Latest news with #HofstraUniversity
CBS News
05-07-2025
- Science
- CBS News
St. Elmo's Fire, it's more than just a classic movie
St. Elmo's Fire is a term you may have heard before because of a 1985 "Brat Pack" movie. St. Elmo's fire is a somewhat rare type of weather, too. A look at the rare type of weather known as a "St. Elmo's Fire." Getty Images St. Elmo's fire is a discharge of electricity in the Earth's atmosphere. It looks sort of like lightning, but it can appear in different colors. The National Weather Service says this phenomenon happens when a sharp object comes into contact with areas with an extraordinarily high electric field and a large number of electrons. You will notice it has a weird name, and that gives some clues to where it was first noticed. The statue of St. Eramus of Formia, a patron saint of sailors Getty Images It is named St. Elmo's Fire after St. Erasmus of Formia, one of the patron saints of sailors. Ships would see St. Elmo's fire on masts when out to sea. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology says this electric glow is known as a corona discharge. It occurs when the air surrounding a conductive object is briefly ionized by the electrically charged environment. An illustration of a ship experiencing St. Elmo's Fire Getty Images While St. Elmo's fire and lightning may look similar, there are differences. While St. Elmo's Fire and lightning can look very similar, there are differences. Getty Images Jase Bernhardt, an associate professor and director of sustainability at Hofstra University, told CBS News, in a previous report, that lightning is a direct movement of electrons from the cloud to the ground. St. Elmo's fire is like a sparking effect, where electrons cover a much smaller distance. The view of a St. Elmo's Fire from the cockpit of a plane Getty Images Ships are not the only location where St. Elmo's fire can show up. Planes, utility poles, the tops of tall buildings, church spires, and even the tips of umbrellas can have St. Elmo's Fire! When this phenomenon shows up, there is usually a strong likelihood of lightning. That means it is time to get indoors until the atmosphere settles down. St. Elmo's fire isn't necessarily dangerous itself, but it is usually an indicator that the ingredients for lightning are around you, though. It is best not to take a chance by staying outside. For planes or ships, it is usually not dangerous either. The Hong Kong Observatory reports that seeing St. Elmo's Fire was thought to be lucky because you were being protected by St. Erasmus of Formia. However, if you are on open water, it is time to get inside the ship if you can to avoid any bad luck that lightning might bring.
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How to Establish a Bedtime Routine for Toddlers (And Why You Really Should), According to a Neuropsychologist
Parents live and die by bedtime (or at least that's how it feels, right?), but getting a toddler on board with the idea can be a real challenge. That said, toddlers—like most of us—are creatures of habit who benefit from a predictable routine. As such, a solid bedtime routine for toddlers can do a lot to minimize the nighttime struggle and ensure that everyone gets the quality rest they need. I interviewed a neuropsychologist (and mom-of-two) to learn more about why bedtime routines for toddlers are so important and how parents can effectively implement one. Read on for the full scoop. What Time Do Kids *Really* Go to Bed? We Surveyed 70 Parents to Get to the Cold, Bleary-Eyed Truth Dr. Sanam Hafeez is a New York City-based neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind, a psychological practice that treats learning disorders, anxiety, depression and other psychopathological disorders. Dr. Hafeez obtained her Doctor of Psychology at Hofstra University and completed her post-doctoral training in neuropsychology and developmental pediatrics at Coney Island can be difficult to establish, especially since parenting has a tendency to feel, well, inherently chaotic. Still, bedtime routines for toddlers have significant benefits, so establishing one that you can stick with will be well worth the effort. For starters, 'a bedtime routine provides toddlers with a sense of stability and comfort, making the transition to sleep much smoother,' explains Dr. Hafeez, adding that, 'when the same calming steps happen night after night, children start to associate those moments with winding down, which helps their brains recognize when it's time to relax.' And that's just one way that a bedtime routine for toddlers can make your life easier; there are long-term benefits, too. Per the expert, 'this kind of consistency doesn't just support falling asleep more easily, it also contributes to better-quality rest, which is essential for healthy brain development, mood regulation, and immune function during these critical early years,' explains Dr. Hafeez. In other words, a routine doesn't just relieve the bedtime blues, it sets your child (and you) up for success across the board. SolStock/Getty Images I hinted at this earlier, but one of the hardest parts about routines and child-rearing is simply getting started. Fortunately, Dr. Hafeez shared a sample routine that has the soothing effect you're aiming for. You can read her advice below and use it as a template that can be tailored to your child's temperament and your own scheduling needs. 