Vol. 30, No. 10
May 17, 2013
Col. Steven P. Middlecamp Takes Command of USAG Fort Detrick NICK MINECCI
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Col. Steven P. Middlecamp became the 40th United States Army Garrison Fort Detrick commander May 15 during a ceremony in front of Building 810, succeeding Col. Allan J. Darden Sr. as the Garrison commander. Middlecamp assumes command following an eight-month assignment as the Northern Regional Medical Command Patient Administration Consultant, Fort Belvoir, Va. Speaking at the ceremony, Middlecamp said that while at the moment assuming command seems like a monumental task, he looks forward to working with the Fort Detrick staff, mission partners and officials from the city and county of Frederick. See COMMAND, continued on page 8
Col. Steven P. Middlecamp, the 40th U.S. Army Garrison Fort Detrick commander (center), stands at attention during the Change of Command ceremony, May 15, in front of building 810.
Col. Allan J. Darden Sr., former U.S. Army Garrison Fort Detrick commander, Davis D. Tindoll Jr., director, Atlantic Region, Installation Management Command, and new USAG Fort Detrick commander Col. Steven P. Middlecamp, salute the flag during the National Anthem, May 15, during the USAG Fort Detrick Change of Command ceremony.
What’s Inside
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Col. Steven P. Middlecamp, accepts the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Detrick colors from Davis D. Tindoll Jr., director, Atlantic Region, Installation Management Command, during the USAG Change of Command ceremony, May 15. Middlecamp is the 40th Garrison Commander, succeeding Col. Allan J. Darden Sr. Photos by Larry Ketron
USAMRICD Hosts Visitors from USUHS, p.3
Algorithm Gauges When Patients Are in Danger, p.6
Volunteers Recognized for Outstanding Work, p. 8
Commentary:
Making Women’s Health a Priority SHANNON BISHOP USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
National Women’s Health week, which kicked off on Mother’s Day, May 12, and extends through May 18, is an excellent opportunity for women everywhere to take the time to be intentional about the health choices they make on a daily basis. Women that are busy juggling jobs and families need to remember to take the steps necessary to maintain their physical and mental health. During this week-long observance, women can start taking the steps necessary to lead a healthier life
by planning healthy meals, taking a walk, visiting a health care professional for preventative screenings and avoiding unhealthy behaviors such as smoking or not wearing a seatbelt, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Earlier this month, President Barack Obama made a proclamation, stating: “Since our Nation’s founding, women have given their all to expanding opportunity for their families and for future generations. Decade after decade, that fierce dedication has been rewarded with remarkable progress in nearly every part of society; yet all too often, advances in women’s health and well-being have lagged behind. During National Women’s
Upcoming Events Do you ever feel like you’re the last one to know when special lunches, community events, training opportunities and other fun activities are happening on Fort Detrick? Be in the know with everything happening on a daily basis by visiting the “announcements” tab on the Fort Detrick home page www. detrick.army.mil. Conveniently located on the front page, it is your way to stay up to date and never miss an event or opportunity again! Simply click on the topic you would like more information on, and the details will be displayed. If you have an announcement or event that you would like highlighted on the announcements tab, send your request to usarmy.detrick. usag.mbx.pao@mail.mil with complete information, and your event can be featured for all to see!
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The STANDARD is an authorized unofficial newspaper, published every two weeks under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the military and civilians at Fort Detrick. Circulation is 7,000. The STANDARD is a commercial enterprise newspaper printed by Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md., 20877, a private firm, in no way connected with the United States Government or Department of Defense. The contents of the STANDARD do not necessarily reflect the official views or endorsement of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Army. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, do not constitute endorse-
Health Week, we recommit to changing that reality and increasing access to health services that help women and girls get the care they need.” Each and every person plays an important role in promoting women’s health. The DHHS explains that women, as caregivers of their families, put the needs of their spouses, children, partners, and parents before their own. Women often times put their health and well-being as a secondary part of their lives. “As a community, we have a responsibility to support the important women we know and do everything we can to help them take steps for longer, healthier, happier lives,” according the DHHS.
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Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
Command Staff
ment of DoD. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without Brig. Gen. (P) Joseph Caravalho Jr. regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, Commanding general, U.S. Army Medical Remarital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any search and Materiel Command other nonmerit characteristic of the purchaser, user or patron. and Fort Detrick Editorial content is prepared and edited by the Fort Detrick Public Affairs Office, 810 Schreider Street, Fort Detrick, Md. Col. Steven P. Middlecamp 21702-5000. Editorial Offices are in Bldg. 810, Suite 004, U.S. Army Garrison commander telephone 301-619-2018; e-mail: usarmy.detrick.usag.mbx. pao@mail.mil.
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Editorial Staff USAG PAO Staff
Fort Detrick and Forest Glen Annex Restoration Advisory Board Updates NICK MINECCI
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
The Forest Glen Annex Restoration Advisory Board gathered for their quarterly meeting May 2, at the Gwendolyn Coffield Community Center, Silver Spring, Md., to update the RAB members and community members attending the meeting about the ongoing FGA environmental restoration program. Topics covered during the meeting included the presentation of Remedial Investigation characterization results for site FTGL03, Commissary Landfill, and site FTGL-04, Building 511 Landfill. Mike Ervine, AECOM Project Manager, presented AECOM’s 2012 findings on contaminants in two landfill sites underneath the Forest Glen Annex during the meeting. He also said there are no drinking water wells within a half mile of the assessed sites. AECOM is a contractor hired by the Army to conduct assessments of possible contaminants at the FGA. During his presentation, Ervine presented results from tests conducted on the landfill under the commissary and underneath the National Museum of Health and Medicine, called “Site 3” by the testers. Site 3 is mostly covered by pavement and buildings, according to Ervine.
