Health & Disease
Browse the latest in Health & Disease, including blog articles, Annals research, events, Academy news and more.
Content Spotlight
blog
Mosquitoes and Malaria: Could the U.S. Be at Risk?
November 24, 2025
Mosquito habitats are rapidly expanding in the United States due to climate and environmental changes, exotic species, and urbanization. This raises new concerns about malaria’s re-emergence. Published November 24, 2025 By Collins Mamudu, MS Image courtesy of anake via stock.adobe.com. The United States is experiencing a swift expansion of mosquito habitats. Contributing factors include; invasive species, urbanization, climate change, and man-made changes to the environment. Warmer weather, shifting rainfall patterns, and less severe winters allow...
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Vaccines Gave Us Back Our Tomorrows. We’re Squandering Them.
November 19, 2025
More than half a century of vaccine progress, dubbed the “immunization era,” is swiftly being undone because of politics and propaganda. Published November 19, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP Image courtesy of InfiniteFlow via stock.adobe.com. In public health, most victories arrive quietly. No headlines mark the measles case that never happened, or the child spared from polio paralysis. But a landmark analysis released 50 years after the Expanded Programme on Immunization gives...
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New Insight into the Evolutionary History of Urban Mosquitoes
October 31, 2025
A new ‘Science’ paper by a Leon Levy Scholar on the London Underground Mosquito suggests that their ability to adapt to urban environments dates back further than previously thought. Published October 31, 2025 By Nick Fetty Magnified image of the Cx. pipiens body. Image by David Barillet-Portal via Wikimedia Commons. Licensed via CC BY-SA 3.0. No changes made to the original work. Culex pipiens form molestus, more commonly known as the London Underground Mosquito, has...
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Chikungunya on Long Island: A Warning Sign of Our Changing Climate
October 27, 2025
The recent confirmed case of Chikungunya virus on Long Island marks a significant public health moment for New York. While a single confirmed case is not cause for alarm, it is cause for attention. Climate change is altering disease dynamics faster than many systems are prepared for. Published October 27, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP New York health officials have confirmed the first locally transmitted case of Chikungunya virus in the United...
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Examining Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation During Pregnancy
September 24, 2025
By utilizing an individual participant data meta-analyses, researchers were able to shed new light on prenatal multiple micronutrient supplementation. Published September 24, 2025 By Nick Fetty The cover of the July issue of Advances in Nutrition. A multi-year research project by The New York Academy of Sciences’ Nutrition Science Program has resulted in promising findings for positive birth outcomes based on when supplementation is started during pregnancy and how consistently it’s taken. Findings from the...
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A Multidisciplinary Approach to Address Inadequate Calcium Intake
September 24, 2025
By combining scientific depth, data translation, and policy navigation, researchers hope to improve calcium intake across the globe. Published September 24, 2025 By Nick Fetty A screenshot from the Global Calcium Map Dashboard. A research effort involving The New York Academy of Sciences’ Nutrition Science Program aims to provide governments and policy advocates with accurate information that can support policy change for better health outcomes. The team of researchers led systematic reviews, integrated diverse datasets,...
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Combating Extreme Heat Environments through Technology Architecture Infrastructure and Urbanization
August 5, 2025
Winner of the Junior Academy Challenge – Spring 2025“Living in the Extremes” Sponsored by The New York Academy of Sciences Published August 5, 2025 By Nicole Pope Team members: Katelyn G. (Team Lead) (California, United States), Rishab S. (India), Adham M. (Egypt), Youssef I. (Egypt), Shravika S. (Virginia, United States) Mentor: Anavi Jain (Tennessee, United States) As record-breaking temperatures due to the climate crisis become more common around the world, especially in vulnerable regions like...
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Eco-twisters
August 5, 2025
Winner of the Junior Academy Challenge – Spring 2025“Air Quality & Health” Sponsored by Stevens Initiative Published August 5, 2025 By Nicole Pope Team members: Kelsey M. (Team Lead) (California, United States), Hana H. (Egypt), Zoha H. (North Carolina, United States), Islam H. (Saudi Arabia), Sanaya M. (New Jersey, United States), Kavish S. (North Carolina, United States) Mentor: Brisa Torres (Germany) Indoor air pollution, caused largely by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbon dioxide (CO2),...
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Finding Calm in the Chaos: Strategies for Mental Resilience
June 23, 2025
In a time of constant breaking news, ever changing doomscrolls, and, what seems like a never-ending stream of life stressors, the toll on our mental health is real and measurable. Published June 23, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP and Jessi Gold, MD, MS Image courtesy of tirachard via stock.adobe.com. Research consistently shows that prolonged exposure to crisis-oriented media can elevate stress, worsen anxiety, and erode emotional resilience. For healthcare workers, students, and...
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Breastfeeding Medicine Is Essential Postpartum Care
June 6, 2025
A firsthand account of why more mothers should know about it, what exactly they should do, and how it can help. Published June 6, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP Image courtesy of pingpao via stock.adobe.com. Three weeks postpartum, I developed a painful, swollen lump in my breast–mastitis. Despite having breastfed all three of my children for over a year each, and now currently my fourth, I was still caught off guard by...
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Dedicated to Advancing Pharmaceutical Science
May 12, 2025
Albert Bourla, DVM, PhD, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer, was one of three Honorees recently recognized by The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) for outstanding contributions to science. Published May 12, 2025 By Nick Fetty Dr. Albert Bourla at the Soirée. Dr. Bourla was presented with the inaugural Visionary Award in recognition for his “anything is possible attitude” which, in part, helped Pfizer develop a vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic. The award was...
press-release
Is social media contributing to increasing loneliness in young adults? It depends on the App
May 12, 2025
New study finds that loneliness is more likely to be associated with the use of specific media platforms, not social media in general. New York, NY | May 12, 2025 – There has been increasing concern that overall time spent online is contributing to greater loneliness and other psychological harm in children and young adults. But a new study by a team of international researchers and published in Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences...
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Current Insights into Women’s Healthcare
May 9, 2025
Stacey Missmer, ScD, is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Michigan, an adjunct professor of epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and a lecturer in pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. Prof. Missmer will serve as the keynote speaker for The New York Academy of Sciences’ upcoming event Endometriosis: A Look at Current Practices and Emerging Science. Published May 9, 2025 By Megan Prescott, PhD Stacey Missmer, ScD You...
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Whooping Cough Is Surging in the U.S.: What You Need to Know
May 5, 2025
The United States is facing a sharp and deeply concerning resurgence of pertussis, better known as whooping cough, a vaccine-preventable illness that was once nearly eliminated thanks to robust public health efforts. Published May 5, 2025 Image courtesy of 9nong via stock.adobe.com. By Syra Madad, DHSc, MSc, MCP, CHEP, and Boghuma K. Titanji, MD PhD To date in 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported over 8,000 cases of whooping cough,...
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Ethics and Equity: Navigating Inclusive Excellence in Healthcare and Health Research
April 22, 2025
The event provided a collaborative platform among speakers and panelists across academia, industry, government, non-profits, and more to exchange knowledge on ethical responsibilities to improve equity within healthcare and biomedical research. Published April 22, 2025 By Christina Szalinski “We are living in a moment that desperately needs clarity of principle and deep moral courage.” And with that statement, Amy Ben Arieh, JD, MPH, executive director of the Fenway Institute, and nationally recognized authority on human...
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Degradation in Cellular Processes: 2024 Dr. Paul Janssen Award Symposium
April 15, 2025
Lynne Maquat and Alexander Varshavsky were recognized for their fundamental discoveries in the regulated degradation of RNAs and proteins. Published April 15, 2025 By Carina Storrs Overview From left: Alex J. Varshavsky, PhD, Morgan Professor of Biology at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech); Penny Heaton, M.D., Global Head, Office of the Chief Medical Officer, Johnson & Johnson, and Lynne E. Maquat, PhD, J. Lowell Orbison Endowed Chair and professor of biochemistry & biophysics at...
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Containing Ebola in a Shifting World
April 10, 2025
A conversation with Uganda’s outbreak commander as the African nation deals with the ramifications of the 2025 Sudan Ebola outbreak. Published April 10, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP This transmission electron microscopic (TEM) image revealed some of the ultrastructural morphology displayed by an Ebola virus virion. Image courtesy of Dr. Frederick Murphy via CDC. In a world confronted with a growing tide of infectious disease threats, the 2025 Sudan virus outbreak in...
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Understanding Hantavirus and How to Stay Safe
March 12, 2025
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, or HPS, has been in the news lately following the death of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman. But what is HPS? Published March 12, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP and Waleed Javaid, MD, MBA, MS, FACP, FIDSA Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is spread through contact with rodents. Image courtesy of Art Johnson via stock.adobe.com. The recent passing of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, due to hantavirus...
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Leading the Fight Against Tuberculosis and Syphilis
March 11, 2025
One of the Academy’s earliest Honorary Members helped to advance medicine in the early 20th century and improve overall public health. Published March 11, 2025 By Nick Fetty Florence Rena Sabin Florence Rena Sabin, an Honorary Member of The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy), made several significant research contributions to the field of medicine, but her impact extended further, influencing politics and public health. Sabin was born in the Colorado Territory in 1871....
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What You Need to Know About H5N1 Bird Flu and Everyday Precautions
February 26, 2025
Guidance on navigating the ongoing avian flu outbreak including how to prepare food, maintain bird feeders, and keep pets safe. Published February 26, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP Image courtesy of azerbaijan-stockers via stock.adobe.com. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus, commonly known as bird flu, is making headlines and leaving its mark on grocery shelves. Just last week, I visited two supermarkets, both completely sold out of eggs. Over at...
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Seasonal Influenza: What You Need to Know
February 11, 2025
This year the U.S. is experiencing one of the most intense flu seasons in at least 15 years. Public health expert Syra Madad, DH Sc. offers advice on how to protect yourself. Published February 11, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP Image courtesy of Puwasit Inyavileart via stock.adobe.com. Influenza, or the flu, is a persistent and evolving viral threat that affects millions of Americans annually. This year, the U.S. is experiencing one of...
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Advancing Cancer Research and Therapies
February 4, 2025
The Academy’s role in combatting this deadly disease dates to the 1940s. Promoting cancer research remains a prominent part of the Academy’s conference programming today. Published February 4, 2025 By Nick Fetty Carl June, MD, presents during the Frontiers in Cancer Immunotherapy symposium at NYU Langone Health on May 22, 2024. Photo by Nick Fetty/The New York Academy of Sciences. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and across...
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2024: A Year of Progress and Persistence
January 7, 2025
Public health expert Dr. Syra Madad reflects on resilience, innovation, and collaboration she saw in 2024, though gaps remain in equity, healthcare worker safety, and public trust in science. Published January 7, 2025 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP Image courtesy of cherdchai via stock.adobe.com. As we step into 2025, I reflect on the remarkable progress and challenges of 2024 in the field of special pathogens and public health. From the rapid containment of...
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Unraveling the Mystery in the DRC’s Disease Outbreak
December 10, 2024
A recent outbreak of an undiagnosed illness in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is on the radar of public health professionals. Preparedness is key to mitigating the issue. Published December 10, 2024 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP Testing for malnourishment in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Image courtesy of DFID - UK Department for International Development, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. A recent outbreak of an undiagnosed illness in the Panzi...
press-release
Winners of the 2024 Tata Transformation Prize Celebrate Bold Innovation for India and Beyond
November 25, 2024
Three rising scientific stars in India are recognized for their solutions to the nation’s urgent challenges in malnutrition and diabetes, energy storage, and a new RSV vaccine. Mumbai, India | November 25, 2024 – Tata Sons and The New York Academy of Sciences today announced the second cohort of Winners of the Tata Transformation Prize. The Prize recognizes and supports visionary scientists in India who are developing breakthrough technologies that address India’s most significant societal challenges in...
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Discovering Cancer Therapies through Neuroscience
November 11, 2024
The 2024 recipient of the Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine is exploring the interactions between cancer cells and the nervous system. Published November 11, 2024 By Megan Prescott, PhD Michelle Monje, MD, PhD What does it take to pioneer a new field of science? For Michelle Monje, MD, PhD, the key is humility, collaboration, and resilience. Prof. Monje, the Milan Gambhir Professor of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology at Stanford University School of Medicine, was awarded the 2024...
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A Vital Imperative in Rwanda’s Marburg Virus Outbreak
October 30, 2024
Healthcare workers in Rwanda are disproportionately affected by the ongoing outbreak of Marburg virus disease, which is highly virulent despite its relatively low case fatality rate. How can these medical professionals best protect themselves? Published October 30, 2024 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP and Nahid Bhadelia, MD, MALD A shot of downtown Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.Image courtesy of F.C.G. - stock.adobe.com. As Rwanda faces its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease...
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Assisting Dementia Patients with AI and AR
August 14, 2024
Winners of the Junior Academy Innovation Challenge Spring 2024: “Wearables” Published August 14, 2024 By Nicole Pope Sponsored by The New York Academy of Sciences Team members: Riya K. (India) (Team Lead), Shreeniket B. (United States), Sysha R. (India), Prakul P. (India), Tisha S. (India), Medha T. (United States) Dementia is a neurodegenerative condition that affects 55 million people worldwide and 1 in 10 people older than 65 in the United States, according to the...
