Libin Life magazine, Fall 2014

Libin Life Research

Education

Care Delivery

Fall 2014

The Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta Magazine

libininstitute.org

Journey to wellness

Recognizing Dr. Norm Campbell’s navigation of an evolving landscape New stroke network brings researchers together State-of-the-art cardiac hybrid operating room soon to open at Foothills Medical Centre

Institute joins the Canadian Vascular Network

Canada’s most prominent female leaders tour Libin Institute

#CalgariansWithHeart

Libin Life

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

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trust you have had a wonderful summer and have come back feeling refreshed. We are looking forward to an exciting schedule of fall activities to begin the new academic year.

The highlight of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute’s 10th anniversary celebrations was the The Beat Goes On fund-raising event on September 13th. The Beat Goes On was highlighted by fantastic food and wine. The entertainment featured multiple Juno Award winning singer-songwriter Chantel Kreviazuk and lead vocalist for Our Lady Peace, Raine Maida with a menu inspired by Pierre Lamielle: recent competitor on the Food Network’s Top Chef Canada. Money raised will go towards the completion of the state- ofthe-art cardiac hybrid operating room in the McCaig tower and for the recruitment of new scientists to the Institute. Importantly, this was an opportunity to create a sense of excitement in the community for the great work the Institute members do and how they can help us to shape the future of academic cardiovascular care.

October also brings the annual Canadian Cardiovascular Congress meeting, this year to be held in Vancouver. It is the largest medical meeting in Canada and brings together approximately 3500 individuals with an interest in cardiovascular disease. The Libin Institute is again proud to be a gold sponsor of the event. We feel strongly that support from not for profit organizations like ours is important for the health of the meeting going forward. This is a wonderful venue for students to present their first papers and become excited about research. It is also a great chance for clinical and research networking and to learn what the latest guidelines are for our patients. I have been going to this meeting for the last 25 years and proud to be the Annual Meeting Chair for the next two instalments. We look forward to a large contingent from the Institute to attend this year.

The key to our success going forward will be the recruitment of young scientists and clinician scientists. We are delighted we have been able to hire seven new members to the department this fall and we look forward to hiring an additional three to four members in the next year. With terrific infrastructure and colleagues, our second decade as an Institute is off to a wonderful beginning.

Dr. Todd Anderson Director Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta @LibinDirector Want to chat with Dr. Anderson at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress (Vancouver, BC)? Please stop by for a visit at the Libin Institute’s booth (615) on October 27 from 11am to noon

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Libin Life is published twice a year by the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, an entity of the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services (Calgary Zone).

The Libin Life mission is to share news and information about the Institute’s impact in research, education and patient care.

Institute Director Dr. Todd Anderson @LibinDirector Director of Research Dr. Ed O’Brien @EDOBrienYYC Education Council Chair Donald Welsh, PhD Associate Director Al-Karim Walli @aswalli Editor Lauren Sharp Copy Editors Judy Siu @judesiu Susan Wilmot @SusanWilmot Editorial Committee Amber Arsneau, Judy Siu, Al-Karim Walli Contributors Amber Arsneau, Bruce Perrault, Judy Siu, Steven Tov, Al-Karim Walli, Shannon Perry, Susan Wilmot, Rob McMorris, Lindsay Krzepkorwski, Monique de St. Croix, Shahr Savizi, Karen Anderson, Jae Im, Paul Rotzinger Design and Layout Steven Tov @madebysteventov Printer McAra Printing @mcaraprinting Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta Foothills Medical Centre C830A, 1403 29 Street NW Calgary, AB, T2N 2T9 P 403.210.6271 E libin@ucalgary.ca W libininstitute.org Twitter @libininstitute Editorial Inquiries Lauren Sharp Communications Coordinator lrsharp@ucalgary.ca Send comments, requests for magazine copies, digital magazine issue subscriptions or change of mailing address notifications to libin@ucalgary.ca. Please request permission to reproduce any part of this publication. All rights reserved. © 2014 Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta

contents // fall 2014

departments

12 FEATURE

12

2 MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR 5 AWARDS & ACCOLADES 7 NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS 8 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 10 NEW RECRUITS 14 LIBIN ABROAD

Journey To Wellness

World – renowned hypertension expert Dr. Norm Campbell sits down with the Libin to chat about his career, health advocacy, and his newest accomplishment – receiving the Order of Canada.

