Dementia Researcher Blogs
The Dementia Researcher Blogs Podcasts - through this show, you can hear our bloggers read their blogs. So if you prefer to read, you can head or our website or you can listen on the move. These shows are about academic / research careers, research, science and life as an early career dementia researchers. Brought to you by https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk - everything you need, all in one place. Remember to subscribe to our main ‘Dementia Researcher‘ Podcast, here and where ever you get your podcasts.
Episodes
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - British Neuropathological Society Meeting Highlights
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
At the 125th meeting of the British Neuropathological Society, leading experts gathered to share recent advancements in neuropathology. The symposium, preceding the meeting, offered fresh perspectives on neurodegeneration. Notable talks included insights into cognition and dementia risk, transcriptomics in human neurodegeneration, and molecular mechanisms in disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. The following sessions highlighted the importance of diverse diagnostic antibodies in Parkinson’s disease and discussed the neuroinflammatory response to traumatic brain injury.
Kam shares highlights in this blog, with indepth analysis and a review of posters... look out for revealing new findings in microglial phenotypes in Alzheimer’s and senescence markers in dementia.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-british-neuropathological-society-meeting-highlights/
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Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is a Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Teesside University & Affiliate Researcher at Glasgow University. In addition to teaching, Kamar is exploring how neuroinflammation following traumatic brain injury contributes to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases that lead to dementia. Having first pursued a career as an NHS Psychologist, Kamar went back to University in Durham to look at rodent behavioural tasks to completed her PhD, and then worked as a regional Programme Manager for NC3Rs.
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Follow us on Social Media:
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Friday Feb 16, 2024
Marija Taneska - Nonpharmacological interventions PIA Year in Review Recap
Friday Feb 16, 2024
Friday Feb 16, 2024
Marija Taneska, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog Marija shares highlights from the recent ISTAART's Nonpharmacological Interventions PIA Year in Review webinar. Exploring the significance of holistic dementia care and the role of digital tools in supporting caregivers. It discusses research on dementia beyond pharmacological treatments, emphasising the necessity for inclusive, co-produced interventions and the exploration of lifestyle interventions, neuromodulation, and digital technologies for enhancing dementia care. Upcoming projects and studies aim to further our understanding and application of nonpharmacological approaches in managing dementia.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-nonpharmacological-interventions-pia-year-in-review-recap/
Don’t forget, you can get involved in the Nutrition, Metabolism & Dementia PIA by joining ISTAART and get access to previous webinars!
#DementiaResearch #ISTAART #Dementia
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Marija Taneska is a Research Evidence Officer for the Alzheimer's Society and Student Representative at the ISTAART Nonpharmacological Interventions PIA. Marija reviews and synthesizes dementia evidence from different sources to inform Alzheimer's Society work. She is particulary close to the IDEAL, PriDem and NIDUS Projects and collaborates with researchers in dementia care to ensure mutual exchange and support. Marija is also a visiting Research Assistant at UCL, co-leading a project aimed to adapt the START (STrategies for RelaTives) intervention for family caregivers in Macedonia.
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Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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Thursday Feb 15, 2024
Emily Spencer - ‘Winding down’ Preparing for maternity leave
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog Emily focuses on her experiences navigating pregnancy while working in dementia research and preparing for maternity leave. Thankfully an 'easy pregnancy' (if there is such a thing), allowed Emily to continue her professional commitments, including presenting at a conference at 35 weeks pregnant. Emily faced added pressure to complete her PhD upgrade and a significant part of a feasibility study before her leave. She attempted to finalise as many tasks as possible, including submitting papers for publication, but acknowledged some work, like her systematic review, would wait until her return. Emily's story highlights the challenges and pressures of managing academia and impending maternity leave.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-winding-down-preparing-for-maternity-leave/
#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research
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Emily Spencer is a PhD Student at University College London looking at improving how GPs communicate with people with dementia and their family carers about their future care. Emily previous had a 5 year career break to pursue a career as a musician, and has previously undertaken research on improving the care people with dementia receive from their GP practice, as well as end-of-life and palliative care provision in the community. Emily is also a new mum and will be writing about her experiences navigating motherhood and a research career.
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Dr Dorothy Tse - Intellect on the clock: Value Led Time Management
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Dr Dorothy Tse narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Dorothy's blog addresses the alignment of core values with strategic time management in academic leadership. She discusses the multiplicity of roles held by principal investigators and lecturers, from ideation and securing funding to teaching and mentorship. Dorothy highlights three key strategies: setting a clear vision, making proactive choices by saying 'no', and prioritisation using tools like the Eisenhower matrix. These strategies help navigate the complexities of academic roles, allowing for purposeful leadership and efficient research.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-intellect-on-the-clock-value-led-time/
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Dr Dorothy Tse is a Senior Lecture, Neuroscientist and Cognitive Psychologist at Edge Hill University. Dorothy specialises in the neurobiology of learning and memory, early detection of dementia, and promoting brain health. She is passionate about co-creating and collaborating with those living with dementia and carers to improve brain health. She also serves in various roles supporting the British Neuroscience Association.
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This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk
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Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
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https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Hannah Hussain - Coping with distress: the unyielding strength of caregivers
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Hannah's blog examines the plight of individuals with dementia in conflict zones like Gaza, shedding light on the added layers of distress they face.
