Assistant Police Chief Ray Bouchard. (Chris DeFrancesco/UConn Health Center Photo)

In advance of the town hall meeting on changes in campus parking, Thursday, May 17, at noon in the Keller Auditorium, Assistant Police Chief Ray Bouchard provides some important information.

What are the most important things to know about parking on the UConn Health Center campus in the coming months?

• Anyone who currently parks in Lot L, Lot M or Shuttle Lot 3 should obtain a new hangtag from Public Safety (860-679-2511) by Friday, May 18.
• Parking will be provided for all employees.
• Free valet parking will be provided for all patients and clinical visitors at the hospital/main entrance, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• A robust shuttle service will be provided (see updated schedules).
• Parking updates will be posted regularly on the Bioscience Connecticut parking page, as well as on UConn Today, via Broadcast Messages, and flyers and signage throughout the campus.

Why are these changes necessary?

The UConn Health Center is undergoing major capital improvements under Bioscience Connecticut, including the new hospital tower, parking structures, and ambulatory care center, as well as the construction of the Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine. These construction projects will impact areas currently used for patient visitor and employee parking.

Can faculty, staff and students use the free valet service?

No, valet parking is only for patients and hospital visitors.

What do employees need to know about the new hangtags?

The hangtags are color-coded for each lot. The hangtag only allows parking in the designated parking lot. Please note: If you currently park in Lot L, Lot M or Shuttle Lot 3, you will need your new hangtag by Friday, May 18. Please contact Public Safety at 860-679-2511. We will be phasing in the distribution of new hangtags for everyone else over the next several months.

I’m an employee who pays extra for convenience parking. What do these changes mean to me?

You will continue to park where you have been parking. You will be issued a new hangtag with a designated lot at a future date.

What are the consequences for parking where I’m not supposed to?

You will receive a parking ticket for not parking in your assigned lot. Please note that Lot L will be for valet parking exclusively and will be otherwise off-limits at all times, even during hours when the valet service is not running.

I work second or third shift. What do I need to know?

If you work second or third shift your impact will be minimal. You should park on the academic side of the Health Center, where the gated lots will be open between the hours of 4 p.m. and 4 a.m.

What about the carpool lot?

Carpooling is still greatly encouraged, but Lot D is no longer available to carpoolers without a paid parking tag.

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Members of the Class of 2012 are celebrating their achievement and looking forward to the next phase of their lives.

Or, as medical student speaker Christian Kakowski described it, “real, actual financial liberation.”

Kakowski is one of 89 medical students who, along with 47 dental and 30 graduate students, received their degrees May 13 at the Connecticut Convention Center. It was the 41st UConn Health Center commencement and the first for Dr. Frank Torti, less than two weeks into his tenure as executive vice president for health affairs and medical school dean.

“The professions you’re about to embark upon are not, in fact, ‘jobs,’” Torti told the graduates. “Each is a calling.”

The commencement speaker was Dr. Edison Liu, president and chief executive officer of The Jackson Laboratory, which has partnered with the state to build a personalized medicine facility on the Health Center campus.

“Change will be much faster than ever, and much faster than you could imagine,” Liu said. “You are precisely the agents of change that our society needs so desperately. Why is that so? It’s because you’re all trained in science, you’re trained in technology.”

Liu reminded the graduates that their training will continue for the rest of their careers, and spoke of the importance of resiliency.

“Seek small victories that move you closer to your goals,” Liu said. “Don’t despair should you occasionally miss your mark. Be happy with each small advance and learn from each loss.”

His closing remark, “Go forth, do good, and make a hell of a difference,” was met with enthusiastic applause.

Dental student speaker Marcus Moss expressed a similar sentiment, telling his classmates, “Be responsible. Take this amazing opportunity in front of you. Never stop pushing. This world needs you more now than ever.”

Torti acknowledged the two men who shared the VP for health affairs and medical school dean roles on an interim basis before his arrival, UConn President Emeritus Phil Austin and Dr. Bruce Liang, director of the Calhoun Cardiology Center. All three men were active participants in commencement exercises.

Then Torti told the students, “You are prepared. You are ready. But most of all, remember this: You have always been, and will continue to be, part of UConn.”

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Daniel Mulkey. assistant professor of physiology and neurobiology, in his lab with graduate students Ian C. Wenker and Joanna Hawryluk. (Daniel Buttrey/UConn Photo)

If you’re an average person (not from Lake Wobegon) you breathe in about 900 times an hour.  You probably don’t think about it much, but Daniel Mulkey does. He studies what happens at the molecular level when you breathe and how your body gets the message that it’s time to take a breath.

We know that if you hold your breath, the build-up of carbon dioxide (CO₂) causes the brain to get a message, “Hey – we need to breathe,” he explains.  In a tiny area of the brain, a subset of neurons that are highly sensitive to CO₂ project a message to the respiratory centers to get breathing underway.

But what causes the rapid electrical activity of the neurons that tells the respiratory cells to go to work?

Mulkey is looking at how ion channels – pores in the cell membrane that allow the movement of ions (such as sodium or potassium) – influence the behavior of neurons when you breathe. Ion channels act as gateways into or out of cells for the ions that determine their electrical activity.

Using just a thin slice of an animal brain, his research group isolates and studies the cells that they think are important for the regulation of breathing. Identifying these cells and the ion channels that regulate their function might eventually help in the development of drugs for people who suffer from respiratory failure in conditions such as epilepsy, SIDS, or sleep apnea.

Mulkey, an assistant professor of physiology and neurobiology who came to UConn five years ago, recently won a research promise award from the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) at UConn. He also was named a UConn Teacher for a New Era Fellow.

When he was a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Virginia in 2004, Mulkey was the lead author on a paper that identified the cells in a very small area of the brainstem – the retrotrapezoid nucleus – that are critical in respiration.

He and two former fellow postdocs at Virginia, Thiago Moreira and Ana Takakura, who are now at the University of São Paulo in Brazil, are among the handful of scientists doing in vivo respiratory studies on brain cells. Moreira’s group studies breathing behavior in live rats. He can check how the animals’ breathing behavior changes, depending on the activity of ion channels that Mulkey has identified.  Mulkey’s group works on brain slices, using electrophysiology techniques to see how ion channels are regulated by CO₂ or neurotransmitters that are known to influence breathing.

Although his group works at the molecular level, “It’s really satisfying to go back to the whole animal and see how these cells work,” Mulkey says. The two groups, in Storrs and in Brazil, will exchange graduate students so that each group learns the techniques of the other.

The studies in Brazil are done on both active and sedated animals. Most respiratory problems occur when you fall asleep, Mulkey notes. When you are awake, you have cues that tell you to breathe. But when you are asleep, breathing depends entirely on the activity of the CO₂-sensitive cells that drive respiration.

People who suffer from congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, also known as Ondine’s curse, have a mutation specific to these cells. When they fall asleep, these people have no drive to breathe.