EDUCATION

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Smooth Muscle Underground Celebrates 5th Year

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Libin Research Day 2014

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17

CARE DELIVERY

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State-Of-The-Art Cardiac Hybrid OR Soon To Open At Foothills Medical Centre

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Smaller Is Better

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Pacing Into The Future

World’s smallest heart pump now used at the Libin Institute.

First leadless pacemakers soon to be clinically tested at the Libin Institute

RESEARCH

18 18 19

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Institute joins the Canadian Vascular Network

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Heart and Stroke Lab Tours New Stroke Network Brings Researchers Together

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UPCOMING EVENTS S E P T E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 4 Shocked and Awed: The Strategic and Tactical Battle Against Sudden Death Come listen to some of Calgary’s cardiovascular rock stars discuss the history of cardiac electrophysiology, cutting edge treatment, and what investigators are currently working on to solve electrical problems of the heart afflicting hundreds of thousands of Canadians.

The prominent line-up includes the Libin Institute’s Director Dr. Todd Anderson, cardiac electrophysiologists Drs. D. George Wyse, Yorgo Veenhuyzen, and Derek Exner, and leading basic science researcher Wayne Chen PhD. This is a free, public event. Tickets and more information can be found at libin.eventbrite.ca.—SW

O C T O B E R 2 2 , 2 0 1 4 Creating the Future of Health Please save-the-date for this free public event featuring Dr. Todd Anderson, Director, Libin Institute and Paul Kubes, PhD, Director, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases. The reception will begin at 6:30 pm with a lecture following at 7 pm. The event will be held at the University Of Calgary Cumming School Of Medicine, 3280 Hospital Drive NW. Free parking will be available in the TRW parkade, level 2. For ticket and speaking information, please visit libin.ucalgary.ca—LS

O C T O B E R 2 5 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 4 Canadian Cardiovascular Congress The Libin Institute is proud to once again be a gold sponsor of the 2014 Canadian Cardiovascular Congress (CCC). This year it will be hosted at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC) in Vancouver, British Columbia. Please visit us at booth 615 to learn more about what we’ve been up to this last year.

Q & A time with....

On October 27th, C-SPIN Education Director, Dr. Lisa Welikovitch will be at our booth from 10 am -11 am; Libin Institute Director, Dr. Todd Anderson from 11 am –noon; and Dena Shlah (APPROACH team member) from 1 pm – 2 pm. –LS

N O V E M B E R 7 , 2 0 1 4 Libin Cardiovascular Institute Bash 2014 – Cardiac Royale Please note this event is not open to the public – only Libin Institute staff, students, clinicians, and researchers.

Come out for a night of dancing and fun at Winsport. Dance the night away to a live band and test your luck at a variety of casino related games with Libin’s fun money. A silent auction and hors d’oeuvres will also be available. Fun money casino begins at 6 pm and the dance at 9 pm. Tickets can be purchased at all five hospital sites. Please contact Susan Wilmot, Events Coordinator for more information (wilmots@ucalgary.ca; 403-220-6994)—LS

ABOUT THE COVER Dr. Norm Campbell CM is a world-renowned hypertension specialist, retired internist, and current health activist. He is listed as an author on over 300 peer-reviewed manuscripts; is president of the World Hypertension League and has held leadership roles at the Pan American Health Organization and Canadian Heart Health Strategy and Action Plan; and has received countless global awards. Read full story on page 12.

Photo by Lauren Sharp shot on location at Prince’s Island Park, Calgary.