Site 4 is under the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and is also is covered by pavement and buildings. The Fort Detrick RAB met May 8, at the Hampton Inn and Suites, Frederick, Md., with John Cherry, a project manager for Arcadis, providing the RAB members and community members in attendance with an update on investigation of groundwater contamination. Arcadis is a company hired by the Army to investigate the groundwater contamination. During his presentation Cherry said Arcadis is adding two deep wells on Area B, as well as two others east of Carroll Creek, this summer. There are also plans to add 10 shallow wells south of Area B, along Shookstown Road, with four more well locations planned south of Carroll Creek, according to Cherry. Cherry also briefed the community about a planned groundwater tracer study Arcadis is preparing. He explained that a nontoxic tracer will be introduced to two wells on Area B for monitoring, so the scientists can see where the tracer travels, to determine if there are other points of discharge beyond what Arcadis has already confirmed. The next RAB meetings for Forest Glen Annex and Fort Detrick will be held in August 2013.
Fort Detrick Among Army Communities Recognized for Excellence LANESSA HILL
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Department of the Army Headquarters named the winners of the Army Communities of Excellence awards in a March 13 message from the office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management. Winners this year include U.S. Army Garrison Fort Rucker, as a first time Gold Medal winner. USAG Japan and Joint Base Lewis-McChord have been selected as Silver Medal winners. Bronze medal winners for 2013 include USAG Fort Campbell, USAG Fort Drum and USAG Fort AP Hill. Four additional garrisons have been chosen to receive special recognition for their performance as most improved: USAG Detroit Arsenal, USAG Fort Detrick, USAG Fort Greely and USAG Fort Buchanan. The Army has recognized Fort Detrick employees for their remarkable dedication and unwavering support to the Fort Detrick community, former Garrison commander, Col. Allan J. Darden Sr., said in an email. The ACOE program is based on the principle that communities support people best by combining excellent services with excellent facilities in a quality environment. The Army community is the backbone
of Army readiness; our forces train at, deploy from, are sustained by and return to-the community. Soldiers who are convinced that their leaders care about them and their families perform their mission with more confidence. ACOE Awards, which have been presented since 1989, are given annually to the Army installations scoring highest in the Army Communities of Excellence competition. By using criteria established for the Malcom Baldrige National Quality Award as a framework for performance assessment, the ACOE program helps participating Army installations/communities focus on providing excellence in facilities and services in support of Soldiers, their Families, and Civilians. Baldrige-based performance assessments provide opportunities to identify best practices in installation management and reveal potential opportunities to apply appropriate performance improvement tools. On May 8, 2013, Mr. Davis D. Tindoll Jr., Director, United States Army Installation Management Command, Atlantic Region, formally recognized Fort Detrick for their work and acknowledged the dedication among our Soldiers, their Families and our Civilians.
USAMRICD Hosts Visitors from USUHS
Richard Sweeney (far right) discusses a stereoscopic visualization of the oxime HI-6 reactivating the enzyme acetylcholinesterase inhibited by the nerve agent VX. The glasses being worn allow the viewer to see the visualization in 3-D. From left to right, foreground: Dr. Charles L. Rice, retired Col. Robert J. Thompson, and Dr. Ada Sue Hinshaw. Back row: Lt. Col. David Sartori, Col. Bruce Schoneboom, and Dr. Tamara Otto. Photo by Darrell Jesonis, USAMRICD CINDY KRONMAN USAMRICD
The U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., hosted a visit from Charles L. Rice, M.D., president of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences April 15. Rice was accompanied by his chief of staff, retired Col. Robert J. Thompson, and Dr. Ada Sue Hinshaw, dean of the USUHS Graduate School of Nursing. Col. Bruce Schoneboom, USAMRICD commander, invited Rice and his staff to the institute, and to APG South, to explore ways of increasing collaboration and sharing of information. “The visit from Dr. Rice, Col. Thompson and Dr. Hinshaw is a great opportunity to talk about ways to synergize the research across our two agencies,” said Schoneboom. Schoneboom presented the guests with an overview of the institute’s mission, capabilities, and research programs before accompanying them on a tour of several laboratories. The tour focused on two particular programs - bioscavengers and reactivators to develop medical countermeasures to reduce or eliminate the toxic effects of nerve agent exposure. Dr. Tamara Otto of the Analytical Toxicology Division provided an overview of the bioscavenger program, the main objective of which is to engineer enzymes or other moieties to bind and detoxify organophosphorus compounds, for example, chemical warfare nerve agents, as they enter and distribute through the circulatory system.