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The Rising Threat of Mosquito & Tick-Borne Illnesses
August 8, 2024
Mosquitos and ticks thrive during the summer months, which is when they also present their greatest threat to public health. Dr. Syra Madad, Chief Biopreparedness Officer with NYC Health + Hospitals, offers advice on how to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from these disease-carrying insects. Published August 8, 2024 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP The mosquito (Culex pipiens) drinks blood on human skin. Image courtesy of ihorhvozdetskiy - stock.adobe.com. The rise...
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Cancer Metabolism and Signaling in the Tumor Microenvironment
August 7, 2024
From metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells to creating nucleotide imbalances. These experts are advancing the field of medical research and cancer treatment. Published August 6, 2024 By Megan Prescott, PhD https://vimeo.com/995790207 What causes a normal cell to become a cancer cell? How do cancer cells cooperate to form a tumor? How can we interrupt these processes to inhibit cancer growth? Can nutrients directly modulate disease progression and therapeutic response? These and related questions were the...
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HPAI A(H5N1) Transmission Among Cattle in the U.S.
May 28, 2024
While the risk to the public remains low, the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) is on the radar of those in sectors like livestock breeding, animal sciences and food production. Published May 28, 2024 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP; Jason Kindrachuk, PhD; and Rick A. Bright, PhD Image courtesy of Nazzu via stock.adobe.com. Recent observations on highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) have highlighted the virus's transmission among dairy cattle in the...
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Public Health Peril: The Fungus Among Us
May 22, 2024
Think fungal infections are just annoying skin irritations like athlete's foot and jock itch? Think again. The rise of antifungal resistance means the game has changed. What was once a surefire treatment is now uncertain, and severe, life-threatening fungal diseases are on the rise. Published May 22, 2024 By Brooke Grindlinger, PhD Panelists Paul Verweij, MD, FECMM (left), Professor of Clinical Mycology at Radboud University Medical Center of Expertise for Mycology; Tom Chiller, MD, MPHTM...
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Using AI and Neuroscience to Transform Mental Health
May 8, 2024
With a deep appreciation for the liberal arts, neuroscientist Marjorie Xie is developing AI systems to facilitate the treatment of mental health conditions and improve access to care. Published May 8, 2024 By Nick Fetty As the daughter of a telecommunications professional and a software engineer, it may come as no surprise that Marjorie Xie was destined to pursue a career in STEM. What was less predictable was her journey through the field of...
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Exploring the Age-Old Question of “Why We Die?”
May 7, 2024
Nobel Laureate Venki Ramakrishnan, world-renowned molecular biologist, presents the science about why humans die. Published May 7, 2024 By Nick Fetty Nobel Prize winner Venki Ramakrishnan is interviewed by Titia de Lange, Director of The Rockefeller University’s Anderson Center for Cancer Research, at The New York Academy of Sciences on April 16, 2024. Photo by Nick Fetty/The New York Academy of Sciences Why do we die? This age-old question is the topic of Nobel Prize-winning...
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The Rising Threat of H5N1 Bird Flu in the U.S.
April 16, 2024
The CDC recently confirmed a human case of HPAI A (H5N1) in Texas. Renowned epidemiologist Syra Madad and distinguished virologist Jason Kindrachuk offer tips to farmers, animal caretakers, and the general public on how to avoid contracting and spreading this strain of avian influenza. Published April 16, 2024 By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP, and Jason Kindrachuk, PhD Image courtesy of monticellllo via stock.adobe.com. Avian influenza H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, is a...
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Women’s Health 2.0: The Artificial Intelligence Era
April 12, 2024
Charting the evolution of women's healthcare in the AI era, illuminating the promise and challenges of predictive tech to close the health gender gap. Published April 12, 2024 By Brooke Grindlinger, PhD Panelists Sara Reistad-Long (left), Healthcare Strategist at Empowered; Alicia Jackson, PhD, Founder and CEO of Evernow; Christina Jenkins, MD, General Partner at Convergent Ventures; and Robin Berzin, MD, Founder and CEO of Parsley Health speak at SXSW on March 9, 2024. The panelists...
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The Academy’s Role in Asbestos Abatement
April 5, 2024
While the United States recently took formal action to ban the use of chrysotile asbestos, experts with The New York Academy of Sciences have voiced concern about this dangerous carcinogen for more than half a century. Published April 5, 2024 By Nick Fetty Piping with an asbestos wrap.Image courtesy of Alan Levine/Flickr. In March 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a regulation prohibiting “the use, manufacture and import of chrysotile asbestos,” a source of...
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The Origin of the Term “Psychedelic”
April 4, 2024
The man who is known to have supplied author Aldous Huxley with hallucinogenic drugs publicly coined the word “psychedelic” during an Academy event in 1957. Published April 4, 2024 By Nick Fetty Psilocybin, also known as "magic mushrooms," are among the hallucinogenic drugs that are studied for their medicinal and therapeutic benefits. For many, the term “psychedelic” may conjure familiar images of the 1960s, mind-altering substances, and bands like Jefferson Airplane and the Grateful Dead....
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Biomaterials Pioneer and Beloved Mentor Honored with Janssen Award
March 6, 2024
Self-boosting vaccines. Regeneration of diseased tissues and missing limbs. Organs on a chip. Published March 06, 2024 By David Freeman Such life-saving advances in biotechnology—some already in existence and others in the works--took the spotlight on February 8, 2024, when thousands of attendees around the world gathered online for the Paul Janssen Award Symposium in honor of Robert S. Langer, ScD, a renowned chemical engineer and entrepreneur best known for his pioneering work in drug...
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The Adventures of the Nutritional Kingdom Project
February 27, 2024
Winners of the Junior Academy Innovation Challenge Spring 2023: "Healthy Snacks" Published February 27, 2024 By Nicole Pope Team members: Natalie O. (Team Lead) (United States), Lara K. (Jordan), Connie H. (United States), Mariem M. (Egypt), Ibrahim S. (United States), Amena S. (Jordan) Mentor: Leticia Mendoza-Martínez (Mexico) Childhood obesity has become a major public health issue around the world. In the United States alone, 1 in 5 children is overweight or obese– a particularly prevalent...
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A Telemedicine App for Rural Communities
December 21, 2023
Winners of the Junior Academy Innovation Challenge Fall 2022: “Public Health Impacts of Climate Change.” Published December 21, 2023 By Nicole Pope In Fall 2022, 42 international teams of high school students participated in a Junior Academy Challenge. Their goal was to find innovative solutions for the multiple impacts of climate change on human health. The winning team, MiHealth — comprised of Betsy D. (United States, Team Lead), Joanna A. (United States), Mehmet A. (United...
press-release
Takeda and The New York Academy of Sciences Announce 2024 Innovators in Science Award Winners
December 5, 2023
The 2024 Innovators in Science Awards recognize innovative science that has significantly advanced the field of research in cancer immunology. 2024 Award Celebrates Outstanding Research in Cancer Immunology Winners Discovered Novel Connections Between the Immune System and Cancer Recipients Each Receive Unrestricted USD 200,000 Awards OSAKA, Japan, and CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts | December 5, 2023 – Takeda (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) and The New York Academy of Sciences today announced the winners of the 2024 Innovators in Science Award...
annals-virtual-issue
Neuroscience and Music VII: Connecting with Music Across the Life Span
November 10, 2023
Continuing a long-running collaboration between Ann NY Acad Sci and the community of scientists in the cross-domain fields of neuroscience and music, this collection presents papers invited from participants of the 2021 Neurosciences and Music conference in Aarhus, Denmark, organized by the Mariani Foundation. Several previous collections of papers have been published in Ann NY Acad Sci, including volumes 1423, 1337, 1252, 1169, 1060, and 999. See https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.neuroscience-music-vii.
annals-virtual-issue
Cooley’s Anemia
November 10, 2023
The papers in this virtual issue were invited from speakers of the Eleventh Cooley's Anemia Symposium, held at The New York Academy of Sciences on October 17-20, 2022. The symposium brought together basic scientists, clinical investigators, and clinicians to review and discuss recent research for thalassemia syndromes. Several previous Annals issues have presented papers from past Cooley's Anemia Symposia, all in collaboration with The New York Academy of Sciences. See https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.cooleys-anemia.
press-release
First Winners of the Tata Transformation Prize Announced Today, Celebrating Pathbreaking Innovation in India
November 7, 2023
Three rising stars in science are recognized for their cutting-edge solutions to food security, sustainability, and healthcare. Mumbai, India | 7 November 2023 – Tata Sons and The New York Academy of Sciences today announced the first Winners of the Tata Transformation Prize. The prize recognizes and supports visionary scientists in India who are developing innovative solutions to critical societal challenges. Three scientists were selected from 169 entries by an international jury of renowned experts...
annals-virtual-issue
Evolution and Epigenetics
October 13, 2023
The 2022 symposium entitled "How Evolution Learnt to Learn - Epigenetics of Experienced Context" and this virtual issue follow on published volumes of previous symposia: Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. Vol. 1178 (Natural Genetic Engineering and Natural Genome Editing) in 2008, Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. Vol. 1341 (DNA Habitats and Its RNA Inhabitants) in 2014, and Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci Vol. 1447 (Evolution -- Genetic Novelty/Genomic Variations by RNA-Networks and Viruses) in 2018. The symposia were...
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Getting Out the Facts on Public Health
October 5, 2023
All-Girl Team Wins Junior Academy Challenge Combating Public Health Misinformation. Published October 5, 2023 By Nicole Pope Collaborating across borders, U.S.-based student Angel and Asmaa from Jordan won New York Academy of Sciences’ Junior Academy Innovation Challenge with a text-based campaign designed to combat online misinformation and provide young people with accurate facts about public health issues. The two participants were part of an all-female STEM team that also included participants from Lebanon and Oman....
annals-virtual-issue
Adolescent Women Nutrition in Colombia and Vietnam
October 2, 2023
Adolescent and young women face grave nutritional challenges, but limited evidence exists on solutions to improve their diets. Supported by Fondation Botnar, Action-Research was done over three years (2020-2022) in secondary cities of Colombia (Medellin) and Vietnam (Thai Nguyen) to identify nutrient deficits in the diets of adolescent and young women; elaborate food-based recommendations to improve their nutritional status using Optifood linear programming; and engage respondents in incorporating suggested recommendations in their diet using a...
annals-virtual-issue
WHO Action Plan on Anemia
September 21, 2023
This collection of papers brings together reviews based on the WHO Global Action Plan on the prevention and management of anemia. The virtual issue is edited by Maria Nieves Garcia-Casal. See https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.who-action-plan-on-anemia.
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The Impact of Social Isolation on Alzheimer’s Disease
September 20, 2023
Winners of the Junior Academy Innovation Challenge Fall 2021: “The Impact of COVID-19 on Non-Communicable Diseases.” Published September 20, 2023 By Nicole Pope Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a debilitating condition that affects the memory and cognitive functions of 5.8 million people in the U.S. alone. You might not expect teenagers to be especially aware of this terrible disease, especially in the middle of a pandemic. Yet the international Junior Academy team formed by Julie (U.S....
annals-virtual-issue
The Year in Cognitive Neuroscience
August 25, 2023
Published since 2008, this series includes scholarly review articles in cognitive neuroscience. The series is edited by Alan Kingstone (University of British Columbia) and Michael Miller (UC, Santa Barbara). For more information on past issues, see https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/nyaspubs/reviews-series.html. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.year-cognitive-science.