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AWARDS & ACCOLADES

Libin Researcher Awarded With International Prize Nathan Bracey, PhD was awarded Experimental Physiology’s 2013 Early Career Author prize in June. The award is given to researchers who have developed exceptional research early in their career. Nathan’s collaborative study, conducted in the laboratory of Dr. Henry Duff, is on the relationship between the immune system and the heart after it has been injured; specifically, characterizing the precise molecular pathways that regulate wound healing in the heart during long-term injury. Bracey and team discovered by blocking proteins interleukin-1 beta and NLRP3, in an injured heart, cells in the immune system can release substances that encourage healing, therefore leading to improved heart function.—LS

Heart Rhythm Society Honours Dr. L. Brent Mitchell With Distinguished Teaching Award On May 9th, Dr. L. Brent Mitchell, clinical cardiac electrophysiologist and inaugural Libin Institute Director was awarded the Heart Rhythm Society’s Distinguished Teaching Award. This international award is given to individuals who have contributed immensely and shown great teaching skills in the field of electrophysiology and or/cardiac pacing. Dr. Mitchell served as one of the developers of the cardiology curriculum for the University of Calgary’s medical school; has served on the Cardiology Residency Training program; and teaches fellows and junior faculty members.—LS

Dr. Satish Raj Awarded Physician of the Year On July 13, Dr. Satish Raj, cardiac electrophysiologist, was awarded Dysautonomia International’s Physician of the Year Award at the Dysautonomia International Conference in Washington, DC. The award is given to individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to their patients. Winners are selected through a voting process from individuals across the world. Dr. Raj stood out due to his dedicated volunteer efforts with the Medical Advisory Board of Dysautonomia International; continuous patient advocacy; knowledge in diagnosing, treating, and researching; and his impressive bedside manner.

Dr. Raj was presented his award by members of Dysautonomia International as well as one of Dr. Raj’s patients, Leslie Bodie. Ms. Bodie says, “Dr. Raj stuck by my side, despite being the busiest man on earth. Dr. Raj always made time to answer my questions via e-mail, or squeeze in a quick appointment to see me. I am truly grateful for all Dr. Raj has done to help me and my family.”—LS (L-R) Dr. Satish Raj, Lauren Stiles Esq., Leslie Bodie

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Dr. Eldon R. Smith Presented with Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) by Dalhousie University Current chair of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta’s Strategic Advisory Board, Dr. Eldon R. Smith, OC has been awarded Dalhousie University’s Doctor of Laws honourary degree. Dr. Smith has gained high acknowledgment for his continuous dedication to hypertension and cardiac failure research.

Current Dean of the Cumming School of Medicine Dr. John Meddings says, “Eldon Smith has always been a mentor to me and I know, to many others as well. He has selflessly given his experience and expertise and I am extremely pleased to see him recognized by this award.”

His tireless efforts in medicine have led to accomplishments such as publishing over 250 papers and book chapters; obtaining the Editor-in -Chief position at the Canadian Journal of Cardiology; Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Calgary from 1992 to 1997; and being named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2005. —LS

Awarding Excellence This year has proved to be quite fruitful for Dr. Norm Campbell, CM as he has been a recipient of a variety of awards. Dr. Campbell has been awarded the Distinguished Academic Award by the Confederation of Alberta Faculty Associations (CAFA), the Dr. Harold N. Segall Award of Merit, Fellowship at the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, and the Order of Canada.—LS

In recognition of his spectacular dedication to the cardiovascular field, Dr. Merril Knudtson, CM is being awarded the 2014 Annual Achievement Award from the Canadian Cardiovascular Society. Dr. Knudtson was among the first coronary angioplasty trainees of Andreas Gruentzig, and subsequently returned to Calgary as a clinician, researcher, and educator, earning the moniker, Father of Interventional Cardiology in Canada. His contributions to the cardiac field include executing among the earliest coronary angioplasties in Canada, starting among the countries earliest interventional cardiology training programs in 1982, and establishing what is often cited as the gold-standard of cardiac registries – the APPROACH (Alberta Provincial Project for Outcomes Assessments in Coronary Heart Disease) database.—LS 6 LIBIN LIFE

Dr. Merril Knudtson, CM photo by Paul Rotzinger, courtesy of Alberta Health Services.

Dr. Merril Knudtson, CM Awarded Canadian Cardiovascular Society Annual Achievement Award

NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS

a complex and multi-dimensional evaluation to determine how well patients with chronic disease and diabetes respond to this online tool in personal and clinical settings.