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Otto described the protective efficacy of the original stoichiometric bioscavenger human butyrylcholinesterase and explained more recent efforts focused on identifying catalytic bioscavengers, which unlike their predecessors can continue to bind to and hydrolyze nerve agent molecules, thereby rapidly destroying the organophosphorus compounds. She described how variants of paraoxonase-1 and organophosphorus hydrolase are being investigated as candidate catalytic scavengers. Donald Maxwell and Richard Sweeney of the USAMRICD Research Division briefed the visitors on the reactivator program, using a 3-D stereoscopic visualization of a one-nanosecond molecular dynamics simulation, which was calculated on the Department of Defense high performance supercomputer cluster located at the Army Research Laboratory. The calculations simulated a molecule of the oxime HI-6 reactivating a molecule of VX-inhibited acetylcholinesterase. Additionally, the guests received a briefing on emerging threats and countermeasures, and they toured the USAMRICD replacement facility being constructed adjacent to the institute’s current campus. After the briefings and tours at the USAMRICD, Rice and his staff continued their visit to APG South with stops at the Public Health Command, 20th Support Command, and Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense. Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
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Dawn Rosarius Assumes Role of MEDCOM ACMA JEFFREY SOARES
USAMRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Dawn L. Rosarius, Civilian Deputy, Principal Assistant for Acquisition for the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, Fort Detrick, Md., received her official charter as the new Acquisition Career Management Advocate for the U.S. Army Medical Command May 1. Having joined the USAMRMC in 1993 in a contractor support role, Rosarius became a Civilian staff member in 1998 when she began work for the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Agency. In 2008, she accepted the position of director of the Plans, Programs, Analysis & Evaluation Directorate at USAMRMC headquarters. As the sole ACMA for the MEDCOM, Rosarius has quite a task ahead of her. “My role as the ACMA is to ensure that the MEDCOM personnel receive their certification within their two-year period, and then sustain that certification with CLPs [Continuous Learning Points],” said Rosarius. “Along with Ash Ficklin and Chris Houck, together we track all acquisition personnel throughout the MEDCOM to keep them, and
their supervisors, up-to-date with the requirements necessary to obtain and sustain certification.” Many throughout the MEDCOM will benefit from Rosarius’ new role, as she along with Ficklin and Houck monitor the certification files of every employee assigned to an acquisition position in the various acquisition fields. However, this new responsibility will add quite a bit of work to the already full plate Rosarius maintains. “Actually, I think this could be a full-time job initially, because there are many things we must do at this point to make sure everyone is current in their certifications,” she said. “I would say that about 10 percent of my daily work will involve the ACMA function.” Rosarius also said that selecting the new ACMA from the USAMRMC was intentional, as the USAMRMC’s commanding general, Brig. Gen. (P) Joseph Caravalho Jr., serves also as the Deputy for Medical Systems to the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology. Keeping the two roles in close proximity under the roof of USAMRMC headquarters is both practical and advantageous, and should provide much clout for ensuring
that all employees maintain their necessary certifications and do not fall delinquent. Although USAMRMC ‘s acquisition workforce is a major focus of the ACMA’s efforts , many other offices throughout the MEDCOM employ men and women that conduct acquisition functions on a daily basis. Among these are program management, contracting, information technology, purchasing, science and technology, production quality management, and life cycle logistics. Clearly, the acquisition process touches practically every functional area throughout the MEDCOM. As the new ACMA and deputy PAA, Rosarius looks forward to the days ahead with much enthusiasm. “I’m very excited about working in the PAA office and learning much from Dr. [Kenneth] Bertram [Principal Assistant for Acquisition], gaining insight from others on the team as well as the PMs [product managers],” she said. “I used to work in a type of PM role at USAMMA, so I am excited about getting back to the ‘roots’ and working with some of our new devices that can help our warfighters.”
Tom Evans from the U.S. Army Acquisition Support Center presents Dawn L. Rosarius, Civilian Deputy, Principal Assistant for Acquisition, USAMRMC, with her official charter as the new Acquisition Career Management Advocate for the U.S. Army Medical Command May 1. Photo courtesy of USAMRMC
‘Bad Day at Work’ Just Another Day for Marine STEVEN GALVAN
USAISR PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
The scars are a testament to what he calls “a bad day at work.” A 2006 improvised explosive device attack on the Light Armored Vehicle he was riding in while deployed to Iraq burned 40 percent of his body and shattered his left ankle. Although the explosion knocked him down and changed his life, it didn’t change his outlook on life, and it certainly didn’t keep him down. “I knew from day one that I was going to get through this,” said Marine Corps Master Sgt. Blaine L. Scott. The 20-year veteran “Devil Dog” recalls the 18 months he spent at the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research Burn Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas. He spent three months as an inpatient at the center where, as soon as he was able to, he began a rehabilitation program that consisted of countless hours in the rehabilitation gym. “They [physical therapists] would tell me to do 10 and I’d do 20. They’d tell me to go 100 meters and I would go 200,” said Scott. It was that determination that got him promoted to Gunnery Sgt. in 2009 and back in the fight to support the overseas contingency operations in Afghanistan in 2010. Nowadays Scott spends his time as the Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge at the San Antonio Military Medical Center Marine Corps Detachment assisting wounded Marines during their hospitalization and rehabilitation at the Burn Center and SAMMC.
