Graveley Appointed to NIH Advisory Panel

February 10, 2015

Congratulations to Brenton Graveley who has been invited to serve on the National Advisory Council for Human Genome Research for a four year term. Graveley, a professor of genetics and genome sciences, is a principal investigator of ENCODE (ENCyclopedia Of DNA Elements), a comprehensive catalog of function elements that control the expression of genetic information in a cell, in collaboration with scientists from other premier institutions nationwide. The prestigious appointment at NIH will better align UConn’s genomics efforts with the funding interests of the NIH and vice versa.

Goldberg’s Research Featured in Prestigious Material Sciences Journal

February 5, 2015

Congratulations to A. Jon Goldberg and Morteza Haeri with the Center for Biomaterials for their cover story in the current issue of Materials Today, a high impact journal in the material sciences field. The story “Mimicking Dentin Structure – Bio-inspired Scaffolds for Dental Tissue Engineering” describes the structure created in their lab to facilitate regeneration of tooth structure.

“At the Center for Biomaterials, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, we are involved in the development of innovative bio-inspired scaffolds for tooth regeneration,” states Goldberg in the article. “Dental caries (tooth decay) remains the most prevalent infectious disease and treatments using restorative dental materials suffer from problems including leakage at interfaces, deterioration, and recurrent lesions. Our ultimate clinical vision is to regenerate dentin in diseased or traumatized teeth in order to reduce or even eliminate the need for synthetic filling materials.”

The issue’s cover image shows a microtubular scaffold made from an acrylate copolymer, and was captured using a tabletop scanning electron microscope. The scaffold was made via the sacrificial fiber templating method by packing poly vinyl alcohol fibers inside a mold and polymerization of acrylate monomers around it. The fibers were subsequently washed away leaving the tubular structure behind. The cut on the right side of the image reveals the orientation of the tubules and their long aspect ratio.

Read the entire article.

UConn Health February Programs, Events

January 16, 2015

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for February and early March 2015. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 2/9)

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health, Dowling North Building
The UConn Health’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 to register or for more information.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, Feb. 5, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Science Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
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.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Feb. 7, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health 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, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 860-679-4410 or email hackett@uchc.edu for more information.

Free Discovery Series: “Understanding Heart Rhythm Disorders”
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium
Drs. Christopher Pickett and Heiko Schmitt from the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center present a free talk on what causes heart rhythm disorders, signs and symptoms of arrhythmias, and treatment devices such as pacemakers and implantable defibrillators. Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, Feb. 16, 8 to 9 a.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
A registered dietitian leads a discussion for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. This program now is scheduled to meet the third Monday of the month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

New “Living With Heart Disease” Support Group Starts
Monday, Feb. 16. 1 to 2:30 p.m., UConn Health, Cardiology Conference Room (2^nd floor)
This free six-week education based support group is for patients and family members interested in learning more about living with heart disease. Meeting Mondays through March 23, topics include “How My Heart Works,” “Proper Nutrition With Heart Disease,” “Living Fully With Your Heart Disease,” “The Emotions of Heart Disease,” “My Medications,” and “Exercise and Heart Disease.” One-time registration is required for all six sessions by Feb. 13. Call 860-679-3633 to register or for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Feb. 16, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, 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 patients. Registration is required: call 800-227-2345 with your name, program date, phone number, and skin color. Kits are available in Light, Medium, Dark and Extra Dark.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, Feb. 19, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Science Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
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.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m., Cell and Genome Science Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.

Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, Feb. 23, 5 p.m., UConn Health, Onyuike Dining Room
The UConn Health Human Subjects Protection Office offers an educational session about the rights and responsibilities of participants in research projects on the last Monday of the month. Registration is required: 860-679-8802 or cagganello@uchc.edu.

(added 2/9)
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Feb. 28, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., UConn Health, 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.

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, March 4, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
The UConn Health’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 to register or for more information.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, March 5, 6 to 8:30 p.m Cell and Genome Science Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
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.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, March 7, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health 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, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 860-679-4410 or email hackett@uchc.edu for more information.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, March 16, 8 to 9 a.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
A registered dietitian leads a discussion for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. This program now is scheduled to meet the third Monday of the month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, March 16, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, 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 patients. Registration is required: call 800-227-2345 with your name, program date, phone number, and skin color. Kits are available in Light, Medium, Dark and Extra Dark.

(date changed 1/22)
New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
~~Tuesday, March 10,~~
Tuesday, March 17, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health, Dowling North, 3rd floor
The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, April 21, that include a weigh-in, discussion of progress, and a timely nutrition topic such as eating out strategies, cooking light and right, emotional eating, exercise and activity, smart shopping, and summer holiday eating. Registration fee is $70, $50 for past participants. Call 800-535-6232 for more information.

