Trace Dominguez and Julian Huguet, science communicators from That's Absurd, Please Elaborate, delve into the fascinating history of lawns. They take us from the Cretaceous period to the origins of modern turf, exploring the shift from utility to leisure. The duo discusses the evolutionary advantages of different grass species and challenges conventional lawn care practices, highlighting their environmental impacts. Coupled with humor, they engage listeners in a lighthearted investigation of a seemingly simple question that unearths complex societal implications.

Deboki Chakravarti, an expert on animal extremities and their health implications, dives into the fascinating survival strategies of hibernating bears and Mexican cavefish. She explains how bears avoid blood clots during hibernation and the potential treatments this offers for humans. The conversation extends to the cavefish, revealing their unique adaptations to starvation and darkness that could inform fatty liver disease research. Deboki also humorously ponders the strange case of a mushroom growing on a frog, highlighting the complexities of defining species.

Curious about the science of memory? Discover how our recollections change over time and affect eyewitness testimonies. Explore the surprising link between a cat's coat color and its personality, and unravel the complexities of quantum entanglement. Learn about biomimicry and how nature inspires innovative solutions, plus the stark differences between methanol and ethanol. Dive into groundbreaking medical innovations, and get tips for aspiring science podcasters on community building and production strategies.

Dive into the science of love, exploring the fascinating role of oxytocin, famously known as the 'love hormone.' Discover how prairie voles help us understand emotional bonding and the complexities of maintaining love. The conversation also touches on how our brains adapt to the grief of losing loved ones, illustrating the profound impacts of relationships on our emotional well-being. Plus, innovative research on drug delivery methods offers a glimpse into potential breakthroughs in treating brain conditions.

Unpacking the ancient human journey, genetic influence of Neanderthals on modern humans, and the significance of interbreeding. Exploring the evolutionary path of hominins, insights from ancient human DNA, and the impact on traits like circadian rhythms. Also, discussing the rapid shift towards self-fertilization in flowers and the upcoming solar eclipse excitement.

Last fall Sam and Deboki did a Q&A/mug giveaway episode and it was a hit. Round 2 it is! Anyone living within the U.S. is eligible. Entering the raffle is easy. Just send your question(s) to tinymatters@acs.org.Questions can be about a previous episode, some science thing you're dying to know the answer to, a question about podcasting, a question about science communication (scicomm) more broadly ... the sky’s the limit!Just sending in a question enters you into a raffle to win a Tiny Matters mug, and if Sam and Deboki answer your question during the Q&A episode your name will be entered into the raffle twice. At the end of the episode, Sam and Deboki will draw 5 names out of a hat and send each of those people their very own snazzy Tiny Matters mug. Submit questions to tinymatters@acs.org through the end of the day on Friday, January 19th, 2024. 

Today, Sam and Deboki are taking a look back at a handful of their favorite episode moments from the second year of Tiny Matters. And it just so happens to also be episode 50! Asteroid updates, atom-sized transistors, a world without photosynthesis, and more! Have suggestions for topics for 2024? Email us! tinymatters@acs.org. Pick up a Tiny Matters mug here! All Tiny Matters transcripts are available here.

Unpacking the history of DNA profiling and a case of wrongful accusation. Evolution of DNA profiling tech from blood types to touch DNA. Challenges in assessing DNA activity and nuances of trace DNA. Exploring gene variants in dogs and their relevance to cancer.

Deb Chakravarti, a professor with industry experience, discusses the FDA's oversight of phenylephrine in cold medicines. They explore historical cases like thalidomide and Vioxx, while also highlighting new technologies like a capsule to prevent opioid overdose. The episode reveals the complexities of drug approval and regulations, as well as innovative solutions for healthcare challenges.

The podcast explores the origins of opioids, from opium to fentanyl, and the role of pharmaceutical companies in starting the crisis. It discusses the rise of fentanyl and the increase in overdose deaths. Harm reduction facilities that provide safe needle exchange and healthcare testing are crucial. Despite the tragic reality of the opioid crisis, there are glimmers of hope with harm reduction, increased research funding, and pharmaceutical company payouts. The podcast also highlights the National Helpline for support and treatment resources.