From Cats to the Cortex: Unravelling the Hierarchical Processing System of Vision and Brain Plasticity.

The groundbreaking research conducted by neurophysiologists David Hubel and Torsten Wiesel during the late 1950s and 1960s revolutionized the field of visual neuroscience. Through single-unit recordings in the visual cortex of cats, they made several key discoveries that fundamentally changed our understanding of visual processing. Their work introduced the concept of orientation selectivity, revealing that neurons in the visual cortex are specifically tuned to line orientations, thereby illustrating how the brain constructs visual representations through edge detection. Additionally, they discovered ocular dominance columns, the specialized cortical regions that respond preferentially to input from one eye, providing crucial insights into the organization of visual processing and the importance of binocular vision. Hubel and Wiesel's research also established the concept of a critical period in visual development, demonstrating that early visual experiences are essential for the proper maturation of the visual system. This discovery has had significant implications for understanding neural plasticity and the role of sensory input in neural development. The impact of their work goes beyond theoretical knowledge, contributing to the development of therapeutic strategies for some visual disorders and guiding current research into brain plasticity and visual processing. This review synthesizes the monumental contributions of Hubel and Wiesel, evaluating how their key discoveries have shaped subsequent research in visual neuroscience. It traces the evolution of knowledge related to visual pathways, feature detection, and brain plasticity, highlighting the enduring influence of their foundational work on contemporary studies. By exploring the progression from their pioneering findings to modern advancements, this review emphasizes the legacy of Hubel and Wiesel's contributions to our understanding of vision and neural function.

Sir Robert Edwards: from the science of human conception to the reality of IVF birth.

With a new Netflix film Joy telling the dramatic story of IVF, Dr Kamal Ahuja recalls the inspirational role that the late Sir Robert Edwards played in his own career and in the foundation of the London Women's Clinic.

Edward Calvin Kendall: A Pioneer in Biochemistry and Endocrinology.

Edward Calvin Kendall was a distinguished American biochemist known for pioneering research on adrenal cortex hormones, notably cortisone. This review article examines Kendall's life, career, and key scientific contributions, including his groundbreaking work on thyroid hormones and corticosteroids. The discussion emphasizes Kendall's role in advancing biochemical research and his lasting influence on physiology and medicine. By analyzing primary sources and historical accounts, this article offers a thorough overview of Kendall's impact on biochemistry and endocrinology.

Rita Levi-Montalcini: From Persecution to the Nobel Prize and an Honorary Degree From a Canadian University.

Rita Levi-Montalcini (RLM) is recognized as a prestigious and renowned researcher of her time. She was the fourth woman to earn the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine in 1986 for the discovery of nerve growth factor (NGF). We review her biography and scientific discovery, and provide an example of why her discovery is still important. She had a special relationship with McGill University, Canada, which we describe. We searched for articles and books about her for biographical and scientific material and met with Dr. Claudio Cuello, Former Chair of McGill's Faculty of Medicine.  RLM was born in 1909 in Turin, Italy, where she had studied medicine. She started her career in research. Because of the anti-Jewish racial laws in Italy in 1938, she went underground and continued her projects in her bedroom. After the war, she visited St. Louis, USA, and conducted research there. Her experiments confirmed that tumors release a factor that causes nerve growth and cancer proliferation. Initially, scientists responded to this discovery with skepticism, but after its purification in 1959 and determination of its protein structure in 1971, NGF became widely accepted. Currently, crosstalk between cancers and nerves is poorly understood. The example of prostate cancer shows that surgical or chemical denervation of sympathetic nerves prevents the initiation of prostate tumors, whereas inhibition of parasympathetic nerve signaling reduces the spread of prostate cancer. McGill University awarded RLM a doctoral degree in 2011. It was the first time in its history that the University awarded an honorary doctorate outside of Canada, and the second one outside of Quebec. Through her discovery of NGF, RLM exemplified the power of passion and determination despite the obstacles she faced. Her relentless dedication has led to remarkable achievements.

Using Nobel Prize case-based learning in Medical Immunology to cultivate critical thinking dispositions for medical undergraduates.