C I HR

Justin MacDonald, PhD

Funding Successes Compiled by Judy Siu

William Cole, PhD

The diameter of small arteries supplying blood to the brain varies in response to changes in blood pressure due to contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle cells in the vessel wall. The variations in diameter ensure a constant level of blood flow to support cognition in different physiological situations. How this mechanism is activated is not known, which is a problem because it is dysfunctional in cardiovascular disorders. William Cole, PhD received a CIHR Operating Grant to determine the underlying molecular events and why it is broken in type 2 diabetes. This will provide guidance in the development of new therapies to correct inappropriate blood flow to the brain.

Dr. Matthew James, MD, PhD People with kidney disease often do not receive heart procedures because of the concern that the risk of the procedure making kidney function worse could outweigh the benefits to heart health.

Dr. Matthew James, MD, PhD received a CIHR Operating Grant to develop and evaluate a risk prediction tool for patients with kidney disease that will help identify the long-term kidney and heart health risks associated with different treatment approaches after a heart attack. This tool will help provide the information necessary to make better decisions about how to treat heart conditions in people with kidney disease.

Dr. Doreen Rabi In 2014, Alberta will be one of the first provinces to provide personal health portals to its residents. These portals are online tools that will allow patients to access their own health information, such as blood test results and hospital admission details. Dr. Doreen Rabi and her research team received a CIHR Operating Grant to conduct

Hypertension, commonly referred to as high blood pressure, is one of the risk factors for strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure, and is a leading cause of chronic kidney failure. Smooth muscle is an important component of all veins and arteries, and is an important regulator of blood pressure. Justin MacDonald, PhD was awarded a CIHR Operating Grant to study how smooth muscle operates in the body to regulate blood pressure in health and disease, and how a muscle protein called zipper-interacting protein kinase controls the contraction of smooth muscle cells of arteries.

Dr. Derek Exner Each year, 40,000 Canadians suffer cardiac arrest. When someone is in cardiac arrest, life-saving shocks can be delivered to bring an individual’s heart rhythm back to normal. These shocks can be delivered externally or via an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), a small device implanted under the skin similar to a pacemaker. The Risk Estimation Following Infarction Noninvasive Evaluation - ICD efficacy (REFINE ICD) study is a large, international trial consisting of 1,400 patients led by Dr. Derek Exner. He received a CIHR Operating Grant: Industry-partnered Collaborative Research to evaluate whether ICDs can reduce mortality in patients that have suffered from heart attack.

SR Wayne Chen, PhD Calcium waves are a cellular phenomena in which calcium ions spread across the cytoplasmic space of a cell in a wave-like pattern. These waves can be observed in various types of cells, and are essential for a number of cellular processes including fertilization, secretion, muscle contraction, learning and memory. SR Wayne Chen, PhD received a CIHR Operating (Bridge) Grant to determine how calcium sensors operate in the 1,4,5- trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) channel. A defective IP3R calcium channel can lead to abnormal functions of various cells and tissues, and the pathogenesis of diseases. This study will provide insight into the fundamental process of calcium waves, and may reveal diseases that are caused by defects in IP3R.

Canada’s Most Prominent Female Leaders Tour Libin Institute

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PhD student, Florian Heiss speaking to some of the International Women’s Forum attendees.

he Libin Institute was full of dynamic, female leaders from the International Women’s Forum on Friday, June 20th. With Calgary being the host city for the group’s annual general meeting, attendees were given an opportunity to tour some of the Institute’s clinical labs and teaching quarters.

Each tour group was presented with three presentations: one from electrophysiologist, Dr. Vikas Kuriachan that focused on leading edge clinical practice; a translational research presentation by Dr. Katherine Kavanagh, electrophysiologist; and a presentation by PhD students Florian Hiess and Vivian Zhong on basic science research led by SR Wayne Chen PhD in the King Family Experimental Arrhythmia Laboratory.

Attendees took home a more thorough understanding of the research completed at the Institute; better insight into the clinical practice that is facilitated at the hospitals; and how all is accomplished in a unique collaborative relationship between trainees, clinicians, and researchers.—LS LIBIN LIFE 7

EDUCATION

LIBIN

RESEARCH DAY

By Susan Wilmot Photo by Monique de St. Croix

On April 22nd, more than 200 staff, students, researchers, and physicians attended the annual Libin Cardiovascular Institute’s Research Day. A variety of presentations were delivered, including by Drs. James White, Ed O’Brien, and Merrill Knudtson, and Richard Frayne PhD. This year’s rapid fire talks were delivered by 12 trainees who took part in the trainee poster competition resulting in an unprecedented tie in the Graduate Student Category.