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Better Diets Mean Better Mental Health
August 21, 2023
Winners of the Junior Academy Innovation Challenge Spring 2022: “Building Community to Support Student Mental Health" Published August 21, 2023 By Nicole Pope Sponsored by S&P Global Team Members: Catherine L. (Team Lead) (China), Advika S. (India), Cara C. (United States), Snigdha S. (India), Shruthi D. (United States), Shivani D. (India) Mentor: Katherine Wert (United States) Many adolescents struggle with mental health issues and a conflicted relationship with food, brought on by a variety of...
annals-virtual-issue
Year in Diabetes and Obesity
August 18, 2023
Published since 2010, this series includes scholarly articles in all areas of diabetes and obesity. The series was established and edited by Rexford S. Ahima (The Johns Hopkins University). For more information about past issues, see https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/nyaspubs/reviews-series.html. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.year-in-diabetes-and-obesity.
annals-virtual-issue
Tight Junctions and Their Proteins: Molecular Features and Functions in Health and Disease
July 18, 2023
Continuing a long-running collaboration between Ann NY Acad Sci and the community of scientists who specialize in tight junctions, this collection presents papers invited from participants at the 4th Tight Junction Conference in 2021. The virtual issue is edited by Michael Fromm, Jörg-Dieter Schulzke, Dorothee Günzel, and Rita Rosenthal. Several previous collections of papers have been published in Ann NY Acad Sci, including volumes 1405, 1397, 1258, 1257, and 1165. See https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.tight-junctions-proteins.
annals-virtual-issue
Calcium
July 14, 2023
In March and April 2021, the Nutrition Science Program of The New York Academy of Sciences in partnership with the Children's Investment Fund Foundation, convened a Calcium Task Force and hosted two virtual meetings. The task force comprises experts in micronutrients, malnutrition, pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics, biochemistry, public health and strategies for supplementation and fortification. The papers in this virtual issue derive from deliberations of the task force. See https://www.nyas.org/programs/addressing-global-calcium-deficiency/. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.calcium.
annals-virtual-issue
Year in Neurology and Psychiatry
July 14, 2023
Published since 2015, this series includes scholarly articles in all areas of neurology and psychiatry. The series was established and edited by Daniel H. Geschwind (University of California, Los Angeles). For more information about past issues, see https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/nyaspubs/reviews-series.html. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.year-in-neurology-and-psychiatry.
annals-virtual-issue
Keystone Symposia Reports
July 3, 2023
Beginning in 2021, Ann NY Acad Sci and Keystone Symposia are working together to produce scholarly reports on select Keystone Symposia. Keeping with the high quality and timeliness of past reports published in Ann NY Acad Sci, the Keystone reports are prepared from the presentations by symposia speakers and then vetted carefully for content. See https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.keystone-symposia-reports.
press-release
The New York Academy of Sciences, Leon Levy Foundation Name First 10 Leon Levy Scholars in Neuroscience
June 14, 2023
The program supports exceptional young researchers from New York City's five boroughs as they pursue innovative investigations in neuroscience. New York, NY | June 14, 2023 — The New York Academy of Sciences and the Leon Levy Foundation announced today the first cohort of Leon Levy Scholars in Neuroscience; a continuation of an earlier fellowship program started by the Foundation in 2009 that has supported 160 fellows in neuroscience. This highly regarded postdoctoral program supports exceptional...
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What Near-Death and Psychedelic Experiences Reveal about Human Consciousness
June 9, 2023
A recent Academy event explored near-death experiences and the medical application of psychedelic remedies, combining elements of science and philosophy. Published June 9, 2023 By David Freeman What is the nature of consciousness? What happens to it at the brink of death—and beyond? In what ways can the scientific study of near-death experiences and the medicinal use of psychedelic compounds boost our understanding of the human condition and our ability to ease emotional suffering? These...
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Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists
June 6, 2023
The Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists seek to identify and honor exceptional young scientists and engineers 42 years of age and younger. Honorees are selected based on the quality, novelty, and impact of their research and their potential for further significant contributions to science. For previous issues of awardee papers, see Ann NY Acad Sci (2012) 1260 and Ann NY Acad Sci (2013) 1293. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.blavatnik-awards.
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Collaboration is Key for 2023 Ross Prize Awardees
May 31, 2023
Ask Helen Hobbs, M.D. and Jonathan Cohen, Ph.D. about the secret of their research success, and it will come down to one core element: their partnership. Published May 31, 2023 By David Freeman The pair were recently awarded the 2023 Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine by the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research and the journal Molecular Medicine for their pioneering and collaborative work in defining the genetic risk factors for dyslipidemias and metabolic liver disease...
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The New Wave of AI in Healthcare
May 25, 2023
In the healthcare field, artificial intelligence has the potential to improve everything from workflow efficiency to patient outcomes. Published May 25, 2023 By Stephen Treffinger Image Credit: Agne SopyteMembers of the Organizing Committee. (From left to right) Affiliated with the Mount Sinai Health System: Christina Virgo, Esq., Sara Roncero-Menendez, Silke Muehlstedt, PhD, Thomas Fuchs, Dr. sc., Marc Kaplan; Affiliated with The New York Academy of Sciences: Melanie Brickman Borchard, PhD, MSc, Barbara Knappmeyer, PhD Appearing...
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Innovators in Science Award
April 17, 2023
In 2016, The New York Academy of Sciences and Takeda Pharmaceuticals announced the establishment of the Innovators in Science Award. The Award recognizes a promising Early-Career Scientist's and an outstanding Senior Scientist's contributions to biomedical science and is intended to support their commitment to innovative research. Two prizes of US$200,000 are awarded each Award cycle, in a specific therapeutic area, one to an Early-Career Scientist and the other to a well-established Senior Scientist from around...
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Antimicrobial Therapeutics Reviews
April 17, 2023
Published since 2010, this series includes scholarly reviews in all areas of antimicrobial therapeutics. The series was established and edited by Rexford S. Ahima (The Johns Hopkins University). For more information on past issues see https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/nyaspubs/reviews-series.html.
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Nutrient Modeling Consortium
March 29, 2023
This collection of papers was in collaboration with The New York Academy of Sciences Nutrition Science program. See https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.nutrition-modelling-consortium.
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Math Anxiety: Experimental and Developmental Perspectives
March 29, 2023
This collection of papers brings together experimental and developmental perspectives on how mathematics anxiety impacts mathematics performance: studies within experimental psychology; studies on neural substrates of mathematics anxiety and its links to mathematics performance, and studies of interventions targeting emotional, behavioural, and cognitive aspects of mathematics anxiety. Importantly, intervention studies, apart from obvious practical benefits, shed unique light on causal mechanisms. The virtual issue is edited by Flavia H. Santos, Ann Dowker, Krzysztof Cipora, and...
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Addiction Reviews
March 6, 2023
Published since 2008, this series includes scholarly review articles in all areas of addiction science. The series was established and edited by George R. Uhl (New Mexico VA Healthcare System). In 2022, Edythe London (UCLA) became series editor. For more information on past issues, see https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/nyaspubs/reviews-series.html.
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Tata Sons and New York Academy of Sciences Announce Prize to Honour Scientists in India
January 4, 2023
The Tata Transformation Prize will recognize Indian scientists for research to solve societal needs and promote economic competitiveness Mumbai, India | 4 January 2023 – Tata Sons and The New York Academy of Sciences today announced the Tata Transformation Prize to recognize and support promising scientists in India who are developing innovative technological solutions to critical societal challenges. The new prize will be awarded each year to three scientists for innovations in each of three areas: food security, sustainability, and...
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New York Academy of Sciences Partners with Leon Levy Foundation to Expand Opportunities for Young Neuroscientists
September 28, 2022
Applications for postdoctoral researchers at New York City institutions will be accepted between October 5 and December 9, 2022. New York, NY | September 29, 2022 — The New York Academy of Sciences and the Leon Levy Foundation announced today that the Academy will be accepting applications from October 5 through December 9, 2022 for the Leon Levy Scholarships in Neuroscience program. The program will support exceptional young researchers across the five boroughs of New York City...
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Thiamine Deficiency
June 9, 2022
This collection of papers was in collaboration with The New York Academy of Sciences' Nutrition Science program, including research on thiamine deficiency in Gambian women of reproductive age. See https://www.nyas.org/programs/control-and-prevention-of-thiamine-deficiency-disorders/. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.thiamine-deficiency.
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Micronutrients
June 9, 2022
This collection of papers was in collaboration with The New York Academy of Sciences' Nutrition Science program. See https://www.nyas.org/programs/multiple-micronutrient-supplements-in-pregnancy/ and Ann NY Acad Sci (2019) 1444, 1-51. Or click https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/toc/10.1111/(ISSN)1749-6632.micronutrients.
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The Year in Immunology
June 9, 2022
Published since 2008, this series includes scholarly review articles in immunology and microbial-immunological interactions. The series was established and first edited by Noel Rose (Johns Hopkins). It is currently edited by Miriam Merad and Jerome Martin (Mount Sinai Ichan School of Medicine). For more information about past issues, see https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/nyaspubs/reviews-series.html [icon name="up-right-from-square" prefix="fas"].
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Advancing Science for the Public Good thru Nursing
February 22, 2022
A young Canadian pays tribute to her older sibling, a nursing student who exemplifies STEM in service to others during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Published February 28, 2022 By Roger Torda Kelsey and Kaitlyn Holmquist Sometimes superheroes can be found close to home. For Kelsey Holmquist, the best example of a Super Hero of STEM is her older sister, who “was a first year nursing student when the world began to fall apart...
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From the Frontlines of Pandemic Research
December 17, 2021
Omicron, Mandates, Prevention, and a Pancoronavirus Vaccine: Leading scientists and public health experts share stories of their work amid global questions about the Omicron COVID-19 variant. Published December 17, 2021 By Roger Torda Discovery; The Story from Southern Africa The discovery of the Omicron variant in Southern Africa started with what experts call a “spike gene dropout.” “It was identified by colleagues in Botswana and by our sequencers in South Africa,” explained Penny Moore, PhD....
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How the Brain Gives Rise to the Mind
October 21, 2021
This Year’s Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists Laureate in the Life Sciences is connecting the activity of cells and synapses to emotions and social behavior Published October 21, 2021 By Roger Torda Neuroscientist Kay Tye has challenged orthodoxy in her field by studying the connection between the brain and the mind. The work has led to breakthroughs in basic science. It also points to new approaches to mental illness, with significant potential impact. Tye...
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Inside a Clinical Trial with Magic Mushrooms
August 12, 2021
Evidence is mounting that psychedelics can be effective in treating patients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health conditions. Therapy sessions in clinical trials can be very intense experiences, but volunteers are carefully supported and monitored closely. Published August 12, 2021 By Roger Torda What is it like to take psilocybin in a clinical trial? Roland Griffiths, PhD, a researcher who focuses on the effects of mood-altering drugs, recently described the course of a...
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The New Age of Psychedelics in Medicine and Therapy
August 12, 2021
Scientists understand some of the short-term changes in the brain brought about by psychedelics. Many mysteries remain, however, about how the chemicals can bring persistent effects and may help treat psychological disorders such as PTSD. Published August 12, 2021 By Roger Torda hallucinogenic mushrooms close-up growing group psychedelic legally golden teacher psilocybe cubensis Studies are showing psychedelics can be effective in treating depression and other psychological conditions. Results from a recent Phase 3 clinical trial,...
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Lessons Learned: The Aftermath of a Pandemic
June 1, 2021
"... we can use those learnings to prepare a playbook for the next pandemic." Published June 1, 2021 By Nicholas B. Dirks Nicholas Dirks When I was first in discussions in early 2020 to take over the leadership of The New York Academy of Sciences from the retiring Ellis Rubinstein, we could still go out to dinner, attend meetings in person, and enjoy concerts and the theater in closed and crowded spaces. Masks were for...
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Promising Immunotherapies over Toxic Chemotherapies
April 22, 2021
Cancer immunotherapies utilize an individual’s immune system, providing alternatives to toxic chemotherapies. Published April 22, 2021 By Ben Ragen, PhD Cancer immunotherapies utilize an individual’s immune system to fight off or even prevent cancers— shifting the paradigm for cancer treatment and providing alternatives to toxic chemotherapies. Since the first immunotherapy cancer treatment was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in the mid-1980s, scientists have continued to explore the potential of drugs and other...
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Academy Opens Nominations for 2022 Innovators in Science Award in Gastroenterology
April 14, 2021
Early-career scientist, outstanding senior scientist each to receive US$200,000 in program sponsored by Takeda Pharmaceuticals New York, NY | April 14, 2021 – The New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS) has opened nominations for the 2022 Innovators in Science Award, which will recognize significant achievement among early-career and senior scientists in the field of gastroenterology. This marks the first time scientists engaged in transformative research in gastroenterology will be eligible for the award, administered by the...
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Harnessing CRISPR to Revolutionize COVID Testing
March 9, 2021
Professor Pardis Sabeti was able to apply findings from her research on Ebola to now develop a test for detecting COVID-19. Published March 9, 2021 By Brittany Aguilar, PhD Pardis Sabeti, MD, DPhil, MSc This isn’t the first time that Pardis Sabeti, MD, DPhil, MSc, a professor of organismic and evolutionary biology at Harvard University, and newly elected member of the National Academy of Medicine, has worn the hat of viral genome detective in the earliest...
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A New Approach to Sustainable Plastics and Polymers
March 4, 2021
Adrienne Hollis, PhD, JD, the Senior Climate Justice and Health Scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists, explains the role scientists must play in mitigating the harm caused by plastic waste and pollution from polymer production. Published March 4, 2021 By Stephen D. Albright, PhD Sunset over petrochemical plants in Lake Charles, Louisiana. (David Wilson from Oak Park, Illinois, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons) New scientific discoveries often have profound impacts beyond what...
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Strong Vaccine Science Advances COVID-19 Research
February 2, 2021
Anthony Fauci says vaccine developers can build on many years of research to stay ahead of SARS-CoV-2 variants Published February 02, 2021 By Alan Dove, PhD Coronavirus Covid-19 Protection and Vaccine. Doctor drawing up solution from vaccine bottle and filling syringe injection for patient vaccination in medical clinic, Coronavirus in background Anthony Fauci, MDDir., National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases As concerns swirl around the emergence of novel variants of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, Anthony...
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Krainer Recognized for Pioneering Work in Anti-Sense Therapy
December 15, 2020
Dr. Krainer's research examines anti-sense therapy and its application to spinal muscular atrophy. Published December 15, 2020 By Melanie Brickman Borchard, PhD, MSc Adrian R. Krainer, Ph.D.,St. Giles Foundation Professorat Cold Spring Harbor LaboratoryPhoto credit: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Adrian R. Krainer, PhD, St. Giles Foundation Professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, was awarded the 2020 Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine by the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research and Molecular Medicine for his pioneering work...
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Takeda and the New York Academy of Sciences Announce 2020 Innovators in Science Award Winners
July 8, 2020
The 2020 Innovators in Science Award winners include a biochemist/molecular geneticist from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and brain disorder researcher from the Korea Advance Insitute of Science and Technology. New York, NY | July 8, 2020 and Osaka, Japan | July 8, 2020 – Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) (TSE:4502) and the New York Academy of Sciences announced today the Winners of the third annual Innovators in Science Award for their excellence in and commitment...
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Seeking a Sustainable Plant-based Meat Source
June 1, 2020
Researchers are coming up with creative new ways to make plant-based meat alternatives more appealing to consumers, but what will it take for the public to embrace this seemingly unknown food source? Published June 1, 2020 By Sara Donnelly, PhD Image courtesy of barmalini via stock.adobe.com. Vegetarianism and even veganism are not new ideas — in fact one of the first mentions of vegetarianism comes from Pythagoras in 500 BCE. Buddhists and other religious groups...
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Challenges in Food and Nutrition Science
June 1, 2020
The New York Academy of Sciences' work in nutrition science aims to address global issues such as food security which affects infants, adolescents and the aging population. Published June 1, 2020 By Carina Storrs, PhD Image courtesy of monticellllo via stock.adobe.com. According to the United Nations, malnutrition is “a trap from which people cannot easily escape.” And it is a trap that affects every country in the world. In 2015, ending hunger and ensuring access...
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Nutrition Science is Ensuring a Healthy Start in Life
May 1, 2020
Minimizing nutrient deficiencies and ensuring that babies are breastfed optimally are two ways advocates are supporting the healthy development of babies in lower-income countries around the world. Published May 1, 2020 By Nicholette Zeliadt About a decade ago, pediatrician Philip Fischer, M.D., began to hear heartbreaking stories about babies in Cambodia who were believed to have “beriberi,” a vitamin deficiency so uncommon in the U.S. that he knew of it only from textbooks as a...
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New Age Therapeutics: Cannabis and CBD
May 1, 2020
CBD has become the ingredient driving a billion-plus dollar market of consumer products — researchers are sorting the hype from the hope. Published May 1, 2020 By Sonya Dougal, PhD Image courtesy of Gelpi via stock.adobe.com. Enter any drugstore, vitamin chain, big box store, e-commerce site, gas-station convenience store or street corner bodega and you’ll find CBD products — in shampoos, oils, vapes, gummies and even treats for people and pets. Many of these products...
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Finding New, Sustainable Uses for Food Waste
May 1, 2020
According to the EPA, organic waste is the largest component of landfills. Researchers are working with businesses to develop innovative ways to reduce this problem. Published May 1, 2020 By Charles Ward Bertha Jimenez wasn’t a beer drinker when she came across spent grain for the first time. A mechanical engineer by training and now the CEO of Rise Products, Jimenez recounted her tour of Brooklyn Brewery, a craft beer brewery located in the Williamsburg...
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What Science Tells Us About the New Coronavirus
March 19, 2020
It's important to focus on evidence-based information about the disease, and their remedies. Published March 19, 2020 By Roger Torda As the new coronavirus continues its spread in the United States and worldwide, elected officials, healthcare providers, and private citizens are grappling with the wide-reaching implications of the pandemic. In uncertain times, it's important to focus on evidence-based information about the disease, efforts to mitigate its spread, and prospects for a vaccine or treatments. In...
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Upskilling Nurses to Handle the Worst of the Pandemic
March 16, 2020
The Academy, Mount Sinai and Sweden’s Sana Labs team up to “upskill” nurses volunteering to treat COVID-19 patients in New York City. Published April 16, 2020 By Roger Torda The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) has helped launch a transformational artificial-intelligence-based online learning program to increase the number of Registered Nurses able to handle the explosion of COVID-19 patients in New York City’s Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Leveraging its global network of expertise,...
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A New Approach to Studying Aging and Improving Health
March 11, 2020
Researchers explore the physiological mechanisms of aging with the ultimate goal of improving healthspan. Published March 11, 2020 By Hallie Kapner When mechanical engineer Carlotta Mummolo, neurobiologist Eleni Gourgou, and neuroscientist Teppei Matsui were teamed up in the Interstellar Initiative — an international mentorship program for early-career investigators — their first task was finding common ground. Eleni Gourgou, PhDUniversity of Michigan “We have such diverse backgrounds that I initially joked we were speaking different languages,”...
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The Organic Chemistry of Milk for Developing Babies
January 30, 2020
Organic chemist Steven Townsend of Vanderbilt University explains his research on human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and their role in developing babies’ microbiome and preventing infection. Published January 30, 2020 By Marie Gentile and Roger Torda It is well understood that human milk provides numerous benefits to babies as they develop, particularly in its ability to help protect babies from a variety of infections. But what is the mechanism that is doing the work to help...
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What Really Happens After Cardiac Arrest?
December 6, 2019
Published December 06, 2019 By Marie Gentile, Richard Birchard, and Mandy Carr https://vimeo.com/377589287 Speakers from left to right: Sam Parnia, MD, PhD (Director of Critical Care & Resuscitation Research at the NYU School of Medicine), Sarah Perman, MD (University of Colorado School of Medicine), Tom Aufderheide, MD, MS, FACEP, FACC, FAHA (Medical College of Wisconsin), Sonja Lyubomirsky, PhD (University of California, Riverside), and Stephan Mayer, MD, FCCM (Wayne State School of Medicine) We see it...
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Improving the Diagnosis of Rare Diseases
October 18, 2019
Meet the winning team of the 2019 Junior Academy Genomics Challenge. Published October 18, 2019 By Marie Gentile, Richard Birchard, and Mandy Carr According to the World Health Organization, there are 5,000 to 8,000 rare diseases, most of them with a genetic basis. But errors in diagnosis can delay the implementation of proper treatments, especially for those in poor areas of the world where access to healthcare is limited. Now, six high school students who...
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Collaboration Is Key to Breaking New Ground in Genomics
October 1, 2019
Dr. Kastner brings people together to leverage complementary strengths and achieve a common goal. Published October 1, 2019 By Marie Samanovic Golden, PhD Daniel L. Kastner, MD, PhD, Scientific Director for the Intramural Research Program at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), received the 2019 Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine — an honor established by The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research and the Springer Nature journal Molecular Medicine — for his pioneering work on...
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What Can Science Tell Us About Death?
September 30, 2019
Sam Parnia, a leading expert in resuscitation science research, explains how death is not an absolute, but a process, and what happens when patients experience death. Sam Parnia MD, PhD Published September 30, 2019 By Robert Birchard Across time and cultures, people have been conditioned to view death as an endpoint to the experience of life. However, advances in resuscitation science and critical care medicine have challenged assumptions about the finality of death. Sam Parnia,...
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Bringing More Comp Science into the Field of Biology
August 12, 2019
Motivated to help his son battle a rare genetic disorder known as NGLY1, this researcher has transition from the field of computer science to biology and drug development. Published August 12, 2019 By Robert Birchard Image courtesy of titima157 via stock.adobe.com. Matthew Might, Director, Hugh Kaul Precision Medicine Institute at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is a computer scientist by training but now works in the field of drug repositioning. His research is dedicated...
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What are PROTACs and How Do They Treat Diseases?
July 23, 2019
"Optimized degrader molecules will have fast rates of degradation and relatively short exposure with therapeutic doses that result in complete elimination of the target protein, which can result in a more durable and deeper effect.” Published July 23, 2019 By Robert Birchard Eric Fischer, PhD Around 80% of disease-causing proteins, including key drivers of many cancers and other serious neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, cannot be targeted by currently available therapeutics. These so called “undruggable”...
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Inspired to Fight Cancer and Empower Girls
May 1, 2019
Sthuthi Satish is exploring her interest in a variety of STEM fields through her participation in the Junior Academy, but her first experience with the wonders of science started very close to home. Published May 1, 2019 By Mandy Carr Sthuthi Satish Sthuthi Satish can’t remember when she started dreaming of being a doctor. What she does remember is being seven years old and looking at her mother’s medical charts showing stage two cancer. Her...
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AI and Big Data to Improve Healthcare
May 1, 2019
The next decade will be a pivotal one for the integration of AI and Big Data into healthcare, bringing both tremendous advantages as well as challenges. Suchi Saria, PhD Published May 1, 2019 By Sonya Dougal, PhD One of the most common causes of death among hospital patients in the United States is also one of the most preventable — sepsis. Sepsis symptoms can resemble other common conditions, making it notoriously challenging to identify, yet...
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Tapping into the Potential of Regenerative Stem Cells
May 1, 2019
The Honorees of the 2019 Innovators in Science Award are tapping the potential of stem cells. Published May 1, 2019 By Hallie Kapner Stem cells are the ultimate asset in the body’s efforts to heal damage and repair wounds. These powerhouses of regeneration are responsible for maintaining the integrity of skin, bone and other tissues. The 2019 Innovators in Science Award, sponsored by Takeda Pharmaceuticals, recognizes two outstanding researchers in the field of regenerative medicine....
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New Innovations in Cancer Treatment
April 15, 2019
From a focus on immunotherapy to better understanding intratumoural heterogeneity, these researchers are making significant advances in cancer treatment. Published April 15, 2019 By Marie Gentile, Robert Birchard, and Mandy Carr According to the American Cancer Society, one in every six deaths worldwide can be attributed to cancer, more than HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria combined. While steady research progress has saved the lives of countless cancer patients—much work remains. Two cutting-edge, cancer researchers are challenging traditional...
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A Promising New Treatment Cancer for Cancer
November 29, 2018
Phagocytes are cells best known for their role as immune cells that fight infection. However, recent research has identified broader functions for these cells in major human diseases. Published November 29, 2018 By Andre Legaspi Miriam Merad, MD, PhD is an eminent oncologist and immunologist. Her research combines laboratory studies of phagocytes with a patient-focused perspective to develop new cancer treatments. What will be the biggest advance in cancer treatment over the next five years? The...
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Big Data’s Influence on Future of Healthcare
November 20, 2018
A panel of experts from across sectors discuss possible applications and open questions. Published November 20, 2018 By Marie Gentile, Mandy Carr, and Richard Birchard https://vimeo.com/303510230 From your smartphone to personal computers. From at-home genetic tests to insurance databases. There is a tremendous amount of data out there that relates to our health. Not all of it is being used yet by those who help manage our healthcare, but it's only a matter of time...
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How Today’s Inspiration Can Impact Tomorrow’s Cures
October 22, 2018
Ellie Zillfleisch looks forward to the day where she might help others suffering from Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis. Published October 22, 2018 By Marie Gentile, Mandy Carr, and Richard Birchard A hospital bed might not be where you'd expect to find a career revelation, but that’s where Ellie Zillfleisch, 14, discovered her love for STEM. She grew up in Julatten, a small, rural town in Queensland, Australia, home to just 1,000 people. At 11, doctors...
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How to Dispel Inaccurate Myths Around Vaccines
September 11, 2018
As a board-certified pediatrician with a decade and a half of experience, Dr. Amanda Dempsey shares strategies for discussing vaccines with skeptical parents. Published September 11, 2018 By Andre Legaspi The emergence of a powerful anti-vaccination movement is now threatening the progress made by vaccines in the 20th century. Amanda Dempsey, MD, PhD, MPH is a pediatrician confronting the myths surrounding vaccines through innovative communication techniques, with exciting results. Why is there an increasing skepticism regarding vaccines?...
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Advancing Important Research on Alzheimer’s Disease
August 22, 2018
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder most common among older adults. Bruce T. Lamb, PhD, is a researcher working to unravel the causes of AD. Published August 22, 2018 By Andre Legaspi What inspired you to research AD? Initially, I worked at a lab focused on Down syndrome. One of the characteristics associated with the condition is an increased risk for AD. I was fascinated as to the why, so my career started trying to...
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The Enhanced Humans: Risks and Opportunities
May 10, 2018
Scientists, ethicists, and other experts gather to discuss the promises and potential consequences of advances in biotechnology and artificial intelligence aimed at improving human performance. New York, NY | May 10, 2018 — From eyeglasses that restore sight to robotic prosthetics to replace limbs, people throughout history have sought to overcome the limitations of the human body. New advancements in such technologies and their implications will be explored at “The Enhanced Human: Risks and Opportunities,” presented...
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Shaping our Understanding of the Brain’s Function
May 1, 2018
The Innovators in Science Award Honorees are Breaking New Ground in Neuroscience: Dr. Shigetada Nakanishi has uncovered essential components of neural networks. Published May 1, 2018 By Anni Griswold Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Though the 2017 honorees of the Innovators in Science Award have plenty of countable achievements, their stories reveal a common thread — creative approaches to their...