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“We oversee the non-medical side of the Marine’s stay here,” he said. “From admin [leave, pay, accountability, etc.] to assisting their families and making sure they have everything they need during their stay here.” Mentoring and leading Marines in battle as an infantryman is what Scott was trained for and did for many years. But now, instead of being a platoon sergeant overseeing 40-plus Marines in a LAV reconnaissance unit, he is ensuring that wounded Marines have the best healing environment possible and that their personal and professional issues are taken care of. “I feel I owe it to them,” said Scott. “I know exactly what they are going through. When they first get here their future is uncertain. They don’t know what’s going to happen to them. We help teach them how to survive their new life. And that’s exactly what it is [a new life]. Their lives will never be the same no matter what type of injury it is-from a minor or major burn to an amputation. It’s a new life for them. I’ve been there-my life has never been the same.” “As a combat-wounded Marine and former patient, Master Sgt. Scott is an extremely valuable asset to motivating wounded, ill and injured Marines to return to full duty or to reintegrate into their civilian communities,” said Lt. Col. Richard Riley, Marine Detachment Officer in Charge. “He understands the intricacies and healing process for Marine patients and their families. He is also knowledgeable of the resources available to Marines during their rehabilitation process and knows how to synchronize those resources on behalf of Marines to
Marine Corps Master Sgt. Blaine L. Scott maintains a very positive outlook these days, despite being severely injured in 2006 by an improvised explosive device attack on his Light Armored Vehicle during a deployment to Iraq. Photo by USAISR public affairs help them focus and remain motivated to reach their goals.” Scott was able to reach his goal of getting through his injuries and staying active duty, but he had some help along the way-his wife and kids. “If it weren’t for them, I probably wouldn’t be here,” he said. Not only did Scott spend countless hours in the gym rehabilitating, but he also had a routine at home of taking care of a newborn and his wife. “My son was born a few days after I was discharged from the hospital,” Scott said. “Believe it or not, taking care of a newborn is a lot of physical therapy.” Scott said that even though taking care of a newborn was challenging, he didn’t mind since his
wife had just had a cesarean section and especially since she was the main reason for his recovery. “She’d push me around on a wheelchair to my appointments and hit me in the back of the head when I needed it,” he said. “She kept me going and kept me strong. She’s a strong lady.” The support from his family and the Marine Detachment while he was a patient was key during his recovery phase and returning to work. Since being released from the Burn Center, Scott transferred to California to the 1st Marine Division (Division Schools) and 1st Marine Expeditionary Force with an eight-month deployment to Afghanistan. After returning to California from the deployment and up for orders, Scott was given the
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
choice of transferring to Washington, D.C., Hawaii, or San Antonio. “I picked San Antonio because I knew this was a good place for me to come and give back to what was given to me when I was here,” he said. “I just want the wounded Marines to know that they’ll be fine. I’ve been there. My life has never been the same and it wasn’t easy, but I made it through and they can do the same.” Being able to give back to the wounded Marines and their families is not only what Scott is doing, but also his wife Lilly. “It’s unbelievable what she does for the wives,” he said. “The wives are forgotten about a lot, and they are going through as much as the Marines. It takes a strong woman to get through something like this and they do a phenomenal job. I’m proud of all of them and I let them know.” Scott will be leaving the activeduty ranks and retiring in 2014. At this point he doesn’t have any plans for a new job, but he knows that the family will settle in the area and doesn’t have any regrets. “Do I have a good life? Of course I do. I enjoy what I do and where I’ve been. I would never trade it for anything,” said Scott. “Even the day I got injured.” The most important thing that he wants everyone to know is that he does not want anyone to feel sorry for him. “I had a bad day. I choose to be here and I choose to do this. I’d do it all over again. It’s what I do. So even though you’re injured or having a bad day, don’t let it keep you down. You gotta live life to the fullest.”
Miracle Workers in Modern Medicine: DoD Funds Life-Saving Regenerative Medicine Capabilities for Soldiers and Civilians
CHELSEA BAUCKMAN
USAMRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Carmen Blandin Tarleton revealed her face to the world on May 1. However, this was not the face that Blandin Tarlton was born with, nor was it the face that she saw each day when she looked into the mirror growing up. This was a new face; a face that brought an end to more than six years of pain and discomfort. On June 10, 2007, Blandin Tarlton’s estranged husband broke into her home in rural Vermont, beat her with a baseball bat, and doused her with industrial-strength lye. She was severely burned over more than 80 percent of her body; the worst burns were to her face and neck. Her doctor described it as one of the worst injuries he had seen in his entire career. But her story is not an unhappy one. It is a story about fortitude, perseverance, and the possibilities that modern medicine hold for those who need it most. Following the assault, she spent the next six years in the care of the doctors at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston with support from the Department of Defense and the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command’s Biomedical Translation Initiative, managed by the Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Management Team. Her primary physician was Dr. Bohdan Pomahac, and it was in his care that Blandin Tarlton underwent more than 50 surgeries in an attempt to repair the damage she sustained in the attack. Yet, despite the best efforts of her doctors, she was left severely disfigured and legally blind, the scar tissue in her neck making it painful and difficult to move. Then, in December of 2011,
Blandin Tarlton was approved for a face transplant, and a new chapter of her story began. BWH and the New England Organ Bank began searching for a donor and earlier this year, despite several obstacles including a decreased immune system from her years of operations, skin grafts, and blood transfusions, they found a match. It took a team of extremely talented medical professionals to begin the process of a facial transplant - a task that required more than 30 surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses who worked for more than 17 hours to replace her nerves, tendons, muscles, and skin. At the press conference on May 1, the donor’s daughter, Marinda Righter, praised those responsible for the transplant as “miracle workers.” She expressed the happiness that she feels when she looks at Blandin Tarlton and sees her mother’s freckles, and the overwhelming joy to see her mother give back even after her death. Erin McDonough, senior vice president of communications and public affairs at BWH, acknowledged “the Department of Defense for funding this incredible work.” “The U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command’s regenerative and restorative medicine research efforts bring together the world’s leading scientists and physicians from academia and industry to develop innovative medical solutions to fully restore our Warriors and civilians from traumatic injuries,” said Col. John Scherer, director of the Clinical and Rehabilitative Medicine Research Program at USAMRMC. “Since 2009, the DoD’s Biomedical Translational Initiative has funded almost $4 million in face transplant research, focusing on medical research to repair injuries suffered
Members of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital plastic surgery transplantation team at work during the 17-hour transplant procedure. This is the hospital’s fifth face transplant procedure. Photo Courtesy of: Brigham and Women’s, Hospital Photo by: Lightchaser Photography.
following severe facial trauma.” Within the USAMRMC, the CRMRP and the Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Management Team are involved in the BTI effort and other composite tissue allotransplantation studies (hand and face transplants). CRMRP conducts portfolio planning and aligns resources to support the research necessary to fully reset traumatically wounded service members. The BTI contracts are managed by the Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Management Team within the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity, providing technical and regulatory oversight. Pomahac also thanked the DoD for continued support in their program, stating that they could not have accomplished this amazing act without the help of the DoD. Their support funding covers ap-
proximately 40 percent of the costs of care for patients before and after the transplant surgery, and supports some of the systems needed to conduct the clinical trial. The DoD has played a major role in several other high-profile complex tissue replacements. Earlier this year, the Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Management Team assisted with a double arm transplant for a wounded warrior at Johns Hopkins University Hospital. The surgery, which took 13 hours and involved 16 orthopaedic and microvascular surgeons, was the first transplant of this kind performed at Johns Hopkins. The Defense Department launched the Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Management Team in 2008 to advance research to treat wounded warriors suffering traumatic injuries, said Scherer. The Regenerative
and Restorative Medicine Management Team is managed and funded through the USAMRMC, with additional funding from the U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Research; the U.S. Air Force Surgeon General’s Office; the DoD Office of Health Affairs; National Institutes of Health; and the Department of Veterans Affairs. “Transplants, such as the procedure performed at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, offer the hope of improved function and the promise of a better quality of life for our injured service members,” added Scherer. For additional information about tissue, eye, and organ donation, visit https://www.donatelife. net. To learn more about the USAMRMC, Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Management Team, and the BTI effort, visit https://mrmc.amedd.army.mil/.
This series of photos, provided by Brigham and Womens Hospital depicts Carmen Blandin Tarlton prior to the assault that left her severely disfigured (left), in the midst of treatment for her injuries (middle), and finally following a facial transplant in February 2013 (right). Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
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MRICD’s Semi-Annual Review Algorithm Gauges When Spotlights Research Accomplishments Patients are in Danger MRICD PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Much like a fuel gauge in a motor vehicle, the gauge of the Compensatory Reserve Index begins to show a loss in “fuel” well in advance of changes in blood oxygen or heart rate measured by the pulse oximeter. Photo courtesy of USAISR public affairs STEVEN GALVAN
USAISR PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
Researchers at the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research at Joint Base San AntonioFort Sam Houston, Texas, are improving medical monitors that have been used in clinics and hospitals since the early 1970s to assist physicians and medical staff in assessing a patient’s condition. The Compensatory Reserve Index, or CRI, is a new algorithm that utilizes the information obtained from a standard pulse oximeter and gauges whether a patient requires resuscitation or immediate medical attention. “This [CRI] can evaluate information from waveforms generated by taking a standard pulse oximeter, which is a non-invasive medical device routinely placed on a finger or ear and measures levels of blood oxygen saturation and heart rate,” said Victor A. Convertino, Ph.D., Tactical Combat Casualty Care Research Task Area program manager at the USAISR. “The algorithm provides a decision support system that could help a young medic who doesn’t have much experience in pre-hospital care make lifesaving decisions.” The standard measurements displayed by a pulse oximeter cannot detect whether a patient is in danger of crashing [going into shock] like the CRI. The CRI has a gauge much like a fuel gauge in a motor vehicle to indicate when fuel is running low. The CRI gauge begins to show a loss in “fuel” well in advance of changes in blood oxygen or heart rate measured by the pulse oximeter. According to Convertino, when a person is injured and bleeding internally, the body compensates by increasing heart rate and
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Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
constricting blood vessels responses that elevate blood pressure. This compensation creates a patient with vital signs and cognition that appear normal to the attending clinician. The CRI will show that the patient is in danger whereas the pulse oximeter alone does not. “A person can be bleeding out internally and seem normal until the body can no longer compensate and ‘crash’ [go into shock] in a matter of seconds,” said Convertino. Convertino and his team have conducted experiments on more than 230 participants using a lower negative blood pressure machine as a model of hemorrhage to collect the data that has been downloaded onto the algorithm. “The physiology of using the LNBP machine looks the same as if someone were bleeding out,” he said. “It’s a way of ‘bleeding’ someone without taking a drop of blood.” The CRI now requires U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval. “We have developed a protocol to conduct clinical trials,” said Convertino. “We’re pretty confident that the CRI will receive FDA clearance within the next year.” The CRI was developed in part under an award by the Small Business Technology Transfer program, and is currently undergoing further research and development under an award from the Small Business Innovation Research program. The SBIR program is designed to stimulate technological innovation, increase small business participation in federally funded R&D, foster participation by minority and disadvantaged firms in technological innovation, and increase private sector commercialization of federal R&D. To learn more, visit www.acq.osd.mil/ osbp/sbir and www.dodsbir.net.