By learning more about the cells and the ion channels that influence their behavior, Mulkey’s basic research could guide the development of drugs to provide a solution.

“If you know the players involved, you have a target,” he says.

His research is supported by a grant from the Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health and by the Cure Epilepsy Foundation. One of his graduate students, Ian C. Wenker, has his own pre-doctoral research grant from the American Heart Association.

Learn more from this upcoming paper in The Journal of Physiology.

Read about the other AAUP research promise awardee, Mark Urban, assistant professor of ecology and evolutionary biology.

Art work by Diane Cadrain now on display in main and mezzanine lobbies. (Photo provided by Diane Cadrain)

Who: Diane Cadrain
What: “Twigs and Tides”
Where: Main and mezzanine lobbies, UConn Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave., Farmington
When: Now through August 1, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., daily

About the Artist:
Diane Cadrain states she works as a freelance writer specializing in employment law topics, but lives to create art.  Her current work includes painted pima cotton fabric embellished with paint sticks. Her techniques also include felting, hand embroidery, machine quilting, hand and machine appliqué, and most recently, three-dimensional work.

She has been in juried shows sponsored by the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts and the West Hartford Art League. She also participated in juried exhibitions sponsored by United Hebrew of New Rochelle and the Florida Chapter of Studio Art Quilt Associates.

She has exhibited at the New England Quilt Museum, Lowell, Mass., the Warwick Quilt Guild, Warwick, New York, the American Sewing Expo, Novi, Michigan, and various Connecticut libraries and other venues with Connecticut Fiber Arts Collective.

A resident of West Hartford, Cadrain is a graduate of Albertus Magnus College, and holds advance degrees from Ohio State University, and Georgetown University Law Center.

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Mary Carroll Root helps participants during a Powerful Aging Exercise class at the Avon Senior Center. (Al Ferreira for UConn Health Center)

The GO4Life program launched earlier this year by the National Institute on Aging, the Surgeon General and many partner organizations, encourages baby boomers and older adults to exercise and become  physically active as a means of remaining healthy and independent.  As a result, doctors around the country are increasingly addressing a serious question: how do we get our older citizens interested in and excited about exercise? Well, if you follow the example set by the UConn Health Center and its Powerful Aging Program, in many cases the answer may be as simple as…giving them the opportunity.

The Powerful Aging Program was established over a decade ago as part of a federally funded research project aimed towards examining the benefits of exercise in post-menopausal women. Developed by Dr. James Judge of the UConn Health Center, the program was specifically designed to study exercise’s effects on this older population’s bone and muscle health. But when the study ended, the participants pushed to be allowed to continue.

Dr. George A. Kuchel

“There was a real demand from the community to have a program for older individuals who wanted to maintain and improve their health,” says Dr. George Kuchel, who acts as director of the UConn Center on Aging and as the Citicorp Chair in Geriatrics and Gerontology. “And we were happy to provide it.”

Those involved in the program work with trainers and other staff of the Health Center to perform a series of very low-tech exercises (those that only require weighted waist-belts, dumbbells, and step-up platforms) designed to promote muscle strength, flexibility, and balance – the three most important things that contribute to a person’s function and independence as they age. The exercises are very low-impact (great for aging joints) and are designed to be extremely safe.

“The most common mistakes that people make are that they don’t exercise due to fear of injury,” says Kuchel, “or that they exercise and over-exert themselves. The great thing about Powerful Aging is that it gives this older population a place where they can come together with experts to exercise correctly without fear.”

Looking to Improve as It Moves into the Future

Moving into its 12th year of operation, the program is currently undergoing an evaluation process designed to keep its practices up-to-date.

Linda Yamamoto is a kinesiologist, as well as a certified strength and conditioning specialist who has joined the UConn Center on Aging as a consultant in kinesiology and exercise sciences. She is leading this effort by evaluating the current program from the perspective of both participants and instructors, and incorporating this feedback into an updated program based on the latest scientific evidence.

“We want to make sure that that we are following the current best practices for our patients and clients, and not just following the latest trend,” says Yamamoto. “And we would like to understand the changes that our participants would like to see so that we can incorporate them where appropriate.”

And in keeping with the Health Center’s tradition of integrated learning, in addition to updating the exercise regimen itself, officials are excited about the idea of one day having university students help out with the program.

Mary Carroll Root helps participants during a Powerful Aging Exercise class at the Avon Senior Center. (Al Ferreira for UConn Health Center)

“Right now, all of our instructors are staff of the UConn Health Center,” says Kuchel. “But we would like to get students involved as trainers. It would be a great learning opportunity for students in kinesiology, physical therapy or other disciplines  to learn more about aging and geriatric issues.”

The program currently offers classes at four locations – the UConn Health Center, the Elmwood Community Center, UConn Health Partners in West Hartford, and the Avon Senior Center. Officials may consider expanding the program to other areas in the region that have an active older population who would benefit from it.

“You know, not so long ago, experts thought that exercise was only something that young people would be interested in, and they didn’t think that the benefits would outweigh the associated risks,” says Kuchel. “But they’ve been proven wrong on both counts. Not only does exercise bring benefits for our older patients, but they’re enthusiastic about taking part. And that really is a great thing to see.”

Those interested in the Powerful Aging Program are encouraged to call 860-679-7692 or 866-837-7737 or visit the program’s website for more information or for a class schedule.

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From left: First-year medical students Liza Karamessinis, Sahar Barfchin and Kelsey Sokol are the founders of "Greatest Gift" at the UConn Health Center, an effort to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation. (Priyanka Ghosh for UConn Health Center)

Three first-year medical students have organized a bone marrow donor registration drive at the UConn Health Center, scheduled for Monday, May 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Food Court.

It’s the second such event orchestrated by Kelsey Sokol, Liza Karamessinis, and Sahar Barfchin in seven months.

“Our first bone marrow drive back in November was organized not only to add new donors to the national registry but also to help find a match for a friend of one of our members, who has leukemia,” Sokol says.

The students founded a group at the UConn School of Medicine known as “Greatest Gift” in an effort to help raise awareness for organ and tissue donation.

“As part of this effort, one of our goals is to hold organ and tissue registration drives to help increase the number of potential donors willing to help the growing list of 114,000 people waiting for a transplant,” Sokol says.

The Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center is sponsoring Monday’s bone marrow donor registration drive, which the students are running in partnership with the National Marrow Donor Program’s “Be the Match” campaign. All between the ages of 18 and 60 are invited to participate. According to Be the Match, the entire process takes only minutes and involves a simple cheek swab.

“One thing people may not realize is, the matching process depends greatly on race,” Barfchin adds. “We encourage people of all races to come and get swabbed and be part of the registry.”

For more information, call 860-304-2433 or email kesokol@student.uchc.edu.

