BEaTS Research Radio's Podcast

In this episode, we speak with Sheena Doyle, a Master of Science in Nursing student at McGill University and a Labor and Delivery Nurse Clinician. We explore how she uses the arts as a powerful tool for critical reflection and health advocacy. Join us as we discuss her commitment to decolonizing healthcare and advancing ethical, relational models of care through research and community engagement.

Ryan Tu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Sangeeta Murugkar. Dr. Murugkar is an associate professor in the department of medical physics at Carleton University, where she established the Laboratory for Laser-Assisted Medical Physics and Engineering (LLAMPE). In this episode, Dr. Murugkar discusses her recent research in using the non-invasive imaging technique of Raman scattering microscopy to better understand the chemical changes that occur in breast cancer cells.Learn more: https://lampe.physics.carleton.ca/people/00:07 | BEaTS and host introduction00:30 | Introduction to Dr. Murugkar01:01 | Optical imaging techniques and ongoing research in this field04:33 | Using Raman scattering microscopy to observe chemical changes in breast cancer08:48 | Clinical applications of Raman scattering microscopy14:08 | ConclusionSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRRyan Tu (voice), Abdelrahman Fahmy, Mason Gillick, Raghav Bhargava (post-production, content generation, producers)

Chris Kachi from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. May Griffith and Andrés Mercado as part of the TMM4950 Science Communication course, exploring cutting-edge advances in bioengineered corneal regeneration.  Dr. Griffith is a senior scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a professor in the Faculty of Medicine whose work focuses on regenerative biomaterials and translational ophthalmology. Andrés Mercado is a PhD student in Dr. Emilio Alarcón's laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, developing tunable photo-sealants and customized biomaterials for ocular and soft-tissue repair.In this episode, they discuss the development of the Cornea-in-a-Syringe (CIS) hydrogel, how regenerative biomaterials such as GF19-functionalized matrices can be tailored to promote ocular healing, and the future of minimally invasive technologies for corneal repair and vision restoration.Learn more:Dr. May Griffith - https://www.griffithresearch.ca/may-griffith-2Andrés Mercado (Alarcón Lab) - https://www.beatsresearch.com/Alarcon.php0:00 | BEaTS and host introduction.0:27 | Introduction to Dr. Griffith.1:11 | Childhood encounter in Malaysia that inspired Dr. Griffith's mission.2:57 | Main obstacles to corneal care in low-resource countries.4:15 | Donor shortages and compatibility challenges in corneal transplants.5:08 | Why donor compatibility matters and why people hesitate to donate.5:44 | How artificial/cell-free corneas work - “Field of Dreams” analogy.7:35 | What is Cornea-in-a-Syringe and how does it expand access?9:10 | Why combine Cornea-in-a-Syringe with antiviral GF19 instead of just eye drops?11:44 | Future of corneal treatments and a “vaccine-like” vision restoration.13:10 | Comments from Andrés Mercado on Dr. Griffith's work.14:01 | Podcast conclusion.Background music: “Podcast Background Music While Talking Interviews - Free Music to use, No Copyright” by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos.Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 (CC BY 3.0).Watch/listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdFqvdekuvIChannel: https://www.youtube.com/@podcastbackgroundmusicCreative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos - https://www.youtube.com/@podcastbackgroundmusicAlyssa Thomas (Content Generation), Michael Wossen (Producer), Chris Kachi (Voice), and Salah Hussein Aly (Post-Production)

In this episode, co-hosts Sam and Ammi from the University of Ottawa's TMM program are in conversation with Dr. Kevin Smit, a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Clinical Researcher at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). The conversation centers around Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), which is an abnormal curvature of the spine with no known cause, and can have a significant impact on the lives of its young patients. Dr. Smit is a part of inspiring new research on a developing treatment that could help preserve patient mobility while correcting the curve, called Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT). Here, we discuss AIS and its impact, as well as what makes VBT a unique and promising treatment. To read the full study: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43390-022-00578-6Maksimovic, M. et al. The effect of vertebral body tethering on spine range of motion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A pilot study. Spine Deformity 11, 123–131 (2022).00:04 Introduction01:11 | As a clinician and researcher, how do you balance these 2 aspects of your life?02:20 | How do you explain treatment options to your young patients?04:49 | How do patient impacts inform your research?09:44 | Are there risks/complications associated with that surgery and recovery?11:32 | Does having that shoelace allow the patients more motion?13:36 | Where do you see this research leading?14:37 | Thank you!14:47 Outro & CreditsMusic: “Lounging Lads” from the Lofi Phantasy album by DanAndPhilBEATS and Lowave.Saeid Kholgi (producer), Samantha Kiraly (co-host & writing), Ammi Paul (co-host & post-production), Moumita Dutta (writing & social media production)

Katya Krykunova from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad from The Ottawa Hospital about the first use of phage therapy in Canada. Dr. Azad's patient developed a life-threatening periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of her hip implant. She was allergic to most major antibiotics; the culprit bacteria were resistant to all others, and further surgery would risk her life. All conventional treatments were exhausted. With the patient's condition declining, Dr. Azad decided to team up with Cytophage Technologies and pursue phage therapy as a last resort. In this episode, Dr. Azad walks us through this clinical case and highlights how phage therapy offers an alternative approach for targeting infections when antibiotics and surgery fail. Learn more: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/8/11180:04 | BEaTS and host introduction0:20 | What is phage therapy?0:56 | Introduction to Dr. Marisa Azad2:52 | What are PJIs?4:26 | Using phage therapy for a severe case of PJI7:29 | Making phage therapy possible for this patient in collaboration with Cytophage Technologies9:27 | Ensuring the safety and efficacy of phage therapy11:31 | What Dr. Azad has learned throughout the process13:07 | Science, medicine, and art14:08 | Concluding remarksSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRShow Host: Katya KrykunovaProducer: Meghan WalshWriter: Sydney Brown, Katya KrykunovaContent generation: Talia LoFaro, Meghan Walsh, Katya KrykunovaEditor: Meghan Walsh, Katya Krykunova, Sydney Brown, Talia LoFaroAudio post-production: Sydney BrownSocial media coordinator: Talia LoFaro

Mattea Abou Faiçal from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad. Dr. Marisa Azad is an Associate Clinical Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and a Mayo Clinic Research Collaborator. She is also an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at The Ottawa Hospital. In this episode, Dr. Marisa Azad shares her research on phage therapy and how her team delivered Canada's first treatment for a multidrug-resistant joint infection.Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-marisa-azad0:04 | BEaTS and host introduction.1:11 | Introduction to Dr. Azad.1:45 | Why are periprosthetic joint infections so difficult to treat?3:30 | Introduction to phages, phage therapy, and a landmark Canadian case study6:26 | Finding the right phage: collaboration between Cytophage Technologies and The Ottawa Hospital9:45 | Ethical and regulatory hurdles12:00 | The growing potential of phage therapy and its current limitations14:15 | Closing remarks and creditsSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRAbhijit Sinha (Content Generation), Mattheo Fakhouri (Producer), Mattea Abou Faiçal (Voice) and Jean-Paul Azzi (Post-production)

In this episode, James Humber, a Translational and Molecular Medicine student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Simon Hatcher on behalf of his team for the TMM 4950 Science Communication course. Dr. Hatcher is a psychiatrist at the Ottawa Hospital and Medical Director of Psychiatry at Ottawa Inner City Health. He's also a scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa. His research focuses on suicide prevention and managing the effects of trauma. Together, they address the factors surrounding public safety personnel suicides in Ontario, the contributing stressors, and how policies can change to ensure better mental health care. Special thanks to Dr. Nicholas Carleton, a professor of clinical psychology and registered clinical psychologist in Saskatchewan, who contributed to the making of this episode.Learn more: https://hatchingideaslab.com/researchhttps://ptsslab.ca/2:18 | Introducing our guest: Dr. Simon Hatcher4:22 | Rethinking resilience in public safety personnel (PSP)5:12 | Discussion of findings from his recent (2024) paper7:40 | Exploring Dr. Nick Carleton's insights14:28 | Looking ahead: A message of hope15:24 | Closing remarksPerfect Storm - Kara Square and Piero Peluche by Piero Peluche (c) copyright 2020 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. https://dig.ccmixter.org/files/pieropeluche/61852 Ft: Kara SquareJames Humber (Host), Angélique Cayer (Producer), and Mélodie Bellefleur (Writer)

