February 22, 2019 Vol. LXXI, No. 4

Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child A VISION FOR CHILD HEALTH Health and Human Development. Remembering the Legacy of “The Special Eunice Kennedy Shriver Olympics is what BY DANA TALESNIK we remember her for,” said Biographies abound of the Kennedy family, McNamara, chair yet one didn’t exist about one of its seminal of the journalism members, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, until now. department In Eunice: The Kennedy Who Changed at Brandeis the World, biographer Eileen McNamara University and depicts Shriver—the daughter of Joseph a Pulitzer Prize- and Rose Kennedy—as a savvy, complicated, winning columnist, tenacious woman who had devoted her life at a recent fireside NICHD director Dr. Diana Bianchi (l) hosts a recent fireside chat with Eunice to several causes. Often remembered as an chat with NICHD Kennedy Shriver biographer Eileen McNamara. advocate for people with disabilities, Shriver director Dr. Diana has another great, often unsung legacy: Bianchi in Lipsett because of the work that gets done here [at the lifesaving prenatal and child health Amphitheater. “[Another] reason Eunice NICHD] now.” research of her namesake institution—the Kennedy Shriver changed the world is SEE SHRIVER, PAGE 6

‘Social Life’ of DNA Has Fried Illuminates the Future of Unique Power Dentistry BY ERIC BOCK BY DANA TALESNIK

The rise of For anyone who genetic testing dreads going to over the past 20 the dentist, there years, especially may be light at the with respect to end of the tunnel. genealogy, has Advances in laser revealed DNA’s and light-based social power in imaging technol- addition to its ogies may soon Wear Red Day says, “Hashtag our hearts,” p. 12. biological power, change the face of said Dr. Alondra modern dentistry. ALSO THIS ISSUE Dr. Alondra Nelson Nelson at a Jan. Tooth enamel is Black History Month Lauds NIH Scientists . . .2 17 Wednesday almost transparent Afternoon Lecture in Masur Auditorium. Dr. Daniel Fried at longer wave- Briefs ...... 5 “Genetic analysis, including genetic lengths, making NIH Workplace Climate Survey Underway. . .9 ancestry testing, is popping up in new it possible to shine near-infrared light on a Digest...... 10 social domains almost every day,” said tooth to detect dental decay. Nelson, president of the Social Science “You can see right into the tooth,” said Milestones...... 11 Research Council and professor of Dr. Daniel Fried, professor, University Seen...... 12 SEE NELSON, PAGE 8 SEE FRIED, PAGE 4 stories of African Americans Black History Month working in STEM. Exhibition Celebrates NIH Dr. Roland Owens, honoree and assistant director of NIH’s Scientists Office of Intramural Research, BY KATHRYN MCKAY provided some historical perspective. In previous years, NIH Black History “As of October 1, 2018, Month was celebrated by honoring civil only 10 of the NIH intramural rights heroes who are household names, research program’s 817 such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and tenured senior investigators Coretta Scott King or well-known physi- self-identified as being of cians such as Dr. David Satcher. black African descent,” he This year, the Office of Equity, Diversity said. “We have made progress and Inclusion (EDI) looked down the hall Dr. Emmeline Edwards of NCCIH and her granddaughters Nyomi, over the last 60 years, but and across NIH. The result is an exhibition 12 and Chloe, 7, celebrate her career in science at NIH. clearly not enough.” of photos and profiles honoring 14 African- In his work with EDI’s American scientists at NIH, plus four and repeated demonstrations of excellence, black employment committee, Owens said scientists from the past. others have taken notice.” that one consistent barrier is the lack of On Feb. 4, hundreds of people gathered at As a cofounder of the Network of African- visibility of role models for black youth. the National Library of Medicine to kick off American Fellows and the STEM education “Because many African “Celebrating the Contributions of African- Americans have first and last American Scientists Past and Present.” The • • • names that are European, exhibition is sponsored by EDI, NLM and the “It is rare to have this many we have often been invisible Network of African-American Fellows. contributors to the biomedical “It is rare to have this many African- African-American scientists gathered research enterprise,” he said. American scientists gathered in one place,” in one place.” “Even in these days of web said Dr. Christopher Williams, a former NIH ~DR. CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS sites and social media, it can postdoctoral fellow and emcee of the event. be difficult to find images of “They did not set out to rewrite history • • • black scientists unless you but instead they focused on completing specialist at the National Museum of know exactly where to look…It is our desire any tasks that were given to them to the African-American History, Williams spoke that black scientists, postdocs, students and best of their abilities. Now after years and of the importance of sharing the success everybody will look at these pictures and decades of these consistent small victories

Cutting the ribbon are (front, from l) Debra Chew (EDI), Victoria Gross (EDI), Dr. Emmeline Edwards (NCCIH), Dr. Marie Bernard (NIA), Dr. Fasil Tekola-Ayele (NICHD), Dr. Roland Owens (OD), Dr. Patricia Flatley Brennan (NLM) and Erika Barr (OD). In the back are (from l) Dr. Alfred Johnson (OD), Dr. Griffin Rodgers (NIDDK), Dr. Gary Gibbons (NHLBI), Dr. Anna Ramsey-Ewing (NCATS), Dr. Shawn Gaillard (NIAID), Dr. Worta McCaskill-Stevens (NCI), Dr. Courtney Fitzhugh (NHLBI), Dr. Carl V. Hill (NIA) and Dr. Zayd M. Khaliq (NINDS). At right, Owens, assistant director of NIH’s Office of Intramural Research, discusses history, visibility and diversity in science.

