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From groundbreaking research on seal oxygen perception to heart-stopping surgical techniques, we explore medical frontiers that sound like science fiction but save lives daily with cardiothoracic anesthesiologist Dr. Ashley Gabrielsen.

• Gray seals can perceive blood oxygen levels rather than CO2, allowing them to adjust dive durations accordingly
• Therapy dogs in ERs significantly reduce pediatric anxiety – dropping scores almost twice as much as standard care alone

Then an amazing chat with Dr. G!

• During cardiac surgery, the heart can be completely stopped while a bypass machine takes over circulation
• In extreme procedures, patients can be cooled to 20°C and circulation stopped briefly – being "clinically dead" before resuscitation
• The brain lacks pain receptors, enabling awake brain surgeries where patients can play instruments during the procedure
• Modern anesthesia techniques allow joint replacements with minimal medication and same-day mobility

Dr. G's Instagram Handle @ashleesi306

https://www.instagram.com/ashleesi306/

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The Science Podcast explores cutting-edge taste technology that lets you experience flavors in virtual reality through chemical delivery to your tongue, along with updates on private lunar missions and the genetic basis of Labrador retrievers' food obsession.

• New "eTaste" technology delivers five basic taste chemicals directly to users' tongues through a flexible conduit while in virtual reality
• Device successfully simulated complex flavors like lemonade, cake, fried egg, fish soup, and coffee with 87% accuracy
• Private lunar missions making history with Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost successfully landing on Mare Crisium
• Intuitive Machines' Athena Lander tipped over in a crater but still collected valuable data
• Researchers identified five genes linked to obesity in Labradors, most notably DENND1B which increases body fat by 8%
• Labs with high obesity-risk genes showed stronger food-seeking behaviors
• Strict feeding regimens by owners can maintain healthy weight even in genetically predisposed Labradors

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Through groundbreaking prosthetic hand technology and controversial genetic engineering, this episode explores where science meets the ethical boundaries of what we can versus what we should do.

• Revolutionary prosthetic hand from Johns Hopkins University combines rigid 3D-printed structures with soft polymers to mimic human capabilities
• New prosthetics send sensory feedback (temperature, texture, slippage) directly to users through electrical nerve stimulation
• "Woolly mice" genetically engineered with mammoth traits mark a controversial step toward de-extinction
• Critics question whether de-extinction resources might better serve conservation of endangered species
• Dr. Kevin Morgan shares Belfast's rich chemistry history and the science behind Irish spirits for St. Patrick's Day

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Twitter/X

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Energized by scientific discoveries about probiotics and ancient Mars, we share insights into pet health, including urgent safety tips for pet owners. Today brings stories of microbiology—with probiotic sugars—and pet news worth reflecting on.
• Discussion on probiotics and sugar cravings
• Key takeaways from the Mars studies revealing ancient water sources
• Heartfelt pet care tips following a dog’s medical emergency
• Insights on monitoring signs of intestinal distress in pets
• Exploration of the connections between Mars’ past and life beyond Earth

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This week, we dive into the delightful world of our pets, sharing heartwarming anecdotes and touching on important behavioral topics. Join us as we celebrate the joy pets bring into our lives, share training insights, and engage with our listeners' experiences.

• Highlights from Bernoulli's day at Waggles
• The joy of sharing treats like puppuccinos
• Discussing resource guarding behaviors with Beaker
• Overcoming fears and encouraging training in pets
• Engaging with listeners' pet stories and experiences
• Pet challenges and humorous anecdotes from our week
• Wrapping up with thoughts on pet companionship and joy

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This episode merges the light-hearted exploration of ear wiggling with insightful discussions on human-animal interactions and ethical considerations within archaeology. We discover how our ear muscles connect to hearing and how animal encounters, like at zoos, drive donations. The conversation also addresses the importance of repatriation in archaeology, encouraging listeners to reflect on the stories we tell and the voices we include.

• Overview of ear wiggling and its evolutionary significance
• Link between ear muscles and hearing capabilities
• Study highlighting the influence of animals in zoo donation strategies
• Guest interview with Rachel Paul on NAGPRA and the ethics of repatriation 
• Emphasis on the need for inclusive dialogues in scientific research

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This episode showcases the delightful chaos of pet ownership during winter, emphasizing stories about Bunsen, Beaker, Ginger, and Bernoulli. It highlights the joys and challenges pets bring to their lives, offers insights on pet care during harsh weather, and celebrates the strong sense of community among pet owners. 

• Ginger's new friendship with Bunsen.
• Bunsen's recovery journey and daily care 
• Fun stories about Bernoulli's playdates and winter challenges 
• Valentine's Day paw-dates and social media community involvement
• Viewer questions on pet health and indoor activities 
• Building community through shared pet-parent experiences

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This episode highlights the urgency of planetary defense against a potentially threatening asteroid while also addressing the importance of educating children about responsible pet care and empathy towards animals. The discussion emphasizes two critical areas where science and compassion converge: the efforts to monitor and understand asteroid 2024 YR4 and the promising outcomes of the Animal Guardians intervention program for children at risk of animal harm.

• Bunsen's health update emphasizing the emotional connection between pets and their owners 
• Current threat level of asteroid 2024 YR4 and NASA's response 
• Insights on the James Webb Space Telescope's role in asteroid research 
• Overview of the DART program for diverting asteroids 
• Discussion on child-animal harm and its implications 
• Key findings from the Animal Guardians program highlighting improvements in empathy and care 
• Importance of education in changing future behaviors toward animals 
• Closing thoughts on the responsibility of guardianship for both space and animals

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Bunsen's recent battle with a herniated disc has brought our family a rollercoaster of emotions as we navigated medical diagnostics and treatment options. This episode is filled with heartfelt stories and advice from our community, emphasizing the importance of support in pet parenthood and the joy that pets bring into our lives. 
• Bunsen's concerning symptoms and initial vet visit 
• The emotional weight of the MRI day 
• Diagnosis of a herniated disc and treatment plan 
• Emphasis on rest and recovery methods for pets 
• Listener stories of triumph and tribulation in pet ownership 
• Importance of community support during tough times

Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!

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The Science Podcast kicks off its seventh season by delving into the latest research on microplastics found in human brains and the stress experienced by puppy parents. The episode highlights key findings related to the accumulation of microplastics, potential health implications, and the factors that contribute to stress levels in new pet guardians, providing valuable insights and encouraging listeners to reflect on their experiences. 

• Discussion on rising microplastics in human brain tissue 
• Examination of microplastics’ impact on neurological health 
• Insights into the stress of puppy parenting 
• Factors contributing to lower and higher stress among pet owners 
• Interview with Dr. Sarah Kendrew on the JWST and exoplanet discovery 
• Personal anecdotes about hosting pets and the joys of animal companionship

Dr. Sarah Kendrew's Links

Website

Profesional Website

Bluesky

Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!

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Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

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Being Kind is a Superpower.

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