In this episode, TMM students discuss the hidden declines in long-term care, drawing on insights from Dr. Daniel Kobewka, Dr. Sandy Shamon, and Dr. Susan Mitchell. Through examining changes in mental and physical function, the study highlights how this knowledge can guide more informed, dignity-focused decisions for residents and their families. Learn more: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.5635 Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779  https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRKatie Klein (Producer), Sarah Rehmani (Show Host), Paniz Akbari (Social Media Editor), Charlie Levine (Writer Editor)

Jack Cowan from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Morgan Fullerton, a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, on behalf of his team in the TMM4950 Science Communication course. Dr. Fullerton discusses dysregulated cholesterol metabolism, a hallmark of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. He delves into his lab's recent study examining whether AMPK, the cell's energy sensor, truly protects against atherosclerosis by limiting cholesterol production, where his team made an unexpected discovery that challenged long-standing assumptions in cardiovascular research.Learn more: https://www.fullertonlab.com/0:00 | Introduction1:34 | Introduction of guest (Dr. Morgan Fullerton)2:35 | What is atherosclerosis?4:05 | The cell's energy sensor (AMPK)5:25 | Targeting AMPK|HMGCR to protect against atherosclerosis7:42 | What was expected when AMPK's control was removed?8:32 | Importance of validating a disease model10:25 | Does removing AMPK change atherosclerosis?12:53 | Future therapies13:52 | Commentary (provided by Dr. Emily Day) and conclusion Music is non-copyrighted and free for use.Jack Cowan (Host), Toshka Besharah (Writer), Melissa Barnett (Producer)

Ananya Jain from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr Adam Rudner about advances in temperate bacteriophage research. Dr. Rudner is a researcher and associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. He also co-leads the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) associated bacteriophage discovery lab for students in the Translational and Molecular Medicine Program at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Rudner discusses bacteriophage basics, the current state of bacteriophage therapy, and how temperate bacteriophages could be harnessed in the future of bacteriophage therapy. Dr Rudner also highlights novel discoveries in the field of temperate bacteriophage biology by discussing his own lab's discovery of a new lysogeny mechanism and discussing the work of Dr. Alex Hynes, a researcher and associate professor at McMaster University, who discovered temperate phage antibiotic synergy (tPAS).Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-adam-rudner0:00 | Introduction to the Podcast0:29 | Introduction to Dr. Adam Rudner1:16 | What inspired Dr. Rudner to pursue bacteriophage research2:23 | The differences between lytic and lysogenic bacteriophages3:26 | The importance of researching bacteriophages and their therapeutic potential4:57 | Discussing the work of Dr. Alex Hynes and his discovery of temperate phage antibiotic synergy (tPAS)7:12 | Advancements required to implement temperate phages and tPAS in therapeutics8:25 | The discovery of a novel lysogeny mechanism by Dr. Rudner's lab13:50 | Key Takeaways14:27 | Concluding RemarksSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRAnanya Jain (Host), Rebecca Santhosh Babu (Writer), Mirabel Joseph (Social Media Coordinator), Amber Morton (Producer)

In this episode of the BEaTS Research Radio, Annie Xiang from the University of Ottawa sits down with Dr. Marcelo Vazquez, radiobiology section head at the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Together, they explore how cosmic and proton radiation affects the human body as astronauts prepare for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Dr. Vazquez shares his journey from aspiring astronaut to NASA researcher, explains the power of human brain organoids as cutting-edge research models, and highlights how this work will help protect future astronauts.            Learn more: https://space.uwo.ca/people/our-members/vazquez-marcelo/index.html0:01 | BEaTs and host introduction0:50 | Introduction by Dr. Vazquez and his scientific journey4:18 | Overview of Dr. Vazquez's research on radiation biology5:58 | Summary of a paper published by Dr. Vazquez regarding radiation on brain organoids6:54 | Reasons for using human brain organoid models8:57 | Challenges encountered during the research process11:30 | How Dr. Vazquez's findings can help protect astronauts from space radiation13:30 | Final takeaways by Dr. VazquezSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Annie Xiang (Voice), Annie Xiang, Adam Al-Khalili, Kamron Yunusov, Tabassum Howlader (Post-production, Content generation, Producers).

Global challenges like climate change demand urgent action, and chemistry is at the center of these emerging solutions. However, graduates starting chemistry-based careers often leave the classroom unprepared to tackle complex global issues. In this podcast, we speak with Dr. Alison Flynn, Principal Investigator of the Flynn Research Group, about how her team is developing strategies to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for students, including the integration of systems thinking into the curriculum. We explore her educational journey, what inspired her to focus on chemistry education, how systems thinking can be applied in classrooms, her thoughts on AI as an emerging educational tool, and more. We also share insights from Dr. Peter Mahaffy on educational resources available to support instructors. Learn more: https://www.flynnresearchgroup.com/00:11 | Introduction01:23- Dr. Flynn's education background02:49| Challenges and highlights of researching chemistry education03:40| What is systems thinking06:24| How to integrate systems thinking into the classroom07:32| Comment from Peter Mahaffy on tips for educators07:50| Challenges in organic chemistry and how to succeed09:14| Redesigning the UOttawa curriculum11:10| Artificial Intelligence as a tool13:20| The future of chemistry education14:48| Conclusion and closing remarksSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRJustin Nguyen (Producer), Sophia Guy (Host), Induja Arulchelvam (Writer), Kathleen Connolly (Social Media Producer) 

Listen to this University of Ottawa TMM student discuss 3D testis bioprinting with distinguished guest Dr. Stephanie Willerth. The episode provides an exciting peek into how bioprinting technologies are reshaping reproductive biology research.Learn more: https://bme.ubc.ca/?directory=stephanie-willerth1:00  |  Early Life, Education, and Journey into Research2:45  |  Exploring the Shift to Reproductive Bioprinting5:20  |  Overcoming Challenges8:10  |  Microsphere Stability and Reproducibility10:00  |  Potential Applications of Microspheres10:45  |  Progress Toward an In-Vivo Model for Full Human Spermatogenesis12:50 |  Advice for Young ScientistsSoundrackStep Into The Light by Zenboy1955 http://mixter.plus/myTracks.php?id=70336Catherine Waghorn (Producer), Mathieu D'Souza (Host), Bayan Abou Mehrem (Social Media), Grace Stocker (Editor)

In this episode titled “Lost in Translation”, we dive into the complex world of bringing cell therapies from the lab to human trials. With our guest Matthew Jeffers, author of a recent scoping review on this topic, we explore what regulators look for in promising cell therapies and why inconsistent guidelines can leave researchers unsure of their next steps. By summarizing expectations from various regulatory agencies worldwide, Jeffers et. al's study offers a clearer blueprint for preclinical research, helping innovative treatments reach patients faster. Learn more: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/msjeffers0:05 | Introduction0:46 | Guest introduction1:24 | Why should we research the regulatory application process?3:05 | Reasons for the limited coordination between regulators, despite the existence of international health agencies.5:50 | How regulatory systems shift during exceptional circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lessons that can be applied to improve the translation of future therapies.9:34 | The importance of placing a greater emphasis on understanding the regulatory landscape as scientific researchers and students.12:00 | Episode summaryBackground music "Embrace" by Evgeny_Bardyuzha, free for use under Pixabay's Content License.https://pixabay.com/music/electronic-embrace-364091/Hosts: Nicholas Lafond and Seb ParmasadPost-production & Content generation: Chloé McAllister, Mila Schaffrath, Nicholas Lafond, and Seb Parmasad