In early April, the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., conducted the Commander’s Semi-Annual Review, a twoday event in which the institute’s lead scientific program advisors provided updates on product development and exciting new research to its stakeholders and partners in the chemical defense research program. This year’s review was attended by 65 external stakeholders representing 23 federal and private organizations. Among the organizations represented were the Joint Program Executive Office, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Homeland Security, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, the Army Public Health Command, and the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, USAMRICD’s headquarters. In the Analytics Research Program Area, Dr. Benedict Capacio highlighted progress on the development of a new field kit for urine and environmental water sampling for the detection of chemical warfare agents, and on the use of biomarkers to verify human exposure to these agents as well as to vesicant agents. Capacio also provided an update on the establishment of a new Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination, and Toxicity Center of Excellence, which will serve the Chemical and Biological Defense Program and the ChemBio Defense Enterprise. A team of scientists, led by Dr. Albert Ruff, provided an overview of research and development efforts in the Toxicants Research Program Area. Ruff’s briefing focused on progress in the development of medical countermeasures for sulfur mustard and toxic industrial chemicals, such as chloropicrin and hydrogen fluoride, to include the identification of potential new therapeutic targets for treatment of injury to the eyes and skin following exposure. Efforts to combat the effects to the lungs and respiratory track of inhalation exposure to sulfur mustard, phosgene, and phosphine were described by Dr. Dorian Olivera. In particular, his briefing discussed collaborative work conducted with investigators at the University of Colorado at Denver, showing that tissue plasminogen activator has significant promise as a therapeutic for the treatment of inhalation sulfur mustard exposure and that systems biology approaches have iden-
tified potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of phosgene exposure. Dr. Gary Rockwood presented progress on the development of medical countermeasures for cyanide poisoning. In collaboration with researchers at the University of California, San Diego, and the University of California, Irvine, several potential countermeasures are in development, including dimethyl trisulfide, cobinamide, and sulfanegen. Dr. Michael Adler presented exciting data showing that insulin-like growth factor 1 is effective in treating the muscle atrophy caused by poisoning with botutinum neurotoxin. Several research projects in the Nerve Agent Countermeasures Program Area were discussed by Dr. John McDonough. The focus of these projects is to identify and evaluate therapeutic compounds that can be given before and/or after nerve agent exposure to improve survival, reduce morbidity, and enhance post-exposure neurological function. A research team at USAMRICD has demonstrated the effectiveness of scopolamine, an anti-cholinergic drug that crosses into the brain, as an adjunct to the standard medical countermeasures contained in the currently fielded autoinjectors. In addition, research into drugs that more effectively reactivate acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme inhibited by nerve agents, leading to seizures and death, is showing tremendous promise. The highlight of the Agent Mitigation Research Program is the development of bioscavengers, protein-based compounds that detoxify nerve agents as they enter the bloodstream. Dr. Douglas Cerasoli presented data on a collaborative project with researchers at the Weizmann Institute in Israel; these data illustrated the progress that has been made in the development of a catalytic bioscavenger, which are enzymes that have been engineered to rapidly break down nerve agents in circulation after exposure. Progress in this area is significant because catalytic bioscavengers can continuously destroy the nerve agent, thereby requiring less enzyme than the initial bioscavengers developed. The USAMRICD is transforming to respond to future requirements by developing research teams comprised of USAMRICD scientists and eminent researchers from academia, industry and other government laboratories to develop medical chemical defense solutions for the warfighter and civilian populations at risk.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness
Sixteen riders took part in a group ride as part of the Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day held on May 1 on Fort Detrick. Vendors and motorcycle demonstrations were also part of this event to help educate and keep our riders safe. Photo by USAG VI
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
USAMRMC Meets with Royal Thai Army Delegation USAMRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS Brig. Gen. (P) Joseph Caravalho Jr., U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick (Md.) commanding general, met with Lt. Gen. Phanuvich Pumhirun, M.D., Surgeon General of the Royal
HIV Researcher Earns Hero of Military Medicine Award
Thai Army and Medical Field Service School commanding general, along with a delegation of Royal Thai Army leadership officials at USAMRMC Headquarters May 14. Following the meeting, Caravalho and Pumhirun exchanged small symbols of friendship between the two countries.
Col. Nelson Michael, director of U.S. Military HIV Research Program at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, received the Hero of Military Medicine Award for his excellence as an HIV researcher and leader in global health. Photo courtesy of WRAIR WRAIR PUBLIC AFFAIRS Col. Nelson Michael, director of U.S. Military HIV Research Program at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research in Silver Spring, Md., received the Hero of Military Medicine Award for the U.S. Army for his excellence as an HIV researcher and leader in global health. Dr. Michael’s career has focused on developing an effective HIV vaccine to protect U.S. and Allied Armed Services and reduce the global impact of the disease. MHRP’s international research program has six clinical research sites in the U.S., Africa and Asia, where it conducts HIV cohort studies, HIV vaccine trials and therapeutic studies. Dr. Michael guided MHRP through the
Left to right: Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Stuart, USAMRMC command sergeant major; Brig. Gen. (P) Joseph Caravalho Jr., USAMRMC and Fort Detrick commanding general; Lt. Gen. Phanuvich Pumhirun, M.D., Surgeon General of the Royal Thai Army and Medical Field Service School commanding general. Photo by Jeffrey Soares, USAMRMC public affairs
MRMC Team Building
USAMRMC Strategic Partnership Office took team building to a whole new level, participating as an office in the 2013 Color Run 5K in Baltimore, Md., on Saturday, May 11.
completion of the RV144 HIV vaccine study in Thailand, which provided the first demonstration that a preventive HIV vaccine was possible. A colonel in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, Dr. Michael began his Army service in 1989 at WRAIR, and he became director in 2006. He serves on President Obama’s Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues, is a Professor of Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and is a Diplomat, the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Michael currently serves on several advisory groups for the National Institutes of Health, the Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator, and the Global HIV AIDS Vaccine Enterprise. He has co-authored more than 200 papers in peer-reviewed scientific literature.
