Season 5 Episode 25: Sports Supplements Deception, What Dogs Hear, and Biochemistry PhD Candidate Grant Steiner

08/04/23 • 69 min

Prepare to be shocked as we expose the deceptive world of sports supplements, revealing that only 11% of the 60 tested products contained an accurate amount of the ingredients listed on the label. With prohibited compounds lurking in 7 of these supplements, we question how these inaccuracies bypass the FDA's attention. But it's not all gloom and doom; we also dive into the commendable efforts made by organizations to ensure these supplements are accurately represented.
We also look at a study that mapped dog brains after hearing human and dog sounds. What do you think the findings were? You'll have to listen to find out!
Our guest for this episode is the dynamic Grant Steiner, a biochemistry PhD candidate at Loyola Chicago. His personal encounter with a cancer scare at 13 fostered his fascination with foundational sciences and their role in understanding the human body. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Grant’s current research on cyanobacteria, photosynthesis, and the Great Oxygenation Event offers intriguing insights into the planet’s history and future. We also touch on his studies on carbon capture as a climate change mitigation strategy and the critical role of Rubisco, the most abundant protein on Earth.
Adding a touch of warmth and humor, we slide into discussions about Grant's lifelong love for animals, starting with his beloved pet, Shelby. Discover how pet ownership can cultivate empathy for animals. We emphasize the importance of engaging young minds in STEM and environmentalism, and the significant role of voting in shaping these fields. And of course, no show can end without some laughter, so we wrap up with a light-hearted conversation about Annalise's donut-craving cats, Mouse and Larry. So, brace yourself for an exciting mix of science, pet tales, and environmental advocacies!
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08/04/23 • 69 min

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The Science Pawdcast - Season 5 Episode 25: Sports Supplements Deception, What Dogs Hear, and Biochemistry PhD Candidate Grant Steiner

Transcript Summary

In this episode titled "Sports Supplements Deception, What Dogs Hear, and Biochemistry PhD Candidate Grant Steiner," the hosts delve into a variety of intriguing topics. They discuss the deception in sports supplements and the lack of accuracy in ingredient labels, shedding light on the safety concerns surrounding these products. The conversation then shifts to a study on how dogs process human and canine sounds differently, revealing fascinating insights into their brainwaves and reactions. The hosts also interview Grant Steiner, a biochemistry PhD candidate, who shares his passion for studying photosynthesis and the potential for renewable energy sources. They emphasize the importance of empathy for animals and the environment, while also discussing the role of technology, such as solar energy, in mitigating climate change. The episode concludes with amusing anecdotes about cats and dogs, showcasing the hosts' love for their furry friends. With a range of engaging and thought-provoking topics, this episode offers a compelling listening experience that explores science, environmentalism, and the wonders of animal behavior.

Transcript

Speaker 200:00:08.050

Hello science enthusiasts . My name is Jason Zikowski . I'm a high school chemistry teacher and a science communicator , but I'm also the dog dad of Bunsen and Beaker , the science dogs on social media . If you love science and you love pets , you've come to the right place . Put on your lab coat , put on your safety glasses and hold onto your tail . This is the Science Podcast .

Season 5 Episode 25: Sports Supplements Deception, What Dogs Hear, and Biochemistry PhD Candidate Grant Steiner Top Questions Answered

What is cyclic electron flow and how does it prevent damage in photosynthetic organisms?

Cyclic electron flow is a process in photosynthetic organisms that helps cycle excess energy and prevent damage to proteins.

How accurate are sports supplements in terms of their listed ingredients?

According to a study, only 11% of tested sports supplements contained the accurate amount of ingredients listed on the label.

How many out of 57 muscle-building supplements actually contained the claimed ingredient?

Out of the 57 muscle-building supplements analyzed, only 34 actually contained the claimed ingredient.

How much variation was found in the accuracy of the ingredients in the tested supplements?

Some supplements were off by as much as 334%, indicating significant variation in the accuracy of ingredients.

Can the FDA approve or disapprove dietary supplements before they are sold?

No, the FDA does not have authority to approve or disapprove dietary supplements before they are sold.

How does dogs' brain process human and canine sounds differently?

According to a study, dogs' brains process human and canine sounds differently, showing more positive brain wave activity when hearing human sounds compared to dog sounds.

Why is it important to involve young people in environmentalism and STEM?

Involving young people in environmentalism and STEM is important for future generations to address environmental issues and promote scientific advancements.

How can solar energy potentially power every country for over a year?

If harnessed efficiently, solar energy has the potential to power every country for over a year.

Are solar panels becoming more cost-effective?

Yes, over the years, solar panels have significantly improved and are becoming more cost-effective.

Is Alberta, Canada suitable for solar energy despite its association with oil and gas production?

Yes, Alberta, Canada has ample sunshine for solar energy despite its reputation for oil and gas production.

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