NIH Record - National Institutes of Health

‘Military’ Uses of Neuroscience Have Tended to Stumble, Moreno Says

At the height of the Cold War more than half a century ago, LSD research failed the acid test when investigators, hoping the drug would render its takers unable to lie, found instead that users were unable to be coherent. In the intervening decades, many attempts by U.S. military and security interests to harvest discoveries in neurobiology and psychology for their own uses have fallen as flat as an unwittingly dosed soldier, staggering stoned in a meadow.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

Couple Turns Hand of Fate into Hand of Hope

The husband-and-wife team of Dr. Sonia Vallabh and Dr. Eric Minikel quit their professions in order to address Vallabh’s diagnosis as a carrier of a gene that puts her at high risk of suffering the disease that rapidly killed her mother in the prime of life.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

Columbia’s Fried Describes Syndrome of Frailty

You get the feeling that if Dr. Linda P. Fried, dean of the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, were in charge of things, exercise classes for frail adults would be as common across the land as kindergarten enrollment is for youngsters.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

End of AIDS Pandemic in Sight, Fauci Says

It is the global pandemic that has defined his life and career, and NIAID director Dr. Anthony Fauci says it is now within the realm of possibility that society can bring HIV/AIDS to a close, if we “follow the science.”

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

NIDDK’s Rosner Ends Half-Century NIH Career

Dr. Judah Leon “Lee” Rosner, a senior investigator in the molecular genetics section of NIDDK’s Laboratory of Molecular Biology, concluded a 50-year NIH career on Apr. 29 with an afternoon-long scientific seminar in Wilson Hall.

Rall Lecture Features Host-Guest Swap

NIH director Dr. Francis Collins interviewed Diane Rehm at the Rall Cultural Lecture Apr. 7 in Masur Auditorium. Part of the reason their public dialogue seemed so effortless is that Collins has been Rehm's guest on her NPR show at least 10 times.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

Linguistic Analysis Yields Reliable Diagnoses, Cecchi Shows

The mathematical savvy of scientists such as Dr. Guillermo Cecchi holds the promise of enabling accurate diagnosis—from speech alone—of ailments ranging from mental health conditions to chronic pain.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

‘Spiritual Music’ Celebrates Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, on Feb. 25, drummer Nasar Abadey led a quartet through half a dozen standards—leaning on the work of D.C. native Duke Ellington—in a 90-minute concert punctuated by Abadey’s congenial dialogues about the music.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

Schiffman Inspires, Educates On Cervical Cancer

Dr. Mark Schiffman’s Robert S. Gordon Jr. Lecture might well have served as a primer on the meaning of an NIH career. It was heartfelt, impassioned, honest, funny, encouraging and offered good news about preventing cervical cancer via vaccination.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

Biden Inspires ‘Moonshot’ Cancer Effort at NIH

Putting his considerable political capital behind fresh opportunities to make progress against cancer, Vice President Joe Biden is to run “mission control” at an NIH and National Cancer Institute-led “moonshot” effort, said President Barack Obama at his Jan. 12 State of the Union address.

Social Factors Help Explain Worse Cardiovascular Health in Rural Areas

An NIH-funded research team uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and factors that likely drive these differences. More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death.

The researchers found adults living in rural areas were more likely to have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes. Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas.

Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat and owning a home helped explain the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increased inflammation in the body.

Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority.

Insights from this study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.

 

Meet the 2024–2025 Cohort of Climate and Health Scholars

Dr. Sue Anne Bell
Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Host: National Institute on Aging

Dr. Daniel Carrión
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Director of Education for Climate Change and Health, Yale School of Public Health
Host: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Dr. José Guillermo Cedeño Laurent
Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health
Host: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Dr. Jaime Madrigano
Associate Professor of American Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 
Host: NIH Office of Disease Prevention

Dr. Kimberley Miner
Climate Scientist and Program Manager,
NASA Jet Propulsion Labs at the California Institute of Technology
Host: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Dr. Eugene Richardson
Assistant Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Host: NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

Dr. Jason Rohr
Professor of Biological Sciences and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame
Host: Fogarty International Center

Dr. Patrick Ryan
Professor of Pediatrics and Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati
Host: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 

Dr. Soko Setoguchi
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Rutgers University
Host: National Cancer Institute

Dr. Christopher Uejio
Professor of Geography and Public Health, Florida State University
Host: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Dr. Leyao Wang
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Host: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Dr. Joshua Wortzel
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Clinical Scientist, Institute of Living - Hartford HealthCare; Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
Host: National Institute of Mental Health

Dr. Jun Wu
Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine
Host: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

More information about each individual scholar and their research interests can be found by visiting go.nih.gov/4vxNO4w.

