Baycrest

FESTIVAL SHOWCASES NEUROSCIENCE In October, the RRI hosted a weeklong research festival showcasing its world-leading science that seeks to learn more about the human brain, how it changes, adapts and recovers over time – discoveries that are reshaping the experience of aging. Eye tracker tool used to investigate how memory works. A highlight of the event was a panel discussion, hosted by AM 740 Radio's Dale Goldhawk who engaged three of our experts in a lively discussion about the importance of habits such as walking in nature and eating healthy foods for keeping our cognitive powers and overall mental health in good shape as we age. Festival visitors met with our scientists, some of whom had recently published evidence-based books on ways to maintain a healthy brain into old age. Students from Bakersfield Public School were treated to lab demonstrations and explanations about how neuroscientists study the brain. They were especially fascinated by a demonstration of eye tracking equipment used to determine how memories are created, stored and retrieved and how these processes change with age or brain damage. "The festival was a terrific opportunity to engage our many stakeholders, from philanthropists to industry partners, government officials, our staff, teachers and students, and those from the community who volunteer their time to participate in research studies at our labs," said Dr. Randy McIntosh, vice-president of Research and director of the RRI. FUTURE-THINKING DONORS SUPPORT BAYCREST'S VIRTUAL BRAIN Baycrest scientists, along with collaborators from 10 sites and three continents, are leading the development of the world's first Virtual Brain: an integrated computer model of a fully functioning human brain. Gianna and Dr. Max Glassman generously donated $1 million to Baycrest's Virtual Brain project. Walter Zwig, Tony Zwig and Thea Caplan appreciate the Virtual Brain project. Their wife and mother, Helen, lived with Parkinson's disease and after her passing in 2012, the Zwig family generously donated $100,000 toward the project, which will help test experimental brain therapies on a computer to treat people like Helen and others suffering from brain-related diseases. Dr. Max Glassman and his wife Gianna were inspired by Baycrest's lead role in the development of the Virtual Brain, and were moved to become founding donors by giving $1 million to the project after attending Baycrest's 2012 Research Festival. The Glassmans have a long history with Baycrest and are proud to support innovations that will change the face of healthcare in Canada and around the world. "I believe there is a very real possibility that one day the Nobel Prize will be awarded to Baycrest for their brilliant research on memory, Alzheimer's and cognition," said Dr. Glassman. "The need for Baycrest's services and research is mushrooming. I don't see our work as done. It is really only beginning and I am confident Baycrest will become the icon for brain pathology, prevention and therapy worldwide." ANNUAL REPORT 2012-13 19

• Cover