Dementia, particularly certain forms, such as Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), not only impairs cognitive abilities but also significantly influences behaviour, often leading to heightened states of distress. The inability to communicate effectively can exacerbate this distress, leaving individuals feeling anxious, fearful, and confused. In such challenging environments, the role of informal caregivers becomes indispensable. Their efforts to maintain routine, employ calming techniques, and provide comfort are vital in creating a safer space for their loved ones. The blog also underscores the importance of caregiver wellbeing, as their resilience has a profound impact on the quality of life for those with dementia, particularly during times of adversity.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-coping-with-distress-the-strength-of-caregivers/
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Hannah Hussain is a PhD Student in Health Economics at The University of Sheffield. As a proud third generation migrant and British-Asian, her career path has been linear and ever evolving, originally qualifying as a Pharmacist in Nottingham, then Health Economics in Birmingham. Her studies have opened a world into Psychology, Mental Health and other areas of health, and with that and personal influences she found her passion for dementia.
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This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk
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Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
Sunday Feb 11, 2024
Dr Sam Moxon - Nutrition Metabolism & Dementia PIA Year in Review
Sunday Feb 11, 2024
Sunday Feb 11, 2024
Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Dr Sam Moxon summarises key findings from ISTAART's Nutrition Metabolism & Dementia PIA Year in Review webinar. It details how diets such as the Mediterranean, ketogenic, and MIND diets can slow cognitive decline, with the MIND diet also reducing amyloid pathology. The dangers of ultra-processed foods are highlighted, showing their association with cognitive decline. The recap also explores the muscle-brain axis, demonstrating the correlation between muscular and brain health, and the role of insulin in cognition, including the protective effects of nasal insulin sprays and the brain-specific benefits of eating nuts. The overarching message is clear: the food we consume significantly impacts brain health and dementia outcomes.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-nutrition-metabolism-dementia-pia-year-in-review-recap/
Don’t forget, you can get involved in the Nutrition, Metabolism & Dementia PIA by joining ISTAART and get access to previous webinars!
#DementiaResearch #ISTAART #DrSamMoxon #Nutrition #Dementia
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Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials Research Fellow at University of Birmingham. His expertise falls on the interface between biology and engineering. His PhD focussed on regenerative medicine and he now works on trying to develop 3D bioprinting techniques with human stem cells, so that we better understand and treat degenerative diseases. Outside of the lab he hikes through the Lake District and is an expert on all things Disney.
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Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
Friday Feb 09, 2024
Rebecca Williams - A Whimsical Research Culture
Friday Feb 09, 2024
Friday Feb 09, 2024
Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Rebecca shares her experience of positively influencing research culture by integrating fun and personality into the academic environment. By initiating a board game night and other social activities, she encourages colleagues to embrace their quirks, from sharing pun-filled emails to displaying personal trinkets like a tiny rubber duck on their desks. Her actions have shown that by simply being oneself, a PhD student can significantly impact the research culture, challenging the conventional stoicism of academia and promoting a more genuine and wholehearted approach to work and social interactions within her unit.
Small things can make a big difference!
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-a-whimsical-research-culture/
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Rebecca Williams is PhD student at the University of Cambridge. Though originally from ‘up North’ in a small town called Leigh, she did her undergraduate and masters at the University of Oxford before defecting to Cambridge for her doctorate researching Frontotemporal dementia and Apathy. She now spends her days collecting data from wonderful volunteers, and coding. Outside work, she plays board games, and is very crafty. @beccasue99
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Adam Smith - Dementia Researcher, Bringing Communities Together
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog Adam discusses the upcoming launch of the Dementia Researcher Communities App, designed as an exclusive, secure platform for dementia researchers to connect, share insights, and collaborate. It will feature social media functionalities tailored for the research community, including live events, mentoring, and group discussions, aimed at enhancing networking and support across various research stages and areas. He also shares news that Dementia Researcher is inviting researchers and community leaders to use free functionality allow them to host their own groups within the app. The aim being to bring communities together, unified in their aim but with their own identities.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-dementia-researcher-bringing-communities-together/
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Apply for your own community -
https://forms.gle/k2esthS9mYEtBasG9
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Adam Smith was born in the north, a long time ago. He wanted to write books, but ended up working in the NHS, and at the Department of Health. He is now Programme Director in the Office of the NIHR National Director for Dementia Research (which probably sounds more important than it is) at University College London. He has led a number of initiatives to improve dementia research (including this website, Join Dementia Research & ENRICH), as well as pursuing his own research interests. In his spare time, he grows vegetables, builds Lego & spends most of his time drinking too much coffee and squeezing technology into his house.
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Dr Beth Eyre - Subjective Cognitive Decline PIA Year in Review Recap
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Dr Beth Eyre narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Beth brings us news from last months ISTAART Subjective Cognitive Decline PIA Year in Review Webinar. The event explored the latest advancements in subjective cognitive decline (SCD) research, emphasising its significance as an early indicator for Alzheimer's disease. Beth highlights new findings that deepen understanding of SCD's role in Alzheimer's progression, including potential biomarkers and the impact of early intervention strategies. These insights are crucial for developing more effective treatments and preventive measures, underscoring the importance of continued research and collaboration in the field.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-biofluid-based-biomarkers-pia-year-in-review-recap/
Don’t forget, you can get involved in the SCD PIA by joining ISTAART and get access to previous webinars!
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Dr Beth Eyre is a Postdoctoral Researcher at The University of Sheffield, researching Neurovascular and cognitive function in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. Beth has a background in psychology, where she gained her degree from the University of Leeds. Inside and outside the lab, Beth loves sharing her science and in her blogs, she discusses her work, career and shares lessons she learns as she navigates life as an early career researcher.
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This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support. Enjoy listening? We're always on the look out for new contributors, if you would like to write and narrate your own blog - drop us a line dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk.
Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly podcast, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app.
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Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher