Last Friday, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine professor Dr. Ralph Brinster was at the White House to receive the National Medal of Science from President Obama (Dr. Brinster receives his award around the 9:30 mark of this White House video). Dr. Brinster is the first veterinarian to receive the award. He was honored for his trailblazing work in transgenesis — where researchers produce animals with selected traits that serve as indispensable models in understanding life processes and disease.
Congratulations, Dr. Brinster! Another fine example of how veterinarians not only do great work for the health of animals, but that they are also integral participants in the study of human biology and disease.
Other “One Health roundup” stories this week include more examples of animal research (including more stories out of Penn!), efforts to fight rabies, “green” burials for pets, and the power of animals to make healthier, more confident people.
Thanks for reading, and have a happy and healthy weekend!
Penn’s Ralph Brinster Receives National Medal of Science at White House in Live-Streamed Event
Penn News
Penn researchers look at bird blood for clues to prevent human heart disease
Philadelphia Inquirer
Penn research on canine lymphoma may work toward human cure
Daily Pennsylvanian
Hendra and Nipah: Antibody Treatment for 2 Deadly Viruses Shows Promise in Tests and an Emergency
New York Times
DoD, VA redouble rabies-prevention efforts
Navy Times
Globe Program Inoculates 600 Animals For Rabies
KDLT-TV (S.D.)
Ask MNN: Is there such a thing as green pet burial?
Miami Herald
Columbia volunteers raise canine companions for people with disabilities
Columbia Missourian
Dog plays doctor for diabetic three-year-old
WFAA-TV (Texas)
Canine listeners help kids build confidence at Paws for Reading
Tulsa World (Okla.)