BACKGROUND: Critical thinking has been regarded as an essential skill for college students, which is especially imperative for medical students to possess the ability to have in-depth insight into complex clinical situations. Medical Immunology is an overarching principle connecting multiple medical subjects, which emphasizes that immunity is both beneficial and harmful to the host, thus putting higher demands on students' critical thinking. The utilization of Nobel Prize stories has been cited as a thematic framework for classroom teaching of other courses, showing numerous educational benefits. Therefore, this study rejuvenated a case-based teaching approach by creating and introducing a vibrant material library centered on numerous iconic Nobel Prize cases in Medical Immunology and evaluating its effects on the critical thinking of medical students. METHODS: A total of 70 second-year medical undergraduates from the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine were divided into a control group and an experimental group of 35 cases each. Throughout the semester, the control received the traditional teaching method, and the experimental group adopted case-based teaching based on the Nobel prize-centered material library. The process of teaching design and practice was described using "Antitoxin and immunoserum therapy" as a classical example. A unified assessment of the critical thinking dispositions of participants was conducted at the beginning and end of the semester using the Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory-Chinese Version (CTDI-CV). RESULTS: Intra-group longitudinal comparisons and inter-group parallel evaluations indicated that, compared with the conventional teaching approach, Nobel Prize case-based learning induced a statistically significant increase in the overall score of the CTDI-CV, as well as the scores within the subdimensions of truth-seeking, analyticity, and maturity in judgment (p < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis further indicated a positive correlation between the total score of the CTDI-CV and the final grade (p < 0.05), which emphasized the crucial role of critical thinking dispositions in academic achievement. CONCLUSION: The case-based classroom teaching centered on Nobel Prize cases for Medical Immunology can effectively improve the critical thinking dispositions of medical undergraduates, which contributes to cultivating high-level medical and healthcare talents with excellent comprehensive quality in the new era.

Controlling systems and controlling legacies: Barbara McClintock's 1961 conversation with two bacterial geneticists.

Barbara McClintock (1902-1992), the renowned American maize geneticist, received the 1983 Nobel Prize "for her discovery of mobile genetic elements," becoming the seventh woman scientist to receive a Nobel Prize. However, Nathaniel Comfort points out that McClintock viewed her primary contribution as the elucidation of control systems, rather than the discovery of mobile elements. McClintock's interest in control systems dates back to the 1940s, and this paper investigates her 1961 conversation with François Jacob and Jacques Monod, where she sought to shape the interpretation of her work by drawing parallels between maize control systems and a bacterial system they had recently discovered. Despite McClintock's efforts, Jacob and Monod rejected her parallels and suggested that her contribution was limited to mobile elements. Through an examination of their published papers, I argue that Jacob and Monod's rejection stemmed from their failure to fully comprehend maize control systems. Disciplinary discrepancy helps explain Jacob and Monod's lack of comprehension: they were molecular geneticists working on bacteria, while McClintock was a classical geneticist studying maize. I further argue that gender played a role, as McClintock experienced the Matilda effect-the under-recognition of her contribution, reinforced by the reactions of two male geneticists, and ironically, by the award of the Nobel Prize. Control systems, stemming from McClintock's reverence for organisms, embodied what Evelyn Fox Keller defines as "gender-neutral science." This divergent view of science provides insight into why Jacob and Monod failed to grasp McClintock's work in 1961.

Dr. Upendranath Brahmachari: The Unsung Hero of Indian Medical Research.

Upendranath Brahmachari (1873-1946) was a prominent Indian scientist and physician renowned for his groundbreaking work in tropical medicine. He is most famous for discovering urea stibamine, a highly effective treatment for kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis), a deadly parasitic disease. This discovery had a significant impact on public health, saving countless lives in India and beyond. Born in Jamalpur, Bihar, Brahmachari pursued medical education at the University of Calcutta, where he later became a professor. His dedication to medical science earned him numerous accolades, including a knighthood in 1934. In 1929, Brahmachari was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in recognition of his work on urea stibamine. Although he did not win, the nomination underscored the global significance of his contributions. In addition to his scientific achievements, Brahmachari was active in public service, advocating for improved healthcare and medical education in India. His legacy continues to inspire medical professionals and researchers worldwide.

Information processing at the speed of light.

In recent years, quantum computing has made significant strides, particularly in light-based technology. The introduction of quantum photonic chips has ushered in an era marked by scalability, stability, and cost-effectiveness, paving the way for innovative possibilities within compact footprints. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of photonic quantum computing, covering key aspects such as encoding information in photons, the merits of photonic qubits, and essential photonic device components including light squeezers, quantum light sources, interferometers, photodetectors, and waveguides. The article also examines photonic quantum communication and internet, and its implications for secure systems, detailing implementations such as quantum key distribution and long-distance communication. Emerging trends in quantum communication and essential reconfigurable elements for advancing photonic quantum internet are discussed. The review further navigates the path towards establishing scalable and fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers, highlighting quantum computational advantages achieved using photons. Additionally, the discussion extends to programmable photonic circuits, integrated photonics and transformative applications. Lastly, the review addresses prospects, implications, and challenges in photonic quantum computing, offering valuable insights into current advancements and promising future directions in this technology.

Three Dermatologists Who Were Nominated for a Nobel Prize: Albert Neisser, Erich Hoffmann, and Aaron B. Lerner.

