Unearthed: Our Fantastic World Season 1 Episode 13 Ep. 13 - Rapid Medical Tests, Chernobyl and More

Unearthed: Our Fantastic World is a television show that investigates cutting-edge technology and scientific breakthroughs that are shaping our modern world. In episode 13 of season 1, viewers explore how rapid medical tests are transforming the way we diagnose and treat diseases, as well as the continuing fallout from the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

The episode begins by examining the history of medical testing, from the ancient Greeks who used urine samples to detect diabetes, to the more recent development of blood tests and X-rays. But now, a new wave of rapid diagnostic tests is emerging that can deliver results within minutes, without the need for expensive lab equipment or lengthy processing times.

One example of these new tests is the CRISPR-based diagnostic tool, which uses gene-editing technology to detect the genetic material of diseases such as COVID-19. Another is the LAMP test, which can detect diseases like tuberculosis and HIV in remote areas of the world where access to lab equipment is limited.

The episode also delves into the ongoing impact of the Chernobyl disaster, which occurred in 1986 when the nuclear plant in Ukraine exploded, releasing massive amounts of radioactive material into the environment. Despite evacuation efforts, many people were exposed to dangerous levels of radiation, and the long-term health effects of the disaster are still being felt today.

To better understand the ongoing consequences, the show visits the Red Forest, a wooded area near the Chernobyl site that remains highly radioactive. Experts explain how the forest has changed over the years, with certain species of trees and animals exhibiting unusual mutations and behaviors.

Finally, the episode looks at other breakthroughs in medical technology, including the use of bioprinting to create artificial organs, and the discovery of a new type of stem cell that could lead to the development of new treatments for a range of diseases.

Overall, "Ep. 13 - Rapid Medical Tests, Chernobyl and More" explores the ways in which science and technology are transforming our understanding of health and disease, as well as the ongoing impact of one of the worst nuclear disasters in history. It is an informative and engaging look at some of the most exciting and promising developments in modern science.