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Cultivating Better Health with Science
May 1, 2018
Researchers across the globe are doing their part to both fuel and sustain a healthy planet. Published May 1, 2018 By Hallie Kapner Patrick Schnable To the untrained eye, the black dots speckling the corn leaves in the greenhouses at Iowa State University’s Plant Sciences Institute could be anything — blight, mold, rot. But to Patrick Schnable, the Institute’s director and the C.F. Curtiss Distinguished Professor and Iowa Corn Endowed Chair in Genetics at ISU,...
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The Important Role of Neuroscience in Social Interaction
May 1, 2018
The Innovators in Science Award Honorees are Breaking New Ground in Neuroscience: Dr. Kay Tye has made discoveries between neural networks and social interaction. Published May 1, 2018 By Anni Griswold Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Though the 2017 honorees of the Innovators in Science Award have plenty of countable achievements, their stories reveal a common thread — creative approaches...
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Cognitive Flexibility in Artificial Intelligence
May 1, 2018
The Innovators in Science Award Honorees are Breaking New Ground in Neuroscience: Dr. Michael Halassa's research on AI systems could impact our perception of reality. Published May 1, 2018 By Anni Griswold Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Though the 2017 honorees of the Innovators in Science Award have plenty of countable achievements, their stories reveal a common thread — creative...
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The Research Behind Neurons and Cell Behavior
May 1, 2018
The Innovators in Science Award Honorees are Breaking New Ground in Neuroscience: Dr. Viviana Gradinaru's research enables scientists to visualize neuron and cell behavior. Published May 1, 2018 By Anni Griswold Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Though the 2017 honorees of the Innovators in Science Award have plenty of countable achievements, their stories reveal a common thread — creative approaches...
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The Role of Glial Cells in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s
May 1, 2018
The Innovators in Science Award Honorees are Breaking New Ground in Neuroscience: Dr. Ben Barres inspired many with his continued efforts, in the face of his own battle with pancreatic cancer. Published May 1, 2018 By Anni Griswold Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Though the 2017 honorees of the Innovators in Science Award have plenty of countable achievements, their stories...
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A Molecular Approach to New Pain Drugs
May 1, 2018
The Innovators in Science Award Honorees are Breaking New Ground in Neuroscience: Dr. David Julius takes a molecular approach to explore compound structures. Published May 1, 2018 By Anni Griswold Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Though the 2017 honorees of the Innovators in Science Award have plenty of countable achievements, their stories reveal a common thread — creative approaches to...
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The Latest Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research
January 8, 2018
Dr. Richard Gilbertson discusses his inspiration and the latest advances in pediatric cancer research. Published January 8, 2018 By Marie Gentile and Richard Birchard Dr. Richard Gilbertson Richard Gilbertson, MD, PhD, Li Ka Shing Chair of Oncology and director of the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, did not initially set out for a career in pediatric cancer — the leading cause of death by disease past infancy for children and adolescents in the United States...
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This Scientist’s Key is to Never Stop Learning
October 1, 2017
From research in the biophysics of RNA to advances in cancer immunotherapy and vaccine antibodies. Published October 1, 2017 By Kari Fischer, PhD Jeffrey V. Ravetch, MD, PhD, Theresa and Eugene M. Lang Professor and head of the Leonard Wagner Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Immunology at The Rockefeller University, received the 2017 Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine — established in conjunction with the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research and Molecular Medicine — for his discovery of...
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Developing New Treatments for Blood Disorders
August 16, 2017
Vijay Sankaran, MD, PhD, discusses recent developments in the treatment of sickle cell disease and other blood disorders, with a specific focus on gene targeting. Published August 16, 2017 By Marie Gentile and Robert Birchard Microscopic view of sicke cells causing anemia disease. In 1973 the lifespan of a person with sickle cell disease (SCD) in the United States was 14 years. Today, the lifespan of a person with SCD has increased to 40-60 years. While diagnosis...
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A New Approach to Alternative Therapies
March 29, 2017
Two publications from The New York Academy of Sciences examine pre-approval access to investigational drugs from a range of stakeholders and perspectives. Published March 29, 2017 By Marie Gentile and Robert Birchard The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted the use of investigational drugs outside of clinical trials for decades, but in the past several years this practice has attracted significant attention in the news and on social media. Under expanded access (also called...
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A Pioneer in Inflammation Resolution Research
October 1, 2016
Charles Serhan's groundbreaking research is changing the way we view inflammation and the strategies for its therapeutic resolution. Published October 1, 2016 By Daniel Radiloff The 2016 Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine was awarded to Charles N. Serhan, PhD, DSc, who serves as the Simon Gelman Professor of Anesthesia, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Professor of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity at Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Serhan received the...
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Big Data Boosts Obesity Research Results
August 9, 2016
From study design to patient engagement, Gary Bennett, PhD, shares his insight on what is and is not effective in applying technology to obesity research. Published August 09, 2016 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of liderina via stock.adobe.com. The need for interventions to prevent and treat obesity is extremely urgent, as over one-third of adults and 17% of children in the United States are considered to be obese based on body mass index (BMI). From wearable devices to smartphone...
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Bioelectronic Medicine Stimulates New Research
June 21, 2016
It's more than just "hacking health"—bioelectronic medicine has the potential to transform how we treat a range of conditions and disorders. Published June 21, 2016 By Attila Szász Image courtesy of teerapon via stock.adobe.com. The term "bioelectronic medicine" may seem to be more science fiction than medical reality, but this field of science has recently made significant strides in translating research from the lab to the clinic with promising results. From implantable devices to treat...
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New Scientific Approaches to Antibiotics in Food
May 24, 2016
From berries to big data, find out how three researchers are helping to reevaluate the use of antibiotics in the food system. Published May 24, 2016 By Attila Szász Image courtesy of Teri via stock.adobe.com. It's difficult to imagine a world without antibiotics-since the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928, antimicrobial drugs and substances have saved millions of lives and controlled the spread of countless infections and diseases. But with the alarming increase...
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New Cancer Therapies Aim Above the Genome
April 19, 2016
Cancer researcher Christopher Vakoc, PhD, goes “above the genome” in search for leukemia drug targets. His work falls within the emerging field of epigenomics. Published April 19, 2016 By Diana Friedman Christopher Vakoc, PhD If cells in the human body contain identical DNA, why are skin cells so different from lung cells? If identical twins have the same genome, what accounts for differences in their physical characteristics? Enter epigenetics-a term literally meaning "above the genome"-...
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Pediatric Cancer in a Post-genomic World
March 23, 2016
This new conference will showcase advances in biomedicine and how they are translating to better treatment options, as well as new avenues for research. Published March 23, 2016 By Diana Friedman The New York Academy of Sciences and The Sohn Conference Foundation today announced the inaugural Sohn Conference: Pediatric Cancer in a Post-genomic World, taking place March 30 to April 1, 2016 in New York City. Sponsored by The Sohn Conference Foundation, this conference is...
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Uncovering New Breakthroughs in Addiction Research
March 15, 2016
Nora D. Volkow and George K. Koob describe how research in biomedical science illuminates the puzzle of addiction, specifically the role of neurobiology. Published March 15, 2016 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of adragan via stock.adobe.com. Expanding addiction studies to include the brain has been challenging for researchers, despite promising results on the neurobiological aspects of addiction. Recently we spoke with two of the speakers from the upcoming event "The Addicted Brain and New Treatment...
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Advances in Molecular Medicine Led to Better Cancer Treatment
June 1, 2015
Lewis Cantley’s discoveries in the laboratory are changing the way we think about and treat cancer. Published June 1, 2015 By Siobhan Addie, PhD Lewis C. Cantley, PhD The 2015 Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine was awarded to Lewis C. Cantley, PhD, who serves as the Margaret and Herman Sokol Professor in Oncology Research and the Meyer Director of the Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell Medical College and New York-Presbyterian Hospital....
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Climate Change from a Human Health Perspective
April 30, 2015
Experts gather in Barcelona, Spain, to explore the consequences of climate change on human health. Published April 30, 2015 By Diana Friedman The New York Academy of Sciences, in partnership with the "la Caixa" Foundation and BIOCAT, will host a 2-day conference, Human Health in the Face of Climate Change: Science, Medicine, and Adaptation, on May 14-15, 2015 in Barcelona, Spain. "The threat of climate change to health will take many forms - from a more dangerous physical environment to...
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The Caped Crusader for Better Mental Health Outcomes
July 24, 2014
Andrea Letamendi, PhD, discusses the value of addressing mental health issues through the lens of beloved fictional narratives. Published July 24, 2014 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of rudall30 via stock.adobe.com. In honor of Batman's 75th anniversary, DC Entertainment declared July 23 Batman Day. What does this have to do with science? More than you might expect, with a little imagination. For psychologist Andrea Letamendi, PhD, the Batman world, with its roster of criminally insane villains, is...
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Research Paves the Way for Novel Drug Development
June 26, 2014
Scientists at the University of East Anglia have figured out a flaw in bacterial armor, potentially paving the way for novel drug development at a time when antibiotic resistance is becoming a critical global health problem. Published June 26, 2014 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of bonnontawat via stock.adobe.com. According to the World Health Organization, "antibiotic resistance—when bacteria change so antibiotics no longer work in people who need them to treat infections—is now a major threat...
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Research Leads to New Treatments for Immune Diseases
June 1, 2014
John O’Shea turned his passion for clinical care into a successful research career focusing on understanding the molecular basis of cytokine action, with the aim of providing better treatment options for patients. Published June 1, 2014 By Diana Friedman John O’Shea, MD, Director, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Intramural Research Program, NIH, has pushed the frontiers of molecular medicine during his career through research that has led to new treatments for...
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A New Model for a Career in Industry
June 1, 2014
Biophysicist Mark Kaplan explores a fast-track to bring innovation to patients. Published June 1, 2014 By Hannah Rice Image courtesy of Sebastian Kaulitzki via stock.adobe.com. For Mark Kaplan, a biophysicist who chose industry after his postdoc, the appeal of science lies in its predictability. From an early realization that he could position the stars and planets by studying astronomy—and check his predictions peering through his own telescope—to his work in drug discovery, his interest has...
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Changing the Game: Fighting Alzheimer’s Disease
August 1, 2013
Inspired by his mother-in-law's courageous, but heartbreaking battle, George Vradenburg has teamed up with the Academy to take on Alzheimer’s disease. Published August 1, 2013 By Noah Rosenberg A 3D-rendered medically accurate illustration of amyloid plaques on a nerve cell (Alzheimer's disease). Image courtesy of Sebastian Kaulitzki via stock.adobe.com. George Vradenburg’s resume reads like a roadmap to prototypical business success. He was Phi Beta Kappa in college and attended Harvard Law School. He later co-published...
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A New Take on Butterflies in the Stomach
June 6, 2013
Will insects be the next big thing for foodies? Once you get past the cringe factor you might be surprised to learn these crunchy critters are quite nutritious. Published June 6, 2013 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of Jiri Hera via stock.adobe.com. A recent report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization finds that entomophagy, the practice of eating insects (and arachnids and myriapods), is a healthy and sustainable answer to mounting worldwide nutrition and environmental challenges. "Due to the rising...
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Advancing Medical Research: From T Cells to Therapies
June 1, 2013
Following his new award, renowned immunologist Dan Littman, MD, PhD, explains his fascination with the immune system, as well as his hopes for the future of molecular medicine. Published June 1, 2013 By Diana Friedman Dan Littman, MD, PhD, received the Inaugural Ross Prize in Molecular Medicine from Betty Diamond, MD, a member of the Ross Prize Committee, and investigator & head, Center for Autoimmune and Musculoskeletal Diseases, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research. According...
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The New Potential of MRSA in Antibiotic Economics
May 16, 2013
A molecule found in breast milk may re-sensitize MRSA to antibiotics. This could be good news, especially considering the economic disincentives to develop new antibiotics. Published May 16, 2013 By Diana Friedman Researchers at SUNY University at Buffalo recently published a paper finding that a molecule called HAMLET, purified from breast milk, may re-sensitize antibiotic resistant bacteria to already existing treatments. This is potentially very good news. Bacteria such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, orresistant staph) have evolved resistance to almost...
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Epidemiologists Tackle Influenza with Data
March 1, 2013
Computational epidemiologists are exploring ways to use Google, social media, and other data sources to improve public health. Published March 1, 2013 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of Supapich via stock.adobe.com. It’s fairly evident when flu hits a given area—employees start taking sick days, lines become longer at the doctor’s office, and emergency rooms fill up. But what if people, particularly healthcare workers and those not yet vaccinated, could get just a little more warning...
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Antibodies, Vaccines, and Public Health
March 1, 2013
Seasonal influenza is a strong foe; our bodies its battleground. Can vaccines—our front-line defense—keep us healthy? Published March 1, 2013 By Diana Friedman Image courtesy of Daniel CHETRONI via stock.adobe.com. It seems simple enough—pop into a doctor’s office or, increasingly, any neighborhood pharmacy, to get a shot or nasal spray and, poof, you’re protected from the nastiest dish on the cold-weather illness buffet—that ache- and fever-inducing slide into delusional daytime naps and tossing, turning nights...
