Welcome to Research Renaissance, presented by the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust. Embark on a journey into the forefront of cutting-edge brain science as we feature insightful discussions with a diverse array of guests, from early career researchers pioneering groundbreaking science to influential voices in investment communities, policymaking, and research institutions. Together, we delve into neurological diseases, their causes, treatments, and the quest for cures.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Alon Avidan, a distinguished Professor of Neurology at UCLA and the Director of the UCLA Sleep Disorders Center. Dr. Avidan, also a 2020 Toffler Scholar, is an expert in sleep medicine and its intricate relationship with neurological diseases.

Dr. Avidan shares his insights on how sleep impacts brain health and explores the bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. He discusses the importance of early diagnosis and the potential for neuroprotective treatments.

The discussion covers:

- The importance of sleep in overall neurological health.

- Differences between REM and non-REM sleep and their roles in brain health.

- The connection between REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and Parkinson's disease.

- Historical context and scientific milestones in understanding sleep behavior disorders.

- Practical advice on improving sleep quality and recognizing sleep disorders.

- Dr. Avidan’s upcoming textbook on sleep medicine and recommended readings for the general public.

- The role of wearable technology in tracking and improving sleep.

- Continuing education for clinicians and public awareness initiatives.

Dr. Avidan’s groundbreaking research offers hope for early intervention and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases, emphasizing the critical role of sleep in maintaining optimal brain health.

"Sleep is not a luxury; it's a necessity for maintaining optimal brain health." -Dr. Alon Avidan

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Research Renaissance. Until next time, onward and upward.

Uclahealth.org
naps-rbd.org
Avidan@mednet.ucla.edu

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

In this episode of Research Renaissance, Dr. Vijaya Kolachalama, associate professor at Boston University and a Toffler Scholar, discusses his pioneering work in developing software frameworks that assist neurologists in dementia screening. This engaging discussion delves into how Dr. Kolachalama's team is integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve the diagnostic process in neurology.

Key Points Discussed:

• Creating Custom Methods for Science: Dr. Kolachalama explains his approach to creating specific methods tailored to the scientific challenges at hand rather than adapting science to fit pre-existing methods. This has led to innovations in how dementia is screened and diagnosed.
• Focus on Dementia Screening: The episode covers why Dr. Kolachalama chose dementia screening as a focal point for his research, emphasizing the rising need due to the aging population and the limited number of specialists.
• Technology and Tools Developed: The team has developed frameworks that potentially allow primary care settings to perform initial assessments that could identify neurodegenerative conditions earlier.
• AI and Machine Learning in Medicine: Discussion on how AI and machine learning are revolutionizing medical diagnostics, particularly through the use of neural networks and big data analytics.
• Challenges of Transitioning from Research to Commercialization: Dr. Kolachalama shares his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and rewards of translating research into practical, commercial applications.
• The Future of AI in Healthcare: Insights into the future integration of AI tools in clinical settings and the potential for these technologies to shape research agendas and improve patient outcomes.

For those interested in the detailed workings of Dr. Kolachalama's research or wishing to participate in ongoing studies, visit the lab's website or reach out via email at vkola@bu.edu. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, healthcare, and neurology.

Stay connected with the Research Renaissance podcast by subscribing and visiting tofflertrust.org for more episodes and information on the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

Welcome to Research Renaissance, presented by the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust. Embark on a journey into the forefront of cutting-edge brain science as we feature insightful discussions with a diverse array of guests from early career researchers pioneering groundbreaking science to influential voices in investment communities, policymaking, and research institutions. Together, we delve into neurological diseases, their causes, treatments, and the quest for cures.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Marci Nielsen, a prominent figure in healthcare policy and executive management.

Dr. Nielsen shares her unique career journey from hard sciences to public health and health policy, highlighting her roles in academia, government, and advocacy.

The discussion covers the differences between global and public health policy, the challenges within the U.S. health system, and the impact of COVID-19 on public health management. Dr. Nielsen also delves into the CVKey Project, a technological initiative to help communities safely reopen during the pandemic.

The conversation extends to the future of public health, strategies for rebuilding public trust, and the importance of investment in science and research.

Dr. Nielsen’s passion and optimism for the next generation's role in addressing healthcare challenges shine through, offering a hopeful outlook for the future.

"From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded. I feel like I've got an obligation to take what I know and help others know it too." -Dr. Marci Nielsen

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Research Renaissance. Until next time, onward and upward.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal delves into the crucial topic of Alzheimer's disease and the transformative efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.

