Department of Neurology /neurology/ Tue, 27 May 2025 20:13:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Dr. Soma Sengupta Named New Chair of the Department of Neurology at Tufts University /neurology/dr-soma-sengupta-named-new-chair-of-the-department-of-neurology-at-tufts-university/ Tue, 27 May 2025 20:13:37 +0000 /neurology/?p=21117 Dr. Soma Sengupta, MD, PhD, MBA, FRCP, FANA, FAAN will join Tufts Medical Center (Tufts MC) as Chair of the Department of Neurology and Neurologist-in-Chief in September 2025. She has been proposed as Chair and Professor of Neurology at Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM). She currently serves as Professor and Chief for the Division … Read more

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Dr. Soma Sengupta, MD, PhD, MBA, FRCP, FANA, FAAN will join Tufts Medical Center (Tufts MC) as Chair of the Department of Neurology and Neurologist-in-Chief in September 2025. She has been proposed as Chair and Professor of Neurology at Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM). She currently serves as Professor and Chief for the Division of Neuro-Oncology, and Vice Chair of Neurosurgery Research.

In her new role, Dr. Sengupta will oversee all neurological services, collaborate with key stakeholders, and drive innovation in areas like epilepsy, stroke, and neurodegenerative disorders. She will also work to expand access to clinical trials and develop new training opportunities for learners at all levels within the system.

An accomplished physician-scientist, she has been principal investigator on more than 30 federal or foundation grants. Her lab-based research seeks to improve outcomes for brain tumor patients as well as exploring how to target specific ion channels and in discovering new class of drugs to do so. Dr. Sengupta has published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and books.

Dr. Sengupta earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Wales; a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry from the University of Cambridge; and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBChir) from University of Cambridge, all in the UK. She completed her neurology residency at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; research and clinical fellowships in neuro-oncology at Boston Children鈥檚 Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; an integrative medicine fellowship at the University of Arizona; and an Executive Leadership in Health Care at Drexel University College of Medicine. She also earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati, and a certification in artificial intelligence in healthcare from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Sengupta for her dedicated service as a physician at 大象传媒.听Her commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and innovation has made a lasting impact on our community. We are deeply appreciative of her contributions and wish her continued success in her new role at Tufts Medicine.

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Duke/大象传媒 ADRC Scholar Reveals Fewer Americans Are Developing Dementia – But More Are Living With It https://news.unchealthcare.org/2025/05/new-study-finds-fewer-americans-are-developing-dementia-but-more-are-living-with-it/ Tue, 27 May 2025 13:10:38 +0000 /neurology/?p=21112 An analysis of Medicare data, led by researchers at the 大象传媒, Duke University School of Medicine, and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, reveals that new dementia cases are falling but the number of people living with dementia is rising.

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An analysis of Medicare data, led by researchers at the 大象传媒, Duke University School of Medicine, and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, reveals that new dementia cases are falling but the number of people living with dementia is rising.

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Dr. Ian Shih Developing Improved, Silent MRI for Better Brain Imaging https://news.unchealthcare.org/2025/05/unc-neurologys-shih-developing-improved-silent-mri-for-better-brain-imaging/ Tue, 27 May 2025 13:06:43 +0000 /neurology/?p=21110 NIH highlights 大象传媒 Neurology researcher鈥檚 newly developed silent functional MRI (fMRI) technique created to improve biomedical research.

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NIH highlights 大象传媒 Neurology researcher鈥檚 newly developed silent functional MRI (fMRI) technique created to improve biomedical research.

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Dr. Deanna Saylor Honored with Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award by SEQUINS 2025 /neurology/dr-deanna-saylor-honored-with-patrick-a-griffith-outstanding-mentor-award-by-sequins-2025/ Mon, 19 May 2025 13:58:44 +0000 /neurology/?p=21104 Dr. Deanna Saylor recently received the Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award and Lecture from SEQUINS 2025 for her work “Mentoring in Low-& Middle-Income Countries: Pathways to Improving Global Neurological Equity”.听 Dr. Deanna Saylor has been recognized for her exceptional dedication to fostering the next generation of researchers in equity neuroscience, receiving the prestigious Patrick … Read more

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Dr. Deanna Saylor recently received the Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award and Lecture from SEQUINS 2025 for her work “Mentoring in Low-& Middle-Income Countries: Pathways to Improving Global Neurological Equity”.听


Dr. Deanna Saylor has been recognized for her exceptional dedication to fostering the next generation of researchers in equity neuroscience, receiving the prestigious Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award and Lecture from SEQUINS (Society for Equity Neuroscience) in 2025. This accolade honors her impactful work, specifically “Mentoring in Low-& Middle-Income Countries: Pathways to Improving Global Neurological Equity.”