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Animal Models Advance Healthcare Research
December 1, 2012
From genetic engineering and cell culture to regulations and ethics, researchers have a wide range of considerations when experimenting with animal models. Published December 1, 2012 By Alan Dove, PhD Image courtesy of neurobite via stock.adobe.com. Since the earliest days of medical research, scientists have used model organisms to understand human biology. From ancient Greek analyses of comparative anatomy, to J.S. Haldane’s studies on decompression sickness, to the modern pharmaceutical development pipeline, animals have provided...
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The Impact of Influence: Why Scientists Need Mentors
December 1, 2012
Renowned cardiologist Valentin Fuster believes that caring mentors can set a life, and perhaps the world, on the right path. Published December 1, 2012 By Marci A. Landsmann Image courtesy of sofiko14 via stock.adobe.com. It wouldn't be surprising to find a world-renowned cardiologist at Gustave L. Levy Place in New York City or on First Street in Rochester, Minnesota. Sesame Street, however, might not seem like the logical destination for a cardiologist who has graced...
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Nutrition on a Global and Local Scale
June 1, 2012
Rafael Pérez-Escamilla works to create and implement public health nutrition programs around the world, but realizes that effective programs must take both a global and local view. Published June 1, 2012 By Marci A. Landsmann Image courtesy of bit24 via stock.adobe.com. “Good health” is more than a fortuitous platitude; a nutritious diet can help humans plot the course to lifelong wellness—a fact not lost to scientists and public health experts. But despite efforts of governments...
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Expert on HIV/AIDS Appointed to Advisory Group
April 16, 2012
Academy member Chinua Akukwe answers the “call to duty" as he uses his public health expertise to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, specifically in Africa. Published April 16, 2012 By Diana Friedman Chinua Akukwe, professorial lecturer in the Departments of Global Health and Prevention and Community Health in the George Washington University (GWU) School of Public Health and Health Services and former chair of the Technical Advisory Board of the GWU Africa Center for Health...
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Scientific Community Mourns Fleur L. Strand
January 11, 2012
The neuroscientist and former Academy board chair broke scientific and social ground throughout her long career. Published January 11, 2012 By Diana Friedman Fleur L. Strand, a physiologist who was a pioneer of the neuropeptide concept, died of cancer on December 23, 2011, in her home in Snowmass Village, Colorado. She was 83. Strand was actively involved in The New York Academy of Sciences throughout her career, being named a Fellow in 1976 and being...
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Why Good Science Resists Characterization
December 1, 2011
"Science is an adventure; it’s the human search for knowledge and new ideas that can better humankind." Published December 1, 2011 By Marci A. Landsmann Image courtesy of amorn via stock.adobe.com. Science is a discipline that whittles the abstract into clear and precise terms. So it might seem odd, at first, that Elias Zerhouni, former director of the National Institutes of Health and esteemed scientist, takes issue with certain characterizations. “I don’t like to call...
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Advancing the Science of Personalized Cancer Medicine
December 1, 2011
Academic and industry researchers, technology developers, and clinicians discuss the progress and the challenges in the field of personalized cancer medicine. Published December 1, 2011 By Jamie Kass Personalized medicine, the treatment of patients based upon their individual genetic, epigenetic, and phenotypic makeup, is the ultimate goal of many researchers and clinicians trying to find less toxic and more effective therapies for cancer. While cancer as a whole is characterized by uncontrollably proliferating cells, the...
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A Conversation with Napoleone Ferrara
December 1, 2011
“We want to know why, for example, not all tumors respond to vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors. We want to understand resistance.” Published December 1, 2011 By Diana Friedman Napoleone Ferrara (center) receives the 2011 Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research with (left to right) Joaquin Duato (J&J), Craig Mello (University of Massachusetts Medical School; Howard Hughes Medical Institute), Harlan Weisman (J&J) and Paul Stoffels (J&J). Napoleone Ferrar, a Genentech Fellow, discusses his life’s...
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The Role of Academic Medical Centers
December 1, 2011
Academic medical center must continue to bring together clinical and scientific resources, in the service of bettering humankind. Published December 1, 2011 By Diana Friedman “I don’t like the distinction between basic and translational science; science should be seamless,” says Laurie Glimcher, the Stephen and Suzanne Weiss Dean, Weill Cornell Medical College, effective January 2012. Many of her colleagues in the academic medical center community support Glimcher's viewpoint. “No matter what we call the discovery...
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A Medical Education Paradigm for the Future
September 1, 2011
George Thibault and the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation help the Academy push progress around medical education for the public good. Published September 1, 2011 By Noah Rosenberg George Thibault George Thibault knows as well as anyone that medicine is an ever-evolving frontier, continuously fraught with new challenges that demand innovative solutions. In fact, Thibault, president of the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation and an Academy governor, is the first to admit that his medical school education...
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Bringing Translational Science to the Silver Screen
September 1, 2011
From the research lab to the movie set, Columbia University’s W. Ian Lipkin lends his public health expertise to the pandemic thriller Contagion. Published September 1, 2011 By Diana Friedman W. Ian Lipkin at the New York City premiere of Contagion on September 7, 2011. Photo courtesy of Dave Alloca via Starpix. W. Ian Lipkin, The John Snow Professor of Epidemiology at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, recently found himself mentoring a new...
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A New Approach to Modern Nutrition using Dietetics
March 14, 2011
Learn about the long history of knowing about our food, our bodies, and ourselves and how that applies to our contemporary diets and lifestyles. Published March 14, 2011 By Stephanie B. H. Kelly Image courtesy of kerdkanno via stock.adobe.com. The authority to make claims about food and bodily knowledge was not always so squarely situated in the hands of professional physicians and nutrition experts. In fact, as Harvard historian of science Steven Shapin explained in...
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Building a Bridge from Epidemiology to Nutrition
December 1, 2010
How does what I eat affect my long-term health and wellbeing? The bridge between epidemiology and nutrition provides a way to these answers. Published December 1, 2010 By Walter Willett, as told to Adrienne J. Burke Image courtesy of yanadjan via stock.adobe.com. I grew up in Wisconsin and Michigan in a family that has been dairy farming for generations. While studying at Michigan State University, I grew vegetables–sweet corn, tomatoes, squash—that I sold to local...
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A Non-invasive Way to Prevent the Return of Fear
January 15, 2010
Four members of The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) in the psychology and neural science departments reported their new-found technique in the journal Nature. Published January 15, 2010 By Adrienne J. Burke Image courtesy of Vitalii Vodolazskyi via stock.adobe.com. Researchers in the New York University Department of Psychology and Center for Neural Science, Daniela Schiller, Elizabeth Phelps, Marie Monfils, and Joseph LeDoux, have developed a noninvasive technique to block the return of fear memories in...
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Vaccines Strategies for Developing Countries
August 11, 2009
Exploring vaccine treatments for Dengue, Meningococcal, and Pneumococcal, all of which pose a major public challenge in areas like Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Published August 11, 2009 By Theresa M. Wizemann Image courtesy of frank29052515 via stock.adobe.com. Despite the availability of life-saving vaccines, communicable diseases remain a major public health problem around the world. There is a gap between when vaccines and technologies become available in industrialized countries, and when they are implemented...
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Helping Physicians Better Understand Genomics
June 18, 2009
A new initiative will include an array of efforts, such as a series of ongoing symposia and online community-building tools. Published June 18, 2009 By Adrienne J. Burke Image courtesy of Anusorn via stock.adobe.com. The Life Technologies Foundation has awarded The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) a two-year, $400,000 grant to help educate thousands of physicians and medical students in how to utilize new technologies and share cutting-edge research to improve healthcare and...
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A Global Giver Lends Support from Japan
March 1, 2009
With a successful medical career in obstetrics and gynecology, Kenichi Furuya also spends his time advancing science as a member of the Academy’s Darwin Society. Published March 1, 2009 By Adelle C. Pelekanos Image courtesy of ake1150 via stock.adobe.com. At the core of The New York Academy of Sciences’ (the Academy’s) mission is a commitment to “creating a global community of science for the benefit of humanity.” It is a statement that deeply resonates with...
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A New Approach to the Hippocratic Oath
September 1, 2007
For more than 40 years, public- and private-sector biochemical pharmacology experts have been sharing knowledge at Academy meetings. Published September 1, 2007 By Jill Pope Image courtesy of Artinun via stock.adobe.com. It’s a rare occasion when scientists from competing pharmaceutical companies and academic laboratories come together to share their latest findings on human diseases and treatments. But since 1964, The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) has played host to a regular meeting of...
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How Can Science Help in the Fight Against Poverty?
September 1, 2007
A global scientific publishing initiative follows the philosophy of the Millennium Development Goals by tackling poverty from all angles Published September 1, 2007 By Leslie Taylor For the last decade, a technological marvel, has been saving lives in sub-Saharan Africa. It has no bells and whistles, no microprocessors or moving parts. It is a simple piece of insecticide-treated netting. Bed nets made from this material remain effective deterrents against mosquitoes for three to five years....
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Organic Morality: Our Intuitive Inheritance
March 1, 2007
In a new book, the Harvard evolutionary psychologist argues that all humans share an innate sense of right and wrong. Published March 1, 2007 By Laura Buchholz Image courtesy of Who Is Danny via stock.adobe.com. You are in control of a switch at a railroad station. An empty out-of-control train is racing toward five people walking on the tracks. It will hit and kill them unless you pull a lever to switch the train to...
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The Role of Nucleic Acids in Plasma, Serum
February 1, 2007
Nucleic acids circulating in plasma and serum can be screened for a variety of conditions. Testing fetal DNA found in maternal plasma may become a noninvasive diagnostic approach. Published February 21, 2007 By Jill Pope Image courtesy of Ezume Images via stock.adobe.com. Most ninth-grade biology students can tell us that DNA and RNA are found within cells. But in both healthy and sick people, these nucleic acids can also be found circulating freely in plasma...
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Advancing Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases
September 1, 2006
Through The New York Academy of Sciences' popular discussion groups, doctors and scientists are able to advance our understanding of diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Published September 1, 2006 By Alan Dove, PhD Image courtesy of Atthapon via stock.adobe.com. It’s a favorite of chemistry teachers around the world: the seed crystal demonstration. The instructor drops a grain of salt into a beaker holding a supersaturated solution. Patterning its growth on this initial seed, the rest...
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The Molecular Science of Making Babies
August 2, 2006
Nobel Laureate Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard talks about embryology at the molecular level, connecting the development of fruit flies to that of vertebrates. Published August 2, 2006 By Alan Dove, PhD Sponsored by: Readers & Writers and Women Investigators NetworkCosponsored by: Goethe-Institut, Kales Press, and the German Book Office Image courtesy of Destina via stock.adobe.com. Where do Babies Come From? The question has unnerved parents for millennia. Even if you are completely comfortable discussing sex with someone barely out of potty training, there...
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Efforts of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative
July 1, 2006
Despite a promising career advancing health research at Rockefeller University, Seth Berkley made a surprising mid-career move when he went all-in to develop an AIDS vaccine. Published July 1, 2006 By Alan Dove, PhD Image courtesy of PhotobyTawat via stock.adobe.com. In 1996, Seth Berkley, MD, threw away a promising career. The Ivy-League-trained physician was the Associate Director of the Health Sciences Division at the Rockefeller Foundation, a rising star in infectious disease and epidemiology, when...
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A Neuroscientist’s Search for Memory
May 5, 2006
In celebration of his new memoir, the Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist recounted many formative episodes from his life in science. Published May 5, 2006 By Carl Zimmer Sponsored by: The New York Academy of Sciences and W.W. Norton Image courtesy of Vitalii Vodolazskyi via stock.adobe.com. Memory allows us to do more than just store telephone numbers and directions to the post office. It is a repository for lost worlds, which we can recreate years later. The Nobel Prize-winning...
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Race and Health Inequalities in Medicine
April 14, 2006
A recent conference brought together medical professionals and other researchers to explore the intersection of race, genomics, and health inequities. Published April 14, 2006 By Alan Dove, PhD Image courtesy of Dragana Gordic via stock.adobe.com. Romulus. Cain. Mr. Hyde. Literature abounds with evil twins. Far less famous, but far more dangerous, are the malevolent siblings that haunt nearly every branch of science. Their fortunes wax and wane, but they never really die. Alchemy now tinkers...
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A New Perspective on the Future of Human Evolution
February 7, 2006
Frank Wilczek, the 2004 Nobel Prize winner and renowned theoretical physicist and mathematician, offers some provocative speculations on the future of human evolution. Published September 1, 2006 By Frank Wilczek Image courtesy of Peter Robinson via stock.adobe.com. Archaeopteryx could fly—but not very well. Human beings today can penetrate outside Earth's airy envelope—but not very well. Our minds can penetrate into realms of thought far beyond the domain they were evolved to inhabit—but not very well....