'After dinner, give your child a warm bath to help relax their body and signal that the day is coming to a close. Once they're in their pajamas, dim the lights and shift the mood to quiet. Head to their room and let them choose one book to read together. After the story, take a moment to talk softly about their day or sing a familiar lullaby. Tuck them in with their favorite stuffed animal or blanket, offer a goodnight kiss, and let them know you're nearby. This type of routine creates a rhythm that toddlers find both soothing and predictable.' Personally, I can attest to the importance of dimming lights and setting a bedtime mood. It's something I started when my two kids were toddlers and continues to this day, though it has evolved with our routine. (As my kids got older and evening baths were replaced by afternoon showers, I shifted the routine to turning off overhead lights, lighting scented candles and playing gentle music while cuddling on the couch.) d3sign/Getty Images It's best to start your routine at roughly the same time every night if possible because, as Dr. Hafeez explains, 'a steady rhythm helps set the body's internal clock, making it easier for toddlers to feel naturally sleepy.' Gradually set the scene and create a relaxing environment by lowering the lights and removing distractions, like noisy toys, etc. Per the expert, doing this will help your child's nervous system settle. Speaking of allowing your child's nervous system to settle, Dr. Hafeez also emphasizes the importance of eliminating screen time from a bedtime routine—namely because light from a screen 'interferes with the brain's natural sleep signals.' (Bonus points if you can follow this rule yourself.) Cuddling, reading and a quiet, conversational review of your child's day are all expert-approved ways of setting the right tone for bedtime. If needed, offer your toddler a light snack, but steer clear of sugar. This snack can be enjoyed during those aforementioned quiet moments of cuddling and reading. (I don't know if it strictly abides by the 'steer clear of sugar' rule, but I had great success giving my toddlers a 'bedtime banana' every night. It filled them up and the natural sugar in the fruit didn't seem to cause any disruption to our routine.) Brushing teeth with toddlers can be a battle, but it's important nevertheless. Indeed, Dr. Hafeez reminds that 'brushing teeth should always be part of the routine, as it builds good habits early on.' Even if your toddler is still wearing pull-ups over night, it's a good habit to empty the bladder before bed—and one that will ensure your child's comfort. The expert points out (and everyone agrees) that overnight accidents, whether it's in a pull-up or right on the bedding, are a recipe for night wakings that interrupt their rest. Jun/Getty Images Bedtime power struggles and soothing routines are completely at odds, so the expert advises that you do your best to avoid the former, adding that 'if your child resists, it's more effective to stay calm and address their needs than to force things.' Pro tip: leave excessively complicated or elaborate rituals out of the equation. 'Routines should be simple and consistent, not overly detailed or drawn out, which can lead to overstimulation,' says Dr. Hafeez. For much the same reason, the expert also cautions against overwhelming your child with choice during this period (i.e., provide a choice between two bedtime books, but don't let them browse the whole library). In other words, keep it simple, stupid! If you stick to the recommendation of having a regular time when your bedtime routine takes place, this shouldn't be such a problem. However, the expert emphasizes that it's never helpful to use bedtime as a consequence when evening shenanigans have gotten out of hand—namely because bedtime 'should feel like a peaceful, safe time of day' and you don't want to interfere with the feeling of consistency you're trying to create. Closely related to the last 'don't' and kind of a no-brainer, but the expert does indeed confirm that threats—like, if you don't go to bed right now, we aren't going to the playground in the morning—are not a good idea. In fact, 'they create anxiety and make things worse.' You might be practicing attachment parenting, or perhaps just flying by the seat of your pants and doing whatever you have to do to get a little shut-eye. Still, Dr. Hafeez notes that it's important to set boundaries early—particularly if you don't want your child sleeping in your bed longterm. Here, the 'don't' is quite simply the opposite of the 'do.' Dimming the lights at bedtime sets a soothing, sleepy-time tone; whereas, bright overhead lights (and screens!) tend to keep toddlers stimulated and that makes it harder for their brains to shift into sleep mode. Everything You Need to Know About Toddlers and Sleep (Including Why They Just Won't Freakin' Do It Already)