Puksar Kunwar, a student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Marcelo Muñoz for the TMM4950 Science Communication course, focusing on his work developing miniaturized devices for the on-the-spot generation of small-diameter vascular grafts. Dr. Muñoz is an early-career researcher at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, specializing in clinical peptide therapeutics, biomaterials innovation, and biomedical device design. He was recognized as the top graduating pharmacist in Chile by the National Pharmacy Association. His research aims to “print” new blood vessels inside the human body using a catheter during minimally invasive procedures, and potentially eliminating the need for open-chest surgery. Learn more: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.2025000770:09 | Introduction to Podcast0:35 | Introduction to Dr. Muñoz2:10 | Relevance of Cardiovascular Diseases and Story behind the Discovery of the Device 4:05 | Brief Description of the Device 6:16 | Progress in Clinical Trials with reference to TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)9:30 | Advice for Future Scientists 13:18 | Closing Remarks Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779 https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR Bhavya Joshi (Post-production & Content generation), Cynthia Chahine (Post-production &Producer), Puskar Kunwar (Show Host), Ezechiel Sugr-Noma Yameogo (Social Media Editor) 

Juliet Cruz and Maria Nikokavoura from the University of Ottawa interview Dr. Giovanni Ferrari for the TMM4950 Science Communication course about pushing the limits of donor heart preservation times. Dr. Ferrari is an associate professor of surgical sciences and the Scientific director of the cardiothoracic research program at Columbia University. Dr. Ferrari's research focuses on exploring how the heart functions and how we can better protect it, especially during surgery and organ transplantation. In this episode, Dr. Ferrari presents his findings from their work on a revolutionary method to keep donor hearts viable for up to 48 hours outside the body using a novel oxygen-rich cooling system. This could dramatically expand access to life-saving transplants and reshape how we think about organ preservation.Learn more: https://columbiasurgery.org/about/giovanni-ferrari-phd 0:00 | Introduction to podcast0:18 | Introduction to Dr. Ferrari1:11 | What sparked Dr. Ferrari's early interest in the heart and organ preservation?2:59 | What is the HOPE system, and how does it differ from standard cold storage?5:32 | Why push the limits of donor heart preservation, and what challenges came with it?6:44 | What surprising insights emerged from the RNA and metabolomic analyses?9:15 | How did it feel to see a HOPE-preserved heart beat again after 48 hours?11:15 | Can HOPE principles be applied to preserve other organs in transplantation?12:09 | What future research questions is the team most excited to pursue?14:30 | What advice does Dr. Ferrari have for young scientists bridging engineering and medicine?15:27 | Closing remarks“Only You with the Universe” by Spøq, licensed via Tribe of Noise PRO. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://prosearch.tribeofnoise.com/artists/show/78252/44118 Juliet Cruz and Maria Nikokavoura (Voice), Reena Corbane (Post-Production), Nika Abedian (Producer)

Emily Wu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Emilio Alarcón on the significance of sex differences in cardiovascular research. Dr. Alarcón is a professor at the University of Ottawa and a scientist at the Heart Institute whose research focuses on developing biomaterials for the regeneration of damaged tissues. In this episode, Dr. Alarcón comments on segments from a previous BEaTS interview between University of Ottawa student Deyanira Hernandez and Dr. Brian Aguado. Dr. Aguado is a professor at the University of California, San Diego, whose research focuses on using biomaterials to determine sex-specific mechanisms of heart diseases, namely aortic valve stenosis (AVS). This episode discusses the effects and significance of including sex differences in disease and biomaterial research.Learn more: Dr. Emilio Alarcón - https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-emilio-alarcon                             Dr. Brian Aguado - https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/people/profile/brian-aguado 0:03 | Topic introduction.1:06 | BEaTS and host introduction.1:28 | Introduction to Dr. Alarcón.2:14 | Introduction to Dr. Aguado.2:58 | The importance of studying biological sex in disease research (Dr. Aguado).5:13 | The relevance of studying biological sex in biomaterial research (Dr. Alarcón).7:40 | Precision medicine and sex-based research (Dr. Aguado).9:07 | Addressing the potential unavailability of precision medicine (Dr. Alarcón).11:08 | Considering other biological variables in future research (Dr. Alarcón).14:22 | Concluding remarks.Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRIsra Omar (Producer, Post-production, Content generation), Bushra Pathan (Social media editor, Content generation), Malik Thomas (Writer, Content generation), Emily Wu (Host, Content generation).

As part of the TMM4950 Sci-Comm special episode, J.P. Doyle from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Alexandre Stewart, a distinguished scientist from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and a director of the Laboratory of Translational Genomics. In this episode, Dr. Stewart and J.P. discuss the viral origins of breast cancer, specifically the hypothesis that the Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) may cause breast cancer in humans. They explored the "second hit" hypothesis, geographic variations in cancer incidence between Western and Eastern Europe, and the potential for future vaccines and anti-retroviral therapies to prevent and treat the disease.Learn more about Dr. Stewart: https://www.ottawaheart.ca/profile/stewart-alexandreRead more about the paper: https://doi.org/10.3390/v140305590:10 - Introduction to Dr. Alexandre Stewart and Breast Cancer1:04 - Inspiration: The Biology of Breast Cancer and Immunosuppression2:48 - Geographic Variation and the Migrant Effect4:25 - Mechanisms: How MMTV and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) differ in causing cancer7:05 - The Senegal Study: Globalization and Mouse Populations10:22 - Vaccines and Anti-Retroviral Parallels14:34 - ConclusionMusic Credit: This podcast episode features the song 'Documentary' by SigmaMusicArt (Mikhail Smusev) via Pixabay, available under the Pixabay Content License. Listen more:https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-documentary-264400/J.P. Doyle (Host, Content Writer), Barry Ngo (Producer, Editor, Promoter)

In this episode, we'll be exploring the work of Dr. Jaswant Guzder, an internationally renowned transcultural psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and visual artist. Our conversation will touch on her work at the intersection of child psychiatry, culture, and community-based mental health, drawing from her leadership roles in Montreal and Victoria, as well as her research and teaching projects in Jamaica and India. We'll also reflect on how her South Asian heritage, artistic practice, and decades of clinical and academic experience shape her approach to healing, pedagogy, and global mental health.Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naiduhttps://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

In this episode, we'll be exploring the work of Dr. Jesse Bump, whose research brings a historical and political economy lens to some of the most pressing challenges in global health. Drawing on history, social science, and policy analysis, Dr. Bump's research spans local and global scales, offering insight into how societies understand and manage threats to public health.Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naiduhttps://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

In this episode, we'll be delving into the work of Professor Jennifer Cleland, a global leader whose work continues to challenge and expand the boundaries of healthcare education. Her work crosses boundaries in numerous ways, across fields (Health Economics, Medical Statistics, Language and Linguistics and Business), methodologies (big data sets and qualitative), institutions (government, universities), etc.Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naiduhttps://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

Summary of Podcast Episode: In this episode we delve into Professor Ahmed's research and work at the intersection of medicine, global health, and education policy. Our conversation will focus on the role of power, politics, and inequities in shaping these fields. Together, we'll explore how critical, and often uncomfortable, conversations can be fostered in ways that are constructive and innovative.Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naiduhttps://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

In this episode, we'll be exploring the work of Dr. Rashmi Kusurkar, a leading scholar in health professions education whose research centers on the question: how do we develop “students for life”? Her work exists at the intersection of motivation theory, equity, and professional identity, spanning borders, disciplines, and cultures — from advancing Self-Determination Theory in education to addressing access, diversity, and inclusion in healthcare training.Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naiduhttps://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

In this episode, Dr. Brian Aguado discusses the importance of incorporating sex differences research in cardiovascular science, emphasizing how biological variables influence disease progression and treatment outcomes. He highlights that recognizing these differences is key to designing biomaterials with improved performance and inclusivity, ultimately contributing to more effective and equitable healthcare solutions.Learn more: https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/people/profile/brian-aguado Time stamps2:20. Why is it important to study sex as a biological variable in this context, and how has it changed the way we understand disease?6:40 One of the major challenges in biomedical research is designing experiments that truly reflect sex differences. What have been some of the biggest obstacles you have encountered in your work?10.:20 How do you envision your work on sex-specific biomaterials contributing to more personalized or equitable cardiovascular therapies in the future?14:02 For young scientists listening to this podcast, what advice would you give to someone interested in integrating sex differences into their own research?