2 • NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 Above, Gaillard and Rodgers are two contemporary NIH scientists featured with portraits. At right are some portraits from the agency’s past. posters and say, ‘Hey, if they can do it, so Bold Women in Black History so her grand- can I.’” mother could sign it. Before recognizing each honoree, NLM For Victoria Gross, a principal strategist director Dr. Patricia Flatley Brennan for EDI and organizer of the event and the spoke of the importance of the exhibition exhibition, “This was a 5-year dream come and how the honorees represent 10 true. Having this much talent in one room institutes and OD. was breathktaking.” “What an amazing, knowledgeable and The exhibition will remain on display impressive group,” she said. outside Lister Hill Auditorium in Bldg. 38A After applause for each scientist, the throughout February. guests gathered for a ribbon-cutting In addition, visitors are encouraged to ON THE COVER: 3-D reconstructed model heart of a 63-year-old woman with psoriasis, a chronic ceremony and unveiling of the portraits. view two banner exhibitions that focus inflammatory skin condition that researchers have This was the part of the program that specifically on African-American health pro- linked to heart disease. The vessel at right represents Chloe Edwards, 7, was looking forward to viders near the entrance to the main NLM the left circumflex artery, which contains widespread levels of coronary plaque (green). February is the most. As she waited by the portrait of building: “Opening Doors: Contemporary American Heart Month. her grandmother Dr. Emmeline Edwards, African-American Academic Surgeons” and IMAGE: NEHAL MEHTA, NHLBI director of the Division of Extramural “Binding Wounds, Pushing Boundaries: Research, NCCIH, Chloe held a book called African Americans in Civil War Medicine.” The NIH Record Since 1949, the NIH Record has been published biweekly by the Editorial Operations Branch, Office of Communications and Public Liaison, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services. For editorial policies, email editor or phone (301) 496-2125. Editor: Rich McManus [email protected] Associate Editor: Carla Garnett [email protected] Staff Writers: Eric Bock • [email protected] Dana Talesnik • [email protected] Subscribe via email: Follow: [email protected] http://nihrecord.nih.gov/

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EDI’s Gross (l) joins NIA’s Bernard at her portrait.

PHOTOS: CHIA-CHI CHARLIE CHANG

NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • 3 much earlier. Near-infrared activity” and whether intervention is imaging is sensitive enough to necessary. detect early demineralization In a demineralized tooth, the decay and can screen many teeth reflects a lot of light and appears white at once. Optical coherence against the healthy enamel, which looks dark tomography (OCT), similar in the near-infrared. to an ultrasound, shows “We get the highest contrast at these cross-sections and can image longer wavelengths, significantly higher deep into the tooth. than other imaging technologies,” said Fried. “OCT [already] has changed And there’s another benefit to near-infrared the practice of ophthalmol- imaging. “Stains, which are responsible for ogy,” said Fried. “It’s been very a lot of false-positives, don’t absorb at these successful for retinal imaging... longer wavelengths, so you can image just and it’s also very promising for the demineralization without the stain.” dentistry.” A recent clinical study found a dramatic Capable of imaging through difference between near-infrared imaging composites and sealants, OCT and X-rays, reported Fried. In 26 lesions is particularly useful for assess- seen at the near-infrared that penetrated the Fried takes questions from the audience. ing lesion severity and activity. dentin, only 1 of them showed up on X-ray. PHOTOS: CHIA-CHI CHARLIE CHANG “If the dentist doesn’t know if Lasers Can Remove Cavities [a lesion] is active or arrested,” said Fried, “with OCT, you can You may know the drill. Now meet the Fried new lasers that can selectively remove CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 actually see the lesion struc- ture, how deep it is and if it cavities. Compact and precise, these of California, San Francisco School of has a definitive surface zone suggesting that infrared lasers scan the tooth’s surface Dentistry. “The enamel looks almost like an remineralization has occurred.” and emit tiny, fast pulses to remove decay ice cube.” Tomography is especially suited for selectively without overly impacting healthy Light-based imaging is minimally clinical trials as it can track changes over tooth structure. invasive, providing a safer alternative to an ★ ★ ★ X-ray’s ionizing radiation, explained Fried at a recent NIDCR Grand Rounds in Lipsett “OCT [already] has changed the practice of ophthalmology. Amphitheater. His team is also researching It’s been very successful for retinal imaging...and it’s also laser technology that can remove dental decay and composite fillings, bonding and very promising for dentistry.” adhesives, which could mean less painful ~DR. DANIEL FRIED visits to the dentist. ★ ★ ★ There’s long been a need for more reliable methods to diagnose tooth decay, said Fried. Most cavities form on the occlusal surfaces of teeth. Dentists visually time. In OCT clinical trials, Fried’s lab has The three technologies complement inspect teeth for decay, which can lead to detected significant demineralization that each other. First, a near-infrared image is false-positives and overtreatment. Even wasn’t spotted visibly. He recalled X-rays are not sensitive enough to detect that their first studies in 2010 were early occlusal cavities. encumbered by slow technology. “Many lesions in the mouth have been Now, they’ve acquired a new system re-mineralized and...no longer need inter- that uses a scanning device on a chip vention,” said Fried. “Dentists have trouble capable of taking entire 3-D images telling the difference between active and in a second. arrested lesions; this new technology has the “One of the most exciting things potential of differentiating them.” we can do with OCT is monitor the changes in lesions as we re-min- Light-Based Imaging More Precise eralize them,” said Fried. “With Fried’s research focuses on two kinds nonsurgical intervention, you of light-based imaging that provide a more can treat [the tooth] with fluoride precise picture than X-rays and therefore and re-mineralize lesions...That’s Fried chats before his lecture with NIDCR clinical director could help diagnose and treat tooth decay important for assessing lesion Dr. Janice Lee.