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The award was in recognition of the Health Center’s “heroic efforts in assisting the residents of Farmington and neighboring towns during and after the October, 2011 snowstorm.”

The Health Center staff was recognized for going above and beyond to ease the burden on those without power or heat.

• Hospital staff opened a comfort station in the Onyiuke Dining Room which offered warmth, wi-fi connection and electrical outlets.
• Food court employees served an estimated 9,000 extra meals that week – a nearly 60 percent increase in weekly business.
• Emergency Department staff worked diligently with community resources to help local residents find the care and assistance they needed.
• Lyman Maynard Stowe Library – a free resource for the community – played host to visitors of all ages, from toddlers to seniors, providing a quiet, warm place to relax and read.
• Facilities, Public Safety and the grounds crew worked day and night to ensure that the campus remained safe and the sidewalks and roads clear and passable.

Dr. Frank Torti, executive vice president and dean of the School of Medicine, accepted the award on behalf of the Health Center

The dinner was also highlighted by a keynote address given by Charles E. Hewett, executive vice president and chief operating officer of The Jackson Laboratory. He commented on the anticipated economic and scientific impact of Jackson Lab’s $1.1 billion research facility that will be constructed on the Health Center’s campus.

“It’s an exciting opportunity and we’re starting to generate some buzz. We’ve just hired one of the world’s leading genomicists who is doing pioneering work to understand and mitigate cancer. I’m looking forward to working with the economic development leaders in the Farmington Valley,” Hewett said.

He explained the new lab will be working to identify clinical targets using the human genome to treat and ultimately cure a variety of human diseases.

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Dr. Frank Torti holds his first town hall meeting in a crowded Keller Auditorium. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

“I hate deans.” With that opening sentence, Dr. Frank M. Torti immediately grabbed the attention of the audience gathered Tuesday in Keller auditorium for the first town hall meeting held by the Health Center’s new executive vice president and medical school dean.

After the laughter subsided, Torti explained the reasons for his loathing and promised to try to do things differently. “I will try to streamline decision-making. We will increase transparency, we will increase accountability. Notice I said we, not I. This has to be a team sport. Faculty, staff, students, and I will do this together.”

Dr. Frank Torti responds to a faculty member's question. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

Torti told the standing room-only audience “to forget the UCHC you knew.” He explained how the Health Center is the best place in America right now to start a career in academic medicine, and that it is growing while others are shrinking.

“We need transformational ideas and innovations. Discoveries and innovations do not happen in community hospitals. They happen in academic medical centers. I think that’s why you’re here and that’s a big reason why I’m here.”

Torti said the single biggest obstacle to the Health Center’s success is its chronic financial deficit. “We must make prudent and reasoned effort to increase our income and decrease our expenses in order to secure our future.”

The Health Center’s eighth medical school dean joins UConn from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he served as vice president for strategic programs, director of its comprehensive cancer center, and chair of the Department of Cancer Biology.

Torti’s research interests focus on the potential of personalized medicine, which he said will transform medical care. But he told the audience he wants to emphasize another kind of personalized medicine.

“That personalized medicine is a big smile for someone being admitted to the hospital; stopping to give directions to a patient who is lost; taking the time to comfort a patient’s family; and making sure the call light is answered promptly. Make no mistake about it – this is the personalized medicine I value most.”

He went on to say that patients come first. “They are the source of our revenue, the focus of our research, and the foundation of all of our teaching of medical and dental students, residents, and clinical fellows. As long as the patients are the touchstones of our decisions, I believe we’ll be moving in the right direction.”

Torti intends to take a fresh look at the Health Center’s priorities, and the plans on how to get there. He said the review would be quick and surgical, not long and convoluted. “My explicit purpose is to give everyone a voice in the direction and future of the Health Center and to foster a culture of inclusiveness.”

He outlined three pillars to support his vision of the future.

Torti concluded by saying his door was always open and he would soon be holding meetings with small groups of students, faculty, and staff. “We have a lot to do. We’ll do it together and we’ll get it done — guaranteed.”

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Dr. Cato T. Laurencin's official portrait was unveiled during a reception held at the State Capitol on May 9. (Sarah Turker/UConn Health Center Photo)

During a reception hosted by The Black and Puerto Rican Caucus of the General Assembly, the Health Center’s Dr. Cato T. Laurencin was honored not only for his service as vice president for health affairs and dean of the UConn School of Medicine, but also for being an outstanding role model and inspiration to many.

Comedian Bill Cosby, a long time friend of Dr. Laurencin, attended the reception held at the State Capitol. (Sarah Turker/UConn Health Center Photo)

“How proud I am to be here,” said Laurencin’s longtime friend, comedian and activist, Bill Cosby. Though they graduated many years apart, their common bond is Central High School in Philadelphia.

Cosby stressed that it is important for students in their high school today — “our kids” — to see what can be achieved. Further, he urged all in attendance to reach out to children and teens to help them understand career choices and follow in the steps of leaders like Laurencin.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, State Sen. Toni Harp, and Dr. Frank Torti, the Health Center’s executive vice president for health affairs and medical school dean, were among those who expressed their gratitude for Laurencin’s leadership and achievements.

Also during the reception, Laurencin’s official portrait was unveiled. It will soon hang in the hallway outside the Health Center’s administrative offices, along with the previous deans and leaders of the Health Center.

The portrait of Dr. Cato T. Laurencin will hang in the hallway outside the Health Center's administrative offices. (Sarah Turker/UConn Health Center Photo)

Laurencin stepped down as vice president and dean last summer, following the final passage of Bioscience Connecticut, and has continued to focus on his roles as executive director of the Connecticut Institute for Clinical and Translational Science; director of the Institute for Regenerative Engineering; and clinically, as an orthopaedic surgeon with the New England Musculoskeletal Institute and holder of the Van Dusen Chair in Orthopaedic Surgery.

Among his many accolades, Laurencin’s research in the field of ACL regeneration was recently recognized by National Geographic magazine.

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Dr. Raymond Foley, winner of the C.A.M.E.L. award and Dr. Melinda Sanders, winner of the Loeser award. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo) Click image for high-resolution photo.

The medical and dental school students from the Class of 2014 have chosen Dr. Melinda Sanders, chair of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, to receive this year’s Loeser Award.

During a May 4 ceremony in Massey Auditorium, second-year student Zac Cavanaugh presented the award thanking Sanders for her dedication to the students and more than 20 years of service to UConn.

“I had the opportunity to be in her small group session for histopathology this year and I watched as the amount of people in the class grew,” said Cavanaugh. “The reason for that is because she made histopathology fun. And I’m going to repeat that in case you didn’t hear me….she made histopathology fun.”

The Loeser award is given to the faculty member who has the ability to evoke in students an enthusiasm for learning, a desire to emulate their own attributes of scholarly curiosity, and to give wholeheartedly to advance the welfare and education of their students. The award is named after Charles N. Loeser, one of the Health Center’s most popular and respected first faculty members.