Captain Phillip Stokes Honored by Department of Defense
Maryland Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency, announced that Phillip Stokes, Captain Fort Detrick Police Department, was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee serving in the Maryland Guard and Reserve. According to Mr. Ron Pitts, Maryland ESGR Western Area Chair, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve. Capt. Phillip Stokes, Fort Detrick Police Department, was nominated for being highly supportive of the National Guard by Sgt. 1st Class Joe Hatcher, his Reserve Component employee. Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units.” Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972 to develop and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service. ESGR advocates relevant initia-
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Left to right: Ron Pitts, Capt. Phillip Stokes, and Col. Allan J. Darden Sr., former Garrison Commander, Fort Detrick tives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws, and resolves conflict between service members and employers. Paramount to ESGR’s mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce. For more information about ESGR Outreach Programs, or ESGR volunteer opportunities, please call 800-336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil. Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
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Fort Detrick Volunteers Recognized for Outstanding Work MARSHA NELSON-DUNCAN
ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE OUTREACH PROGRAM MANAGER
The Fort Detrick Volunteer Roundup held on April 18 was a rip roaring success. Over 217 cowpokes sidled into the saloon at the Community Activities Center to recognize the outstanding volunteer work that continues to support Fort Detrick and the Army mission. For 2012, volunteers reported over 26,215 hours at a value of $585,118.80. In recognition of this, 209 volunteers received Certificates of Appreciation presented by Brig. Gen. (P) Joseph Caravalho Jr., commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick, and Col. Allan J. Darden Sr., Fort Detrick commander. Among the awards presented were 66 President’s Service Awards and 10 Group President’s Service Awards, along with 23 Governor’s Office on Volunteerism Certificates of Appreciation. Michael Caselle and Mark Zangara received Governor’s Citations for their work in support of wounded warriors and World War II veterans. Staff Sgt. Easton Purkiss received the Community Outreach Award for his volunteer work in the community surrounding Fort Detrick. Sgt. 1st Class Steven Alejandro was this year’s recipient of the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. Fort Detrick Organizational Volunteers of the Year included Patricia Beverly, Jerry Bohn, Benjamin Custer, Jevina Davis, Sonia DeKoning, Joan Derk, Searia Dutrow, Lisa Hill, Justin Kersteter, Stacey Mickles, Elva Munoz, Terri
Col. Allan J. Darden Sr. addresses the packed “saloon” at the Volunteer Recognition Ceremony on April 18 at the Community Activities Center. Photos courtesy of F&MWR Marketing Pryor, Andrea Rander, Andrew Risio, Gene Steele, Mary Stubbs, Lisa Sullivan and Nicole Wilson. The Fort Detrick Civilian Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Andi Sacks from the National Museum of Health and Medicine, and the Fort Detrick Military Volunteer of the Year award was given to Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin B. Stuart from the USAMRMC. Christine Studer received a Certificate of Appreciation from the U.S. Army Installation Management Command for her work in updating the Army Family Team Building Curriculum. The Volunteer Roundup was the perfect mix of formal and informal recognition of the Fort Detrick volunteers. The CAC was
transformed by the office of Morale, Welfare and Recreation marketing team into a western saloon that included a wagon built by volunteer Rob Farries. The CAC chuck wagon offered such delicacies as marinated beef brisket, whiskey roasted chicken strips, cactus rose peddles, baked macaroni and cheese, hot apple crumble and, of course, chilled sassafras root beer. Thank you again to all of our volunteers - we cannot wait to see what you do in the coming year! If you currently volunteer either on post or in the community and have not registered in the Volunteer Management Information System, please visit www.myarmyonesource.com and sign up today!
Take Your Child to Work Day
For Take Your Child to Work Day, Fort Detrick Fire Chief Brian Wheeler shows the ropes to the daughter of a contractor working on the new emergency services building. The Fort Detrick/NCI Take Your Child to Work Day is scheduled for July 17.
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The F&MWR Marketing Crew transformed the Community Activities Center to a Wild West Saloon for the Volunteer Roundup event. COMMAND, continued from page 1
“I’m looking forward to working and living here in the Fort Detrick and Frederick community,” he said. “People are our most important resource, and I hope to continue the work that Col. Darden started.” Continuing those partnerships during a period of transition for Fort Detrick is something Davis D. Tindoll Jr., director, Atlantic Region, Installation Management Command, stressed in his remarks at the ceremony.
Commenting about the changes that began during his tenure as commander 704 days ago, Darden ran down the list of accomplishments, including the 2011 and 2012 Tree City USA; 2012 U.S. Army Safety Excellence Streamer Award; 2012 Frederick Memorial Hospital’s Business Health Award; and the 2013 Chief of Staff of the Army, Army Community of Excellence Award for Most Improved Installation. “The awards and accolades we have received and won, you are the reason we won all those,” Darden told the assembled crowd.
For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,
visit www.dcmilitary.com.
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
National Mental Health TRICARE Pharmacy Program Awareness Month SHANNON BISHOP
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
As declared by President Barack Obama, May is mental health awareness month - a time to focus on the mental health issues that one in four American’s face. Each year, more people die from suicide than from traffic accidents or homicide. In the military, 25 soldiers are lost to suicide for every one soldier lost in combat. As awareness of mental health issues are raised, the attitude and stigma with getting help has significantly decreased over the last few years. National Mental Health Awareness month began in the late 1940’s to raise awareness of illnesses such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. During this time, people are encouraged to take responsibility for the prevention of mental health issues during periods of personal challenge and stress. Many mental health problems can be avoided by making positive lifestyle choices regarding how one acts and thinks before issues even begin. Maintaining good mental health is beneficial for everyone - civilians and military alike. Earlier this month, Fort Detrick hosted the Civilian Community Resiliency Day where civilians had the opportunity to complete a questionnaire to determine the likelihood of having depression or another mental health disorder. If you or someone you know is experiencing challenges with mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Civilians at Fort Detrick are able to receive help from the Employee Assistance Program. For more information about this program, visit http://www.detrick.army.mil/asap/eap. cfm or call 301-295-7166. Active duty military members can receive help through the Military & Family Life Consultant Program. For more information about this program, call 301-712-5161.