4 • NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 BRIEFS

Kleinberg Physician-Scientist Workforce Report, these To Give NLM individuals play a vital role in ensuring that Data Science biomedical advances ultimately benefit patients Lecture, Mar. 6 and improve public health. The next talk in the For eligibility and nomination details, visit fnih. NLM Informatics org/TrailblazerPrize. The nomination deadline is and Data Friday, Mar. 29 at 1 p.m. ET. Science Lecture Series—From NIMHD Seminar Features Peek, Mar. 7 Data to Decisions: Large-Scale Dr. Monica Peek will give the NIMHD Director’s Causal Inference in Seminar Series lecture on Thursday, Mar. 7 from Biomedicine—will 3 to 4:30 p.m. in Lipsett Amphitheater, Bldg. 10. The title of her be given by Dr. Samantha Kleinberg Dr. Samantha talk is “Structural Kleinberg on Inequities and Wednesday, Mar. 6 from 4 to 5 p.m. in Lister Hill Health Disparities: Auditorium, Bldg. 38A. Lessons for Medical Decision-Making.” The collection of massive datasets has led to unprecedented opportunities for causal Peek is an asso- inference, such as using electronic health records ciate professor at to identify risk factors for disease. However, our the University of ability to understand these complex data sets Chicago, where has not grown at the same pace as our ability she specializes in Fried’s research focuses on two kinds of light- general internal based imaging that provide a more precise to collect them. Kleinberg will discuss recent medicine and picture than X-rays and therefore could help findings in cognitive science and how they can diagnose and treat tooth decay much earlier. help us make better use of causal information for preventive health decision-making. for adults. As a principal investiga- Dr. Monica Peek taken and Fried’s team has an algorithm to She is an associate professor of computer science tor, she conducts convert it to pixels. Then the high-speed at Stevens Institute of Technology and the author research to reduce of Causality, Probability and Time (Cambridge laser scans the surface and removes decay, health care disparities with emphasis on diabetes University Press, 2012) and Why: A Guide to and breast cancer-screening education for followed by an OCT scan that checks how Finding and Using Causes (O’Reilly Media, 2015). African Americans. much was removed. Interpreting services are available upon request. “You can also use the near-infrared to Peek has been an invited speaker at many local Individuals who need reasonable accommodation and national medical meetings, serves on the enhance visibility of composites,” said Fried. to participate should contact Ebony Hughes, boards of several advocacy organizations and “Dentists spend more time removing existing (301) 451-8038, [email protected] or the is involved in community-based education composites and restorations than putting in Federal Relay (1-800-877-8339). activities. She is the recipient of numerous awards new ones. If the composite is color-matched and has authored more than 65 peer-reviewed to the tooth, it’s hard to see where it is,” research papers. and that makes it tough to remove without Sign language interpreters will be provided. damaging nearby healthy enamel. Individuals who need reasonable accommodation Spectral-guided ablation can be used to should call Edgar Dews at (301) 402-1366 or the Federal Relay (1-800-877-8339). selectively remove composite from tooth surfaces. When a laser strikes material, FNIH Offers ‘Trailblazer Prize’ for Sailing Association Open House, Mar. 6 some of it vaporizes and the plume looks Clinician-Scientists different when it strikes enamel vs. compos- The Foundation for the NIH has opened The NIH Sailing Association invites everyone to its open house on Wednesday, Mar. 6 from ite, explained Fried. Using spectral-guided nominations for the 2nd Trailblazer Prize for Clinician-Scientists. This annual prize and $10,000 5 to 7:30 p.m. at FAES House at the corner of ablation, it’s possible to see the calcium honorarium presented by FNIH recognizes Old Georgetown Rd. and Cedar Ln. Explore lines of enamel to make sure the laser is the outstanding contributions of early-career your interest in learning to sail and discover only striking composite. In a current clinical clinician-scientists in the United States whose opportunities for sailing with NIHSA. There will study, Fried’s lab is removing small compos- work has the potential to or has led to innovations be information about 6-week basic training in patient care. classes, the club’s racing program and social ite restorations in less than a minute. activities offered by NIHSA. A fee of $5 at the The combination of these laser and light- FNIH will honor the three finalists of the Trailblazer door includes pizza, drinks and snacks. Cash based technologies could lead to earlier and Prize and announce the winner at the FNIH annual bar for beer and wine—$2 each. Look for NIHSA better detection and intervention of dental fall board dinner in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 23. posters and flyers around campus. For more decay. So smile! The future of dentistry is FNIH recognizes the unique and critical role information, visit www.nihsail.org/. looking bright. that clinician-scientists play in the evolution of medical practice. As noted in the 2014 NIH

NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • 5 Shriver CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

A Champion for Child Health Shriver had the foresight to realize that children might have distinct medical needs, said McNamara. So one sunny day in 1961, Shriver took her brother, President John F. Kennedy, sailing on Nantucket Sound and suggested that perhaps Jacqueline Kennedy’s recent miscarriage and a still- born birth in 1956 had medical causes. She convinced the President to recommend a federal institute for prenatal, neonatal and child health research. “She didn’t dream it up,” said McNamara, “but she latched on to good ideas and used her influence to push them forward.” In 1963, a year after NICHD’s founding, President and Mrs. Kennedy lost another McNamara and Bianchi share a light moment during their conversation. “Nobody ever met her expectations,” said McNamara of Shriver, “so keep working on it; she’s watching.” baby. Patrick was barely 2 days old when he died of a respiratory syndrome that took RECENT PHOTOS: MARLEEN VAN DEN NESTE the lives of more than 20,000 premature babies annually back then. Today, thanks to Shriver personally and heard she was a the five Shriver children who, for the sake treatments developed by NICHD, few infants formidable character. of impartiality, wouldn’t get to read the die from this syndrome. “If you’re a reporter for 30 years at The manuscript in advance. In 2008, NICHD was dedicated to Boston Globe, your natural instinct is to The whole process took 7 years, she said, Shriver, who attended the ceremony with run away from the Kennedy family, not to “most of it spent convincing them I wasn’t much of her family. Shriver passed away a run toward [them],” said McNamara. “Not going to do a hatchet job on their mother… year later. for any lack of respect but…they’re not that they should trust me,” and arranging particularly trustful of journalists; they’ve access to the papers, which were disorga- Biography: A Daunting Task not always been well treated by my ilk. And nized, in storage at the Kennedy Library. When McNamara’s editor suggested she they’re also litigious.” Eunice: A Complicated Woman write a biography of Shriver, McNamara McNamara would need access to all initially was reluctant. She hadn’t known personal papers as well as cooperation from The story McNamara then uncovered

Flashback. At left, Shriver family attending the NICHD anniversary program in 2008 include (from l) honoree Eunice Kennedy Shriver; her son, Dr. Timothy Shriver; his wife, Linda Potter Shriver; Eunice’s husband, Sargent Shriver; and the honoree’s sister, Jean Kennedy Smith. The event was held in March in Natcher auditorium. In the center photo, chatting with Shriver (r) at the event are (from l) her brother Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Dr. Nadia Zerhouni and her husband, NIH director Dr. Elias Zerhouni. At right, a plaque on the NICHD corridor in Bldg. 31 marks the renaming of the institute in honor of Shriver.

2008 PHOTOS: BILL BRANSON, ERNIE BRANSON

6 • NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 VOLUNTEERS

was that of an educated, driven, complex communities than prison inmates and HIV Vaccine Study Needs Subjects woman. Shriver’s ambition was overlooked intellectually disabled children?” Vaccine Research Center researchers seek by her parents, who thought her role should McNamara’s biography highlights persons 18-60 years old who are living with HIV be promoting her brothers’ political careers. Shriver’s many dichotomies. She was physi- for a research study. The study evaluates an But she carved a place for herself by taking cally fragile, yet competitive, determined to investigational product targeting the HIV virus the helm of the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. be the best mariner, the best athlete among to determine if it is safe and can generate an immune response. Compensation is provided. Foundation in the 1950s, refocusing its her siblings. For more information, call 1-866-444-1132 (TTY resources toward researching mental and She was a compassionate humanitarian, 1-866-411-1010) or email [email protected]. Se intellectual disability. yet an intractable human. “She expected habla español. “Who among [the Kennedy family] everyone to have the same sense of urgency NHLBI Study Recruits Volunteers can say they took a population that was that she had. It made her bristly,” said reviled and hidden in the shadows and McNamara. “She went through assistants the NHLBI invites volunteers ages 18-80 of African liberated them from stigma and shame?” way the rest of us go through tissues when descent with or without sickle cell trait and patients with sickle cell disease to participate asked McNamara. “What makes the Special we have a really, really bad cold.” in a one-time visit research study. Volunteers Shriver adored her children but wasn’t will provide blood samples that will be used affectionate. “She was just a hard-ass, consti- to look for a link between the PKLR gene and • • • pated Irish woman,” noted McNamara. pyruvate kinase protein. The PKLR gene is Meanwhile, Shriver’s children all grew active in the liver and in red blood cells and “What makes the Special helps to create protein called pyruvate kinase up to be compassionate people. Perhaps, that is essential in normal functioning of red Olympics such a remarkable suggested McNamara, the nurturing came blood cells. Compensation is provided. For contribution is that, for from their father, Sargent. more information about study 18-H-0146, call “His love letters were the most beautiful 1-866-444-2214 (TTY 1-866-411-1010) or visit the first time, we were I’ve ever read; they were in those boxes [in https://go.usa.gov/xP8Hx. celebrating these children, storage],” said McNamara. “The kids had Healthy Volunteers Sought never read them.” not hiding them.” Healthy volunteers at least 18 years old with no Luckily for Sargent, Eunice never fulfilled ~EILEEN MCNAMARA history of cardiovascular disease are needed her aspiration of joining the convent. A to participate in a research study with NHLBI. • • • deeply reli- Researchers are interested in understanding the gious woman, effects of diets enriched with palmitoleic acid she admired (omega-7) on decreasing cardiovascular risk Olympics [which Shriver founded] such a and effects on metabolism. All study-related working nuns remarkable contribution is that, for the first medications, tests or procedures are at no for their com- time, we were celebrating these children, not cost. Receive compensation for your partici- mitment to pation at the end of the completed study. For hiding them.” social reform more information, call the Office of Patient Shriver had a close relationship with her and tirelessly Recruitment, 1-800-411-1222 (TTY 1-866-411- older sister Rosemary, who inspired her 1010) or visit https://go.usa.gov/xQq2p. Refer to worked her advocacy for people with disabilities. study 18-H-0019. entire life to “Some of it was out of altruism; not promote social Post-Transplant Patients Needed a small part of it was out of guilt,” said justice. McNamara. Rosemary, who had intellectual NHLBI researchers are testing whether a mouth In the rinse containing topical dexamethasone can disabilities and an undiagnosed mental end, Shriver’s be used to prevent oral chronic graft vs. host health condition, was left incapacitated after advocacy for disease in post-transplant patients. If you are 12 a failed lobotomy as a young woman and was years of age or older and have received a stem child health later institutionalized. cell transplant in the last 60 to 90 days, you stands among her greatest legacies. Shriver’s goodwill also extended to may be eligible to participate. Study-related “That’s the piece of her biography that tests and procedures are provided at no cost. other groups who had nobody to speak for gripped me the most, that she had the pre- For more information, call the Office of Patient them. She once lived in a women’s federal science to see what we were not doing” and Recruitment at 1-866-444-2214 (TTY 1-866-411- penitentiary to document injustices. She 1010). Read more at https://go.usa.gov/xnhak. push for needed research, said McNamara. also recruited inmates from a juvenile Refer to study 07-H-0005. “She was so far ahead of her time.” detention center to serve as camp counsel- ors at Camp Shriver for disabled children in her own backyard. “Only Eunice would think that was a good idea,” said McNamara, “because can you think of two more marginalized

NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • 7 Nelson someone to remember his or her soul. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 The ceremony was held on the site of at least two slave auctions. sociology at Columbia University. Attendees told Nelson their results In the early 2000s, companies started to from African Ancestry had allowed offer direct-to-consumer genetic/genealogy them to feel that they could participate testing. Nelson said that among the early in this ceremony of remembrance. adopters of genetic testing were educated The ceremony “gives a lot of psychic African-American senior citizen women. At and religious satisfaction to those who first, she wondered why this community was participate,” she added. interested in pioneering these new technolo- Others have used genetic data to gies even though they had historical reasons strengthen their legal argument for to be wary of science. reparations for slavery. In 2002, activist She found that genetic testing gave Deadria Farmer-Paellmann organized them the opportunity to learn where their a class action lawsuit by descendants ancestors came from. Genetic data, Nelson of slaves. The lawsuit was dismissed said, “is the ultimate big data.” It can be used because “the plaintiffs could not in medicine and forensic science in addition establish a personal injury by merely to genealogy. alleging some genealogical relationship The first research papers using genetic to African Americans held in slavery” analysis answered long-standing questions hundreds of years ago. about slavery and race in the United States, Farmer-Paellmann then purchased Nelson explained. One article, for example, African Ancestry DNA testing kits used genetic analysis to claim that Thomas for the plaintiffs. She submitted the Jefferson fathered the children of Sally results of the tests in response to the Hemings, one of his slaves. dismissal. However, the court again Genetic analysis has also revealed clues Nelson called genetic data “the ultimate big data.” rejected the lawsuit because “genetic to the history of buried slaves. In 1991, the PHOTOS: MARLEEN VAN DEN NESTE mapping or DNA testing is alone General Services Administration began insufficient to proving decisively a link constructing an office building in lower Most African Americans know little about to a homeland.” Manhattan. Soon after work began, the their ancestors who were sold into slavery. A Nelson said the case was one of the first remains of more than 300 men, women company called African Ancestry infers indi- instances “in which an upper-level court has and children were discovered. Eventually, viduals’ African heritage using DNA testing. had to deal with commercial and cultural it was determined the site was a burial Those who use the service receive their output of the human genome project.” ground for slaves. Some seek to use DNA to unite people “What started as of African heritage with Africa. Leon a construction site w w w Sullivan, a civil rights activist who focused became an [anthropo- on creating jobs for African Americans, logical] excavation,” “What started as a construction site became organized summits beginning in 1991 to she said. an [anthropological] excavation.” bring together African leaders to work on