Forbes
01-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The 4+4 Blueprint: Inside The Hofstra BS/MD Experience
Choosing to become a doctor is more than just selecting a job—it's a lifelong commitment to healing, educating, and positively impacting patients' lives. As anyone who dreams of donning a white coat understands, the journey to become a doctor is long and complex but immensely rewarding in the end. The Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD offers a transformative opportunity for students who have already chosen their path and are eager to dedicate themselves to their medical career from the start. Facilitated by the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, being a student in this program does not prove a shortcut; rather, it delivers a carefully designed and immersive experience that prepares students for the challenges and rewards of being a physician today. The Hofstra 4+4 Program gives students early access to clinical opportunities and a strong support ... More system to help them through the process. The eight-year program emphasizes mentorship as it balances academic challenges with personal development and practical experiences. This program carves the path to transform its matriculants from a high school senior into an empathetic, well-rounded physician ready to make an impact. The Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD consists of four years of undergraduate education followed by four years of medical school training, seamlessly integrated into a single pathway. What distinguishes this program is not only the efficient process but also the underlying philosophy of cultivating outstanding physicians who are technically and empathetically skilled. Graduates emerge as leaders who grasp the humanistic impact of their work in medicine. Entry into this program is highly competitive. Each year, nearly 2,000 driven students from all over the country submit applications, yet only 10 to 15 are offered this coveted position. This results in a 0.5% acceptance rate, making it one of the most competitive routes to medicine available. Here's a rundown of what was required for students applying in 2025/26: In addition to these quantitative prerequisites, competitive applicants must also have enthusiasm, perseverance and a well-defined vision for their medical career ahead. The application process for the Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD consists of multiple steps. It's a comprehensive system to get to know the candidates as personally as individuals and academically. The program's aim is to choose students who are genuinely prepared for this commitment. Here is a general timeline, with the dates and requirements subject to change from year-to-year: This is a challenging process to say the least, but each phase is a checkpoint to guarantee that the program is choosing not only the brightest students but also the most dedicated to the core values of medicine. One of the most compelling features of the Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD is the level of flexibility it offers. Unlike students in traditional pre-med programs who feel restricted in the classes outside of the core sciences they are required to take, students in this program are encouraged to pursue outside interests. With 165 majors available, students can choose whatever sparks their interest, whether it's biology, psychology, economics or even dance. Previous students have used this flexibility to explore areas they never thought they would take a class in, let alone major in. This program facilitates this freedom of academic discovery while also making sure students fulfill all the medical school requirements. However, the benefits don't end there. The program encourages students to: These initiatives all go beyond academics; they focus on developing well-rounded individuals who can contribute their distinct thoughts and experiences to the medical field. Taking on the requirements of the BS/MD program may seem daunting at first, but the students in this program are never alone in the process. From the first day on campus, students are assigned a compatible medical school advisor to navigate coursework, research opportunities and extracurricular activities. The advisors will also provide guidance on MCAT preparation and medical school readiness. Beyond providing logistical support, the advisor will also serve as a support system throughout the med school journey as they help find opportunities that align with the student's individual passions and goals. Additionally, the community of peers will provide invaluable support. Upperclassmen often mentor under students, offering tips and establishing an open support network. The program organizes group bonding activities, such as bowling and ice skating, where participants