In recognition of June being Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, Deborah’s guests are Sheila Griffith, Vice President of Programs and Services for the Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area Chapter and Aaron Schulman a volunteer community educator with the Alzheimer's Association. Sheila and Aaron bring their vast knowledge and personal insights into the challenges and advancements in Alzheimer's care.

Key Discussion Points:

Impact of Alzheimer's Disease:

Sheila discusses how Alzheimer's impacts not just patients but also their families and communities, highlighting the ripple effect of this devastating disease.
Aaron emphasizes the importance of creating a new normal for families dealing with cognitive impairment and the necessity of upfront planning for financial and legal matters.

Support Systems and Resources:

The emotional and psychological toll on patients and families is explored, along with the various support systems available, such as the 24/7 helpline provided by the Alzheimer's Association.
Sheila and Aaron share insights on the stigma surrounding Alzheimer's and the importance of promoting awareness and utilization of available resources.

Community Outreach and Education:

Efforts to engage underserved communities and address the unique challenges they face with Alzheimer's are discussed.
The importance of community-specific outreach plans and the role of volunteers in spreading awareness and education.

Research and Advocacy:

The role of policy and advocacy in increasing federal funding for Alzheimer's research, with notable progress from $400 million to $3.8 billion annually.
Discussion on the emerging blood tests for early detection and the optimism among researchers for finding a cure.

Personal Motivations and Experiences:

Aaron shares his journey of volunteering with the Alzheimer's Association despite no personal family history, driven by the desire to give back to the community.
Sheila's background in nursing home care and her dedication to spreading awareness and providing support to caregivers and patients.

Visit alz.org for comprehensive information and resources on Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

For personalized support and information, call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900.

Interested in volunteering? The Alzheimer's Association always welcomes new volunteers to help in various capacities. Reach out to your local chapter to get involved.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Research Renaissance. Together, we can advance our understanding of the brain and work towards finding a cure for Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases. Until next time, onward and upward.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal sits down with Dr. Andrew Holbrook, an Assistant Professor of Biostatistics at UCLA and a 2023 Toffler Scholar.

Dr. Holbrook shares his fascinating journey from studying ancient languages and teaching in China to pioneering research in biostatistics and Alzheimer's disease.

Together, they delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence, advanced algorithms, and brain science, exploring how these tools are revolutionizing our understanding of neurological diseases.

Key Topics Discussed:

Dr. Holbrook's Unique Journey: From studying ancient Greek, Latin, and German literature to teaching in China and eventually finding his passion in biostatistics and AI.

AI and Alzheimer's Research: How Dr. Holbrook uses AI and advanced algorithms to understand the brain and Alzheimer's disease better. The importance of cortical thickness measurements and their role in predicting Alzheimer's.

Statistical Challenges and Innovations: The complexity of analyzing structured data with time and spatial dimensions, and the breakthroughs in AI that are making real-time brain analysis possible.

The Role of Deep Learning: An explanation of deep learning and its critical role in accelerating data analysis, making it feasible to process complex brain imaging data quickly.

Collaboration and Open Source in Research: The importance of interdisciplinary teams and the role of open source software in advancing scientific research.

Personal Connection to Alzheimer's: Dr. Holbrook's motivation is driven by personal experiences and the broader impact of neurological diseases on families.

Future of AI in Medicine: Predictions for the next 5-10 years, including the development of precision medicine tools and the use of functional brain data for early detection of dementia.

"Deep learning is about approximating functions, and it allows us to do all sorts of interesting things in science and industry." - Dr. Andrew Holbrook

Contact Information:aholbroo@g.ucla.edu

Subscribe to Research Renaissance for more insightful discussions on cutting-edge brain science. Visit our website and feel free to reach out with your thoughts, suggestions, or inquiries about the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust.

Thank you for joining us on this journey into the forefront of brain science. Together, we can advance our understanding of the brain and address its ailments. Until we meet again, onward and upward.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

In this insightful episode of Research Renaissance, Dr. Alexandra Touroutoglou shares her extensive work on brain imaging and non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to treat Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Discover the cutting-edge technologies and methods being employed to understand and combat neurodegenerative diseases.

