Think Twice Podcast

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Latest Episodes:

32: Neuro Basics - The Blood Brain Barrier & Drug Design Nov 08, 2024

Have you every wondered how exactly drugs are designed to access the brain? The answer usually revolves around one very important part of the central nervous system. The blood brain barrier is the layer of cells that protects the brain from pathogens while still allowing for the removal of toxins. From pain medications to ozempic, several drugs have been designed to get across this barrier in one way or another. In this episode, we are joined by an expert in the field and cover how the blood brain barrier works, how common drugs act on it, what can go wrong, and how you can leverage your own blood brain barrier. Dr. Sebastian Furness is from Adelaide and received his BSc(Hons) and PhD. from the University of Adelaide, in the biochemistry of gene regulation. He then did postdoctoral research on how blood stem cells regenerate all the different types of blood cells at the University of British Columbia in beautiful Vancouver before returning to Australia (this time in Melbourne) to work on the molecular functioning of an important class of drug targets called G protein-coupled Receptors. Sebastian won an ARC Future Fellowship, the most prestigious early-mid career fellowship for discovery scientists in Australia. This allowed him to develop his own research program where he moved to the University of Queensland, in sunny Brisbane. Sebastian runs a small lab that focusses on trying to understand the molecular-level details of how communication occurs between the gastrointestinal tract and brain. He teaches into undergraduate Biomedical Science and Pharmacy and enjoys communicating science in various forums, including “Pint of Science” and “The Conversation”. For more information on what the lab does see: RTClab.org AND https://biomedical-sciences.uq.edu.au/research/groups/receptor-transducer-coupling Author: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

31: Psychopathy - Does the Media Get It Right? Oct 25, 2024

Have you ever wondered what makes a person capable of heinous acts such as murder? Are their brains different from the rest of us? Do they feel remorse or guilt? What about how to predict if someone will grow up to be a psychopath? In this episode, we explore the dark yet intriguing realm of psychopathy and the neuroscience behind it all! We answer your burning questions on the topic, including potential causes, the truth behind 'empty eyes,' psychopathy vs sociopathy, and if psychopaths are accurately represented in movies and TV shows. Author: Dure Khan, Deanne Pinto Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

30: Will AI Chatbots Replace Human Therapists? Oct 11, 2024

Would you trust an AI chatbot with your mental health? The lack of accessible and effective interventions for mental health continues to be a worldwide problem. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) represent a potential solution, including the rise of 24-hour AI chatbots as a support tool. However, with all new technologies there is concern about the lack of regulatory oversight, potential overhyped benefits, and underestimated risk of these AI therapy apps, especially considering the highly vulnerable populations that they target. In this episode, we discuss all the promises and pitfalls of AI mental health tools with researcher Zoha Kawaja. Zoha is a third-year Master of Science candidate studying bioethics at Simon Fraser University (SFU) and has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Calgary with over 8 years of healthcare research experience. As part of the Bridge to Artificial Intelligence (B2AI) Voice Consortium, an NIH-funded data generation project, her thesis takes an anticipatory stance to gauge the ethical demands that entail when designing and implementing artificial intelligence (AI)-technologies that utilize voice as a biomarker (voice AI) to assist clinicians in predicting, diagnosing, and monitoring mental health conditions. Email: zoha_khawaja@sfu.ca LinkedIn: @zohakhawaja Supervisor: Dr. Jean-Christophe Bélisle-Pipon; jean-christophe_belisle-pipon@sfu.ca Research Lab: Sustainable People-centric Algorithmic Responsible and Knowledge-driven (SPARK) Good AI Lab at SFU Voice Consortium: https://www.b2ai-voice.org/ Author: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