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How the Maillard Reaction is Linked to Disease
January 20, 2006
Scientists who study the chemistry of how food is cooked are exploring promising therapies to treat an array of diseases, from diabetes to Alzheimer's. Published January 20, 2006 By Jill Pope Image courtesy of bernardbodo via stock.adobe.com. It's a chemical reaction central to daily life: the Maillard reaction browns our toast and makes roasted coffee smell wonderful. Oh yes, and it's going on in our bodies all the time. What happens when sugars and proteins...
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The Story of a 25 Year Collaboration
August 23, 2005
Scientific collaborators Torsten Wiesel and David Hubel made significant advances in our understanding of the brain and perception. Their achievements were a work in progress for roughly a quarter century. Published August 23, 2005 By Dorian Devins Image courtesy of LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS via stock.adobe.com. An air of camaraderie pervaded The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) on March 31, 2005 as scientific collaborators Torsten Wiesel and David Hubel were joined by fellow Nobelist Eric...
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The Physiology of the New York Schvitz
July 26, 2005
A scientific explanation for an ancient Lower East Side indulgence that dates back to at least the 18th century. Published July 26, 2005 By Ken Howard Wilan Image courtesy of nyul via stock.adobe.com. Some people like heat. Extreme heat. Hotter even than a NYC subway station in August. The kind of heat that gets your eccrine sweat glands pumping liquid through the skin for major evaporative cooling. Heat that bakes the mind and forces the...
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A New Look at an Ancient Pain Remedy
April 1, 2005
Despite legal restrictions in some states, cannabis has reemerged for its medical benefits in recent years, though its history dates back centuries. Published April 1, 2005 By Alan Dove, PhD Image courtesy of aon168 via stock.adobe.com. While some researchers are pursuing genomic strategies to understand the causes of chronic pain, others are reversing the problem, starting with an ancient painkiller and trying to understand how it works. Cannabis sativa and its close cousin Cannabis indica,...
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A Public Good: Accelerating AIDS Vaccine Development
January 1, 2005
Researchers are making strides in the research and drug development necessary to combat the deadly HIV/AIDS epidemic, but more needs to be done to achieve this goal. Published January 1, 2005 By Marilynn Larkin Image courtesy of vitaliymateha via stock.adobe.com. More than 20 years into the HIV/AIDS epidemic, there is still no end in sight to this dreaded disease. Worse, the number of new cases of HIV/AIDS continues to climb, particularly in the less developed...
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Are Lawyers the Problem with Flu Vaccines?
January 1, 2005
From early discoveries in vaccine development to the anti-vax movement, the industry has changed immensely; and attorneys are playing a more prominent role than ever. Published January 1, 2005 By William Tucker Image courtesy of Cultura Creative via stock.adobe.com. “British authorities certainly thought there was a problem with the Chiron Corporation manufacturing – although the company didn’t,” commented Paul A. Offit, MD, who until last year sat on the Center for Disease Control’s Advisory Committee...
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Merging Modern and Ancient Medicines
September 30, 2004
An Interview with Albert Y. Leung, a pharmacologist who uses modern medical science to study the mechanisms—or active components—of herbs. Published September 30, 2004 By Dan Van Atta Image courtesy of iMarzi via stock.adobe.com. To Albert Y. Leung, the benefits of Western medicine and those of medicinal herbs and other "natural" remedies are by no means mutually exclusive. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Leung grew up experiencing the power of traditional approaches to medicine...
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Quirks and Quacks: Bernard Shaw and Medical Ethics
April 19, 2004
Reflecting on ethical considerations posed by the famous Irish-born satirist nearly a century after his play critiqued aspects of the medical profession. Published April 19, 2004 By Jennifer Tang Image via Wikimedia Commons. You've invented a "miracle cure" for tuberculosis. Unfortunately, you have limited supplies of the drug and have room for only one more patient. You must choose between saving the life of a penniless doctor dedicated to helping the poor or a talented...
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Anti-Angiogenic Research and Cancer Treatment
April 1, 2004
Researchers have found that preventing the flow of blood to tumors cells, can be an effective treatment for cancer. Published April 1, 2004 By Margaret Crane Image courtesy of phonlamaiphoto via stock.adobe.com. On February 26, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Avastin (bevacizumab) for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. It is the first drug to receive FDA approval that works expressly by blocking tumor angiogenesis, defined as the ability to generate new...
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The Promise of ‘Oral Tolerance’ in Combatting Disease
March 1, 2004
Scientists continue to advance the principle of ‘oral tolerance’ which shows potential in treating everything from multiple sclerosis and arthritis. Published March 1, 2004 By Vida Foubister Colorized scanning electron micrograph of a T lymphocyte (also known as a T cell). Image courtesy of NIH National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases via Flickr. Licensed via Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed. No changes made. A regular diet of quarter-pound hamburgers may not do much...
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Stem Cells: Great Potential, Great Challenges
January 1, 2004
Scientists and other researchers are exploring the therapeutic potential of stem cells, as well as challenges they face around ethics and regulation. Published January 1, 2004 By Catherine Zandonella Stem cells, day 3 after passage. Image courtesy of Karl Marquez.University of California, San Diego a via Wikimedia Commons. Licensed via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported. No changes made. To patients suffering from devastating and untreatable conditions such as spinal cord injuries, the near-limitless potential...
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Adolescence: A Time of Vulnerability and Opportunity
November 1, 2003
Scientists and doctors now have a better sense of how the adolescent brain develops and offer guidance on how we can support young people during this often-vulnerable period. Published November 1, 2003 By Rosemarie Foster Image courtesy of Cultura Allies via stock.adobe.com. The two young teens meet at a dance, and in an instant are mutually enraptured. They declare their love for each other, and over the next several days think of nothing or no...
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Diabetes: Controlling the Uncontrolled with Science
September 1, 2003
Medical advances in recent years have enabled doctors and other health professionals to better understand the scientific mechanisms behind diabetes, which in turn is enabling them to better treat patients. Published September 1, 2003 By Rosemarie Foster Image courtesy of thodonal via stock.adobe.com. A typical supper in Sunflower County Mississippi, might start with a basket of hot fried cornmeal hush puppies, followed by a heaping plate of spicy barbecued ribs or crispy fried catfish, topped...
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SARS: An Emerging Infectious Threat
July 1, 2003
Physicians, epidemiologists, public health practitioners, and other experts came together to discuss the emerging threat of SARS and how it can be dealt with. Published July 1, 2003 By Rosemarie Foster Image courtesy of samunella via stock.adobe.com. It seems to appear out of nowhere: A virulent foe that bears a striking resemblance to other pathogens in its class – and yet deals a quick and lethal blow to many it infects – reared its menacing...
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Healthy Approaches to Dealing with Stress
June 1, 2003
Neuroscientists say that a “healthy lifestyle” is perhaps the most effective prescriptions for dealing with chronic stress. Published June 1, 2003 By Jeffrey Penn Image courtesy of Farknot Architect via stock.adobe.com. Feeling stressed out? Anxious? Frustrated and angry? Looking for a way out? Some significant advances in the neurosciences are revealing that stress is actually a complex relationship of internal and external factors, and that some relatively simple lifestyle changes can contribute to a sense...
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Studying Mental Health: Categories or Dimensions?
June 1, 2003
Experts say that elements of both psychiatry and psychology should be considered when studying mental health. Published June 1, 2003 By Vida Foubiste Image courtesy of wutzkoh via stock.adobe.com. One of the dichotomies between basic and clinical research into childhood mental illness has been the nomenclature of classification. Psychiatrists have historically used “categories” to classify neurological disorders; psychologists have turned to “dimensions.” Thus, the Roots of Mental Illness in Children and Adolescents conference organizers set...
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Mental Health in Children and Adolescents
June 1, 2003
Scientists and clinicians are pursuing the root causes of mental health struggles specific to young people to develop effective behavioral interventions. Published June 1, 2003 By Vida Foubister Image courtesy of stcom via stock.adobe.com. Early childhood experiences appear to shape brain function in ways that confer either vulnerability or resilience to mental illness in children and adolescents. As scientists unravel the genetics and physiological mechanisms behind these changes in animals, clinicians are eager to translate...
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Predicting the Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease
March 1, 2003
Doctors and researchers studying the molecular and clinical aspects of Alzheimer’s disease are learning more about the mechanisms of this devastating condition. Published March 1, 2003 By Vida Foubister Image courtesy of Oleksandr Marchenko via stock.adobe.com. While proteins involved in the generations of Alzheimer's disease (AD) continue to perplex researchers, progress is being made in the presymptomatic and early identification of patients. But the use of genetic testing, brain imaging and other available technologies to...
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Technology Promises Faster Diagnostic Tests
March 1, 2003
The Doctor-on-a-Chip technology has potential to revolutionize the field of medicine by providing quick and accurate test results. Published March 1, 2003 By Bruce Tobin Image courtesy of Toowongsa via stock.adobe.com. Sending medical specimens off to labs can mean lengthy waits for results needed to make or confirm diagnoses. But help is on the way in the form of a developing nanotechnology called Doctor-on-a-Chip (DoaC). In broad terms, DoaC technology will allow a sample of...
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85 Cents at a Time: Saving Lives and Fighting HIV
November 1, 2002
After diagnosing the first pediatric case of HIV in Uganda, Dr. Ammann has devoted much of his professional life to combating this deadly virus. Published November 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of salomonus_ via stock.adobe.com. More than 2000 infants around the world are infected with HIV every day. In sub-Saharan Africa alone up to 46 percent of pregnant women carry the virus, and some 25 to 35...
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Parkinson’s: A Perplexing Puzzle for Researchers
November 1, 2002
Nearly two centuries after James Parkinson first defined “shaking palsy” in 1817, million of people throughout the world struggle daily with the disabling effects of Parkinson’s Disease. Neither a cause nor a cure has yet been found for this enigmatic and deadly disease. Published November 1, 2002 By Vida Foubister First Parkinson's disease patient. Photograph taken March 24, 1965. John H. Lawrence Collection-5521. Photograph by Doug Bradley via National Archives Catalog. Speaking as chair of...
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‘Free-Radical’ Scientist Recalls Research Journey
October 1, 2002
Almost 50 years ago, Denham Harman’s theory of aging as a biochemical process started a chain reaction in theoretical medicine. Published October 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of Khunatorn via stock.adobe.com. Louis Pasteur once noted: “Chance favors the prepared mind.” Denham Harman’s mind was unusually prepared to develop a notion that took well over a decade to attract any serious attention, but is now a driving force...
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Building a Big Future from Small Things
October 1, 2002
Nanotechnology has potential to revolutionize our daily lives and one aspect that makes this technology so promising and effective is its bottom-up approach. Published October 1, 2002 By Charles M. Lieber Image courtesy of snorkulencija via stock.adobe.com. Nanotechnology has gained widespread recognition with the promise of revolutionizing our future through advances in areas ranging from computing, information storage and communications to biotechnology and medicine. How might one field of study produce such dramatic changes? At...
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Molecular Manufacturing for the Genomic Age
October 1, 2002
Researchers are making significant advances in nanotechnology which someday may help to revolutionize medical science for everything from testing new drugs to cellular repair. Published October 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of Filippo Carlot via stock.adobe.com. When it comes to understanding biology, Professor Carl A. Batt believes that size matters – especially at the Cornell University-based Nanobiotechnology Center that he codirects. Founded in January 2000 by virtue...
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Continuing the Legacy of a Cancer Research Pioneer
August 1, 2002
Advancing the cancer research started by Casare Maltoni, the late Italian oncologist who advocated for industrial workplace safety. Published August 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Cesare Maltoni. Image courtesy of Silvestro Ramunno, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. For decades, the “canary in the coal mine” approach has been used to test for potential carcinogens. Standing in for humans, mice and rats have ingested or been injected...
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The Complexities of Stem Cell Research
August 1, 2002
Proponents on both sides of this at-times controversial debate each make their case, combining the science, history, policy, and ethics of the research. Published August 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of NIH via Wikimedia Commons. Following the recent death of American baseball legend Ted Williams, it was learned that the former Boston Red Sox slugger’s body had been suspended in liquid nitrogen, encased in a...
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Analyzing the Self: When Mind Meets Matter
August 1, 2002
Linking the self – our passions, our hatreds, our temperaments and such – to the physical wiring and physiological functioning of the brain. Published August 1, 2002 By Rosemarie Foster Image courtesy of samunella via stock.adobe.com. Each living creature exists as a unit: a self. But what makes each of us the person we are? It’s a question that’s been pondered for hundreds of years. Seventeenth century philosopher and mathematician René Descartes’ most famous quotation...
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Do Physicians Have a Duty to Warn a Patient’s Family?
June 1, 2002
Exploring the ethical and legal issues around doctors sharing medical records and providing recommendations to the family members of the patients they treat. Published June 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dana Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of Freedomz via stock.adobe.com What guidelines should doctors follow regarding disclosure information to potentially affected family members and the genetic testing of children. In two widely discussed cases, Pate v. Threlkel and Safer v. Estate...