Dr. Deanna Saylor receiving the Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award at SEQUINS 2025.
With her in the photo are: the President of SEQUINS, Dr. Bruce Ovbiagele (UCSF), along with the daughter and son of Patrick A. Griffith, the award’s namesake.

The Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award is a significant recognition within the neuroscience community, celebrating individuals who have demonstrated excellence in guiding, supporting, and promoting the training and career development of future researchers in the specialized field of equity neuroscience. While recipients are expected to be accomplished scientists, the award distinctively emphasizes their commitment to mentorship over personal scientific achievements. It acknowledges the crucial role of mentors in shaping independent equity neuroscientists who will, in turn, contribute to the field’s advancement.

According to SEQUINS, this award highlights the successful development of mentees who are actively engaged in research, teaching, mentoring, community activities, or other leadership roles within equity neuroscience. Dr. Saylor’s selection underscores her sustained and impactful efforts in mentoring trainees to address neurological health disparities globally.

Advancing Equity in Neuroscience: The Mission of SEQUINS

The Society for Equity Neuroscience (SEQUINS) is at forefront of addressing disparities in neurological health outcomes worldwide. Established to foster a multidisciplinary community, SEQUINS promotes scientific exchange and tackles critical questions to advance brain health equity, particularly for underserved and marginalized populations. The society’s inaugural annual scientific meeting is being held on May 15, 2025, in Charleston, South Carolina, featuring scientific lectures, early career presentations, and the recognition of excellence in the field.

Dr. Deanna Saylor’s receipt of the Patrick A. Griffith Outstanding Mentor Award shines a light on the critical importance of mentorship in building capacity and fostering leadership to achieve global neurological equity. Her work in low- and middle-income countries exemplifies the dedication to not only advancing scientific knowledge but also empowering the next wave of researchers committed to a more equitable future in neuroscience.

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Dr. Boerwinkle Contributes Expertise to The Atlantic Article: “The Mother Who Never Stopped Believing Her Son Was Still There” https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2025/06/brain-injury-consciousness-science/682579/ Mon, 19 May 2025 13:46:37 +0000 /neurology/?p=21102 For decades, Eve Baer remained convinced that her son, unresponsive after a severe brain injury, was still conscious. Science eventually proved her right.

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For decades, Eve Baer remained convinced that her son, unresponsive after a severe brain injury, was still conscious. Science eventually proved her right.

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大象传媒 Neurology Celebrates Opening of New Pediatric Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Clinic /neurology/unc-neurology-celebrates-opening-of-new-pediatric-muscular-dystrophy-association-mda-clinic/ Wed, 14 May 2025 15:30:51 +0000 /neurology/?p=21088 Making specialized care more accessible for children with neuromuscular disorders The 大象传媒 Department of Neurology is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the new 大象传媒 Pediatric Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Clinic. This dedicated clinic, which officially began welcoming patients on May 9th, 2025, is conveniently located within the pediatric neurology facilities at Carolina Pointe … Read more

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Making specialized care more accessible for children with neuromuscular disorders

The 大象传媒 Department of Neurology is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the new 大象传媒 Pediatric Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Clinic. This dedicated clinic, which officially began welcoming patients on May 9th, 2025, is conveniently located within the pediatric neurology facilities at Carolina Pointe II.

This innovative, multidisciplinary clinic has been thoughtfully designed to provide comprehensive and collaborative care for children across North Carolina living with neuromuscular disorders. We understand that managing these conditions often involves numerous specialist visits and significant travel for families. The new 大象传媒 Pediatric MDA Clinic aims to simplify this journey.

What This Means for Patients and Families:

The core of this new clinic is a dedicated team of specialists working together in one location, focused on your child’s unique needs. This approach offers several key benefits:

  • Comprehensive, Team-Based Care: Your child will have access to a pediatric neuromuscular specialist, a physiatrist (rehabilitation physician), an occupational therapist, a physical therapist, an orthotist (specialist in braces and splints), and a social worker/clinical care manager, all collaborating on their care plan.
  • Improved Communication & Streamlined Visits: With specialists working side-by-side, communication about your child’s progress and needs is enhanced. This collaborative environment can also help reduce the number of separate appointments and trips to 大象传媒 for many families.
  • Accessible, Specialized Support: Children with neuromuscular disorders from all corners of the state can now access this more integrated and patient-centered care model.