29: Satiety Science - How Genetic Mutations Can Lead to Obesity Sep 27, 2024

Did you know that there are cells in your brain that decide when you should feel hungry and when you should feel full? And in some people, those cells don't work and the feeling of hunger never disappears regardless of how much they eat. Understanding how these cells work and what key mechanisms regulate satiety in humans is crucial to combat the global obesity epidemic. In this graduate student interview episode, Sandrine St-Onge tells us about her research on how our brain tells our body that we are full and the consequences of not having this brain signal. It only took a simple conversation about Alzheimer’s disease to awaken Sandrine St-Onge’s curiosity about sciences. She was first an artist before digging deep into the field of neuroscience. After a bachelor’s degree at Université de Montreal, she couldn't think of a better path than to pursue her education with a Master’s degree in neuroscience in Dr. Jacques Michaud’s Lab. Being a foodie herself, she had the opportunity to study the neural mechanisms of eating behavior. Authors: Eve Racette, Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

28: Which Self-Help Books are Actually Backed by Neuroscience? Sep 13, 2024

Did you know that reading isn't only for fun, but it can also have several health benefits like improving sleep quality, cognitive function, and stress relief? Self-help is a genre that is quickly rising in popularity but, unfortunately, a lot of self-help content is not actually backed by neuroscience. So, which ones should you read and which ones should you avoid? In this episode, professor and psychologist Dr. Joanna Pozzulo shares her top 4 picks for evidence-based self-help books and how to identify pseudoscience in the media. Dr. Joanna Pozzulo is a Chancellor's Professor in the Department of Psychology, Director of the Laboratory for Child Forensic Psychology, and Director of the Mental Health and Well-Being Research and Training Hub (MeWeRTH) at Carleton University. Dr. Pozzulo’s primary research aims to understand how memory in the context of witnessing crime differs across the lifespan with a focus on the young eyewitness. By using evidence-based approaches her goal is to reduce wrongful conviction. Relatedly, she is interested in non-judicial factors that influence juror decision-making. Dr. Pozzulo is passionate about teaching and research in the area of mental health and well-being having created undergraduate and graduate level capstone courses for students that include experiential learning opportunities. Relatedly, her goal is to use evidence-based work to promote well-being to a general audience. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

27: The Mysteries of Lucid Dreaming with Dr. Başak Turker Aug 30, 2024

Have you ever wondered how lucid dreaming is even possible; being aware that you’re dreaming and also having the ability to control your dreams? Well, researchers are using cutting-edge techniques to figure it out, including how they can communicate with lucid dreamers, the brain mechanisms responsible for these experiences, and how people can teach themselves to lucid dream. It might sound a lot like a sci-fi film but, in this episode, we are joined by an expert in the field to break down the mysterious neuroscience of dreaming and how its all possible. Dr. Başak Turker is a cognitive neuroscientist specializing in sleep, dreams, and consciousness. She earned her PhD from Sorbonne University and the Paris Brain Institute. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at the Cognitive Neuroscience and Cognition Center in Paris. Her research explores how spontaneous fluctuations in ongoing brain activity influence perception across various states of consciousness, including wakefulness, sleep, and anesthesia. In this episode, we discuss the neuroscience of dreaming, the benefits of keeping a dream journal, how dreams can stimulate creativity, and how researchers are finding new ways to communicate with lucid dreamers and advance this fascinating field of neuroscience. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

26: Epilepsy and Hormones - Why Are We Treating Women Like Men? Aug 16, 2024

Did you know there is a link between hormonal changes and seizures? New research is demonstrating a bi-directional relationship between hormones like estrogen and progesterone with electrical activity in the brain. We know there are vast differences in hormonal cycles between men and women, so why are standard epilepsy treatments not considering this? In this episode, we chatted with Dr. Lata Vadlamudi, an associate professor and senior staff specialist in neurology at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital; She obtained her medical degree from the University of Queensland and completed physician training in the field of Neurology with further specialization in epilepsy in Melbourne, Sydney and the Mayo Clinic, USA. She obtained her PhD from the University of Melbourne with the thesis titled “The Genetics of Epilepsy: The Testimony of Twins." We discuss the neuroscience of epilepsy, how seizures are impacted by the menstrual cycle, birth control and menopause, tools for women with epilepsy, and what research needs to be done to improve clinical care. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