The Committee Award for Meritorious Educational Leadership (C.A.M.E.L.) was given to Dr. Raymond Foley, associate professor of medicine. The C.A.M.E.L. is given to the subject committee that “promotes a stimulating learning experience and, in its organization, presentation of material and overall level of teaching, has afforded the students an invaluable opportunity to learn and understand basic medical sciences.”

(left to right) Dr. Dan Henry, Dr. James Watras, student presenters Greg Salber and Zac Cavanaugh, Dr. Richard Zeff, student presenter Will Gionfriddo, Dr. Raymond Foley, Dr. Melinda Sanders, student presenters Katie Schultz, Jenna Bernstein, Niki Albino, and Dr. Louise McCullough. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

Second-year dental student Katie Schultz presented the award saying the students appreciated Foley’s hard work and accessibility. “Like answering emails from panicky students such as myself, making sure the conference leaders always showed up to the right rooms, and ensuring that the information presented would optimally prepare us for boards, clinic and for life.”

Awards were also given to five faculty members in recognition of their excellence in teaching basic medical sciences: Drs. Dan Henry, Thomas Manger, Louise McCullough, James Watras and Richard Zeff.

Board of Directors Faculty Recognition Award

Dr. Steven Lepowsky, senior associate dean for education and patient care at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, has been awarded the 2012 Faculty Recognition Award by the UConn Health Center Board of Directors.

Lepowsky is credited with being a driving force in the growth and expansion of the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency program, now the largest of its kind in the United States. He also has been influential in the development and expansion of community-based activity throughout Connecticut, initiating resident placement in community sites, having an active role in predoctoral students’ community-based experiences, and recruiting and placing junior clinical faculty through contractual arrangements with community sites.

Dr. Steven Lepowsky. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo) Click image for high-resolution photo.

Lepowsky also is responsible for a significant expansion of patient care to adults with acquired and developmental disabilities, between direct patient care and partnerships he initiated with the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services. He also is a senior consultant to the Commission on Dental Accreditation and serves as a liaison to the Connecticut Department of Public Health and Department of Social Services.

He also was instrumental in establishing the Connecticut Comprehensive Education and Practice Team, which opened in the UConn Health Partners West Hartford office last fall.

“I am extremely honored to be the recipient of this very special award,” Lepowsky says. “It is particularly rewarding to be recognized for doing what you love to do.”

He will be presented with the award during commencement exercises Sunday at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

Lepowsky joined the UConn Health Center faculty in 1993 as an assistant professor and director of advanced education in general dentistry. He was promoted to associate professor in 2001. He accepted the additional role of the dental school’s associate dean for clinical affairs in 2003, and became associate dean for education and patient care in 2007. Lepowsky was promoted to senior associate dean last year. He also has served as chair of the Division of General Dentistry since January 2005.

The Faculty Recognition Award, presented annually since 2003, recognizes academic, administrative and/or clinical excellence.

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Aired on WTIC NewsTalk 1080, May 7, 2012

Dr. Jonathan Meiers, chair the UConn School of Dental Medicine’s Division of Operative Dentistry, joins Ray Dunaway on WTIC NewsTalk 1080 to discuss cavity-causing sports drinks and energy drinks.

Listen to the Broadcast >

Recovering from Career-threatening Injury

Aired on ESPN Radio 97.9-FM, May 4, 2012

Dr. Thomas Trojian, director of the Injury Prevention and Sports Outreach Programs at the New England Musculoskeletal Institute, joins The Bower Show to discuss what lies ahead for the Yankees’ Mariano Rivera following his ACL injury.

Listen to the Broadcast >

Conflicts of Interest in Health Care

Aired on WNPR-FM, May 2, 2012

Dr. William White, professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Hypertension in the Calhoun Cardiology Center, joins a panel discussion on WNPR’s “Where We Live” about industry’s influence on medicine and the safeguards in place to prevent biased research and medical decisions.

Listen to the Broadcast >

Physicians Feeling Pressure from Patients’ Financial Problems

American Medical News, April 23, 2012

The patient in front of William B. White, MD, an internist in Farmington, Conn., was being treated for hypertension, but he was worrying more about financial pressure than blood pressure.

Read More >

Dental X-rays Linked to Common Brain Tumor

Reuters, April 11, 2012

A new study suggests people who had certain kinds of dental X-rays in the past may be at an increased risk for meningioma, the most commonly diagnosed brain tumor in the U.S. “They found a small risk (from) a pair of bitewings, but not a full mouth series, which is multiple bitewings. That inconsistency is impossible to understand to me,” said Dr. Alan Lurie, president of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.

Read More >

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Sharon Levesque (left) and Kathy Williams are Emergency Department Nurses. Williams is a 2012 Nightingale Award winner; Levesque won a Nightingale Award in 2009. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

The UConn Health Center’s annual weeklong celebration of its nurses returns with massage, yoga, teas, and ice cream to go along with a full schedule of workshops and lectures.

National Nurses Week started with RN Recognition Day May 6 and continues through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale. This year’s theme is “Advocating, Leading, Caring.”

“I’ve always felt nursing is a calling,” says Chief Nursing Officer Ellen Leone. “We go into nursing because we want to help people and make a difference in people’s lives. We have the ability to work in all kinds of settings and roles. We are there welcoming new babies into the world, and helping people pass at the end of their life. And we are die-hard patient advocates.”

The Danforth O’Neil Fund, established in honor of the Health Center’s founding director of nursing, Claire O’Neil, and her parents, makes many of the Nurses Week programs possible. This year’s keynote speaker is Joe Tye, a leadership consultant to the health care industry. Tye presented “The Florence Prescription: Building a Culture of Ownership on a Foundation of Values” Wednesday, May 9, in Keller Auditorium.

“We try to offer a variety of educational programs throughout the course of the week,” Leone says. “We try to do things that are hot topics, things for nurses going back to school, and offer some care for the caregiver too. My favorite thing is to really honor nurses who have gone above and beyond.”

Some of the “care for the caregiver” offerings include 10-minute chair massages, roving office yoga, an afternoon tea tasting, and Leone delivering ice cream to her nursing units.

From left: Oncology nurses Christine Kopcha and Marcy Kosak in the UConn Health Center's adult ambulatory care unit. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

The Department of Nursing website has a complete rundown of the week’s events, which also include, for the first time this year, a candlelight memorial for staff members who have passed away in the last year. Among the honorees are Rick Michaud, an OR nurse trained in all aspects of surgical procedures who last worked in the endoscopy suite, and nurse anesthetist Rich Krajewski, who worked in many areas of the Health Center over his career and served with the U.S. Army Reserves in the first Gulf War.

Following the memorial service, pastoral care staff went to the nursing units to offer a blessing of the hands to caregivers.