NCI, NCATS Scrimmage to Support CFC

Group stands together holding Give Happy sign.
Scrimmage organizers, from l, Megan Moretz (NCATS), Patricia Voysest (NCI), Kelly Lawhead (NCI), and Chris Maurer (NCATS)

Photo:  Amy Trenkle

On Nov. 13, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) held their first-ever joint Cornhole Scrimmage at NCI’s Shady Grove campus to engage staff in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) efforts. 

This event offered the opportunity for these two institutes to come together for the CFC and for their staff to connect, especially since approximately 100 NCATS staff moved into the Shady Grove building over the summer. Amber Lowery, NCI’s deputy director for management and executive officer, kicked off the event with welcome remarks, and two local charities shared how the CFC supports their impactful work for the community, particularly for furry and feathery friends.

Colleagues stand together in winter coats, outside NCI-Shady Grove.
Scrimmage winners celebrate outside NCI-Shady Grove

Photo:  patricia voysest

Although this was the first event of its kind for NCI, NCATS hosted this annual cornhole event as a key part of their CFC efforts for several years pre-pandemic. With a competitive spirit in the air, NCATS showcased their well-honed skills, claiming both first and second place in the staff rounds. However, Lowery and cornhole partner Dr. Sanya Springfield, NCI acting deputy director for strategic engagement, clinched the coveted Cornhole Scrimmage trophy for NCI in the leadership round. They faced tough competition against Bekah Geiger, NCATS acting executive officer, and Andrew Kelly, NCATS acting deputy executive officer. 

This event prepared NCI and NCATS leaders to take on other institutes at the CFC Cornhole Throwdown on November 21. After the scrimmage, Bekah presented the trophy and medals to the winners, capping off a brisk but fantastic afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit. — Kelly Lawhead, Chris Maurer, Megan Moretz, Patricia Voysest

Image
Overhead shot of people gathered outside NCI-Shady Grove with cornhole boards set up on the lawn
In this view from the second floor, colleagues gather for the scrimmage.

Photo:  Kenneth Voritskul

Relay Top 20 Finishers

Place Time # Team Name
1 12:43 109 Fellows Running Club
2 14:37 41 PEP in your stepTIDES
3 14:38 24 K-Space Invaders
4 15:01 108 Running into Debt
5 15:10 93 Calbindin Snap
6 15:18 21 qPAL: curing PD, AD and ALS
7 15:33 117 PCR: Postbac Chain Relay
8 16:04 84 CellCyclers
9 16:23 60 Smell you later
10 16:36 105 Host Busters
11 16:38 77 Wurtz Possible Runners
12 16:47 79 Hodgepodge
13 16:49 18 The Lymph Nodes
14 16:56 34 GMB Rocks
15 17:03 67 Ignorance is Blisters
16 17:04 56 CtU Later
17 17:06 39 READY, MarmoSET, GO!
18 17:31 25 Globetrotters
19 17:44 44 No Chasers
20 17:44 66 We’re just here for the ice cream

NCI Shady Grove Takes a Hike Too 

Image
Huge group gathers seated around NCI director.
NCI's Satellite Steppers

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

More than 125 NIH staffers gathered June 6 at NCI Shady Grove for NIH’s annual Take-a-Hike Day. 

NCI Acting Executive Officer Amber Lowery welcomed staff and NCI Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell kicked off the event with inspiring words and a reminder that “physical activity is good for your body but also good for our overall mission…good for our mental well-being and health… and for making connections. Everything that we do here is about the people, and how we work together as a team.” 

Group of smiling walkers in colorful clothes on the route
Staff at NCI Shady Grove get in on the hike.

Photo:  Marleen Van Den Neste

The NIH Record

The NIH Record, founded in 1949, is the biweekly newsletter for employees of the National Institutes of Health.

Published 25 times each year, it comes out on payday Fridays.

Editor: Dana Talesnik
Dana.Talesnik@nih.gov(link sends email)

Assistant Editor: Eric Bock
Eric.Bock@nih.gov(link sends email)

Assistant Editor: Amber Snyder
Amber.Snyder@nih.gov(link sends email)