Science On Tap – The Silken Thread: Five Insects & Their Impacts on Human History
A moth, a flea, a mosquito… Insects are seldom mentioned in history texts, yet they significantly shaped human history. For example: • Silkworms (moths) have been farmed to produce silk for millennia, and the Silk Road created a history of empires and cultural exchanges of ideas, philosophies, and religions. • Fleas and lice carried bacteria that caused three major plague pandemics. Bacteria carried by insects left their ancient clues as DNA embedded in victims’ teeth. • Lice caused outbreaks of typhus, especially in crowded conditions such as prisons and concentration camps. Typhus aggravated the effects of the Irish potato famine, and Irish refugees took typhus to North America. • Mosquito-borne yellow fever was transported to the Americas via the trans-Atlantic slave trade, causing panic in the US and creating hazards in constructing the Panama Canal. Dr. Rob Wiedenmann will explore the impact and common threads connecting these insects. This talk is based on his book, coauthored by J. Ray Fisher: The Silken Thread: Five Insects and Their Impacts on Human History. Dr. Rob Wiedenmann is Professor Emeritus of Entomology at the University of Arkansas. He received a B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and a Ph.D. in Entomology, both from Purdue University. He also worked at the Illinois Natural History Survey, where he focused on biological control of insects and weeds. He is a past-president of the Entomological Society of America. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Science On Tap: The Neuroscience of Alcohol – 9 FAQs
In this light-hearted presentation, we will answer 9 frequently asked questions related to alcohol and brain function, with an emphasis on adolescents-young adulthood. Many lores and misrepresentations about beverage alcohol (ethanol) abound and are retold throughout human history. Decades of scientific studies on alcohol effects on brain and behavior, however, are just as intriguing. Why is 21 years the legal age to purchase alcohol?Why does alcohol give you the spins?Does alcohol truly relieve stress?Do teenagers get hangovers?What does alcohol do to sleep?Are there long-term effects of adolescent drinking?What’s wrong with drinking games?How does alcohol cause memory impairmentsCan drinking on an empty stomach increase intoxication? From myths to data, this talk will explore the complicated relationships humans have with alcohol. Dr. Kathy Grant is Professor and Chief of Neuroscience at OHSU. She is a behavioral neuroscientist and studies mechanisms of stress-alcohol outcomes and risk factors such as genetics, adolescent vulnerability, sex differences and decision-making in chronic heavy drinking. Dr. Aqilah McCane is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Neuroscience at OHSU. She is an expert in neural mechanisms of adolescent decision-making and studies the developmental consequences of adolescent alcohol use on neural circuitry as well as adolescent risk factors for alcohol misuse in adulthood. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Science On Tap: Confirmation Bias in Science: Disastrous Yet Essential
Humans unconsciously filter experience based on what they already believe (called confirmation bias). Seeing is not believing – rather, believing is seeing. Despite specific scientific methods to address this bias, it continues to confuse and confound science, leading to errors, mistakes, and failures – many on a monumental scale. Confirmation bias begins the moment a person has a belief, regardless of its origin or truth, even if the belief is harmful to the person who has it. (Remember Prosper-René Blondlot and the great fiasco of N-Rays?) Why would we evolve such a seemingly maladaptive trait? Surprisingly, despite the damage, without confirmation bias, forward progress in science would stop. It’s even essential to human thinking. In this Science on Tap, Dr. James C. Zimring will explore how and why confirmation bias both drives science forward and can also drive it off a cliff. He’ll explore the questions: How do we harness the remarkable advantages of confirmation bias? How does promoting diversity maximize those advantages? James C. Zimring MD, PhD holds the Thomas W. Tillack chair in experimental pathology at the U of Virginia. For the last 20 years, Dr. Zimring has been highly involved in teaching the “science about science” at the graduate and undergraduate levels, as well as a course on scientific thinking for high school. Dr. Zimring has published two books on the topic: What Science is and How it Really Works (Cambridge University Press) and Partial Truths (Columbia University Press). Tickets:$15.00 DISCOUNT (senior, student, it’s your birthday, just can’t afford the GA price right now)$25.00 GENERAL ADMISSION$35.00 VIP: Premium seating in the front several rows of the center section$45.00 SUPPORTER: Premium seating, pint glass (beer not included), and good feelings for supporting the programMinors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here
Science On Tap: Exploring Earth Songs with The Volcano Listening Project