Health Center 2012 Nightingale Award Winners. Click image to view larger version.

“UConn nurses are extremely dedicated, not only to their patients, but to the organization,” Leone says. “I’ve always felt it’s the nursing care and interaction with the nurse that leaves a lasting impression on every patient experience. Quality of nurses within an organization is so important. That’s really the backbone of the reputation of the organization. We have always gotten great feedback, and we’ve gotten even more over the last couple of years.”

In addition to Nurses Week, the UConn Health Center is celebrating its 2012 Nightingale Award recipients. This year’s Nightingale Awards for Excellence in Nursing Gala is Thursday, May 10, at the Hartford Marriott Downtown.

Nurse Jamie Hinchliff (left) and nurse practitioner Marlene Culley, a 2012 Nightingale Award recipient, work in the UConn Health Center's intensive care unit. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

There are approximately three million registered nurses in the United States. More than 600 of them are employed by the UConn Health Center, which also trains undergraduate and advanced practice nursing students. In recent years, nurse practitioners have assisted physician faculty in teaching Principals of Clinical Medicine at the UConn School of Medicine, offering a nursing perspective to a course designed to help students develop the skills to work in an interprofessional team.

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Rajasree Pai, UConn School of Medicine Resident

After working as a resident for two-and-a-half years in a northeastern hospital, some of the patients became more and more familiar. Their names, faces, medical records, long list of problems, and medications were well known, as they were repeatedly admitted to the hospital. Between 5 and 9 percent of hospital admissions each day are “frequent flyers,” as they are often called. Though the admitting process becomes easier for physicians, the downside is the increase in demand for health care resources and inability to claim insurance benefits.

When someone mentions “frequent flyers,” I think of one of my patients, Mr. ABC, who was admitted five times in a single month for shortness of breath. He had been diagnosed with obstructive lung disease and was being treated with bronchodilators. Every time Mr. ABC came to the emergency department, he appeared severely short of breath, and would request admission. He was an illegal immigrant and lacked insurance. He therefore did not qualify for disability, and no rehabilitation center or visiting nurse service would treat him.

The hospital was becoming a second home for Mr. ABC. Each time after being treated with nebulizer therapies, he appeared comfortable, as if at home, reading newspapers, watching television, requesting snacks in spite of being on a strict diabetic diet, and at times, urinating on the floor even though he never had incontinence. His wife would drive him to the hospital every week, drop him at the emergency room entrance, and drive off without talking to any of the physicians. It seemed like these admissions had become a routine for the family, like visiting a friend or relative’s home.

Every admission made him less amicable to the hospital staff. In spite of receiving free medications once a month, he kept being re-admitted to the hospital and refused to leave. To make things worse, he was on the verge of chronic renal failure requiring dialysis for life due to his uncontrolled diabetes and medication noncompliance. This was partly caused by his indifferent attitude toward health care and his financial constraints.

Between 5 and 9 percent of hospital admissions each day are patients who are repeat visitors to the emergency department.

He underwent every possible test known for his complaints, including radiological evaluations of multiple areas of his body. Several incidental findings were uncovered, which were further investigated by biopsies, a CT scan, and an endocrinological workup – which all turned out to be negative. Multiple specialists were consulted, including a cardiologist, pulmonologist, psychiatrist, and vascular surgeon.

Here is the health care paradox. Anyone coming to the emergency department seeking care receives that which is applicable for him, even as an illegal immigrant. But someone like Mr. ABC does not get any benefit by being treated as an outpatient. This means that a single hospital admission can cost five times the money that could buy one year of medications for him.

The hospital and staff continued to care for Mr. ABC for over two years before they finally decided they could take no more. He was forced to choose between going back to his home country or stay in the U.S. and start the paperwork needed to become a legal immigrant. After a lengthy discussion with his wife, the palliative care team decided to provide comfort measures only, with no hospital admissions in the future.

It is time to start rethinking the current socioeconomic impact of these cases and approach it from a preventive aspect. For instance, if preventive and therapeutic services are approved as outpatient care instead of providing free care through the emergency department, it could potentially save millions of dollars. Also, if there is nothing else to offer the patient medically, is it ethical to make these patients change their code status, especially if the patient remains medically noncompliant and refuses to do anything about his or her legal status?

Once these issues are raised, it may begin to address one of the key economic concerns involving health care and the problem of the “frequent flyers.”

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When people think of an epileptic seizure, they most likely envision someone who faints or falls down, his body twitching and jerking. But that represents only one kind of seizure, the generalized or grand mal seizure, which impacts all areas of the brain.

A partial seizure, where only one part of the brain is involved, affects only a part of the body. If the part of the brain controlling movement of the hand is involved, for example, then perhaps only the hand may show rhythmic movements or jerking. Other symptoms might include strange sensations or small repetitive movements such as picking at clothes or lip smacking. Another person experiencing a partial seizure may stare off into space or appear dazed or confused.

“It’s important to bring a family member or friend along to your doctor’s appointment so they can describe the kinds of symptoms you have,” says UConn Health Center neurologist Dr. Marie Eugene. “Knowing the symptoms of your particular seizure will help us diagnose and treat your condition.”

Epileptic seizures occur when abnormal bursts of electricity in the brain briefly upset normal brain function. It’s not always clear what triggers the bursts of abnormal electrical activity. But Eugene says there are certain conditions that may cause seizures which include sleep deprivation, alcohol use, head injury, or stroke.

Epilepsy may develop even though you do not have any risk factors and a cause cannot always be identified. Children and older adults are most likely to develop epilepsy, but it can start at any age.

“It’s possible that epilepsy may run in families, but you don’t have to have a family history to develop epilepsy,” says Eugene.

Medicine controls seizures in many people who have epilepsy. For those with seizures which are harder to control, there is a device called a vagus nerve stimulator. It’s implanted under your skin near your collarbone and sends weak signals to the vagus nerve in your neck and to your brain to help control seizures.

If you know what triggers a seizure, you may be able to avoid having one. Getting regular sleep and avoiding stress may help. If treatment controls your seizures, you have a good chance of living and working like everyone else.

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Founding faculty members, Drs. Martha Lepow and Naomi Rothfield, were honored during the School of Medicine's Group on Women in Medicine and Science Inaugural Ceremony April 30. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

The School of Medicine’s new Group on Women in Medicine and Science (GWIMS) celebrated its inaugural ceremony this week by honoring four women who left indelible marks on the history of the School and the Health Center.

“Our honorees grew up in an era that did not generally encourage women to pursue careers in medicine or science. They were vastly outnumbered during all aspects of their training – in lecture halls, in hospital rotations, at lab benches and all areas of their early careers. At every turn, they were met with attitudes that were not always welcoming or encouraging. But that did not stop them,” keynote speaker UConn President Susan Herbst said about Drs. Martha Lepow, Mary Jane Osborn, Naomi Rothfield and Audrey Worrell, of the first faculty.