The formation of this clinic has been a dream for the past three years and was inspired by Drs. Fan and Shiloh, whom have tirelessly provided care for these patients with neuromuscular disease over the years. Over the past year as this clinic really began to take form, it has been incredible to watch the group effort of so many people come together. Each teammate has brought their own piece of the puzzle to the process, and on May 9th we finally got to see the finished product. It is a big step forward and one of many to come as we strive to continue advancing the care of pediatric patients with neuromuscular disease.

Dr. Nate Wooten

The 大象传媒 Department of Neurology and Dr. Wooten extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible team of specialists whose expertise and passion are central to this new clinic, including Dr. Teddy Yip (Physiatry), Erin Afshar听(MSOT, OTR/L – Occupational Therapy), Shelley Rhudy (MPT – Physical Therapy), Joey Zisk (CPO, MPO – Orthotics), and Ayat Soufan (LCSW, CCM – Social Work/Clinical Care Management).

A special thanks also goes to all the dedicated 大象传媒 teammates who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their crucial efforts in coordinating schedules, developing systems, and preparing the new clinic space have made this important initiative possible.

Learn More or Schedule an Appointment

The 大象传媒 Pediatric MDA Clinic is now welcoming new patients. For referrals or to learn more about the clinic and its services, please visit our clinic page via the button below.

Pediatric Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinic

From left to right: Dr. Nate Wooten, Dr. Erin Afshar, Binta Diallo, Dr. Shelley Rhudy, Dr. Joey Zisk, and Dr. Teddy Yip.

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大象传媒 Hemi CIMT Camp Receives National Recognition https://www.stroke.org/en/help-and-support/stroke-heroes/stroke-hero-awards/group-heroes Mon, 12 May 2025 18:23:37 +0000 /neurology/?p=21072 大象传媒 Helping with kids with Hemiplegia CIMT Camp team received the 2025 Group Heroes Award from the American Stroke Association!

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大象传媒 Helping with kids with Hemiplegia CIMT Camp team received the 2025 Group Heroes Award from the American Stroke Association!

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Drs. Diaz & Saylor Lead Global Research in HIV-Associated Cognitive Disorders & MS https://globalhealth.unc.edu/2025/05/unc-neurologists-lead-global-research-in-hiv-associated-cognitive-disorders-and-multiple-sclerosis/?utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--F6SAlBi8dVcEjPanOGnSmEzTAr-pJPAaGiUpaUAZTu9jr79bsMEaUqJGntRICpjCvF-xf8mnOhqehKGS6iyTY3yXVINtq7dOb7E8Ll0ELQH9qZzY&_hsmi=359992477&utm_content=359992477&utm_source=hs_email Tue, 06 May 2025 18:38:14 +0000 /neurology/?p=21038 From 大象传媒 Institute for Global Health And Infectious Diseases: Two 大象传媒 neurologists are making significant strides in understanding neurological disorders across diverse global populations, from Latin America to Sub-Saharan Africa.听

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From 大象传媒 Institute for Global Health And Infectious Diseases: Two 大象传媒 neurologists are making significant strides in understanding neurological disorders across diverse global populations, from Latin America to Sub-Saharan Africa.

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大象传媒 Medical Student Aisha Mahmood Receives American Academy of Neurology Medical Student Research Award /neurology/aisha-mahmood-receives-aan-medical-student-research-award/ Fri, 02 May 2025 16:12:51 +0000 /neurology/?p=21009 Aisha Mahmood, a dedicated medical student at the University of North Carolina with a keen interest in neurology and global health equity, has been awarded the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Medical Student Research Award. This honor recognizes her significant research proposal aimed at improving stroke care in underserved regions globally. Mahmood’s research tackles a … Read more

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Aisha Mahmood, 大象传媒 Medical Student

Aisha Mahmood, a dedicated medical student at the University of North Carolina with a keen interest in neurology and global health equity, has been awarded the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Medical Student Research Award. This honor recognizes her significant research proposal aimed at improving stroke care in underserved regions globally.

Mahmood’s research tackles a critical disparity in healthcare. “Stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, with disproportionately higher burden in low-income countries due to limited access to specialized care,” she explains. While specialized stroke units have proven effective in improving patient outcomes, Mahmood points out that “the existing evidence is predominantly derived from high-income settings.” Her study seeks to address this critical gap through a “systematic analysis of stroke unit interventions and outcomes in low- and middle-income countries.”