A forensic anthro- ~DR. ALONDRA NELSON projects related to economic development. pology team at a By 2008, the summit began encouraging local college began to w w w the development and use of DNA testing “to exhume the remains. identify specific linkages to African ethnic Activists calling themselves Descendants of results along with a “certificate of ancestry” groups among members of the African the African Burial Ground were concerned detailing their African roots. diaspora to enable and inform choices about that the approach the college was using to African Americans who receive infer- national affiliation.” examine the remains “would reduce their ences about where their ancestors may have Genetic ancestry data has given commu- ancestors’ social identity to skin color.” come from may use that information to nities the ability to find information they As a result of their concerns, the remains connect with the past, Nelson said. wouldn’t be able to find otherwise, Nelson were sent to a laboratory at Howard Descendants of an ethnic group from concluded. The testing “sits in the center University. Nelson said the lab conducted a Sierra Leone invited Nelson to a ceremony of some of our endeavors to use genetics to rigorous historical, archeological and biolog- of remembrance called a “sara” on the banks advance issues of health equality and move ical examination of each body to provide a of a river outside Charleston, S.C. Saras forward with scientific research.” detailed account of each person buried there. are held every 7 years after the death of

8 • NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 NIH Launches Survey to Gauge Workplace Climate, Harassment BY ALISON DAVIS

Workplace climate affects how people feel immediately when walking into their work locations. Here at NIH, that might be an office, a lab, a cafeteria, a mail room or the many other spaces in which NIH staff work. On average, people spend about a third of their life at work, so workplace climate matters: it’s the atmosphere in which we interact with all kinds of people—solving problems and providing solutions, designing and conducting experiments and creating and sustaining collaborations of all types. Above, at a recent town hall meeting, NIH Right now, NIH is in the process of director Dr. Francis Collins, alongside a panel, addresses workplace climate. At right, Debra finding out firsthand what staff—including Chew, EDI director, speaks on the topic. employees, contractors, fellows, trainees PHOTOS: CHIA-CHI CHARLIE CHANG and special volunteers—think and how they feel about their work environments. Program, which was addressed at an agen- The inaugural NIH Workplace Climate and cy-wide town hall meeting in December Harassment Survey, launched Jan. 28, is a 2018. The survey’s results will help shape concerted effort to measure the climate in efforts to create a workplace climate that dozens of workplaces at NIH in Bethesda is conducive to the highest quality work and also at the agency’s properties across and one in which uncivil behavior of any disruptive behaviors, including other the nation. kind is unwelcome and not tolerated. types of harassment and bullying. For this Because workplace climate is known to reason, it’s important for all NIH staff to Important Points About the Survey have consequences on people’s attitudes take the survey. It is confidential and anonymous. toward their work and affects their health, “We need to hear from everyone at NIH the survey goes beyond harassment and about their workplace experiences, good You can take it at your convenience on your mobile device or computer. asks questions about job satisfaction, career or bad,” said Valantine. “Only then can we choices and general wellness based on the figure out how to address any problems You can save your responses and return to it overall climate of the workplace. identified with targeted solutions.” She later, but it’s important that you click “submit” to register your responses. “Looking closely at our own atmosphere added that the survey is not a reporting is a crucial step in understanding the tool—anyone who has experienced You can skip any questions you don’t feel role of harassment in job satisfaction, harassment should report it via the NIH comfortable answering. performance and the ability to live the NIH Civil program. We need a strong response rate to under- mission every day,” said NIH director Dr. Understanding workplace environment stand how we can address harassment and Francis Collins. “At the most fundamental is key to preventing and addressing harass- improve the NIH workplace climate. level, our mission is about the respect of ment. According to a June 2018 report from The survey runs from Jan. 28 to Mar. 25. human life, which should permeate all the National Academies of Science and Visit diversity.nih.gov for more information aspects of our lives and work.” Engineering, organizations that are tolerant about the survey. The NIH Workplace Climate and of harassment—or that are perceived to be Harassment Survey isn’t just for scientists, tolerant of harassment—show higher rates You can access the survey through a nor is it only for women. Dr. Hannah of sexual harassment than those seen as personalized link embedded in an email you Valantine, NIH’s chief officer for scientific intolerant. To achieve its goal of measuring received from the Science and Technology workforce diversity and a physician-sci- the NIH climate—and as with any survey— Policy Institute, an independent contractor entist in the NHLBI intramural research the more data the better. administering the survey. program, and her team developed the The survey will close Mar. 25, so if you The survey, aimed at measuring the survey with national experts in survey haven’t taken it already, take it today. If effects of workplace climate on NIH staff, design. She explains that the survey looks you’ve started the survey but not com- is a vital part of the NIH Anti-Harassment more broadly at all inappropriate and pleted it, finish it today.

NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • 9 DIGEST

cholesterol, family history or smoking,” said Dr. Nehal Mehta, head of NHLBI’s Laboratory of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases. “Our study presents evidence that there is a sixth factor, inflammation, and that it is critical to both the development and the progression of athero- sclerosis to heart attack.” Now researchers have provided first-in-human evidence that treatment of a known inflammatory condition with biologic therapy, a type of drug that suppresses the immune system, is associated with a reduction in coronary artery disease, in Study results showed that intensive glucose particular of rupture-prone plaque that often management did not improve functional outcomes at 90 days after stroke compared leads to a heart attack. to standard glucose therapy. Mental Health Disorders Common Researchers have discovered how cells in IMAGE: SASHA_SUZI/THINKSTOCK the guts of mice slow down metabolism and Following Mild Head Injury eventually contribute to obesity, diabetes, hypertension and atherosclerosis. Study Answers Question on Blood A new study reveals that approximately 1 in 5 indi- Sugar Control After Stroke viduals may experience mental health symptoms IMAGE: ROGER ASBURY/ISTOCK up to 6 months after mild traumatic brain injury Hyperglycemia, or increased glucose, is common (mTBI), suggesting the importance of follow-up eventually contribute to obesity, diabetes, hyper- in patients with acute ischemic stroke and is asso- care for these patients. Scientists also identified tension and atherosclerosis. The findings, scientists ciated with worse outcomes compared to normal factors that may increase the risk of developing say, could have important implications for the glucose levels. Doctors all over the world have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or prevention and treatment of these kinds of meta- debated whether intensive glucose management, major depressive disorder following mTBI or bolic diseases in humans. The study was funded by which requires the use of IV insulin to bring blood concussion through analysis of the Transforming NHLBI and appears in the journal Nature. sugar levels down to 80-130 mg/dL, or standard Research and Clinical Knowledge in Traumatic glucose control using insulin shots, which aims “With this research we are connecting the Brain Injury (TRACK-TBI) study cohort. The dots between gut metabolic food sensors and to get glucose below 180 mg/dL, lead to better study was supported by NINDS. Findings were outcomes after stroke. Primary results from the cardiovascular disease and might open new published in JAMA Psychiatry. Stroke Hyperglycemia Insulin Network Effort therapeutic avenues to treat patients with a (SHINE) study—a large, multisite clinical study “Mental health disorders after concussion have host of related conditions,” said Dr. Michelle supported by NINDS—provided a clear answer to been studied primarily in military populations, Olive, program officer in NHLBI’s Division of that question. and not much is known about these outcomes in Cardiovascular Sciences. civilians,” said Dr. Patrick Bellgowan of NINDS. The primary results showed that intensive The cells are called intraepithelial T lymphocytes “These results may help guide follow-up care and (or natural IELs), and when they are not present, glucose management did not improve functional suggest that doctors may need to pay particular outcomes at 90 days after stroke compared to researchers discovered, the metabolism of mice attention to the mental state of patients many goes into overdrive. standard glucose therapy. In addition, intense months after injury.” glucose therapy increased the risk of very low “The mice become metabolically hyperactive and, blood glucose (hypoglycemia) and required a In the study, Dr. Murray Stein at the University of even when consuming a diet very high in fat and higher level of care such as increased supervi- California, San Diego, and his colleagues inves- sugar, are able to resist metabolic diseases such sion from nursing staff, compared to standard tigated mental health outcomes in 1,155 people as obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, treatment. SHINE findings were presented at the who had experienced a mild TBI and were treated diabetes and atherosclerosis,” said the study’s International Stroke Conference on Feb. 6. in the emergency department. At 3, 6 and 12 lead researcher Dr. Filip Swirski, an associate months after injury, study participants completed professor at Harvard Medical School and Psoriasis Treatment Linked to various questionnaires related to PTSD and major Massachusetts General Hospital. Improvement in Heart Artery depressive disorder. For a comparison group, the researchers also surveyed individuals who had When natural IELs are present, however, the Disease experienced orthopedic traumatic injuries, such as researchers found that they limit the availability broken legs, but did not have head injury. of a type of hormones, incretin GLP-1, that help Researchers have found that treating psoriasis, a speed up metabolism. By limiting GLP-1, the chronic inflammatory skin disease, with biologic The results showed that at 3 and 6 months follow- natural IELs, in effect, slow down the body’s drugs that target immune system activity can ing injury, people who had experienced mTBI were metabolism and conserve the energy it gets reduce the early plaque buildup that clogs more likely than orthopedic trauma patients to from food. arteries, restricts blood flow and leads to heart report symptoms of PTSD and/or major depres- attacks and stroke. The findings highlight how sive disorder. Over millions of years of evolution, this efficient immunotherapies that treat inflammatory use of energy provided an essential advantage: conditions might play a role in the reduction Some Gut Cells Slow Down when food was scarce, organisms stored rather of cardiovascular disease risks. The study, than burned some of the ingested energy, and funded by NHLBI, appeared online Feb. 5 in Metabolism, Accelerate they survived longer. Cardiovascular Research. Cardiovascular Disease “Now with food so abundant, this energy-saving “Classically a heart attack is caused by one of Researchers have discovered how specific cells mechanism can backfire and lead to unhealthy five risk factors—diabetes, hypertension, high in the guts of mice slow down metabolism and outcomes,” Swirski explained.

10 • NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 MILESTONES

young ICU patient named Frazier (the name patients as in recreational therapy, he of one of Ali’s boxing foes). valued “working with people and making “I loved working with patients and things easier for them.” seeing their smiles when we helped them,” In 2007, Hunt moved to CSR, where he said. But he also experienced heartache colleagues also praised his calming per- after the deaths of many patients he came sonality. “His calm was a positive force, he to know well. didn’t get rattled,” said Marilyn Cuzzolino, “Ron was a center of calm, which was a lead AO. “In a demanding environment, he huge asset,” recreational therapist Debbie kept things light-hearted.” As AO for various Marcus said. “He was a great teacher, CSR divisions and directors, he worked with whether teaching patients how to relax or scientific review officers, staff and reviewers, • • • “Ron was a center of calm, which was a huge asset. He was a great teacher, whether teaching patients how to relax or co- workers how to deal with computers.”