25: How Picking Your Nose is Linked to Alzheimer's Disease - A Journal Club Aug 02, 2024

Can digging for gold cause Alzheimer's disease? A recent review paper published in the journal biomolecules seems to suggest so and media headlines are spreading the word fast and far. But how strong is the scientific evidence? In this journal club-style episode, we break down the neuroscience, provide you with a summary of the paper in question, and critically analyze its limitations and implications. Listen to hear what neuroscientists in training think about if and how picking your nose could cause of Alzheimer's disease. References: Zhou, X., Kumar, P., Bhuyan, D. J., Jensen, S. O., Roberts, T. L., & Münch, G. W. (2023). Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's Disease: A Potential Role of Nose-Picking in Pathogen Entry via the Olfactory System?. *Biomolecules*, *13*(11), 1568. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom13111568 Chacko, A., Delbaz, A., Walkden, H., Basu, S., Armitage, C. W., Eindorf, T., Trim, L. K., Miller, E., West, N. P., St John, J. A., Beagley, K. W., & Ekberg, J. A. K. (2022). Chlamydia pneumoniae can infect the central nervous system via the olfactory and trigeminal nerves and contributes to Alzheimer's disease risk. *Scientific reports*, *12*(1), 2759. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-06749-9 Authors: Eve Racette, Elena Koning, Deanne Pinto, Dure Khan, Shima Hassanpour Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

24: How Toxic Stress is Hurting Your Brain with Dr. Lawson Wulsin Jul 19, 2024

Who isn’t stressed these days? Whether you’re a student, working in a hypercompetitive career space, or dealing with trauma, stress has become a normalized experience for all. But, have you ever stopped to consider how stress is impacting your body and brain? Emerging research is demonstrating that, while some stress can be good for us, toxic and chronic levels of stress can contribute to severe and harmful changes in metabolism, immune function, aging and mental health. So, why are healthcare professionals overlooking the role of toxic stress on our health and what tools can we implement in our daily lives to overcome the negative effects of stress? In this episode, we sit down with an expert in the field to answer all these questions and provide solutions to the problem of toxic stress. Dr. Lawson Wulsin a professor of psychiatry and family medicine at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Wulsin has a special interest in stress and metabolic disorders and very recently published the book titled Toxic Stress: How Stress is Making Us Ill and What We Can Do About It. He has devoted much of his career to training physicians to practice both family medicine and psychiatry, and he has served in leadership roles for several professional organizations and academic journals related to the integration of medicine and psychiatry. Dr. Wulsin's Book: https://www-cambridge-org.proxy.queensu.ca/core/books/toxic-stress/677FA62B741540DBDB53E2F0A52A74B1 Author: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

23: Grad School 101 - How to Publish and Present Your Work Jul 05, 2024

Are you interested in publishing your research but don't know how to succeed? Or are you navigating the early years of grad school and don't know what to expect? In this episode, PhD candidates in neuroscience at Queen's University chat about their secrets to success when writing and presenting research in grad school, including topics like what to include in a scientific publication, how to identify predatory journals, being ESL in grad school, as well as how to present your work at lab meetings, committee meetings, thesis defenses and conferences. Sharpen your pencils because the journey to producing your best work begins here! Authors: Elena Koning, Dure Khan, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