Driven by her experiences “working with immigrant and refugee communities in the U.S. and abroad,” Mahmood developed a strong commitment to global health and equity-driven care. Her path towards this research was further inspired by learning about the work of Dr. Saylor in Zambia, presented through the 大象传媒 Student Interest Group in Neurology (SIGN). This sparked Mahmood’s interest in “understanding how to develop and implement sustainable healthcare models in resource-limited settings.”
Central to Mahmood’s research philosophy is the concept of empowerment. “What excites me most is the challenge of capacity-building,” she states. “How do we empower communities by strengthening existing systems rather than imposing external solutions?” Through her project, she is “eager to learn how to amplify local expertise and infrastructure to create lasting, meaningful improvements in health outcomes.”

Mahmood also highlights the crucial role of mentorship in her journey. “In the short time I have worked with Dr. Saylor, she has been an exceptional mentor, genuinely invested in my growth as both a medical student and a researcher,” she shares. “She consistently makes herself available to answer questions and guide me through the research process. Dr. Saylor has already played an active role in my professional development, and I am excited to continue learning under her mentorship.”

The AAN Medical Student Research Award was designed to assist up to 15 medical students across the country with limited research experience relevant to clinical or neuroscience fields who have a supporting preceptor and a project with clearly defined goals. Receiving this award underscores Aisha Mahmood’s dedication to addressing major global health challenges through innovative research.

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Anita Frohlich: Inaugural Recipient of the Dr. Susan Wilson Award /neurology/anita-frohlich-inaugural-recipient-of-the-dr-susan-wilson-award/ Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:05:08 +0000 /neurology/?p=20918 Anita Frohlich has been honored as the first recipient of the Dr. Susan Wilson Award. This distinguished award will support her educational journey as she works towards her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of North Carolina School of Social Work. The award will help cover the tuition for her Social Work Practicum … Read more

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Anita Frohlich has been honored as the first recipient of the Dr. Susan Wilson Award. This distinguished award will support her educational journey as she works towards her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of North Carolina School of Social Work. The award will help cover the tuition for her Social Work Practicum II course (SOWO 521), which is essential for her professional growth.

Anita joined the Neurosciences Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU) at 大象传媒 in 2023 as a clinical research coordinator. In this role, she works closely with Dr. Miriam Sklerov on innovative studies focusing on Parkinson’s disease. Their current project investigates non-invasive brain stimulation as a treatment for apathy in Parkinson’s patients.

Anita has just completed her practicum at the 大象传媒-Neurology Movement Disorders Clinic under the guidance of Maggie Ivancic, LCSW. This practicum perfectly integrated her academic studies and professional interests, allowing her to deepen her expertise in supporting patients with movement disorders. During her practicum, Anita participated in a comprehensive range of clinical activities, including patient assessments, interdisciplinary clinic coordination, and support group facilitation. She has repeatedly observed how the knowledge and skills gained through her practicum directly enhanced her effectiveness as a clinical trial coordinator.

Anita will be transitioning from her role at the NCTU at the end of May 2025 to become a full-time MSW student, focusing entirely on preparing for her future career in social work practice and research. After completing her MSW and becoming a licensed clinical social worker, Anita plans to pursue a Ph.D., further solidifying her position as a clinician-scientist who can bridge the gap between research and direct patient care.

Anita feels grateful and privileged for being part of the supportive NCTU team under the constructive management of Chris Hilliard. She would also express her appreciation for Dr. Susan Wilson (former director), who was one of her first contacts at the NCTU and immediately made Anita feel welcome and valued, setting the tone for a positive professional experience. She recognizes that the support of mentors like Dr. Wilson and colleagues across the unit has been essential to her growth and achievements.

Receiving the Dr. Susan Wilson Award is especially meaningful to me. It not only provides financial assistance but also recognizes my continued commitment to advancing care for patients with neurological conditions through both research and clinical practice.

In honor of NCTU鈥檚 inaugural Director, Susan Wilson, DNP, the NCTU established the Dr. Susan Wilson Award. Dr. Wilson was a passionate advocate for staff professional development during her time as the NCTU Director. Reflecting her values, the Dr. Susan

Wilson Award aims to invest in the growth of NCTU鈥檚 talented and dedicated staff. This award covers professional education and training, including credit and non-credit courses, conferences, certificate programs, and similar instructional opportunities.

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