Current Research
Dr. Malandraki and the staff of the Swallowing, Voice and Neuroimaging Laboratory are currently involved in a number of exciting research endeavors.
Some of the most important research activities undergoing in the lab include:
PROJECT A
Effects of sensory stimulation on neural activity and swallowing performance in healthy older adults and adults with mild Alzheimer’s Disease.
Short Description: The objective of this study is to investigate the comparative effects of different types of sensory stimulation both on neural activity and swallowing physiology in older healthy adults and adults with mild Alzheimer’s Disease.
Status: Data analysis and dissemination.
Funding Source: Wisconsin Alzheimer Disease Research Center sponsored by the National Institute of Aging (NIA), NIH.
Co-Investigators / Collaborators: Dr. JoAnne Robbins, Dr. Vivek Prabhakaran, Dr. Veena Nair, Dr. Sterling Johnson
PROJECT B
Initiation of an innovative swallowing and neuroimaging research program: A first pilot study.
Short Description: The objective of the proposed pilot research study is to collect preliminary data on the effects of transoral robotic surgical treatment on the swallowing and neural physiology, and the quality of life of patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer.
Status: Preparation for data collection
Funding Source: Provost Investment Fund, Teachers College, Columbia University
Co-Investigators / Collaborators: Dr. Salvatore Caruana, Dr. Robert DeLapaz, Mr. Winston Cheng
PROJECT C
Hellenic-American Teledynamic Educational, Research and Clinical Program for Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders
Short Description: The proposed initiative aims to establish an international educational, research and clinical collaboration between Teachers College, Columbia University, and the University Hospital “Evangelismos” in Athens 
Greece.
This initiative focuses on educational, research and clinical goals targeting the newly developed and highly important health care area of swallowing and swallowing disorders, which affects millions of people in both countries.
Status: Data collection
Funding Source: Awaiting Decision
Co-Investigators / Collaborators: Dr. Serafim Nanas, Dr. Vasiliki Markaki, Dr. Justine Sheppard, Dr. Kathleen Youse, Dr. Deborah Theodoros, Dr. Trevor Russel, Dr. Frank Moretti
Other Clinical Projects Currently Under Way
- Investigating the relationship between swallowing physiology and voice parameters (ongoing clinical project in collaboration with the Manhattan VA). Co-investigators include: Ms. Latimer Kells, Ms. Deborah Guida, Dr. JoAnne Robbins
- Investigating the relationship between respiratory muscle fatigue and electrophysiological swallowing parameters (Ms. Malatra’s dissertation project). Co-investigators: Dr. John Saxman, Dr. Carol Garber