22: A Chat with Women in Neuro (WiN) Jun 21, 2024

What's it like to be a woman in neuroscience and STEM? How did a team of 5 manage to plan and execute a ~100 person conference while being full-time graduate students? What's stopping you from making a positive change for future generations in your field? In this episode, we're thrilled to amplify the voices of Women in Neuro (WiN), a recently established outreach program at Queen's University that hopes to address the gender disparity in neuroscience research programs and the larger workforce. Run entirely by student volunteers, WiN provides an environment for supportive research discussions, coaching from female leaders in academia and/or industry, and mentorship for future female scientists. They ran their first annual conference in March 2024 and are currently planning their second conference for March 2025. Blake is a PhD candidate at Queen's University studying under Dr. Doug Munoz. Dr. Linda Booij, and Dr. Sarosh Khalid-Khan. Her research aims to identify distinct eye movement patterns in youth with depression as part of a larger effort to develop a detection tool for psychiatric conditions. Blake established Women in Neuro in 2022 and remains the current lead of the initiative. After completing a BScH in Life Sciences at Queen’s University, Robyn went on to pursue a PhD in Neuroscience researching and developing gene therapy drugs to treat genetic neurological disorders. Working under the supervision of Jagdeep Walia at Queen’s University, she specializes in pre-clinical development and testing of these therapeutics with the purpose of translating them to clinical use and commercial development. She has previously held the role of community outreach coordinator and is soon to be the fundraising coordinator for Women in Neuro at Queen’s helping to bring awareness to women in STEM that are often underrepresented in the roles of academic supervisors and mentors for graduate students. To learn more about WiN or keep up to date with events, you can follow them on Instagram at @win_queensu or visit womeninneuro.ca Authors: Eve Racette, Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

21: Your Brain on Misinformation Jun 07, 2024

What is misinformation and why does it have such pervasive effects on society? How do our brain's thinking patterns facilitate the beliefs and consequences of misinformation? In this episode, we explore these questions as well as solutions in an effort to reduce misinformation and the sometimes dangerous effects it can have. Authors: Deane Pinto, Elena Koning, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

20: Generative AI and Science Denial with Dr. Gale Sinatra May 31, 2024

What is generative AI and how is it fuelling the spread of misinformation and public distrust in scientific consensus? How should graduate students be using ChatGPT, if at all? In this episode, we discuss the rise of generative AI and the unique concerns associated with it, including the spread of misinformation, creation of deep fakes and promotion of science denial. We are joined by Dr. Gale Sinatra, a professor from the University of Southern California and co-author of the book Science Denial: Why It Happens and What to Do About It. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

19: The Health Risks of Cannabis Exposure with Kristen Yeh May 17, 2024

What are the safety risks of cannabis exposure? Did legalization occur too soon? In part III of the cannabis series, we are joined by Kristen Yeh, a PhD Candidate studying environmental chemistry at the University of Toronto. Her research focuses on the chemical evolution of emissions produced from smoking cannabis and the impacts of these emissions on air quality. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

18: Cannabis, Pain and Unsupported Claims with Dr. Filip Gedin May 10, 2024

Is cannabis actually effective as a pain management tool or is it all just placebo? How does the media portrayal of cannabis research impact research? In part II of the cannabis series, we are joined by Dr. Filip Gedin, a postdoc in the Pain Neuroimaging Lab at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden. Dr. Gedin obtained his Ph.D. in health economics from Karolinska Institutet in 2020. In his PhD thesis, he explored the costs associated with back pain and the effectiveness of primary care interventions for individuals with persistent low back pain through systematic reviews, clinical trials, and register-based studies. He has previously worked at the Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services (SBU) as a health economist. SBU is tasked by the government with assessing healthcare and social service interventions via the use of systematic reviews. The focus of his postdoctoral research is to further understand how chronic pain develops through the PrePain project, along with continuing to evaluate treatments for pain. Authors: Elena Koning Dr. Filip Gedin's Lab Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kipainandbrain/ Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

17: How Cannabis REALLY Impacts the Brain May 03, 2024

Weed, Pot, Mary Jane, Dope, Janga, the Devil's Lettuce!! By now, we’re all familiar with what these names are referring to. The cannabis industry is growing worldwide and so is the presence of cannabis-related content on social media. Despite the hype, there is surprisingly little evidence for a beneficial effect of cannabis in humans. In fact, in some cases, it causes more harm than good. So how does cannabis REALLY impact the brain? Which therapeutic claims are actually backed by science? And what are the safety risks? We explore it all in the 3-part series on the neuroscience of cannabis. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