During the past 125 years, three dermatologists have been nominated for the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: Albert Neisser (1855-1916), Erich Hoffmann (1868-1959), and Aaron B. Lerner (1920-2007). Neisser was nominated 22 times for his discovery of the gonococcus and for his work on the serologic testing for syphilis through complement fixation. Hoffman was nominated three times for his role in the discovery of Treponema pallidum. Lerner was nominated twice, once for his work on melanocyte-stimulating hormone and a second time for his work on melatonin. Although neither Neisser, Hoffmann, nor Lerner won the Nobel Prize, it is still a notable accomplishment that each of them was nominated multiple times for this prestigiousaward. This contribution highlights the lives and careers of these three distinguished dermatologists, including the landmark discoveries they made that led to their being nominated for a Nobel Prize.

Allvar Gullstrand: The Only Ophthalmologist Who Won the Nobel Prize.

Allvar Gullstrand, the Swedish ophthalmologist and Nobel laureate, was a self-taught mathematician who applied mathematics and higher-order equations to understand the optic system. His inventions, the slit lamp, and the ophthalmoscope are used in clinical practice for the diagnosis of eye diseases. With his efforts, he explained the accommodation, the process of changing the shape of the lens to focus on near or distant objects. In 1911, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. In 1913, he was elected as the first president of the Swedish Ophthalmological Society. In 1927, he was awarded the Graefe Medal of the Deutsche Ophthalmologische Gesellschaft.

Unraveling the Genetic Code: The Legacy of Har Gobind Khorana (January 9, 1922, to November 9, 2011).

Dr. Har Gobind Khorana was an innovative chemist and Nobel laureate whose groundbreaking research laid the foundation for our understanding of the genetic code and revolutionized the field of molecular biology. Born in 1922 in Punjab, India, his journey from a small village to academic greatness showcases his intellect and determination. Despite economic challenges, Khorana pursued education, earning scholarships for studies abroad. His scientific journey began with a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of Liverpool, leading to postdoctoral research in Switzerland and the UK. Notably, Khorana's work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison earned him the Nobel Prize in 1968 for deciphering the genetic code. His legacy includes synthesizing coenzyme A, deciphering the genetic code, and creating artificial genes. Honored globally, he received accolades such as the Padma Vibhushan and was commemorated on a stamp. Beyond science, Khorana's humility and mentorship left a lasting impact. His life inspires others to keep learning and discovering new things about the world, motivating them to ask questions and unravel the mysteries of the universe.

Kazimierz Funk: Polish vitamins' discoverer. / Kazimierz Funk - polski odkrywca witamin.

Kazimierz Funk, born on February 23, 1884, in Warsaw, demonstrated an early inclination toward the field of human physiology. He charted his scientific trajectory within esteemed European scientific institutions, commencing at the age of 16 in Geneva, where he pursued studies in natural sciences. Subsequently, he continued his academic endeavors in Bern, culminating in the attainment of his doctorate in 1904. Following this, Funk relocated to Paris and secured a position at the Pasteur Institute. In France, his research concentrated on elucidating the role of trace elements in the human body. In 1906 he transitioned to Berlin, collaborating with Hermann Fisher (1852-1919) to investigate proteins and cancer processes. In 1910, Funk ventured to London, joining the Lister Institute, where he initiated research on beriberi disease. His investigations led to the isolation of a substance pivotal in treating the ailment, which he termed "vitamin" (derived from 'vita' meaning life and 'amine' indicating a nitrogen-containing compound). Despite four nominations for the Nobel Prize (in 1914, 1925, 1926, and 1946), Kazimierz Funk didn't receive the prestigious accolade. In 1925, at the urging of Dr. Ludwik Rajchman (1881-1965), the director of the National Institute of Hygiene, Funk assumed the directorship of the Biochemistry and Hygiene of Nutrition Branch at the National School of Hygiene. Under Funk's guidance, Poland became the third European country to produce insulin. Kazimierz Funk passed away on November 19, 1967, in New York City, at the age of 83. His significant contributions to the fields of biochemistry and nutrition endure as a testament to his enduring impact on scientific understanding. This proposal aims to condense and emphasise Kazimierz Funk's diverse scientific interests and the various scientific teams and sites he collaborated with, which ultimately led to his groundbreaking discover.

Decoding trends in mRNA vaccine research: A comprehensive bibliometric study.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, infectious diseases like COVID-19 have had profound global socio-economic impacts. mRNA vaccines have gained prominence due to their rapid development, industrial adaptability, simplicity, and responsiveness to new variants. Notably, the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine recognized significant contributions to mRNA vaccine research. METHODS: Our study employed a comprehensive bibliometric analysis using the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, encompassing 5,512 papers on mRNA vaccines from 2003 to 2023. We generated cooperation maps, co-citation analyses, and keyword clustering to evaluate the field's developmental history and achievements. RESULTS: The analysis yielded knowledge maps highlighting countries/institutions, influential authors, frequently published and highly cited journals, and seminal references. Ongoing research hotspots encompass immune responses, stability enhancement, applications in cancer prevention and treatment, and combating infectious diseases using mRNA technology. CONCLUSIONS: mRNA vaccines represent a transformative development in infectious disease prevention. This study provides insights into the field's growth and identifies key research priorities, facilitating advancements in vaccine technology and addressing future challenges.

