These teams are designed to identify potential threats on campus before they act. The hosts compare this to "pre-crime" and express concern over the expansion of such surveillance units in educational institutions.
Micro-loans in America, Police Playing Cards, Colorado State University
A listener in Colorado reports that police and students from CSU are going door-to-door handing out decks of playing cards featuring city ordinances. The cards list fines for "nuisance gatherings" and noise violations, which the hosts compare to the Iraqi "most wanted" playing cards.
UK Liquor Tax, Adnans Ale, University of Colorado
While the UK lowered its VAT, it simultaneously increased the tax on alcohol by 8%. Adam Curry mentions looking for a local pub that serves Adnans Ale. The segment transitions to a video from a University of Colorado Boulder professor regarding human population trends.
John C. Dvorak points out the failure of meteorologists at Colorado State University to accurately predict the 2007 hurricane season, which saw significantly fewer storms than the 26 recorded in 2005. The discussion extends to European weather forecasting, mentioning a massive false alarm in the UK and Netherlands that led to unnecessary evacuations. They argue that climate scientists and TV weathermen often lack the data to support their dire predictions.