“They worked hard, remained true to their calling, and all four became trail-blazers,” she added.

(Left to right) Health Center Board of Directors Chairman Sanford Cloud Jr., GWIMS Chair Dr. Marja Hurley, former UConn President Phil Austin, Dr. Martha Lepow, Dr. Naomi Rothfield, Dr. Bruce Liang, and UConn President Susan Herbst. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

Herbst applauded the School of Medicine for starting its GWIMS chapter, part of a new national movement of the Association of American Medical Colleges. The UConn chapter is being led by Dr. Marja Hurley, an associate dean and director of Health Career Opportunity Programs. Over the last year, Hurley has brought together a steering committee that represents a range of voices in academic medicine – from full professors to mid-level and junior faculty, as well as administrative positions.

The GWIMS chapter has set goals such as celebrating and raising awareness about the achievements of women faculty within the School of Medicine; sharing resources about professional development; fostering mentorship initiatives to help junior faculty navigate choices in their careers; and advocating for gender equity and career advancement opportunities.

Linda Shapiro, director of the Center for Vascular Biology, presented the award to founding faculty member Mary Jane Osborn. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

“One of our early goals was to find a way to publicly honor the first women faculty of the School of Medicine. We also wanted to start an annual symposium to raise awareness about issues that are unique to women in our fields,” Hurley said. The group has also posted a website which will serve as a community forum to share ideas, announce programs and awards, and more.

Two of the founding women faculty, Lepow and Rothfield, attended the Inaugural Ceremony and accepted their awards in person.

Health Center endocrinologist Dr. Pamela Taxel presented Rothfield her award.

“Dr. Naomi Rothfield has been an influential and well-respected member of the UConn community for more than four decades. Over the years she has become an internationally renowned rheumatologist who has helped countless numbers of patients,” she said.

Dr. Biree Andemariam honored founding faculty member Dr. Audrey Worrell. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

“She is the ultimate patient advocate and a role model for all of our colleagues in the New England Musculoskeletal Institute,” Taxel added.

Lepow excelled in the fields of children’s health care and infectious diseases and founded the Health Center’s Department of Pediatrics. She is currently on the staff of Albany Medical Center, where she is a professor in the Department of Pediatrics.

Osborn, who was traveling and unable to attend the ceremony, is a leader in biochemistry and is the only School of Medicine faculty member to be elected to the prestigious National Academy of Science.

Worrell, who resides in New Mexico and was unable to attend the ceremony, was a leader in psychiatry and the burgeoning field of geriatric psychiatry.

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(left to right) Dr. Bruce Liang, head of cardiology who served as interim medical school dean, talks with the Health Center's new executive vice president for health affairs and medical school dean, Dr. Frank Torti, during a welcome reception May 2. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

Dr. Frank Torti is now in place as executive vice president for health affairs and medical school dean, and on his second day, more than 200 faculty, staff and students joined President Susan Herbst for a welcome reception in the academic lobby.

“We have an unprecedented opportunity to define, and redefine, the UConn Health Center,” Torti said during his brief remarks Wednesday.

Torti will have more to say Tuesday, May 8, at noon, at his first town hall meeting in Keller Auditorium.

The Health Center's new executive vice president for health affairs and medical school dean, Dr. Frank Torti, speaks during a welcome reception held in the Academic Lobby May 2. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

“I am looking forward to meeting with all of you, sharing my vision, and beginning a dialogue with you on the future of the Health Center,” Torti wrote in an email to faculty, staff and students last week.

The Health Center’s eighth medical school dean joins UConn from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he has served as vice president for strategic programs, director of its comprehensive cancer center, and chair of the Department of Cancer Biology. He is a well-known physician and clinical investigator who has designed and executed clinical trials in urologic cancer that have been used throughout the world.

(left to right) Thomas Babor, professor and chair of the Department of Community Medicine and Health Care, talks with Dr. Frank Torti. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Center Photo)

Torti is the founding and past president of the Cancer Biology Training Consortium, a national society of cancer biology chairs and program directors that now involves 70 U.S. academic medical centers. He was recently elected to the board of directors of the Association of American Cancer Institutes and of the National Coalition for Cancer Research. He served on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Council for the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and was recently appointed to the National Cancer Institute’s Clinical Trial Advisory Committee and the Board of Scientific Advisors.

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Eric Szafran (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

Eric Szafran is inspired by the clients he serves.

Szafran works at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter, in Hartford. He completed an internship there in 2004, and it made such an impact that he wanted to continue working in the field.

“I work with people who have acquired physical disabilities and cognitive impairments,” he says. “The experience has given me an appreciation for day-to-day living instead of expectation. It has shown me that you can still live and thrive in the face of disability.”

Szafran is originally from Norwich and now resides in Manchester. He received his undergraduate degree from UConn with a double major in sociology and psychology. Szafran decided to continue on for his Masters in Public Health at UConn as it is a nationally recognized school with an MPH program he thinks is one of the best around.

His opinion is not based solely on his experiences as a student. Szafran was involved in the Public Health Student Organization (PHSO) where he served as secretary his first year and president the second. The PHSO connects public health students with peers and alumni, coordinates social and professional activities, and communicates with program staff and faculty on behalf of the students.

Szafran is passionate about public health because it focuses on promoting health beyond the individual level. “Resources and effort go beyond helping just one patient to creating change for an entire community,” he says. “The impact is that much greater.”

Szafran believes in fair treatment and access to health care. “Health care is a right, not a privilege,” he says. “I like the day-to-day impact you can have on people’s lives. We can help to make people more independent and give a voice to those who may otherwise not have one. I like being able to make a difference and making sure people are able to live despite disease, not die because of it.”

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(Date changed 4/30)
Free Fly Casting Demonstration
Wednesday, May 2, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., UConn Health Center, center courtyard
Fly fishing experts will demonstrate fly casting as guests of the UConn Health Center Auxiliary. Please call 860-679-2963 for more information.

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, May 2, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Center, Dowling North Building
The UConn Health Center’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. This workshop is offered on the first Wednesday of the month. Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 for more information.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, May 3, 6 to 8:30 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 860-679-4580 or www.uconnfertility.com.

(Event cancelled 4/30)
Texas BBQ for Casting for Recovery
Saturday, May 5, noon to 5 p.m., Winding Trails, 50 Winding Trails Drive, Farmington
The UConn Health Center Auxiliary is holding a Texas barbecue and fly fishing event, with the proceeds going toward sending a breast cancer survivor to a Casting for Recovery weekend retreat. Tickets are $50 each and include the barbecue and fly casting and fly tying demonstrations. There also will be a silent auction. For tickets and more information please call 860-679-2963.