Volcanic eruptions can perturb global climate, build mountains, and reshape human civilizations. They can be deadly, but the deep roots of volcanoes also provide a foundry for critical minerals that enable modern society. In these ways and others, volcanoes have inspired scientists and artists alike for thousands of years. The Volcano Listening Project explores connections between scientific research and artistic perspectives of volcanoes, developing tools to represent data through sound that draw equally from data science, volcanology, and new music. Data ‘sonification’, the display of data using sound, is a powerful way to interact with and understand the complex signals recorded at volcanoes. By leveraging our ears as scientific sensors, it is possible to detect patterns and subtle signatures of deep, poorly understood, volcanic processes. In equal part, sonification of data can trigger an emotional response, and thus lead to compelling music. This program will showcase the Earth songs of volcano music and explain the science behind it, led by volcanologist and violinist Leif Karlstrom. Joining Leif is an ensemble of internationally recognized musicians: Todd Sickafoose (Grammy award-winning composer and bass player for Ani DiFranco), Idit Shner (University of Oregon saxophone professor), Adam Roskiewicz (Grammy nominated with The Modern Mandolin Quartet, as well as work with the Ger Mandolin Orchestra and bluegrass band Front Country), and Johnny Rodgers (tuned glass virtuoso). Leif Karlstrom is an associate professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Oregon. He studies fluid motions in and on volcanoes, glaciers, landscape evolution, and geodynamics. He currently co-leads the Federal Advisory Committee to the U.S. Geological Survey National Volcano Early Warning System, and is also a violinist and composer, with recent national touring and recording credits including folk/bluegrass ensembles Front Country, The Lowest Pair, and Hot Buttered Rum. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Science On Tap – Storm Chasing in the PNW: Wet Cameras & Mist Opportunities
Extreme conditions are rare in the Pacific Northwest, but when the forecast hints at chaos, a small but dedicated group of storm chasers and weather geeks across the northwest spring into action, ready to capture the extraordinary. Join us as we explore the most extreme weather that the Pacific Northwest has to offer through the lens of meteorologist and storm chaser Garret Hartung, including strong southerly windstorms, atmospheric rivers, cold core tornadoes, thunderstorms, floods, heavy snow, freezing rain, and extreme east wind events. What makes these events unique to the PNW? Why do we often miss out on some of the more extreme weather events seen elsewhere in the US? What makes storm chasing here so particularly difficult? Garret Hartung is a Senior Meteorologist at Portland General Electric with more than five years of experience forecasting weather in the PNW. An avid storm chaser since 2016, he has pursued and documented extreme weather and other natural phenomena across much of the Central and Western US. He is also a proud graduate of OSU where he earned a B.S. in Earth Sciences with a focus on climate science and meteorology. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Your AI Lover: Reaching for Romance Across the Net
Humans are inherently social, and for many, romantic love represents the pinnacle of emotional connection. Yet, not everyone finds a romantic partner or experiences the kind of connection they seek. Some may turn to AI for solutions. From virtual companions to AI-driven therapists, artificial intelligence is already reshaping how we communicate, alleviate loneliness, and express desire. And as AI continues to evolve, it could become more than just a tool in our lives: it could become a romantic partner. Dr. L. Kris Gowen will delve into the science of love, belonging, and happiness to explore whether AI mitigates loneliness or exacerbates it. Using what we already know about the intersections of emotional connection and technology, she will reflect on whether humans can truly fall in love with an AI, and can an AI reciprocate? What might a human-AI romance look like, and what could it mean for the future of intimate relationships? L. Kris Gowen is a queer sexuality educator who has spoken nationally and internationally on the intersections of sex and technology. She has authored textbooks, teacher guides, and lesson plans to support inclusive school-based sexuality education, based in science and curiosity. When not thinking about sex and relationships, she lives and breathes all things karaoke. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Science On Tap: Storytelling With Data: Great Graphs, Bad Logos, & the Ethics of Data Visualization
So much data. So much misrepresentation. In our era, understanding the nuances of effective visual storytelling is more crucial than ever. What is the neuroscience of vision?The psychology of perception?How do our brains process visual information? Well-designed graphs can illuminate complex data, making it accessible and engaging for all audiences, while poor design choices, including misleading logos, can distort the truth behind the numbers. Sip on local brews and learn about the aesthetic elements of data visualization AND the ethical responsibilities that come with presenting information. How can we ensure our visuals tell an honest story? What are the implications of data manipulation in public discourse? How to think critically about the visuals you encounter and create, highlighting the ethical dimensions in the context of neuroscience and psychology. Science, design, and ethics—perfectly paired with a pint! Jackie Wirz, PhD, (our own MC!) is a biochemist by training, a nonprofit executive by profession, and a teller of stories. After 15 years of bad graphics as a research scientist, she decided to educate herself on what actually goes into a great visualization. She leveraged these skills as a data management specialist, academic administrator, and as a nonprofit executive. In her spare time she is the MC (mistress of ceremonies) for a variety of events including Science on Tap! Dr. Steven Bedrick is an Associate Professor at OHSU where his research focuses on the intersection of natural language processing and healthcare. He is also interested in the societal and ethical implications that arise from speech and language technology. Tickets:$15.00 DISCOUNT (senior, student, it’s your birthday, just can’t afford the GA price right now)$25.00 GENERAL ADMISSION$35.00 VIP: Premium seating in the front several rows of the center section$45.00 SUPPORTER: Premium seating, pint glass (beer not included), and good feelings for supporting the programMinors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here