16: Brain Tickles - The Neuroscience of ASMR Apr 19, 2024

ASMR is all over social media these days, whether it’s someone cooking for you, tapping their fingers on random objects or just comforting whispers. These simple sounds can cause tingly and fuzzy feelings of euphoria, and this response is known as the autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR for short). Some claim that ASMR promotes relaxation, helps sleep, improves mood and even helps combat pain. So, what’s really going on in our brains during ASMR? Why do some people experience ASMR and others don’t? Could it actually have a therapeutic or anti-anxiety effect? We’re going to address it all in this episode on the mysterious neuroscience of ASMR. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

15: Beyond the Scan - Functional MRI's Impact on Neuroscience Apr 05, 2024

Ever wondered how neuroimaging works? The development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 1990 was revolutionary for the field of neuroscience and has led to groundbreaking discoveries about the brain. However, it has also led to exaggerated claims and misinformation when results are misinterpreted and shared incorrectly in the media. Further, numerous issues and limitations have been raised by critics over the years, threatening the credibility of this method. In this episode, we discuss how fMRI works, what the critics are saying and the common misconceptions circulating about this important tool. What does the future hold for fMRI in the field of neuroscience? Authors: Shima Hassanpour, Elena Koning, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

14: The Link Between Eating Behavior and Mood: A Deep Dive Mar 29, 2024

Can you really be addicted to food? What causes emotional eating? How can simple mindfulness tools improve your relationship with food? Research on the relationship between eating behavior and mood is being increasingly discussed in the media, but it is difficult to separate fact from fiction. We break it all down for you in this deep dive into the neuroscience of eating behavior and mood. We discuss topics like emotional eating, binge eating, body image as well as some emerging tools and interventions which could help improve your food-mood relationship. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Eating Disorder Help: https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/treatment-for-eating-disorders/eating-disorder-hotlines References: Koning E, Vorstman J, McIntyre RS, Brietzke E. Characterizing eating behavioral phenotypes in mood disorders: a narrative review. Psychol Med. 2022 Oct;52(14):2885-2898. doi: 10.1017/S0033291722002446. Epub 2022 Aug 25. PMID: 36004528; PMCID: PMC9693712. Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

13: How WHEN You Eat Impacts Your Brain Jan 12, 2024

Research is discovering that not only WHAT you eat but also WHEN you eat can have a significant impact on your mental health. In this episode, we discuss how modern society may be negatively impacting your circadian system and eating behaviors. We’re going to touch on the neuroscience of eating rhythms, how they impact mood and some of the clinical relevance of this knowledge. We’ll end off with a discussion of the sometimes controversial topic of intermittent fasting and some tools to help anyone looking to improve their eating rhythms, mood and overall life! Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

12: The Gut-Brain Axis and Mental Health with Dr. Caroline Wallace Dec 08, 2023

Description: What is a healthy gut microbiome? Can probiotics cure depression? Why should I eat like a Mediterranean? In this episode, you'll learn how the two-way communication between our gut and brain could be the secret to how our diets impact our mental health. For this discussion, we are joined by Dr. Caroline Wallace, a Postdoctoral Fellow and Part-Time Professor in the School of Nutrition Sciences and Institute for Mental Health Research at the University of Ottawa and the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre in Ottawa, Canada. Authors: Elena Koning Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

11: The Field of Nutritional Psychiatry - Potential and Pitfalls Nov 24, 2023

Are you really what you eat? Are there mood-boosting diets? If so, why do healthcare practitioners rarely talk about it? We know that a healthy diet plays a significant role in physical health, but a growing body of research is shedding light on how diet and nutritional intake may help regulate mood and mental well-being. This exciting field, known as nutritional psychiatry, could potentially be a game changer for the mental health epidemic that is becoming a global problem. But like any emerging field, nutritional psychiatry is not without its controversies. In this episode, we dive into the history, promise, pitfalls and controversies of research on diet and mental health. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