Bibliometric comparison of Nobel Prize laureates in physiology or medicine and chemistry.

The Nobel Prize is an annual honor awarded to the researchers who have made the greatest contribution to humanity with their work in the year in question. Nobel Prizes for physiology or medicine and chemistry most often have direct or indirect pharmacological relevance. In this study, we performed a bibliometric analysis of Nobel Prize laureates from 2006 to 2022. The parameters include the nationalities and age of the laureates, age at their productivity peaks, the research locations, the H-index, the age-adjusted H-index, and the number of citations and publications, and, for each parameter, a comparison of female and male award laureates. Men were much more often awarded the Nobel Prize than women. Surprisingly, women were younger than their male colleagues at the time of the award although the productivity peak was similar. There was a correlation between all publications and the H-index, which was slightly stronger for women than for men. The age-adjusted H-index showed no difference among genders. The USA were the country with the highest number of Nobel Prize laureates, both male and female. Overall, the bibliometric characteristics of male and female Nobel Prize laureates are similar, indicating that among the group of Nobel Prize laureates, there is no bias against women. Rather, the achievements of women are recognized earlier than those of men. The major difference is that the number of women becoming Nobel Prize laureates is much smaller than the number of men. This study provides a starting for future studies with larger populations of scientists to analyze disparities.

Life Science 2.0: reframing the life science sector for 'the benefit on mankind'.

The COVID-19 pandemic put the life science sector to the test. Vaccines were developed at unprecedented speed, benefiting from decades of fundamental research and now honoured by a Nobel Prize. However, we saw that the fruits of science were inequitably distributed. Most low- and middle-income countries were left behind, deepening the inequalities that the Sustainable Development Goals were set to reduce. We argue that the life science sector must reinvent itself to be better and more equitably prepared for the next health crisis and to ensure fair access to health across current and future generations. Our recommendations include global governance, national strategies and the role of universities and corporations. Improved and more equitable health care should be centre stage for global health action and a core mission of a reframed Life Science sector - what we call Life Science 2.0.Paper ContextMain findings: During the COVID-19 pandemic the Life Science sector stepped up to the challenge, but vaccines and medicines were not equitably distributed.Added knowledge: Obstacles were identified that hindered global access to medical innovations.Global health impact for policy and action: Global and national governance, universities and the private sector should join forces to create a Life Science sector (Life Science 2.0) that affords equitable access to medical advances across geographical and generational boundaries and socio-economic strata.

Nobel Prize paradox: Nobel Prize, not a noble prize.

The Nobel Prize is one of the most sought-after awards in science and society. However, its reputation is not without complexities, including constraints on laureates and biases in nominations. Navigating the delicate balance between recognition and the tangible impacts of awarded contributions should offer insight into the Prize's significance beyond mere prestige and monetary value. While other awards may boast higher financial rewards, they often lack the same level of prestige. The inclusion of public figures as laureates and the extensive media coverage surrounding the Nobel Prize may further elevate its perceived importance, though this may hide a more nuanced reality. Additionally, the positive associations linked to the name "Nobel" resembling the adjective "noble" can enhance the award's prestige. This subtle connection to "nobility" adds a layer of honor and distinction to the Prize, contributing to its perceived significance and prestige. Moreover, the overrepresentation of Nobel laureates from specific countries prompts scrutiny over the fulfillment of Nobel's testament, which prioritizes contributions to global well-being. This discrepancy raises questions about the inclusivity and global impact of the Prize.

Aspectos de la vida y obra del Dr. Bernardo Alberto Houssay / Aspects of the life and work of Dr. Bernardo Alberto Houssay

Con motivo del Día Mundial de la Ciencia y la Tecnología, se realizó en la Casa Museo Bernardo Houssay un conversatorio en el que expertos biógrafos resaltaron algunos aspectos de la trayectoria profesional del Premio Nobel de Medicina de 1947, destacando su actividad como investigador en fisiología y sus cualidades humanas. Estos importantes estudiosos del tema compartieron sus conocimientos en un selecto auditorio. (AU)

On the occasion of World Science and Technology Day, a discussion was held at the Bernardo Houssay House Museum in which expert biographers highlighted some aspects of the professional career of the 1947 Nobel Prize in Medicine, highlighting his activity as a researcher in physiology and his human qualities. These important scholars of the subject shared their knowledge in a select audience. (AU)