Le 6 mai 2025, l'Interconnectome cœur-cerveau (ICC) a tenu à l'Université d'Ottawa (Canada) un atelier portant sur les principes IDEAS et la gouvernance des données dans la recherche sur la connexion cœur-cerveau. Les conférencières, conférenciers et scientifiques invités ont accepté de participer au balado BEaTS pour discuter de leur perspective et de leur expérience en répondant à trois questions sur les principes IDEAS (inclusion, diversité, équité, accessibilité et justice sociale) dans la recherche cœur-cerveau. On May 6th, 2025, the Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) held a workshop, “Brain-Heart Health for All: IDEAS in Data Governance” at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Invited speakers and scientists agreed to participate in the BEATs podcast to share their perspectives and experiences based on three key questions related to IDEAS (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and social justice) in brain (B)-heart (H) research. _____________________________________________________________________________________________Dans cet épisode, Nicolás Alessandroni parle du rôle de la science ouverte dans le cadre des principes IDEAS. Avec lui, nous examinons comment ces principes contribuent à rendre le processus de recherche plus accessible et inclusif – de la production des connaissances à leur application. Nous nous demandons également à qui et dans quelle mesure la science est ouverte et nous nous penchons sur les défis et les responsabilités associés aux processus de recherche réellement ouverts. M. Alessandroni insiste sur l'importance d'étendre les principes IDEAS non seulement à l'accès à l'information, mais aussi à la production même du savoir. L'épisode vous amènera à repenser la notion d'ouverture en sciences et à réfléchir à la mise en place de stratégies visant à rendre les écosystèmes de recherche plus inclusifs.In this episode, we speak with Dr. Nicolas Alessandroni about the role of open science within the framework of IDEAS. The conversation centers on how IDEAS works to make research processes more accessible and inclusive, from the generation of knowledge to its implementation. We reflect on the guiding question “Open to whom, and to what extent?” and explore the challenges and responsibilities involved in truly open research. Dr. Alessandroni emphasizes the importance of considering not just access to information, but also who participates in knowledge production. This episode invites listeners to rethink what openness means in science today and how we might begin to incorporate strategies to move toward more inclusive research ecosystems.Learn more: https://www.concordia.ca/faculty/nicolas-alessandroni.html

Le 6 mai 2025, l'Interconnectome cœur-cerveau (ICC) a tenu à l'Université d'Ottawa (Canada) un atelier portant sur les principes IDEAS et la gouvernance des données dans la recherche sur la connexion cœur-cerveau. Les conférencières, conférenciers et scientifiques invités ont accepté de participer au balado BEaTS pour discuter de leur perspective et de leur expérience en répondant à trois questions sur les principes IDEAS (inclusion, diversité, équité, accessibilité et justice sociale) dans la recherche cœur-cerveau. On May 6th, 2025, the Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) held a workshop, “Brain-Heart Health for All: IDEAS in Data Governance” at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Invited speakers and scientists agreed to participate in the BEATs podcast to share their perspectives and experiences based on three key questions related to IDEAS (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and social justice) in brain (B)-heart (H) research. _____________________________________________________________________________________________Dans cet épisode, Ulrich Aivodji nous propose une incursion dans son champ de recherche : les principes de l'IA responsable. Il aborde également l'importance d'intégrer à la société des systèmes qui assurent l'équité, la protection de la vie privée et la transparence. Selon lui, l'IA doit être conçue pour éviter la discrimination et les disparités. Il insiste aussi sur le fait que les processus décisionnels doivent être inclusifs et équitables. M. Aivodji fait également remarquer l'importance de former des équipes diversifiées pour générer de nouvelles idées, mais surtout pour favoriser le sentiment d'appartenance et la participation de tout le monde. Selon lui, la conception inclusive et la diversité des points de vue sont les clés pour créer des systèmes plus accessibles, représentatifs et efficaces.In this episode, Dr. Ulrich shares with us about his research interest in the principles of responsible AI and the importance of integrating systems into society that uphold fairness, privacy, and transparency. He discusses how AI must be designed to avoid discrimination and disparity, emphasizing the need for inclusive, equitable decision-making. Dr. Ulrich also highlights the critical role of diversity in teams, not only to generate more ideas, but to ensure everyone feels they belong and have a right to participate. Through inclusive design and diverse perspectives, we can build systems that are more accessible, representative, and impactful for all.Learn more: https://aivodji.github.io

Le 6 mai 2025, l'Interconnectome cœur-cerveau (ICC) a tenu à l'Université d'Ottawa (Canada) un atelier portant sur les principes IDEAS et la gouvernance des données dans la recherche sur la connexion cœur-cerveau. Les conférencières, conférenciers et scientifiques invités ont accepté de participer au balado BEaTS pour discuter de leur perspective et de leur expérience en répondant à trois questions sur les principes IDEAS (inclusion, diversité, équité, accessibilité et justice sociale) dans la recherche cœur-cerveau. On May 6th, 2025, the Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) held a workshop, “Brain-Heart Health for All: IDEAS in Data Governance” at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Invited speakers and scientists agreed to participate in the BEATs podcast to share their perspectives and experiences based on three key questions related to IDEAS (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and social justice) in brain (B)-heart (H) research. _____________________________________________________________________________________________Dans cet épisode, Stephen Lewis nous parle de son approche du dépistage et du traitement des problèmes de santé mentale, axée sur la personne et son expérience de vie. Il insiste sur l'importance de reconnaître les enjeux systémiques, de lutter contre la stigmatisation et de créer des espaces propices au soutien, à la résilience et au bien-être. M. Lewis prône des pratiques de recherche inclusives qui sollicitent la participation active des personnes directement touchées à toutes les étapes du projet. Il fait aussi remarquer qu'une même situation n'a pas le même effet chez tout le monde, et qu'il est donc essentiel de poser les bonnes questions pour obtenir des travaux de recherche équitables, représentatifs et significatifs.In this episode, Dr. Lewis discusses their work on identifying and addressing mental health adversities through a person-centred lens grounded in lived experience. He highlights the importance of understanding systemic issues, combating stigma, and creating space for support, resilience, and well-being. Dr. Lewis advocates for inclusive research practices where individuals with lived experience are not only participants but also collaborators and researchers throughout the entire process. Dr. Lewis also emphasizes that even within similar circumstances, each person's experience is unique, and that asking the right questions is essential to achieving more equitable, representative, and meaningful research.Learn more: https://www.uoguelph.ca/psychology/users/stephen-p-lewis