Breast-feeding Class
Thursday, May 10, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Center, NICU Conference Room
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Classes usually are held on the first Thursday of the month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Free Discovery Series: “Haven’t Got Time for the Pain?”
Thursday, May 10, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Center, Keller Auditorium
Drs. Jay Lieberman and Greg Polkowski discuss hip and knee preservation and replacement. Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.

UConn Health Center Auxiliary Plant Sale
Friday, May 11, 10:30 a.m., UConn Health Center
The UConn Health Center Auxiliary is holding a plant sale. Last year’s sold out in an hour and a half. For more information please call 860-679-2963.

Bone Marrow Donor Drive
Monday, May 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., UConn Health Center, Food Court
UConn medical students are running a bone marrow donor drive in partnership with the National Marrow Donor Program’s “Be the Match” campaign. Please call 860-304-2433 or email kesokol@student.uchc.edu for more information.

(Added 4/30)
Free Ayurveda & Wellness Series Workshop: “Breathe to Relax”
Monday, May 14, noon to 1 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Experiential workshop focuses on basic yogic techniques for effective breathing, meditation, relaxation and taming stress. Participants should to bring a blanket and must consider not eating at least one hour before class or bringing. Please email aguha@att.net to register or for more information.

Infant Care Class
Monday, May 14, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
Offered for expectant parents and caregivers, the discussion topics include appearance and behavior of the newborn, car seat and home safety issues, well child care and the importance of immunizations, choosing a pediatrician, and practice with diapering and bathing a newborn. Classes usually are held on the second Monday of every month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Tuesday, May 15, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health Center, Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will offer self-help instruction and education on hairstyling and coping with hair loss, skin care, makeup and nail care. Wigs, turbans and scarves will also be discussed. Classes are offered monthly, generally on the third Tuesday, and are not limited to UConn Health Center patients. Registration is required: call 860-679-7820 with your name, program date, phone number, and skin color. Kits are available in Light, Medium, Dark and Extra Dark.

“Nutrition: Less Is More! Planning for Good Health”
Tuesday, May 15, 3:30 to 5 p.m., UConn Health Center, Dowling North Building
Learn about fad diets, healthy choices when eating out, working exercise into your routine, and developing weight-loss strategies. Registration fee is $25. Call 800-535-6232 for more information.

Free Community Discussion on Access and Inclusion for Residents with Disabilities
Wednesday, May 16, 5 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Center, Food Court
Join officials from the town of Farmington, local police and emergency service departments, and youth, religious and business leaders. “Community Discussion to Enhance Access and Inclusion of Residents With Disabilities” aims to see how the community can take action to put Farmington at the forefront of being an inclusive, accessible community, inspire people to think about individual and community strengths, and to act constructively to use those strengths in assuring full participation of people with disabilities in community life. The event is presented by the A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service at the UConn Health Center, in coordination with the Farmington group Citizens Coalition for Equal Access. See www.uconnucedd.org for more information.

(Added 4/30)
Ayurveda & Wellness Series: “Herbs for Wellness”
Thursday, May 17, 1:30 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Learn about five must-have herbs, their unique healing properties, and how to use them as food and medicine. Registration fee is $35. Please email aguha@att.net to register or for more information.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, May 17, 6 to 8:30 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 860-679-4580 or www.uconnfertility.com.

Free Webinar: “Let’s Talk About Fertility”
Friday, May 18, 4 to 5 p.m., online at www.uconnfertility.com
The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services presents “All You Need to Know About IVF,” the next in a series of live, interactive webinars with real-time questions and answers. Dr. David Schmidt, gives an in-depth explanation of the IVF process and takes live questions. The webinar will be archived and available for viewing at any time, with the opportunity to submit questions and receive responses within 48 hours. Register at www.uconnfertility.com; click the “Let’s Talk About Fertility” icon. More information is available at 860-679-4580.

(Added 4/30)
Ayurveda & Wellness Series: “Ayurvedic Herbology, Pharmacopoeia, and Immunomodulators”
Thursday, May 17, through Sunday, May 20, UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
This four-day workshop (Thursday 1:30 to 4 p.m., Friday 1 to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) covers concepts of ayurvedic pharmacology, mediums for herbal delivery, and principals and art of selecting herbs and herbal formulations, as well as principals of drug delivery, properties of selected herbs and their application, drug-herb interactions, caution and precautions, and demonstration of selected herbs. Registration fee is $400 and includes all May Ayurveda & Wellness Series events. CME credits are available. Please email aguha@att.net to register or for more information.

(Added 4/30)
Free Ayurveda & Wellness Series Workshop: “Spiritual Conclave: Dreams and Dreaming”
Friday, May 18, 5 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Spiritual Conclave provides a platform for discussions on global issues, various aspects of mind, matter and consciousness (mind, body and spirit), spirituality, preservation of nature, natural phenomena, health, healing and wellness incorporating science, philosophy, humanity and research. Please email aguha@att.net to register or for more information.

Free Huntington’s Disease Program Symposium
Saturday, May 19, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave., Farmington
The UConn Health Center’s Huntington’s Disease Program invites the community to a free symposium that will cover topics such as caregiver issues, family planning options, behavioral issues and the future of Huntington’s Disease research. Registration is required. Please call 860-679-4919 or email ebysiewicz@foundation.uconn.edu by Monday, May 7.

(Added 4/30)
Ayurveda & Wellness Series: “One-day Herbology”
Saturday, May 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Learn about the basic science of herbology and how to select herbs for health, healing and wellness. Registration fee is $65. Please email aguha@att.net to register or for more information.

Free Program on Cholesterol Control
Tuesday, May 22, 7 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
Physician assistant Bradley Biskup of the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center’s Lifestyle Modification Program discusses ways to improve cholesterol levels without the use of prescription medication, including exercise, diet and supplements. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

(Added 4/30)
Ayurveda & Wellness Series: “Foods for Your Constitution”
Wednesday, May 23, 5 to 7 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Hear discussion of an ayurvedic analysis of different body constitutions and explore how to select food to complement the body type in order to live a balanced life. Registration fee is $25. Please email aguha@att.net to register or for more information.

Free Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, May 26, 3 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health Center patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 860-679-7820 or email psnixon@uchc.edu for more information.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, May 26, 3:30 p.m., UConn Health Center, Main Lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Head and Neck Cancer Support Group
Wednesday, May 30, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Center, Food Court (rear of cafeteria)
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health Center patients) are invited to join this new forum for those affected by head and neck cancers. Light snacks will be provided. Please call 860-679-7820 or email psnixon@uchc.edu to RSVP or for more information.

(added 5/11)
Gynecological cancer support group
Thursday, May 31, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health Center patients) are invited to join this new forum for those affected by gynecological cancers, such as ovarian, endometrial, cervical, fallopian tube, or peritoneal. In collaboration with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, this will be a place to share experiences and information and provide a supportive community. This month’s guest speaker is dietitian Deborah Downes, who will discuss the nutritional needs of cancer patients. Please call 860-679-7820 or email psnixon@uchc.edu to RSVP or for more information.

“Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program
Tuesdays, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Center
This program starts with an introductory session (call to schedule) followed by six weekly sessions that include a weigh-in, discussion of successes and challenges, and tip of the week. Registration fee is $70. Call 800-535-6232 for more information.

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, June 6, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Center, Dowling North Building
The UConn Health Center’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. This workshop is offered on the first Wednesday of the month. Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 for more information.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, June 7, 6 to 8:30 p.m., UConn Health Center, Conference Room EG013
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 860-679-4580 or www.uconnfertility.com.

Breast-feeding Class
Thursday, June 7, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Classes usually are held on the first Thursday of the month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

NBC Connecticut Jim Calhoun Cancer Challenge Ride and Walk
Saturday, June 9, 7 a.m. registration, Simsbury Performing Arts Center, 22 Iron Horse Blvd.
UConn men’s basketball coach Jim Calhoun’s annual bike and walk fundraiser benefits the UConn Health Center’s Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center and Coaches vs. Cancer. Bicycle rides of 10, 25, 50 and 75 miles are open to anyone over 14. The 5K walk is open to anyone. The day includes a cookout and live music. Volunteers and donations are welcome. Registration fee is $20 until April 15, $35 after April 15, and $45 at the door. See http://calhounride.uchc.edu for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, June 9, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Infant Care Class
Monday, June 11, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Center, Onyiuke Dining Room
Offered for expectant parents and caregivers, the discussion topics include appearance and behavior of the newborn, car seat and home safety issues, well child care and the importance of immunizations, choosing a pediatrician, and practice with diapering and bathing a newborn. Classes usually are held on the second Monday of every month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, June 16, 3:30 p.m., UConn Health Center, Main Lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Tuesday, June 19, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health Center, Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will offer self-help instruction and education on hairstyling and coping with hair loss, skin care, makeup and nail care. Wigs, turbans and scarves will also be discussed. Classes are offered monthly, generally on the third Tuesday, and are not limited to UConn Health Center patients. Registration is required: call 860-679-7820 with your name, program date, phone number, and skin color. Kits are available in Light, Medium, Dark and Extra Dark.

Directions to the UConn Health Center are available at www.uchc.edu/directions/index.html.

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Dr. Charles Friedman, University of Michigan's School of Information and Public Health, was the keynote speaker for the third Innovations in Education Symposium on April 24. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

To paraphrase Wayne Gretzky, medical education should “skate to where the puck will be in 2020.”  With these provocative opening comments by keynote speaker Dr. Charles Friedman, director of the Health Informatics Program at the University of Michigan’s School of Information and Public Health, the third Innovations in Education Symposium was launched on April 24. Friedman went on to discuss the informational future with the ever-expanding healthcare knowledge cloud as well as ubiquitous electronic health record systems and data, and the implications these trends will have for training the next generation of medical, dental and graduate students. They will need to successfully mine this massive and sometimes conflicting information cloud, recognizing what they know and don’t know, and appropriately phrasing questions to get to the right answers.

Karen Harrington, assistant professor, Community Medicine and Healthcare, won the award for Best Poster. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

Billed as “a forum for communication and sharing of innovative approaches to use of technology in education,” this year’s Innovations in Education symposium definitely lived up to expectations. From a stimulating overview of 3-D, gaming, interactive e-texts, and other upcoming educational technology by Khamis Abu-Hasaballah, assistant vice president, IT Research Informatics, to an entertaining presentation of a role-play lecture alternative, “Dental Drauma,” by Dr. David Newitter, associate professor, Reconstructive Services, the afternoon provided a lot of food for thought relative to imaginative new technology to support enhanced learning.

Winner of the award for Most Innovative, fourth-year medical student Dan Henderson regaled the crowd with his use of Prezi, the cloud-based zoomable presentation software, to tell the story of his successful use of mobile apps to improve patient safety. Using social media, he literally extended use of his patient safety checklist to medical students in schools all over the world. He left the group with a list of creative examples of other potential health care apps with far-reaching potential for positive patient safety impacts.

Dr. Angela Kueck, assistant professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology, won the Best Presentation award. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Center Photo)

Dr. Angela Kueck, assistant professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology, won the Best Presentation award for her presentation on a pilot program in OB/GYN incorporating simulation in surgical training. Noting that the trends to minimally invasive procedures and use of robotics for surgery have changed the more hands-on experiences previously available to medical students and residents, Kueck discussed the creative ways that gap can be filled with simulation technology and robotic device educational experiences.

A mid-afternoon break allowed participants to view digital posters set up in the Academic Lobby. Karen Harrington, assistant professor, Community Medicine and Healthcare, won the award for Best Poster with her thoughtful presentation of what student logs are telling us relative to the Student Continuity Practice (SCP) program. Information gained through the logs allows appropriate interventions and ongoing support to preceptors and students to ensure that curricular goals for SCP are being met.

This year’s symposium was in development for several months, supported by a committee of deans and faculty from the Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine and the Graduate School, and staff from Faculty Instructional Technology Services.

The success of this year’s event was summarized by Evelyn Morgen, library director, who noted, ”The speakers were all excellent and everyone I spoke with felt they learned new things and came away with exciting new ideas.”

For more information on this year’s program, visit http://fits.uchc.edu/symposium/index.html.

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Doctors replaced their white coats with tuxedos and elegant dresses on April 21, joining donors and Health Center supporters for the third annual White Coat Gala. Together, they raised a record-breaking $1 million to support the Health Center’s missions of education, research and clinical care.

In addition, the event honored the School of Medicine and Dental Medicine’s inaugural class of 1972, with a theme of “celebrating 40 years of education.”

“We are not just educating the next generation of scientists, scholars and leaders, we are changing lives through research, health care and community service,” said President Susan Herbst. “And thanks to Bioscience Connecticut, soon we will lend our expertise and resources to innovations that will no doubt change the way medicine is practiced around the world.“

In addition to Herbst, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and executive vice president for health affairs and dean of the UConn School of Medicine Dr. Frank Torti, spoke at the event.

Awardees of the annual Carole and Ray Neag Medal of Honor included:

• Dr. Peter J. Deckers, professor of surgery and dean emeritus, UConn School of Medicine
• Barbara E. Kream, professor of medicine and associate dean of the UConn Graduate School
• Dr. John W. Rowe, professor of health and policy management, Columbia University; retired chairman and CEO of Aetna; former chair of the UConn Board of Trustees

The 2012 White Coat Gala was sponsored by: title sponsors Richard and Jane Lublin, executive sponsors John and Valerie Rowe, lead corporate sponsor Aetna, as well as more than two dozen local and national friends of the Health Center.

“Private support is absolutely critical to sustaining the groundbreaking clinical research, education and patient care that takes place at the Health Center every single day,” said Herbst.

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