~DEBBIE MARCUS Ron Hunt ends long NIH career. • • •

CSR’s Hunt Retires After 43 co-workers how to deal with computers.” In many of whom were new to NIH processes. Years at NIH fact, Hunt motivated her to specialize in rec- His earlier patient contacts reinforced reational therapy in her own career at NIH the importance of supporting extramural BY PAULA T. WHITACRE when he gave a presentation at Montgomery research as AO. “This place [CSR] is the first Ron Hunt, who retired recently as an College in the mid-1970s. stop to finding cures,” he said. “My years in administrative officer in the Center for Hunt earned an M.A. in administra- the Clinical Center made the NIH mission Scientific Review, describes NIH as the tion from the University of Maryland’s very real to me. Working in CSR was another biggest influence on his life. Not only did he University College and, in 2000, became an way for me to help further the mission.” see first-hand the value of NIH research, he administrative officer in the Office of the Hunt, a lifelong Washingtonian, will said, but also he learned “not to sweat the Director of the Clinical Center. Two years remain in Maryland. He will hone his small stuff.” later, he joined the hospital’s department of cooking and gardening skills. His wife works From 1974 to 2000, Hunt was a recre- clinical research informatics. He supported and attends school full-time and his mother ational therapist in the Clinical Center, development of the Clinical Research and two sons also live in the area, so those working with patients, many critically ill, Information System (CRIS), as well as skills are in demand. As he learned at NIH, and families. As a member of therapeutic changes in travel, teleworking and security he will focus on what is important in life and recreation services, he conducted craft, processes. Although not as connected to not sweat the small stuff. physical and social activities when hospital stays of weeks or months were the norm. NCI Mourns Regan Often he helped family members from abroad navigate U.S. life so they could more Carole Kemm Regan, former laboratory manager of effectively support their loved ones under- NCI’s Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, going treatment. suddenly passed away at the age of 72 on Jan. 7. Among other accomplishments, Hunt Regan joined the National Cancer Institute and created a fitness/weight room when such the precursor to the Laboratory of Cellular and facilities were not common. Beyond acquir- Molecular Biology (LCMB) more than 40 years ago. ing space and equipment, he overcame When she retired in 2017 to spend more time with management, staff and patient apprehen- her grandchildren, she was then the longest-serving sion. “By building the program with input member of the lab. from all, it won enthusiastic support from Reflecting on her memory, LCMB chief Dr. Larry medical and recreational personnel,” he Samelson said, “Carole was so warm and always there said, and patients gained a safe place to to help fix everyone’s issues small or large. We all exercise. He also recalled hearing by phone depended on her efforts to make LCMB a better place.” that he had 20 minutes to get ready to host Regan is survived by daughter Kara and son-in-law renowned boxer Muhammad Ali. Hunt John Paul and her three grandchildren: Bobby, Eva Carole Kemm Regan remembers Ali’s joking interactions with a and Joseph.

NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • 11 SEEN

Volunteers spread out over the campus handing out buttons and stickers to encourage others to embrace healthier On Feb. 1—Wear Red Day—NHLBI director Dr. Gary Gibbons (c) joins NIMHD director Dr. Eliseo J. Pérez-Stable lifestyles. Above, in Bldg. 31’s A-wing lobby, (fourth from l) and others in #OurHearts dance event in the Clinical Research Center atrium. a red-wearing employee is rewarded with a pin. Below, braving the cold temps outside, PHOTOS: MARLEEN VAN DEN NESTE folks at the Metro station sport stickers. ‘HASHTAG OUR HEARTS’ them physically active, promoting weight loss, encouraging healthier eating and helping people ‘Wear Red Day’ Focuses on quit smoking. Follow the conversation online by Heart-Healthy Benefits of Social using #OurHearts and visiting https://www.nhlbi. nih.gov/health-topics/education-and-awareness/ Networks heart-truth/our-hearts. NIH’ers braved snow and bitter cold temperatures to attend a special dance event on National Wear Based on the large number of people wearing red Red Day, Feb. 1. Led by NHLBI director Dr. Gary on Feb. 1, there is plenty of social support on hand Gibbons, an enthusiastic crowd gathered in the at NIH. Volunteers spread out over the campus Clinical Research Center atrium and moved to handing out buttons and stickers to encourage the beat of heart-pumping music to help kick off others to embrace healthier lifestyles. Other activ- American Heart Month. ities included tempting displays of heart-healthy foods at campus cafes and lots of signage across This year’s theme, #OurHearts, emphasizes the campus declaring “Wear Red Day.” power of social support in helping people make heart-healthy choices. Studies have linked social NHLBI continued Heart Month events throughout isolation with obesity, smoking and high blood February, including live cooking demonstrations on pressure, all of which can lead to long-term campus featuring heart-healthy foods and more. health problems, including heart disease, stroke It’s never too late to join the growing effort to fight and cancer. By contrast, social support helps heart disease, the leading cause of death among people make healthy lifestyle changes by keeping women and men in the United States.

Cafeteria crews in Bldgs. 10 (above) and 31 (below) come bearing fruits—red, naturally.

R&W fitness instructor Linda Bessacque leads the crowd in heart-pumping dance moves during Wear Red Day event at the Clinical Research Center.

12 • NIH RECORD • FEBRUARY 22, 2019