Le 6 mai 2025, l'Interconnectome cœur-cerveau (ICC) a tenu à l'Université d'Ottawa (Canada) un atelier portant sur les principes IDEAS et la gouvernance des données dans la recherche sur la connexion cœur-cerveau. Les conférencières, conférenciers et scientifiques invités ont accepté de participer au balado BEaTS pour discuter de leur perspective et de leur expérience en répondant à trois questions sur les principes IDEAS (inclusion, diversité, équité, accessibilité et justice sociale) dans la recherche cœur-cerveau. On May 6th, 2025, the Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) held a workshop, “Brain-Heart Health for All: IDEAS in Data Governance” at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Invited speakers and scientists agreed to participate in the BEATs podcast to share their perspectives and experiences based on three key questions related to IDEAS (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and social justice) in brain (B)-heart (H) research. _____________________________________________________________________________________________Dans cet épisode, Nafissa Ismail aborde l'application des principes IDEAS en recherche, particulièrement en sciences fondamentales et cliniques. Elle explique en quoi le manque d'inclusivité dans les études a entraîné des lacunes – toujours présentes aujourd'hui – dans nos connaissances sur la santé des femmes, les symptômes et les maladies les touchant étant souvent mal compris ou carrément ignorés. Elle estime que, même si la situation s'est améliorée, nous devons collectivement en faire bien plus encore. Nous discutons aussi de la nécessité de l'inclusion non seulement à des fins de validité scientifique, mais d'équité en santé également. In this episode, Dr. Nafissa Ismail discusses how the principles of IDEAS apply from a research perspective, particularly in the context of basic and clinical science. She examines how the lack of inclusivity in study designs has led to a persistent knowledge gap in women's health, with many symptoms and conditions either misrepresented or overlooked altogether. While progress has been made, Dr. Ismail emphasizes that much more collective effort is needed. Through this conversation, we explore how inclusion is essential not only for scientific accuracy, but also for health equity.Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nafissa-ismail-890aa899/?originalSubdomain=ca

Le 6 mai 2025, l'Interconnectome cœur-cerveau (ICC) a tenu à l'Université d'Ottawa (Canada) un atelier portant sur les principes IDEAS et la gouvernance des données dans la recherche sur la connexion cœur-cerveau. Les conférencières, conférenciers et scientifiques invités ont accepté de participer au balado BEaTS pour discuter de leur perspective et de leur expérience en répondant à trois questions sur les principes IDEAS (inclusion, diversité, équité, accessibilité et justice sociale) dans la recherche cœur-cerveau. On May 6th, 2025, the Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) held a workshop, “Brain-Heart Health for All: IDEAS in Data Governance” at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Invited speakers and scientists agreed to participate in the BEATs podcast to share their perspectives and experiences based on three key questions related to IDEAS (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and social justice) in brain (B)-heart (H) research. _______________________________________________________________________________________________Dans cet épisode, la Dre May Griffith explique à quoi ressemble la mise en pratique au quotidien des principes IDEAS en laboratoire. En s'appuyant sur son riche parcours à l'international, elle soutient que les équipes formées de personnes de divers horizons et aux points de vue différents permettent une meilleure créativité, une plus grande collaboration et des résultats de recherche porteurs. Elle souligne l'importance de réunir non seulement des étudiantes et étudiants de disciplines et de cultures variées, mais aussi des patientes et patients partenaires, dont le vécu apporte une perspective essentielle au processus de recherche. Elle discute également des approches multinationales et multidisciplinaires, lesquelles ont contribué à son succès professionnel, particulièrement dans la science translationnelle. In this episode, we speak with Dr. May Griffith about what IDEAS looks like in day-to-day lab practice. Drawing from her extensive international experience, Dr. Griffith reflects on how cultivating diverse teams with individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives contributes to more creative, collaborative, and impactful research. She highlights the importance of not only involving students from varied disciplines and cultures, but also patient partners, whose lived experiences bring essential insights into the research process. We also explore how a multinational and multidisciplinary approach has been central to the success of her work, particularly in translational science.https://crhmr.ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca/en/researcher/may-griffith

Le 6 mai 2025, l'Interconnectome cœur-cerveau (ICC) a tenu à l'Université d'Ottawa (Canada) un atelier portant sur les principes IDEAS et la gouvernance des données dans la recherche sur la connexion cœur-cerveau. Les conférencières, conférenciers et scientifiques invités ont accepté de participer au balado BEaTS pour discuter de leur perspective et de leur expérience en répondant à trois questions sur les principes IDEAS (inclusion, diversité, équité, accessibilité et justice sociale) dans la recherche cœur-cerveau. On May 6th, 2025, the Brain-Heart Interconnectome (BHI) held a workshop, “Brain-Heart Health for All: IDEAS in Data Governance” at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Invited speakers and scientists agreed to participate in the BEATs podcast to share their perspectives and experiences based on three key questions related to IDEAS (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and social justice) in brain (B)-heart (H) research. _______________________________________________________________________________________________Dans cet épisode, Dre Carla Rice nous parle de l'importance des activités de recherche qui intègrent véritablement les principes IDEAS, des différences qui émergent lorsque le monde change et de la nécessité de composer avec cette réalité complexe, autant en recherche que dans la société. Selon elle, le progrès technologique, qui vise souvent à améliorer l'accessibilité, peut paradoxalement entraîner de nouvelles formes d'exclusion – une réalité qui montre que l'inclusion n'est pas un objectif figé, mais plutôt un processus continu d'apprentissage et d'adaptation. Nous discutons aussi de la façon dont la peur de l'inconnu et de la différence façonne nos sociétés, et de la manière dont les principes IDEAS appliqués à la recherche peuvent servir d'antidote et favoriser l'inclusion. In this episode, we talk with Dr. Carla Rice about the importance of research that truly reflects the values of IDEAS and discuss how differences are always emerging as the world changes, and why embracing that complexity is essential in both research and society. She shares her perspective on how technological advancements, while often intended to enhance accessibility, can also unintentionally create new forms of disability, reminding us that inclusion is not a static goal, but a continuous process of learning and adaptation. We also reflect on how fear of difference and the unfamiliar can shape our social systems, and how research rooted in IDEAS can help challenge these responses and build a more inclusive environment.Learn more: https://family.uoguelph.ca/people/carla-rice 

In this episode, Dr. Erin Mulvihill discusses the advancements in metabolism research that broadens our understanding of the mechanisms behind diabetes and heart health. Through models of both diseases, it is hypothesized that similar hormones and lipids can act as drug targets to improve patient outcomes.Learn more: https://www.ottawaheart.ca/profile/mulvihill-erin-e

Deyanira Hdez. de la Universidad de Ottawa, habla con el Dr. Sergio Alberto Bernal Chávez, Profesor del departamento de Ciencias Químico Biológicas de la Universidad de las Américas, Puebla, y miembro del Sistema Nacional de Investigadores, nivel 1. El Dr. Bernal es Químico Farmacéutico Biólogo con maestría y doctorado en Ciencias Químicas por la UNAM. Su investigación se centra en la aplicación de nanotecnología para el desarrollo de productos cosméticos innovadores. En el episodio de hoy el Dr. brneal dsmitificará ideas sobre los bloqueadores solares.https://www.udlap.mx/profesores/Sergio-Alberto-Bernal-Chavez

Joyce Lu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Céline Aguer. Dr. Aguer is an assistant professor at McGill University in the Department of Physiology and principal investigator in her muscle metabolism laboratory at the Institut du Savoir Montfort in Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Aguer shares her research on how bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental pollutant, disrupts muscle metabolism. This episode also features additional commentary by Dr. Ella Atlas, adjunct professor at the Department of Biochemistry, Microbioloy and Immunology and Health Canada Research Scientist on environmental pollutants.Learn moreDr. Céline Aguer: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-celine-aguerDr. Ella Atlas: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-ella-atlas0:16 | BEaTS, Host introduction, and Background information.0:55 | Introduction to Dr. Aguer1:26 | How Dr. Aguer started research on pollutants and muscle metabolism,2:54 | Current issues with BPA exposure and why studying BPA is important?5:51 | Special Guest Dr. Ella Atlas Introduction6:11 | Dr. Atlas' insights on BPA alternatives and avoidance8:05 | How BPA can cause insulin resistance in muscle cells11:15 | Other potential health impacts of BPA exposure12:22 | Future Studies with the Aguer Lab14:08 | Closing RemarksSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRJoyce Lu (Podcast Host), Emily Wood (Writer/Editor), Ernest Ngou (Audio Master), Angela Wang (Producer)