can unwind and make lifelong friendships. Another major benefit of the Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD is its affiliation with Northwell Health, one of the largest healthcare providers in New York. This paves the way for a plethora of opportunities, including research at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research and clinical experiences at Northwell's hospitals and outpatient centers. With early exposure to shadowing and research opportunities, it gives its students an advantage by allowing them to be present and work in the setting they will become so familiar with later in their career. After the students matriculate to the Zucker School of Medicine, they will immerse themselves in the unique, case-oriented curriculum that combines scientific knowledge with clinical application. Students will engage in experiential learning via small-group discussions, training in procedures like ultrasound and participate in clinical rotations. To remain in the program and have a smooth transition into medical school, students must uphold certain standards, which might change from year-to-year: It's a high standard to reach, but these expectations ensure students are ready for the rigors of medical school. The Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD focuses on education, but it also prioritizes developing compassionate and cultured humans. Students will have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities like sports, community service and study abroad. These experiences will foster students' emotional and ethical development, preparing them to be the best doctor they can for their future patients. Many students talk about how the most fulfilling part of the program is the balance built into the curriculum, with challenging academic courses combined with the opportunity to have an enriching college experience. If you are ready to dedicate yourself to a career in medicine, the Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD provides a direct and rewarding journey. It integrates the stability of a secured medical school position with the freedom to develop and pursue your passions and gain the skills essential for success as a doctor.
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
President Trump is launching new attacks on the judicial system after judges blocked his agenda
James Sample, a law Professor at Hofstra University, tells the hosts of Weekend Primetime that 'Donald Trump is on an extraordinary losing streak in the courts, and right now the courts are the thing that is holding up democracy in a good way.'
South China Morning Post
31-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Who is Brian Kilmeade's wife, Dawn Kilmeade? She met the Fox & Friends host at high school in New York, runs a clothing boutique in their hometown, and shares 3 children with him
In April, Fox & Friends co-host Brian Kilmeade and former CNN anchor Chris Cuomo traded insults on X over their perception of 'SignalGate'. After US national security adviser Mike Waltz accidentally added a journalist to a Signal group chat discussing air strikes on Yemen, his carelessness sparked widespread discussions about cybersecurity and the mishandling of classified information. Advertisement Kilmeade claimed that the press was trying to make a spectacle of the controversy as a distraction. 'Watch @cnn @msnbc @ABCPolitics all try to Russiafy this #signal story – won't work,' he wrote on X. NewsNation's Cuomo replied: 'This is a propagandist,' which struck a nerve with Kilmeade. 'You are a discredited ego maniac who no one watches. Sorry I can't be more like your idol @donlemon,' Kilmeade retorted, alluding to the way Cuomo dealt with his brother Andrew Cuomo 's sexual harassment controversy and the allegations of ex-CNN anchor Don Lemon's misogyny. The war of words renewed attention on Kilmeade and his personal life. So, what do we know about his wife, Dawn Kilmeade, who prefers to stay firmly out of the spotlight? What is Dawn Kilmeade's background? Brian Kilmeade's wife Dawn Kilmeade, picture here with her husband and daughters, is from New York. Photo: @kilmeade/Instagram Dawn Kilmeade (née DeGaetano) is a New York native, per Distractify. She grew up with a sister, Denise Durso, as noted in her mum's obituary. She also went to Hofstra University, according to the Massapequa Herald Post. What does she do for work? Dawn Kilmeade with her daughters Kaitlyn and Kirstyn. Photo: @kilmeade/X Dawn Kilmeade runs a clothing store called Wild Willows Boutique in Massapequa with her friend, fellow Hofstra graduate and business partner Kathy Camada, per the Massapequa Herald Post. The outlet describes their brand's aesthetic as 'contemporary casual'. The two women were encouraged by their daughters to start the venture. However, Kilmeade has admitted to having difficulty balancing her professional and her personal life. 'To balance the family and this business has been a struggle, especially around the holidays,' she said. Her relationship with Brian Kilmeade