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

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Anthony Vella Named Immunology Chair

January 15, 2015

Anthony Vella has been named chair of the Department of Immunology at UConn Health. (click photo for high-res)

Anthony Vella has been named chair of the Department of Immunology at the UConn School of Medicine. A professor of immunology, Vella is a national leader in innovative research centered on T cell biology. His work has examined how adjuvants and costimulation enhance or modulate immune responses. Using a wide spectrum of technologies these studies have helped define mechanisms that control CD4 and CD8 T cell activation, tolerance, cytokine production, cell differentiation and survival.

Vella is also closely involved in multiple collaborative research projects designed to uncover new ways to diagnose and treat inflammatory-based diseases, as well as developing cancer immunotherapies and conducting biodefense research. He holds several NIH grants, serves on national grant review panels, is a member of AAI and other professional societies, previously served as director of the Immunology Graduate Program at UConn Health, and has mentored a number of Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows.

In 1986 Vella received his B.A. in Biology from SUNY Buffalo State, and in 1989 an M.S. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, N.Y.). His doctoral thesis was completed in 1993 in the laboratory of Dr. Edward Pearce, Cornell University (Ithaca, N.Y.), and conducted postdoctoral training in the laboratory of Drs. Philippa Marrack and John Kappler at National Jewish Health (Denver, Col.). After joining the UConn School of Medicine he was promoted to full professor in 2013, and has served on a variety of university administrative and education-related committees.

Rheumatologists and Primary Care Physicians Join UConn Health

December 30, 2014

Rheumatologists Dr. Kristin Logee and Dr. Ranadeep Mandhadi are now part of UConn Health. They offer personalized care for patients with rheumatologic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, spondylitis, lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, myositis, vasculitis, gout and osteoarthritis.Both have expertise in the use of ultrasound for diagnosing and treating rheumatological conditions, including ultrasound-guided injections.

Dr. Logee, a Plainville resident, earned her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

She did her internal medicine residency and her fellowship in rheumatology at the UConn School of Medicine.

mandhadi_ranadeep — Dr. Ranadeep Mandhadi

Dr. Mandhadi, a New Britain resident, graduated from Osmania Medical College in India, did his internal medicine residency at Chicago Medical School, completed a special clerkship in sports medicine at Harvard Medical School, and was fellowship trained in rheumatology at the UConn School of Medicine.

Logee and Mandhadi are members of the American College of Rheumatology and see patients at UConn Health in Farmington.

Accomplished primary care providers Dr. Susan Levine and Dr. Lynn Yu recently joined UConn Health. Both Levine and Yu offer preventive care such as vaccines and physicals; help patients manage chronic conditions; and offer advice on nutrition and work/life balance.

Dr. Levine, a West Hartford resident, earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, performed her residency in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, and received a master’s degree in public health from the University of Connecticut. Levine’s special interests include medical ethics, end-of-life care, and global health. Levine sees patients at UConn Health in Farmington.

Dr. Yu, a Simsbury resident, graduated from Drexel University College of Medicine and performed her internal medicine residency at the UConn School of Medicine. Her special interests include the health benefits of nutrition and exercise. Yu sees patients at UConn Health’s Simsbury office.

Volunteers Donate to Cancer Center Snack Cart

December 19, 2014

From left, UConn Health volunteers Nanette Levin, Mary Anne Everett, Bill Katz, George Ziewacz, and Emily Chan.

UConn Health volunteers who work at the main information desk are doing something a little different this holiday. Instead of exchanging gifts with each other, the dozen or so volunteers decided to contribute that gift money to something benefitting the hospital. The group chose to help stock the snack cart used in the cancer center. The volunteers wheel the cart twice a day through the infusion room of the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center.

“We get more satisfaction out of this than the little gifts we give to each other,” says volunteer Bill Katz. “The cancer patients really light up when we bring the cart around. They really enjoy the extra attention and the volunteers feel good doing it.”

The donor-funded snack cart started making its rounds in September of this year. The volunteers’ generosity will mean more than three months-worth of snacks for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments.

“Patients can be here for four to eight hours a day, having the complimentary snack cart allows patients to receive snacks they might have not been able to get due to being connected to their IV the entire day,” explains Heather Jimenez, administrative program coordinator for the cancer center. “The patients enjoy the snack cart just as much as the volunteers enjoy administering the snacks. It’s a win-win for both parties involved. We try to make the patient’s experience during this difficult time a little better in any way we can.”

UConn Health Begins On Campus Ambulance Transportation

Introducing UConn Health Fire Department's new ambulance. — Introducing UConn Health Fire Department’s new ambulance.

Rear view of UConn Health's new ambulance. — Rear view of UConn Health’s new ambulance.

A bill recently passed by the Connecticut General Assembly allows UConn Health to respond to on campus medical emergencies; and gives paramedics the authority to transport patients to John Dempsey Hospital. Previously, a commercial ambulance company was called for emergency transportation. A UConn Health paramedic would board the ambulance to provide medical care en route to the hospital. “We are so grateful to the legislature for their support. Having the ability to transport patients using our own ambulance greatly enhances the level of care we can provide on the UConn Health campus,” says Carolle Andrews, Chief Administrative Officer.