Sahib Moga from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Jean-François Couture. Dr. Couture is a Full Professor and Chair in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. He has published over 90 papers in prestigious journals and is a leading structural biology and epigenetics expert. In this episode, Dr. Couture shares his research on the role of a non-canonical zinc finger in stabilizing Cfp1's integration into the H3K4 methyltransferase complex COMPASS and its implications for epigenetic signaling and cancer biology.Learn more: http://jfclab.ca/0:05 | BEaTS and host introduction1:00 | Introduction to Dr. Couture1:58 | Introduction to epigenetics and structural biology5: 55 | COMPASS complex and its role8:14 | Novel zinc finger discovery12:20 | Future treatments and drug development 13:15 | ConclusionSoundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRDaniel Nguyen (Producer), Sahib Moga (Host), Ryan Zammar (Content Writer), Francesco Cortese (Post-Production)

Iman Kashif from the University of Ottawa interviewed Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden, a senior scientist in ovarian cancer research and a professor at the University of Ottawa. In this insightful episode, Dr. Vanderhyden discusses her groundbreaking research pertaining to how immune regulator NLRC5 can reshape the tumor microenvironment and increase T-cell reactivity to better recognize and respond to cancer cells. She explains the mechanisms of immune evasion in ovarian cancer and discusses how her work could pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches. Learn more: https://www.ohri.ca/profile/vanderhydenlab/profile1:47 | Immune Evasion and NLRC5.4:49 | Clinical Applications of NLRC5.6:28 | Combination Therapy with NLRC5.9:23 | Tumor Adaptation Challenges. 12:26 | Advice for Early Career Professionals.Music Credit/Copyright information: Copyright free, Youtube video: “DEATH NOTE - L THEME SONG (RIFTI BEATS REMIX) [No Copyright Music]”. Account: Kingdom Power Music. Published January 18, 2021. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkFHNQELp3Y&ab_channel=KingdomPowerMusicIman Kashif (Host, Audio Master), Jacqueline Aoun (Producer), Aaya Mahdi (Content Writer), Shreya Padhy (Content Writer)

Serena George, a student from the University of Ottawa, interviewed Dr. Melissa Fernandez, an assistant professor at the School of Nutrition Sciences at the University of Ottawa. Her research focuses on understanding the impacts of digital food environments on health and nutrition, with a particular interest in food literacy, eating practices, dietary intake, and mental health. In this episode, Dr. Fernandez gives insights into the research behind one of her studies that suggests that improving cooking skills and reducing processed food use may support healthier diets and overall well-being. Following this, Serena sits down with Nicholas Goulet, a Ph.D. candidate in the School of Human Kinetics at the University of Ottawa, who shares his perspective on Dr. Fernandez's research and the insights discussed in the interview. 00:19 | Main guest introduction00:46 | What inspired Dr. Fernandez to focus on nutrition research01:22 | Main findings of the study, 01:58 - Dr. Fernandez on her research study04:18 | Food agency and impact of cooking skills, 05:38 Impact of Socioeconomic background, education, and culture07:46 | Cooking skills and mental health09:34 | Future research recommendations11:39 | Message to listeners and general public13:29 | Input from PhD candidate Nicholas Goulet14:45 | Closing remarks. Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-health-sciences/nutrition/our-professors/melissa-a-fernandez.  Music credits: Guitar Beat Intro / Outro 0128 by TuesdayNight on Pixabay.com (copyright-free) Producer: Svitlana Demchenko, Show Host: Serena George, Writer editor: Nohadra Jeorje, Audio master: Anna Pawelko 

Giselle Joseph of the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Deborah M. Siegal of the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute about how a simple change in blood collection practices in ICUs could significantly improve patient care. Dr. Siegal is a hematologist, clinician-scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and Associate Professor of Medicine at the School of Epidemiology and Public Health at the University of Ottawa.Learn more: https://www.ohri.ca/profile/dsiegal0:06 | Introduction0:56  | Motivation behind using small-volume tubes in ICUs3:15  | Study design and challenges 6:19  | COVID-19 and adaptations to the study 8:46  | Limitations and interpretation of results11:23  | Next steps Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRNatasha Trehan (Producer), Giselle Joseph (Host), Emma Mahoney (Content Writer), Angela Guevara (Post-Production)

Batoul Jomaa from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad and Dr. Robin Patel on behalf of her team for the TMM4950 Science Communication course about improving the diagnostic methods for periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). Dr. Azad is a senior scientist and physician of infectious diseases at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a cross-appointed assistant professor at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Azad's research focuses on exploring PJI to develop more efficient diagnostic methods. Dr. Robin Patel is a director of the Infectious Disease Research Laboratory and a clinician at the Mayo Clinic. In this episode, Dr. Azad and Dr. Patel present their findings from their research on new diagnostic methods for PJI, how diagnostic methods can improve, and important considerations regarding PJI. Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-marisa-azad0:05 | Introduction to podcast1:15 | Introduction to Dr. Azad1:44 | Why is diagnosing PJIs so difficult and what are the current standard treatments?4:20 | What is the BioFire Joint Infection (JI) panel and how does it work?5:20 | What are the plans to improve the accuracy of the BioFire Joint Infection (JI) panel?7:23 | How will antimicrobial resistance affect the prevalence of PJIs and diagnostic strategies?9:25 | Introduction to Dr. Robin Patel10:00 | Are PJIs typically caused by one or multiple microbes?11:58 | Will biomaterials reduce the risk of PJIs or introduce new problems?14:32 | Closing remarksCredits for music: Soundtracks by the Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRBatoul Jomaa (Voice), Tony Lin (Post-Production), Abha Ranjitkar (Content Generation), Sam Khanlou (Producer)

In this episode, your host, Emily Schraeder, speaks to Dr. Christian Vaillancourt, Full Professor with the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, and Senior Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute. His research looks at pre-hospital care, specifically improving care and survival for cardiac arrest and trauma victims. He implemented a multi-phase protocol to allow nurses to use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) during in-hospital cardiac arrest and studied its impact on survival. His research has a major impact on the care and treatment of cardiac arrest victims in our hospitals. We also hear from Julie Considine, Deakin Distinguished Professor, who is Chair of Nursing at Eastern Health and Director of the Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, who gives her point of view on this protocol.Learn more: https://www.ohri.ca/profile/cvaillancourt1:23 | What is an AED? Why is an AED important? 3:16 | Why is the 3-minute time frame so important? Why can it take up to 12 minutes for the first shock to occur?5:28  | Why are nurses not allowed to use AED in hospitals?7:47  | What were the study's challenges or different opinions and views?10:08  | From a nursing perspective, what are some strengths and weaknesses of this protocol?12:07  | How do you expect these protocols to be implemented in the long term?13:49  | Is there anything that you, Dr. Vaillancourt, want the listeners to know about AED use?Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779 https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR                         Producer: Stephanie KhouryShow host: Emily SchraederWriter editor: Hannah Verge and Elizabeth ThibeaultAudio master: Stephanie Khoury and Emily Schraeder

Hosein Hosseini Abardeh, from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Kusum Menon, a senior scientist at the CHEO Research Institute, to explore her research into pediatric septic shock. In this episode, we dive into critical topics such as the use of corticosteroids in managing pediatric septic shock and the challenges and benefits of using a deferred consent model for patient recruitment in clinical studies. Special guest Katie O'Hearn joins to provide additional insights into the complexities of conducting research in pediatric critical care.Learn more: https://www.cheoresearch.ca/research/find-a-researcher/kusum-menon/0:06 | Host introduction.0:27 | Introduction to Dr. Menon and Katie O'Hearn1:15 | Walking through Dr.Menon's scientific journey2:41 | Katie O'Hearn's role in the lab3:44 | Why are corticosteroids used for pediatric septic shock?5:28 | Challenges faced during the double-blind septic shock pilot study.6:14 | How were the challenges with steroid usage addressed for the study?7:52 | What is deferred consent? Why is it necessary? And how it was employed in the study.10:13 | Walkthrough of what happens when a child dies during the study.13:00 | Closing RemarksThis podcast features the song "Chroma Dusk" from Top-Flow on PixaBay, which is available under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license. Sergio Prosvirini created it.https://pixabay.com/music/beats-chroma-dusk-269465/Hosein Hosseini Abardeh (Host), Aaron Reyes (Producer), Malcolm Wilson (Audio), Vincent Baron (Script Writer)