On May 23 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Fort Detrick Commissary, Barquist Army Health Clinic will host an informational booth on TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery Program. With TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery, picking up your prescriptions is as easy as picking up your mail since maintenance medications are delivered right to your home.
Benefits of Home Delivery Join those who have already chosen the convenience, safety and savings of Home Delivery, plus: *Free formulary generics *Auto refills and refill reminders *Multiple checkpoints that enhance safety and accuracy *Delivery to the address of your choice, with no cost for standard shipping *Access to a pharmacist 24/7
Door to Door Service to BWI/DULLES/REAGAN NATIONAL ALL TRAIN STATIONS
(301)668-4000 Serving Frederick and Surrounding Communities Located Adjacent to Fort Detrick (Military Rd. & Rosemont Ave.)
Local Disabled Veteran Owned and Operated Make Your Reservations online at
www.xpressride.com 1038638 1038427
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
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Clinical Trial Software Available for Command Research CAPT. BRUCE W. BARNES
DEPUTY PROJECT MANAGER, ENTERPRISE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Beginning in 2006, the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command endeavored to provide a capability for electronic input and management of clinical trial data, and that day has finally arrived. On April 22, 2013, Dr. Kenneth Bertram, USAMRMC Principal Assistant for Acquisition, approved the Electronic Data CaptureClinical Research Data Management System for Full Operational Capability, or otherwise available for use by the command. The Enterprise IT Project Management Office under Headquarters, USAMRMC, along with its functional user community across the command has worked arduously over the past two years to reach this significant milestone. This is a fine day to be a scientist at the USAMRMC. This new system will allow all clinical trials to be stored electronically, allowing for easier reporting, input and data monitoring. Electronic Data Capture - Clinical Research Data Management System utilizes Oracle’s InformR GTM commercial off-theshelf software. InformR is the leading software of choice for companies such as Sanofi Pasteur and Tigermed contract research organization, and will allow the USAMRMC to more efficiently develop, conduct and manage electronic data capture-based
clinical trials. Utilizing Oracle’s Central DesignerR software, USAMRMC is able to accelerate trial development and increase trial efficiency. In addition to providing electronic data capture, the USAMRMC has a requirement to conduct paper-based clinical trials in partner countries such as Kenya and Thailand. Utilizing Oracle’s ClintrialR, the USAMRMC will be able to input the paper trials into an electronic format utilizing double data entry checks, which minimizes paper storage requirements. “The importance of obtaining, configuring and providing this capability to the command will prove valuable for years to come,” said Maj. Kirsten Smith, director of the Clinical Support Services Division and co-chair of the EDC working group. “This is a legacy of which I am proud to be a part.” There has been no official mandate for all clinical trials to utilize this system; however, if all actions associated with a clinical trial are performed within the USAMRMC, commands can expect significant savings over a contract research organization, which in this day and age could mean more research for less. For more information, please visit the eIT PMO at http://merits.amedd.army. mil/ or visit USAMMDA’s Clinical Support Services Division at http://www.usammda. army.mil/CSSD.html
Civilian Community Resiliency Day Offers Help Dealing with Stress NICK MINECCI
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Over 300 people attended the Civilian Community Resiliency Day, May 8, at the Community Activities Center, hosted by the Fort Detrick Employee Assistance Program. Among the guests who attended the event were Frederick Mayor Randy McClement, and Installation Management Command Atlantic Region director, Davis D. Tindoll Jr. The CCRD was designed to showcase assistance programs and resources available to the civilian workforce. The EAP is part of the Army Substance Abuse Program. “The intent of the event was to showcase wellness and resiliency resources to the civilian workforce as they may be struggling with difficult emotions as a result of uncertainties surrounding sequestration and the possible furlough,” according to Sheri Schaefer, EAP Prevention Services manager. “The event highlighted Spiritual Fitness, Environmental, Physical, and Behavioral Health resources from within Fort Detrick
and the Frederick Community in an effort to provide a holistic approach to maintaining resiliency and wellness,” Schaefer said. The event was a mixture of workshops provided by ACS, the Chaplain’s office, and a local Frederick counseling agency; physical fitness classes highlighting yoga as well as exercises and stretching at your desk; and a confidential depression screening, according to Schaefer. “Attendees had the opportunity to complete a brief questionnaire and gauge their likelihood of having depression or another mental health disorder. They also had a chance to speak with a mental health professional one-on-one about their concerns and what to do next [if they were experiencing depression],” said Lindsay Tate, EAP coordinator. Schaefer said the event was a success, not just for those who attended, but also proved valuable for the planners and participants in the day’s activities. “I want to thank everyone who jumped in and supported the civilian workforce in building resiliency,” she said.
Fort Detrick Resiliency Day
Attendees at the Civilian Community Resiliency Day on May 8 at the Community Activities Center participated in several activities that promoted physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Rockville
For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,
visit www.dcmilitary.com. T6611240
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Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
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Fort Detrick Standard May 17, 2013
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development