Coinciding with the passage of the legislation, a new ambulance was purchased by the UConn Health Fire Department. The ambulance was recently added to the fleet of emergency vehicles, and showcases the new UConn Health brand. The Fire Department responds to approximately 200 on campus medical emergencies per year.

Buffalo Soldiers Support Sickle Cell Research

December 18, 2014

Seventeen members of the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of Hartford arrived at John Dempsey Hospital on December 16 to deliver a special gift. The Buffalo Soldiers presented their first check of many to come for $1,000 to support sickle cell anemia research. The club, which is affiliated with the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers/Troopers Motorcycle Club, has designated UConn Health as the club’s official recipient of charitable donations raised through rides, community events, and member contributions.

Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of Hartford presents a donation to sickle cell anemia research at UConn Health.

Sickle cell disease is an extraordinarily painful genetic blood disorder that affects blood circulation and commonly leads to death in childhood or by age 40. Patients need multidisciplinary care throughout their lives to treat complications from the disease and manage their pain. Most institutions provide only pediatric sickle cell treatment. Dr. Biree Andemariam, assistant professor of medicine at UConn Health, is among a small number of physician-scientists who specialize in adults. She leads the only comprehensive adult sickle cell program in northern Connecticut. The team-based approach includes doctors, nurses, social workers, and patient navigators working together. The Comprehensive Sickle Cell Clinical and Research Center attracts patients and families from across Connecticut and beyond.

On hand to thank the Buffalo Soldiers for their generosity and commitment were Andemariam, Dr. Pramod Srivastava, director of the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sanford Cloud, chairman of the UConn Health Board of Directors, as well as faculty and staff from UConn Health and the UConn Foundation.

Dozens of Toys Donated to NICU

December 17, 2014

Thanks to a toy drive organized by the Connecticut State Police, dozens of toys were donated to Connecticut Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at UConn Health Tuesday. Nearly two dozen babies are currently being treated in the NICU and this donation will greatly help the parents who may not have the time or money to buy gifts for young family members.

“These parents have babies that are critically ill so they are spending most of their free time here with their babies so that doesn’t leave much time for shopping,” explains Deborah Feigenbaum, NICU social worker. “So they’re able to do some Christmas shopping here for the children who are important in their lives, helping to alleviate some stress.”

Feigenbaum went on to say, “It’s an unexpected surprise when they walk in and see the generosity of what the troopers have brought to us. And an additional benefit is it makes our staff feel really good!”

Shortly after the toy delivery, Marie Bagdis of Burlington was delighted and grateful to be able to pick out a couple of gifts for her son Dominic. He was born 8 weeks early and is now 35 weeks old.

Connecticut State Police deliver dozens of toys to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Marie Bagdis of Burlington chooses a gift for her son Dominic.

Doctors Lahey and Metersky Receive 2014 Garibaldi Award

December 11, 2014

There are two recipients this year for the annual Richard A. Garibaldi, M.D. Award – Dr. Stephen Lahey and Dr. Mark Metersky. The award is given to those who exemplify dedication to excellence in all facets of clinical care and their commitment to collaboration across disciplines – characteristics that came naturally to the late Garibaldi. The nominations came from clinicians, nurses and other professional staff who work closely with the doctors.

Dr. Stephen Lahey Nomination Letter: In recognition of the efforts put forth as a surgical physician advisor for John Dempsey Hospital length of stay initiatives as well as the patient throughput process. The initiative began in March 2014 and since then Dr. Stephen Lahey has been unwavering in his support of the care coordination staff and his physician colleagues. Leading and intervening as needed and in showing dedication and true collaborative spirit, Dr. Lahey has assisted in taking this initiative forward to become a very successful process to improve patient care. Professional and diplomatic, Dr. Lahey has grasped the meaning of a true physician advisor. Dr. Lahey’s clinical expertise in the area of surgery provides guidance to the care team. He has made significant contributions to not only John Dempsey Hospital through his knowledge base of CMS, coding and compliance and quality but representing UConn Health as a nationally recognized leader and expert in clinical care and coding and reimbursement.

Dr. Mark Metersky Nomination Letter: Mark Metersky has been the lead physician advisor for the Care Coordination Department and UConn Health for many years. Currently, he chairs the Utilization Review Committee and leads the group monthly in reviewing all areas of compliance as it relates to billing, coding, status assignment and outlier status and assuring that the implementation of the Two Midnight Rule went smoothly. In addition, Dr. Metersky monitors our PEPPER reports and assures that we are in a steady state of compliance. John Dempsey Hospital recognizes him for his efforts as the Medical Physician Advisor for our length of stay initiative which began in March 2014 as well as our overall patient throughput improvement process. He is a dedicated leader for the case managers and social workers and he is always responsive and collaborative for the staff and his colleagues. Dr. Metersky has made significant contributions to John Dempsey Hospital and brings his clinical expertise as a pulmonologist to provide guidance to the Care Coordination Department and the entire care team.