As part of the BEaTS Research Radio Translational and Molecular Medicine Sci-Comm Podcast series, our host, Daniel Anderson, interviews Dr. Ruel and NP Ponnambalam. In this episode, Daniel, Dr. Ruel, and Ms. Ponnambalam discuss the promise of minimally invasive coronary bypass grafting (MICS CABG) and how it is a less invasive and safer option for patients who require coronary bypass surgery. Dr. Marc Ruel (MD, MPH) is the endowed chair of minimally invasive cardiac research at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. He is also a Professor in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. He is a Professor in the Department of Surgery and Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Ottawa. Menaka Ponnambalam (RN-EC, MN, NP-Adult) is a nurse practitioner in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Learn moreDr. Marc Ruel: https://www.ottawaheart.ca/profile/ruel-marcMenaka Ponnabalam: https://www.ottawaheart.ca/patients-and-visitors/clinical-departments/cardiac-surgery0:20 | Introduction to Dr. Marc Ruel & NP Menaka Ponnambalam1:22  | Origin of the MICS CABG Procedure4:39  | Patient Experience6:35  | Science Behind the Magic 8:20  | Future of Cardiac Surgery9:05  | Teamwork10:16  | Patient Advice13:29  | Conclusion & ResourcesMusic: Waltz in F# minor by Josh Zeldin & Huy K. Nguyen (unpublished composition). All rights reserved.Huy K. Nguyen (Producer), Daniel Anderson (Host), Josh Zeldin (Writer), Gil Toex (Editor) 

Tracy Xie, a student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Stephanie Willerth, a full professor and Tier II Canada Research Chair in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Victoria. In 2019, Dr. Willerth's group pioneered a new way to 3D print neural tissues using fibrinogen, a natural substance that helps our blood clot.In addition, Dr. Willerth is the CEO and co-founder of Axolotl Biosciences, a women-led biotech company. They have created the world's first commercial neuro-ink by bringing her 3D bioprinting technology to the market with Axolotl Biosciences! In this episode, we discuss the journey behind creating this versatile bioink, the advancements it helped lead to, and the exciting future of 3D bioprinting. Learn more about Dr. Willerth's work here: https://www.engr.uvic.ca/~willerth/Learn more about Axolotl Biosciences here: https://www.axolotlbiosciences.com/                 0:05 | BEaTS Research Radio and host introduction0:26 | Background on 3D bioprinting0:51 | Introduction to Dr. Willerth and her 2019 paper2:03 | Current landscape of 3D bioprinting3:17 | Key takeaways from Dr. Willerth's 2019 paper4:20 | What makes this bioink so special?4:53 | Choosing the right materials to support stem cell growth6:03 | Checking stem cell viability and differentiation into neurons6:54 | The biggest challenge in developing this protocol7:40 | Dr. Willerth's favorite parts of the project8:29 | Advancements and applications using this bioink!9:38 | Next steps from the Willerth Lab11:22 | Outro, and thank you for listening!Music by the Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRRyan Chan (Producer), Tracy Xie (Show Host), Abigail Shaver (Writer Editor), and Mia Petrović (Audio Master).

Larissa Yakoub from the University of Ottawa speaks with Dr. Betty Li, a researcher at the Human Health Therapeutics Research Center and an adjunct professor in the Department of Systems and Computer Engineering at Carleton University. In this episode, Dr. Li shares her recent findings in the development of 3D-printed materials for their application in vascular research and the creation of disease models.Access to Dr. Betty Li and her team's publication in Elsevier: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bprint.2023.e00258Learn more about Dr. Li: https://carleton.ca/sce/people/li-2/ 0:03 | Introduction 1:23 | What motivated Dr. Li to advance bioprinting technology?4:47 | Who can benefit from 3D bioprinted blood vessels? 6:40 | Innovation of AGC bioink- How Dr. Li created a special type of ink (bioink) that can mimic real living tissue to be used in 3D bioprinting8:50 | 3D bioprinted vascular networks in drug discovery- How using 3D bioprinted blood vessels can help test new medicines10:24 | AGC bioink and ECM remodeling- AGC bioink reshapes the framework that supports your cells12:48| Dr. Li's expectations for her research15:12 | Conclusion and credits Soundtrack by penguinmusic. All rights reserved. https://pixabay.com/music/beats-lazy-day-stylish-futuristic-chill-239287/  Podcast by Larissa Yakoub (host, writer, and audio director) and Nada Abu Khater (producer, audio director, post-production, and writer). Social media collaboration by Suad Zain Aldeen and Darah Freije.

Omar Moghrabi from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marceline Côté about using Sphingosine Kinase (SK) Inhibitors to treat enveloped viruses like Ebola. Dr. Côté is an associate professor at the University of Ottawa and the director of the Centre for Infection, Immunity, & Inflammation, where her research and practice involve antiviral treatments. In this episode, Dr. Côté weighs in on the emerging research that suggests that the use of SK inhibitors may be the future of broad-spectrum antiviral treatments. Omar and Dr. Côté discuss the mechanism, breadth, and safety of SK inhibitors in detail and the future of this post-entry approach to viral combat. Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-marceline-cote0:03 | Introduction to the speaker1:04 | Lay Summary/intro to the topic1:54 | How do viruses like Ebola enter cells in the first place?4:50 | What are sphingosine kinases, and why are they such a good target for blocking viruses?6:00 | How effective is this approach across these viruses, and were there any surprises or interesting findings?8:48 | The future of broad-spectrum antiviral treatments and the potential of SK inhibitors10:22 | Known side effects of using SK inhibitors and safety concerns11:54 | Impact of SK Inhibitor Therapies on Public Health Responses During Viral Outbreaks13:16 | Outro and ThanksIntro: Sunny Brazilian Bossa Nova Jazz Podcast - Denis-Pavlov-Music;Outro: Context Sensitive - CHIPTUNEhttps://www.youtube.com/ContextSensitivehttps://contextsensitive.bandcamp.com/Producer: Zaid TaweelEditor: Zaid TaweelScript Writers and Editors: Aws Almir Ahmad and Paul Al HaddadShow Host: Omar Moghrabi

In this episode, Ali Abdalbari from the University of Ottawa's Translational and Molecular Medicine (TMM) program speaks with Dr. Morgan Fullerton, Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. This episode features a discussion surrounding Dr. Fullerton's most recent paper, published in the Atherosclerosis Journal (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117608). Dr. Fullerton provides an in-depth overview of his team's discoveries and offers his expertise in the field of metabolic research, highlighting the importance of model systems of disease and the implications of his research in this field.Learn more: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117608 Fullerton Lab: https://www.fullertonlab.com/0:10 | BEaTS and host introduction0:39 | Introduction to Dr. Fullerton1:39 | Podcast topic introduction1:56 | Guest welcome2:08 | Introduction to atherosclerosis3:44 | Focus of the Fullerton lab: metabolism and AMPK6:32 | Interlude: a study from collaborator Dr. Kim Loh7:04 | Concept of “negative data”7:43 | Data and challenges10:16 | Impact of research on the field of atherosclerosis11:33 | Accessibility and efficient communication in science13:23 | Podcast OutroSoundtrack by the Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRPodcast credits: Ali Abdalbari (Show Host), Brianna Kore (Audio Master), Michelle Levesque (Writer Editor), Peter Noel (Producer).