Science On Tap: Thigmomorphogenesis, or Why Most Trees Don’t Fall Over
Back by popular demand! Have you ever noticed a tree not fall over? A tree’s natural state is upright—it’s their default mode. Yet, myths pervade: “You should thin your tree” “You should top your tree” “Douglas-firs have shallow roots” “Lone trees are more likely to fall” “The roots will ruin my foundation” “That tree will fall and kill my whole family” Despite the ubiquity of normal, upright trees around us, we often only notice those scattered few that stop being upright, most often in extreme weather. And frankly, those few sully the good reputation of the thousands of others. In the Pacific Northwest, our trees grow to be some of the tallest and largest organisms on the planet, and that can be understandably intimidating as you watch them bend and sway during winter weather from your home. Luckily, our trees did not achieve their prominence by accident, and this talk will explain what the trees are doing, how they react to their environment, and what you can do to make sure your trees are safe. How does a tree build itself? How does it choose which direction to grow? Is it a giant, static monolith waiting to crush everything beneath it? or a dynamic, self-optimizing living system that wants to keep itself upright arguably more than you? Join us on a journey through the lifecycle of a tree: how it grows, lives, and dies. In other words: how do trees become trees and what makes them so good at it? An arborist, a dendrologist, and educator, Casey Clapp is the principal consultant with Portland Arboriculture and co-host/co-creator of CompletelyArbortrary, a weekly podcast about trees and other related topics. He’s also the author of the forthcoming book The Trees Around You: How to identify common neighborhood trees in the Pacific Northwest. Casey holds degrees in Forestry and Environmental Conservation, and he’s an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, Qualified Tree Risk Assessor, and Municipal Specialist. Find him on social media @clapp4trees or reach him at casey@pdxarbor.com. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Science On Tap – Sleep & Snuggling: The Key to Social Connection
Babies sleep more per day during the first two years than any other point in life. Scientists agree that this is a period of rapid change in the brain and body – but the mystery remains, what function does sleep serve us so early in life? One idea is that sleep is an opportunity for our brains to practice, and process — especially critical early in life, when we are experiencing so many new things in the world around us. The brain controls how we connect with each other, and form relationships with our peers and loved ones. Healthy physical connections with others, including a foundation called “social touch”, is formed early in life and requires proper sleep to fully develop. Studies have found an association between poor sleep early in life and neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by differences in social connection. This talk will expand on this lingering mystery by exploring: How does the function of sleep change with age? How a unique rodent – the prairie vole – can teach us how sleep and snuggles help our brains develop the foundation of social touch. Noah Milman is a graduate student in the Department of Behavioral Neuroscience at OHSU. Previously, he contributed to the first-in-human clinical trial of 40Hz sensory stimulation for Alzheimer’s Disease. Now, he is interested in how early-life sleep and environment impact the sensory brain and our social connections later in life. Minors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardian Review our venue FAQ here ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ORDER BEFORE PURCHASING. NO REFUNDS.
Science On Tap: Indigenous Science – Seed Banks for Eco-Restoration
Many ecological restoration projects are one-size-fits-all: kill the weeds, then plant native seeds. But across the West, native plants have unexpectedly reestablished themselves via wind, water, or underground seed banks at restored properties in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California within various ecosystems—prairies, estuaries, sagebrush steppe, wetlands and coastal sand dunes. Scientists, in particular Indigenous scientists, have found that native seeds can regerminate after decades of dormancy underground and that some species—even federally endangered ones—will regrow once invasive plants are removed, or water is returned. This approach, known as “natural regeneration,” is understudied and overlooked by Western scientists. Yet Indigenous-led projects show that it is a more effective and more affordable way to restore degraded lands. This show will discuss a handful of tribally led restoration projects where native plants have returned on their own. Josephine Woolington is a writer and musician based in her hometown of Portland, Oregon. She is the author of “Where We Call Home: Lands, Seas, and Skies of the Pacific Northwest,” which won the 2024 Oregon Book Award for general nonfiction. Her wide-ranging, long-form feature story on this subject was published in High Country News. David G. Lewis (Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde), an OSU anthropology and Indigenous studies assistant professor who descends from western Oregon’s Takelma, Chinook, Molalla and Santiam Kalapuya peoples. Lewis has studied a Willamette Valley site, called Lake Labish, where wapato, a traditional food for PNW Indigenous peoples, has reappeared after a 120-year absence. He is the author of Tribal Histories of the Willamette Valley (2023). Tickets:$15.00 DISCOUNT (senior, student, it’s your birthday, just can’t afford the GA price right now)$25.00 GENERAL ADMISSION$35.00 VIP: Premium seating in the front several rows of the center section$45.00 SUPPORTER: Premium seating, pint glass (beer not included), and good feelings for supporting the programMinors ok when accompanied by a parent or guardianReview our venue FAQ here