Key Points Discussed:

• Academic Journey:
  • Dr. Touroutoglou's transition from studying in Greece to pioneering neuroscience research at Harvard, highlighting the expansive possibilities in U.S. science.
• Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation:
  • Exploration of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and its role in inducing neuroplasticity, potentially reversing the effects of brain atrophy in Alzheimer's patients.
• Integration of Brain Imaging:
  • The use of advanced MRI techniques to diagnose and understand Alzheimer's at a granular level, aiding the precise application of TMS.
• Clinical Trials and Promising Results:
  • Insights into ongoing clinical trials started in 2019, showing promising preliminary results in improving symptoms of Alzheimer's through innovative stimulation methods.
• Super Agers Study:
  • Discussion of a 2016 study identifying "super agers," older adults whose brains exhibit minimal signs of aging, providing clues into combating neurodegenerative diseases.
• Future Technologies:
  • The potential impacts of artificial intelligence and machine learning in enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalization.
• Global Collaboration:
  • The importance of interdisciplinary and international cooperation in advancing Alzheimer's research, with a nod to Dr. Touroutoglou's efforts to foster connections with Greek scientists.

To dive deeper into Dr. Touroutoglou's research or participate in clinical trials, visit the Harvard Catalyst website or the Frontotemporal Dementia Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Join us as we continue to explore groundbreaking advancements in brain science and strive towards innovative treatments for neurological diseases. For more episodes and information, subscribe to our podcast and visit tofflertrust.org. Feel free to reach out with thoughts, suggestions, or to learn more about the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

In this intriguing episode, Dr. Joseph Mazzulli, a 2022 Toffler Scholar, dives deep into the mechanisms of protein misfolding and amyloid formation, and their links to cell death in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Utilizing cutting-edge induced pluripotent stem cell models, Dr. Mazzulli explores how these proteins transition from a soluble to an insoluble state, leading to disease.

Key Topics Covered:

Understanding Protein Misfolding: An exploration of how proteins like amyloid and tau transition to harmful states in the brain.

Innovative Research Techniques: Use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to model neurodegenerative diseases and test potential treatments.

Challenges in Neurodegenerative Research: The complexities of studying common and sporadic forms of diseases without clear genetic triggers.

Potential for Personalized Medicine: How iPSC technology could revolutionize treatment approaches through personalized medicine.

"The potential of induced pluripotent stem cells in disease modeling opens new doors for personalized medicine, transforming our approach to neurodegenerative diseases." - Joe Mazzulli

Stay engaged with the latest in brain science by subscribing to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform.

Visit our website for more resources and to join the conversation about advancing neurological research.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

In this episode of Research Renaissance, presented by the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust, host Deborah Westphal explores the intricate world of genetic research with Dr. Valerie Arboleda.

Dr. Arboleda, an associate professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and a 2023 Toffler Scholar, shares her insights into the genetic architecture of rare, monogenic diseases, and common complex diseases.

Key Topics Covered:

Understanding Genetic Diseases:
Dr. Arboleda explains the difference between monogenic diseases, which can be traced to mutations in a single gene, and common complex diseases, which involve multiple genetic contributors.

Research Approach:
The conversation delves into how Dr. Arboleda's lab identifies and analyzes genetic variants contributing to diseases, highlighting the importance of understanding both monogenic and complex genetic patterns.

Clinical Implications:
Dr. Arboleda discusses the clinical approach to genetic testing and counseling, emphasizing the challenges and breakthroughs in diagnosing and managing genetic disorders.

Scientific Challenges:
The discussion explores the hurdles in linking genetic data to clinical phenotypes and the potential of biobanks and artificial intelligence in overcoming these obstacles.

Future of Genetics:
Looking ahead, Dr. Arboleda expresses hope for advancements in genetic therapies, particularly for rare pediatric syndromes, and discusses the impact of genetics on understanding and treating various diseases, including cancers linked to genetic mutations.

Dr. Arboleda shares her journey from medicine to genetics research, revealing her passion for both disciplines and the synergistic benefits of combining clinical practice with genetic research. She underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing the field and the role of new technologies in enhancing genetic diagnostics and treatments.

This episode provides a comprehensive look at the challenges and future directions of genetic research, particularly in understanding the complex interactions between our genes and health outcomes. Dr. Arboleda's work exemplifies the cutting-edge of medical science, where genetic understanding meets clinical application.

For more insights and updates, subscribe to Research Renaissance on your favorite podcast platform and visit tofflertrust.org. Contact Dr. Valerie Arboleda to learn more about her research or explore collaboration opportunities through her UCLA profile or via her lab's website at arboledalab.org.

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.