10: Grad School 101 - How to Get Accepted, Prepare and What to Expect Nov 10, 2023

Have you been thinking about applying to graduate school? Did you already get accepted and you’re wondering what to expect of MSc or PhD life? Or are you already a grad student and you want to know how your experience measures up to others? This episode is for all of the above! Eve, Elena, Cassandra and Honey joined in for this relaxed and informal conversation. Consider it your grad school survival guide! Authors: Elena Koning, Cassandra Sgarbossa, Honey Bryant, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

09: The Neuroscience of Near-Death Experiences Oct 27, 2023

What happens when we die? Do we see our loved ones and a warm, bright light guiding us? Or we feel pain, discomfort or distress? In this episode, we explore the current science on near-death experiences to better understand the phenomenon of dying and death. We take a deep dive into the neuroscience of why and how near-death experiences occur. Authors: Dure Khan, Eve Racette Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

08: Music to My Mind - How Music Therapy Works Jul 24, 2023

What if I told you that music can heal your brain? That those road trips with your friends blaring music were actually good for your mental health? In this episode, we discuss music and music therapy. We go over controversies in the field, conflicting science and take a dive into the history and future of music therapy in Canada and around the world. Authors: Honey Bryant, Eve Racette Ask us about grad school: https://notionforms.io/forms/graduate-school-qa-survey Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

07: Mental Health Misinformation on TikTok Jun 02, 2023

What if I told you that most of the information on TikTok is, not only false, but also potentially harmful to your well-being? In this episode, we explore how social media impacts the brain and the sea of mental health misinformation on platforms such as TikTok. We also discuss the future of social media as a platform for legitimate science communication. Is it even possible? Listen to find out. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette What would you like to know about grad school? Click this link to ask: https://notionforms.io/forms/graduate-school-qa-survey Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

06: Why Some Doctors Don't Believe in Fibromyalgia May 19, 2023

Imagine feeling like you've been hit by a train or stabbed repeatedly in the back. OUCH, right? Now what if this feeling was chronic but no one believed you? Similarly, fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition which has long been considered a controversial diagnosis. In this episode, we'll discuss what it is, why it's often dismissed or misdiagnosed and how cutting-edge research is contributing to improved clinical care for this debilitating condition. Authors: Shima Hassanpour, Elena Koning, Eve Racette Don't forget to let us know what you think about the brain in our anonymous form below. Brain Awareness Survey: forms.gle/nzEa4UXZgGz6sTXF6 Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

05: Controversies in Neurolaw Part II Apr 21, 2023

Can there be biomarkers for criminal activity? Is AI going send you to jail? In this episode, we continue our discussion about the fascinating field of neurolaw, including the controversial use of neuroscience in the courtroom. We are joined by Dr. Jennifer Chandler, Full Professor of Law, holder of the Bertram Loeb Research Chair, and cross-appointed to the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Chandler studies the legal and ethical aspects of biomedical science and technology, with a focus on the intersection of the brain sciences, law and ethics. She also works on legal policy related to organ donation and transplantation, and mental health law and policy. She coordinates the Hybrid Minds project (www.hybridminds.org), which brings together researchers from Switzerland, Germany and Canada to examine the implications of incorporating artificial intelligence in neuroprosthetics. She was elected to the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences in 2022. She is the Vice-Dean of Research for the Faculty of Law and leads the neuroethics pillar of the University of Ottawa Brain Mind Research Institute. She is active in Canadian health law and policy, having recently sat on two-government appointed independent expert advisory panels on medical assistance in dying in the context of mental illness, and served as co-chair of the legal and ethics group working on the development of a new Canadian clinical practice guideline on the definition and determination of death. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Don't forget to let us know what you think about the brain in our anonymous form below. Brain Awareness Survey: https://forms.gle/nzEa4UXZgGz6sTXF6 Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