Matteus McCulloch from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Michele Ardolino, a senior scientist in cancer research at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Ardolino discusses a recent paper published by his lab about PD-L1 and its inhibition of the Type I IFN pathway during oncolytic virus infection, how the research came about, and the relevance of the work to advance cancer treatment.  Learn more about Dr. Ardolino and the work of the Ardolino Lab: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-michele-ardolino https://ardolinolab.ca/0:00 | Introduction to PD-L1 and the type I IFN pathway and its relevance to recent research by Hodgins, J.J. et al. 1:40 | BEaTS, host, and guest introduction2:18 | What inspired the Ardolino Lab's exploration of PD-L1 and the type I IFN pathway?5:01 | What setbacks were encountered over the course of this study?6:35 | What is the mechanism of action for PD-L1 antibodies and oncolytic viruses in cancer therapy?8:17 | Clinical applications of PD-L1 antibodies and oncolytic viruses for cancer therapy9:50 | Impactful moments during the research process10:57 | Next steps in PD-L1 research12:02 | Advice for students entering research13:30 | End creditsThis podcast features the following songs: "Hidden Realm" by I.V.Lab, available under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial license.Listen here: https://archive.org/details/ffs62"600 light years" by Macroform, available under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 license.Listen here: https://archive.org/details/Macroform2011Matteus McCulloch (Podcast Host), Serena Bezanson (Script Writer), Sara Ladha (Audio post-production), Mattheuren Aucoin (Producer).

Anastasia Fahlman and Sarah Damiani from the University of Ottawa speak with Dr. Erin Mulvihill, Scientist and Director of the Energy Substrate Metabolism Research Laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Tune in to learn more about her recent work published in CellPress, which explores the potential mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective benefits of metabolic surgery and GLP-1RA-based therapies. It also discusses recent evidence and emerging therapies in this dynamic area of research. Learn more: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043276024001930                                                                     Credits for music: Soundtracks by the Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRPodcast by Sarah Damiani (Voice, Producer, Show Co-Host, Writer Editor, Audio Master) and Anastasia Fahlman (Voice, Show Co-Host, Writer Editor, Audio Master)

Maryam Yassin from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Anna Jezierski and Dr. Alex MacKenzie. Dr. Jezierski is a research officer at the Department of Translational Biosciences in the Human Health Therapeutics Research Center at the National Research Council of Canada. She is also an adjunct professor for the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Jezierski shares her research on modeling the human blood-brain barrier using induced pluripotent stem cells and the various applications of this model in studying therapeutics for diseases of the central nervous system. We're also joined by Dr. Alex Mackenzie, an attending pediatrician and senior scientist at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). He has served as the CEO and Scientific Director of CHEO Research Institute and is a cross-appointed member of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Mackenzie comments on how this model is revolutionizing drug development. Learn more:  https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-anna-jezierski https://www.cheoresearch.ca/research/find-a-researcher/alex-mackenzie/0.03 | BEaTS and host introduction.0.26 | Introduction to Dr. Jezierski.1.17 | Introduction to Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB).3.22 | Creating a BBB model using induced pluripotent stem cells is important.7.07 | How tight junctions are replicated effectively.9.20 | Applications of the iPSC-derived BBB model.12.35 | Introduction to Dr. Alex Mackenzie12.51 | Implications of the model on drug discovery and clinical trials.14.54 | Closing remarks.Soundtracks by the Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/yrgjajtxzy4j08zj5iptc/AF7HMueoQwogLQMFxHxSHpU?e=1&preview=BEaTS+-+music+only+2.wav&rlkey=epcpj63eohwgi44mnqg7ctoa6&st=bn1v69ik&dl=0Maryam Yassin (Voice), Aysha Aftab (Post-Production), Dalia Zeidan (Content Generation), Jordan Yin (Producer). 

Join Kahliana Nguyen and Khaled Najjar, Translational and Molecular Medicine students, as they speak with Dr. Baptiste Lacoste, a neuroscience researcher at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute whose recent work focuses on the critical role of the brain's vascular system in development.  The episode explores a new perspective on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and how problems with the brain's blood vessels in early development may contribute to challenges seen in autism. Dr. Lacoste goes into depth on how these blood vessels play a role in brain growth, energy use, and behavior. By studying these interactions alongside neural and genetic factors, his research opens new avenues in how we understand autism and find better ways to address ASD. Whether you're a researcher, student, or simply curious, this episode offers an exciting new lens to the field. Learn more: Dr Baptiste Lacoste Dr Baptiste Lacoste | Faculté de médecine https://bsky.app/profile/blacoste.bsky.socialhttps://www.ohri.ca/profile/lacostelab0:02 | BEaTS and host introduction.0:22 | Introduction to Dr. Lacoste1:10 | Why did Dr. Lacoste choose to focus on the vascular system specifically?3:05 | The Neurovascular unit (NVU) and its importance in Dr. Lacoste's research on ASD5:15 | The use of mice with a 16p11.2 deletion mutation to study ASD8:43 | The novel findings were seen in Dr. Lactoste's lab study on ASD10:51 | Treatment Strategies when it comes to ASD12:03 | Limitations & Challenges Dr. Lacoste's lab faced and still faces while studying ASD13:50 | Wrapping up the episodeScience and Innovation by Vicate. All rights reserved. Listen more:https://www.jamendo.com/album/578641/science-and-innovationVicate | Jamendo Music | Free music downloadsKahliana Nguyen (Voice) & Khaled Najjar (Producer & Editor)

Lia Morton from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad. Dr. Azad is a physician-scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and an Assistant Professor of medicine in the division of infectious diseases at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Azad shares her insight and expertise on implant-associated infections (IAIs), notably the challenges of detecting and diagnosing IAIs and emerging diagnostic methods.Learn more: https://www.ohri.ca/newsroom/story/view/1543?l=en   0:00 | BEaTS and host introduction.0:38 | Introduction to Implant-Associated Infections (IAIs)1:40 | Introduction to Dr.Azad.2:11 | Why is IAI diagnosis so difficult, and what makes it particularly challenging?3:39 | Implant types that are notably hard to detect.4:29 | How do biofilms contribute to the formation of IAIs, and what makes them dangerous?7:41 | Limitations associated with microbiological analyses.11:09 |Future work and new approaches considered to identify IAIs.12:59 |The diagnostic methods currently being used in the clinic14:26 | Farewells and closure.Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. Song Titled: BEaTS. All rights reserved.https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRLia Morton (Show Host, Content Generation), Julianne Morin (Production, Content Generation),  Amal Assebbane (Script, Content Generation), Adjia Seynabou Sy Gueye (Post-Production, Content Generation)

Maheen Khanotia from the Translational Molecular Medicine program interviews Dr. Barabara Vanderhyden, a distinguished researcher at the Ottawa Hospital and a professor at the University of Ottawa. She is a leading researcher in ovarian cancer, focusing on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. In this podcast, Maheen discusses with Dr. Vanderhyden her key findings in her 2023 paper "BRCA1 and BRCA2 deficient tumor models generate distinct ovarian tumor microenvironments and differential responses to therapy," where they delve into the world of cancer, Dr. Vanderhyden's lab findings, potential treatments, and research advice.Learn more:  https://www.ohri.ca/profile/vanderhydenlab/profile0:05 | BEaTS and host introduction.1:17 | Introduction to Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden.1:39 | How did you come to study ovarian cancer?2:48 | What led you to believe the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are different?3:50 | What is the tumor microenvironment? 4:57 |  What do the research findings mean to the general public?6:05 | Why do BRCA1 and BRCA2 deletions at the gene and protein levels have different effects on tumor microenvironments? 8:04 | What were the challenges you went through as a researcher?9:18  | What were the crucial limitations of your research?10:24  | What are the future steps for ovarian cancer research?11:56  | What is general advice you would give to other researchers?12:55  | How long does a study like this take?13:40  | How does this research affect a patient's diagnosis?14:31  | Closing remarks Credits for music: Soundtracks by the Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779 https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmRMaheen Khanotia (Voice, host, editor), Soniya Agarwal (Producer, writer)