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A Case Against ‘Genetic Over-Simplification’
June 1, 2002
Who are we? Why do we behave as we do? What explains why some die of illness at the age of 50 while others live past 100? How can we improve the human condition? Published June 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dana Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of ustas via stock.adobe.com. The answers to these questions are coded in our genes — or so the story goes in the popular media...
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The Enigma Surrounding the Brain’s Amygdala
June 1, 2002
By studying the amygdala’s function in both human and animal brains, we can better understand drug treatment and addition. By Brian A. McCool, PhD Image courtesy of Sergey Kohl via stock.adobe.com. About 180 years ago, not long after the New York Academy of Sciences was founded as the Lyceum of Natural History in New York City, the amygdala, those almond-shaped structures within the basal ganglia of the brain, initially was described as discrete anatomical entities...
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The Scientific Mechanics of Cancer
June 1, 2002
New research illuminates the role of genetic mutations in the diagnosis of cancer. This research has resulted in some promising treatments. Published June 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dana Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of sutadimages via stock.adobe.com. Cancer researchers are getting ever closer to “understanding the molecular events that underwrite the transformation of a normal cell” into one capable of causing the deaths of millions of people around the world...
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A Personal Tale of Post-Infectious Encephalitis
April 1, 2002
Encephalitis, often called sleeping sickness, made an appearance in Buffalo, New York, in 1946. Among the victims who survived was six-year-old Trumbull Rogers, now Associate Editor of the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Below are his recollections of the life-affecting experience. Published April 1, 2002 By Trumbull Rogers Paul M. Versage, Hospital Corpsman First Class, USN, examines a blood sample under a microscope. Photograph released September 24, 1963. This was part of...
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The Ethics and Morality of Modern Biotechnology
April 1, 2002
Scientists are pondering ways to balance the immense potential of biotechnology, while also being responsible morally and ethically. Published April 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dana Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of Panupat via stock.adobe.com. Embryonic stem cell research. Cloning. Prenatal genetic screening. Genetically modified foods. What used to be thought of as impossible is not only probable — it’s now being done. That’s why it’s more important than ever to...
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Opportunities and Challenges in Biomedical Research
April 1, 2002
While there have been major advances in biomedical research in recent years, this has also presented scientists with new challenges. Published April 1, 2002 By Rosemarie Foster Image courtesy of DC Studio via stock.adobe.com. In Boston’s historic Fenway neighborhood, just beyond Back Bay, each spring heralds an annual ritual of renewed life. The Victory Gardens come abuzz with activity and abloom with burgeoning buds. Canoeists charge to the nearby Charles River. And sluggers at Fenway...
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The Epidemiology of Depression: A Family Affair
March 1, 2002
Experts are beginning to better understand and mitigate the economic and social consequences of disabling psychiatric illnesses like depression. Published March 1, 2002 By Henry Moss, PhD Image courtesy of KMPZZZ via stock.adobe.com. Health insurance reimbursement for mental disorders has still not achieved parity with traditional illness and the topic continues to be hotly debated in the U.S. Congress. The statistics seem clear, however, as studies document the enormous economic and social consequences of disabling...
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A Medical Doctor’s Perspective on Anthrax
March 1, 2002
With the recent cases of anthrax occurring in New York and Connecticut, an MD breaks down the dangers of this devastating infectious disease. Published March 1, 2002 By Philip S. Brachman, MD Under a very high magnification of 31,207X, this digitally-colorized, scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image depicted endospores from the Sterne strain of Bacillus anthracis bacteria. For a black and white version of this image, see PHIL 2266. A key characteristic of the Sterne strain...
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The Scientific Clues to Reducing Flu Epidemics
March 1, 2002
Our understanding of vaccines has come a long way since the 1918 flu epidemic, and scientists continue to advance the research in this field. Published March 1, 2002 By Lorrence H. Green, PhD A hospital in Kansas during the Spanish flu epidemic in 1918. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons via Public Domain. In 1918 a global influenza pandemic is estimated to have killed between 20 and 40 million people. Today, influenza –– a negative stranded...
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Tuberculosis: A Potential 21st Century Plague
January 1, 2002
Due to developing resistance to certain drugs, tuberculosis has reemerged as problematic for public health professionals. Published January 1, 2002 By Linda Hotchkiss Mehta Image courtesy of Richman Photo via stock.adobe.com. Recent deaths from inhalation of the anthrax bacterium, coming in the wake of September’s terrorist attacks in the United States, have focused widespread public attention on the potential for biochemical terrorism. Potential agents of mass destruction being discussed range from the smallpox virus to...
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Confronting Bio-Terrorism: The Anthrax Threat
January 1, 2002
With a rise in the calculated and malicious use of anthrax by bad actors, experts are issuing a “wake-up call.” Published January 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang This photomicrograph reveals some of the ultrastructural morphology of numerous rod-shaped, Bacillus anthracis bacteria, many of which had had formed long chain configurations. The sample was processed using Gram-stain technique, which colorized the bacteria purple, due to their Gram-positive nature....
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The New Age Threat Of Tuberculosis
January 1, 2002
Much of German physician Robert Koch’s research on tuberculosis is more relevant than ever as this contagious disease is reemerging globally. Published January 1, 2002 By Fred Moreno, Dan Van Atta, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Robert Koch. Image via NIH's National Library of Medicine. On March 24, 1882, a thin, near-sighted German physician named Robert Koch delivered his latest research paper to an evening meeting of the Physiological Society of Berlin. His audience was...
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A Close Look at the Science of Eye Movements
October 1, 2001
Cellular biologists, systems physiologists, as well as other medical and scientific professionals came together to explore the links between the eyes and the brain. Published October 1, 2001 By Fred Moreno, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Image courtesy of oz via stock.adobe.com. When it comes to understanding human motor systems, the “eyes” have it. The depth of knowledge related to the ocular motor system is immense, ranging from molecular genetics to abnormal behavior due to...
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Suicide Prevention and Treatment in Older Adults
October 1, 2001
In the past decade, specific treatments have been shown to reduce suicidal behavior in a variety of psychiatric conditions, from bipolar disorder to schizophrenia. Published October 1, 2001 By Fred Moreno, Jill Stolarik, and Jennifer Tang Dr. Herbert Hendin, medical director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Older adults continue to be the highest risk group for suicide in the United States. Thanks to great advances in the psychopharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy of major...
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The Tantalizing Promise of Stem Cell Research
September 1, 2001
Medical advancements around stem cells are often covered in the news these days, but what is a stem cell? Learn more about the science and potential of these versatile cells from our conversation with Donald Orlic, researcher with the National Institutes of Health. Published September 1, 2001 By Levin Santos Transmission electron micrograph of a mesenchymal stem cell displaying typical ultrastructural characteristics. Image courtesy Robert M. Hunt, GNU Free Documentation License, via Wikimedia Commons. No...
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Bottoms Up: The Science of Alcohol
June 1, 2001
A recent Academy conference addressed the ages-old question: Is drinking good for you? The answer is more complicated than you might think. Published June 1, 2001 By Fred Moreno and Jill Stolarik Image courtesy of Pixel-Shot via stock.adobe.com. Evidence of winemaking and wine drinking has been found in the Tigris-Euphrates River Valley, dating back to 5400 BC. And throughout antiquity, wine has served multiple purposes in multiple cultures—in religious ceremonies, celebrations, social gatherings, and in...
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West Niles Virus and Public Health
June 1, 2001
With the emergence of West Nile Virus, this international conference focused on the science of the virus and its implications for public heath. Published June 1, 2001 By Fred Moreno and Jill Stolarik Image courtesy of witsawat via stock.adobe.com. Since the West Nile Virus first appeared in the United States in 1999, it has dispersed from its original hot zone in the Queens section of New York City to the mid-Atlantic states and as far...
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From Proteomics to Modern Medicine
January 31, 2001
Understanding the pathways of the next revolution in biotechnology. If you thought genomics was exciting, you're gonna love proteomics! Published January 31, 2001 By Fred Moreno Image courtesy of producer via stock.adobe.com. A relatively new area of science, proteomics is the study of proteins: how they are made, what is their structure, and how they function in the cell. Proteomics is the next step in the effort to uncover information about how genes are related...
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Infectious: The Return of Days Gone By?
January 1, 2001
While medical science has made tremendous strides in recent years, some diseases and viruses are re-emerging and creating new challenges for public health professionals. Published January 1, 2001 By Allison L. C. de Cerreño Image courtesy of CDC. With winter’s arrival in New York, much of the concern over the West Nile Virus has disappeared - at least among the general population. However, new infectious diseases have emerged in recent years, and there is concern...
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Devastating: In the Eye of the Beholder
July 1, 2000
Exploring some of the ethical issues around medical science, recent breakthroughs in genetic discovery, and the broader impacts on society. Published July 1, 2000 By Allison C. de Cerreño Image courtesy of ustas via stock.adobe.com. It seems that not a day goes by without hearing about some new advance in the area of genetics. Whether it is mapping a new chromosome or finding a new marker for disease, the pace of discovery is sometimes awe-inspiring....
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The Journey of a Psychopharmacological Pioneer
May 1, 2000
From escaping Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia to pharmaceutical breakthroughs to rubbing elbows with Aldous Huxley, Frank Berger has seen a lot in his life and career. Published May 1, 2000 By Merle Spiegel Image courtesy of Artinun via stock.adobe.com. Anti-anxiety medications represent a significant share of the vast number of pharmaceuticals in widespread use today. In 1955, however, when Frank Berger invented meprobamate, it was the first and only anti-anxiety tranquilizer on the market. Berger, an Academy...
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Making Healthcare More Affordable in the Tri-State
January 1, 2000
Greater efficiency in the tri-state region’s medical facilities can lead to more affordable costs for patients. The region is currently nearly twice as expensive as neighboring Massachusetts. Published January 1, 2000 By Frank B. Hicks, PhD, and Susan U. Raymond, PhD Image courtesy of tippapatt via stock.adobe.com. HMOs claim that it's a matter of efficiency; hospitals say it's a lack of revenue. But whether because they spend too much or are paid too little, the...
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Health Sector is Imperative to NYC’s Strong Economy
January 1, 2000
The largest growth in the near future is expected in middle-skilled workers for healthcare professionals in the tri-state (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut) region. Published January 1, 2000 By Frank B. Hicks, Ph.D. and Susan U. Raymond, Ph.D. Image courtesy of joyfotoliakid via stock.adobe.com. In the Tri-State region, the health services sector provides over 1.25 million jobs, or more than 9% of the workforce. About 40% of those jobs are in offices and clinics, another...
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Annals
November 27, 2025 ·
Dual Processing of Aberrant Data Perception: Evidence From EEG Oscillations
Contributors: Haihong Yu| Yitao Chen| Dandan Li| Wei Liu| Bo Dong| Guanxiong Pei|
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November 24, 2025 ·
USP10 in Neurological Disorders: Mechanistic Insights and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies
Contributors: Celemuge| Hongying Sun| Jia Zhang| Yang Yang| Jian Mao| Cheliger|
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November 22, 2025 ·
The Effect of Different Auditory Stimuli and Optokinetic Stimuli on Vestibulo‐Ocular Reflex Function
Contributors: Hanifi Korkmaz| İpek Balikci Cicek|
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November 22, 2025 ·
Cardiovascular Activity Predominantly Modulates Brain Dynamics in Non‐REM Sleep Transitions
Contributors: Vincenzo Catrambone| Ugo Faraguna| Gaetano Valenza|
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November 17, 2025 ·
Zoonotic Disease Transmission May Be Linked to Host Co‐Occurrence Network Topology
Contributors: Patrick T. Stillson| Brent B. Crow| William R. Budnick| Sophia I. Passy|
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November 10, 2025 ·
Spinal Cord Injury Versus Sciatic Nerve Injury: Divergent Neuromuscular Pathologies and Neural Circuitry Remodeling
Contributors: Ting Tian| Zongyu Wang| Fei Huang| Liming Li|
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November 05, 2025 ·
Functional Parcellation Between Bilingual Language Control and Cognitive Control in the Cerebellum
Contributors: Jingyu Chen| Qianwen Chang| Qiming Yuan| Fengyang Ma| Mo Chen| Cameron G. Koch| Taomei Guo|
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November 04, 2025 ·
Synergies Between Observed Warming and ENSO Episodes on Extreme Events
Contributors: Francisco Estrada| Pierre Perron| Yohei Yamamoto|
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November 03, 2025 ·
National Adoption of World Health Organization Recommendations on Calcium Supplementation During Pregnancy
Contributors: Iris B. Romero| María Bernardita Puchulu| Surya M. Perez| Cintia White| Ziaul Hasan Rana| Megan W. Bourassa| Camila Delgado| José M. Belizán| Florencia Salva| Gabriela Cormick|
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November 03, 2025 ·
Music Reward Sensitivity Associated With Frontostriatal Function and Structure in Congenital Amusia
Contributors: Zhishuai Jin| Sizhu Huyang| Lichen Jiang| Qiaoping Lian| Daxing Wu|
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