04: Controversies in Neurolaw Part I Mar 31, 2023

Is there a brain test for psychopathy? Can neuroimaging methods be used as lie detectors? Is free will a myth? In this episode, we discuss the fascinating field of neurolaw, including the controversial use of neuroscience in the courtroom. We are joined by Dr. Jennifer Chandler, Full Professor of Law, holder of the Bertram Loeb Research Chair, and cross-appointed to the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Chandler studies the legal and ethical aspects of biomedical science and technology, with a focus on the intersection of the brain sciences, law and ethics. She also works on legal policy related to organ donation and transplantation, and mental health law and policy. She coordinates the Hybrid Minds project (www.hybridminds.org), which brings together researchers from Switzerland, Germany and Canada to examine the implications of incorporating artificial intelligence in neuroprosthetics. She was elected to the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences in 2022. She is the Vice-Dean of Research for the Faculty of Law and leads the neuroethics pillar of the University of Ottawa Brain Mind Research Institute. She is active in Canadian health law and policy, having recently sat on two-government appointed independent expert advisory panels on medical assistance in dying in the context of mental illness, and served as co-chair of the legal and ethics group working on the development of a new Canadian clinical practice guideline on the definition and determination of death. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Don't forget to let us know what you think about the brain in our anonymous form below. Brain Awareness Survey: https://forms.gle/nzEa4UXZgGz6sTXF6 Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

03: Fabricated Evidence in Alzheimer's Disease Research Mar 17, 2023

In this episode, we're discussing a recent controversy in the field of Alzheimer's research that made the headlines in summer 2022. We discuss the history of Alzheimer's research, neurodegeneration, data manipulation (gasp!), shakespearian plays and the importance of integrity in science. By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to grasp the nuances of the recent data fabrication scandal in Alzheimer's research and understand what kind of negative (and positive!) impacts this scandal has on biomedical research. Don't forget to let us know what you think about the brain in our anonymous form below. Authors: Dominique Hancock, Eve Racette Brain Awareness Survey: https://forms.gle/nzEa4UXZgGz6sTXF6 Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services. Brain Awareness Survey: https://forms.gle/nzEa4UXZgGz6sTXF6 Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast

02: Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy with Dr. Ron Shore Mar 03, 2023

In this special episode, we’re sharing with you the full interview with Dr. Ron Shore on the topic of psychedelics and their applications to psychotherapy. Ron Shore is a Research Scientist with Queen’s Health Sciences and Post-doctoral Fellow in Public Health Sciences at Queen’s University. Ron taught drug studies and psychedelics at both Queen’s University and University of Ottawa over a 15-year period and spent 23 years in front-line harm reduction, community, and public health. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Rapid Review: healthsci.queensu.ca/source/Psyched…0-%20Final.pdf Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

01: The Controversial Side of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Feb 13, 2023

In this episode, we discuss the growing hype behind psychedelic substances and their application to the treatment of mental illnesses such as depression, addiction and PTSD. We also discuss the research limitations, safety risks and ethical concerns that are affiliated with psychedelic-assisted therapy, including sexual misconduct. We sat down with Dr. Ron Shore to discuss this subject. Ron is a Research Scientist with Queen’s Health Sciences and Post-doctoral Fellow in Public Health Sciences at Queen’s University. By the end of this episode, listeners will have an understanding of the current state of psychedelic-assisted therapy in Canada and gain a critical lens for both the promise and problems of this emerging field of mental healthcare. Authors: Elena Koning, Eve Racette Rapid Review: https://healthsci.queensu.ca/source/Psychedelics%20Research/Psychedelic%20Medicine%20Report%20-%20Final.pdf Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.

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