The day concluded with the Dr. ER Smith Lecture, delivered by Dr. Peter Libby, Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Mallinckrodt Professor of Medicine at the Harvard Medical School, presenting on “Inflammation in Atherogenis.“

TRAINEE CATEGORY

WINNERS

CLINICAL TRAINEES

• Vern Hsen Tan * • Jorge Wong

GRADUATE STUDENT - MSc

• David Guzzardi • Sharanya Ramesh

GRADUATE STUDENT - PhD

• Florian Hiess • Mahmoud El-Daly

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW

• Andreas Brodehl • Ryan Mills * Missing from group photo.

Mahmoud El-Daly, Ryan Mills, Don Welsh, PhD, David Guzzardi, Jorge Wong, Andreas Brodehl, Florian Hiess, Sharanya Ramesh.

Smooth Muscle Underground Celebrates 5th Year

By Lauren Sharp On April 25, 2014, the Smooth Muscle Underground (SMUG) conference celebrated its 5th anniversary in San Diego, Califonia.

SMUG founder Don Welsh, PhD chaired the conference that included respected scientists and students from all across North America. This educational event encouraged novel and innovative discussion that surrounded two themes: neurovascular coupling and lymphatics. This event attracted almost 100 investigators, post-doctorates and graduate students.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

A Night of Celebration

By Lindsay Krzepkowski • Photo By Jae Im Beverley and John “Sam” Mozell have a deep commitment to giving back to the local community they’ve lived in for most of their lives – and it’s the same belief that brought together family and friends at an event recognizing their contributions over the last decade to the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine and the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta.

Dr. Todd Anderson, John “Sam” Mozell, Beverley Mozell, Elizabeth Cannon

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Guests toured a selection research and clinical care spaces supported by Beverley and Sam followed by cocktails and dinner. As long-time supporters to the institute, the Mozells have invested in areas such as vascular function, heart rhythm, cardiovascular genetics, and health outcomes research.

Maarouf photo by Shahr Savizi. Fedak photo by Al-Karim Walli. Tilley & Russell photo by Karen Anderson.

J U N E 1 , 2 0 1 4 Calgary Scotiabank Marathon This year the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon celebrated its 50th anniversary and the Libin Institute was proud to be one of the charities participants could raise funds for.

The total amount raised for the Institute was more than $13,000. A special thank-you goes out to the Hagen Family who were the top fundraisers for the Libin Institute.

Their family ran in honour of their grandmother, Lois Hagen, who is a heart attack survivor and a former cardiac rehabilitation patient.—Susan Wilmot

J U N E 1 0 , Science Cafe

2 0 1 4

On the evening of June 10th, the Libin Institute hosted its second Science Cafe at Shelf Life Books entitled “Wrestling the Heart Failure Gorilla – The Evolution of the Cardiac Mechanic.” This Science Café was moderated by Libin Institute Director, Dr. Todd Anderson. Panelists included cardiologist, Dr. Jonathan Howlett and Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Paul Fedak MD, PhD. Completing the panel was heart transplant patient Scott Ouellette who presented his experiences with heart failure, heart transplant surgery, and the patient care he received from the clinicians at the Libin Institute. A lively dialogue with audience members concluded the event.

—Susan Wilmot

TOP Scotiabank Calgary Marathon participant and PhD student Nadia Maarouf.

ABOVE Dr. Paul Fedak MD, PhD (left) and Scott Ouellette RIGHT Dr. Steve Tilley and Joanne Russell

J U N E 2 3 , 2 0 1 4 Peter Russell Memorial Golf Tournament On June 23rd, the Institute’s Clinical Department of Cardiac Sciences together, with family and friends gathered for the third-annual Peter Russell Memorial Golf Tournament at Bearspaw Country Club. The event is held in memorial for the late Dr. Peter Russell, who passed away suddenly in 2007. Dr. Russell was Libin’s first graduate of the Clinical Cardiology training program at the University of Calgary and a well-loved member of the department for many years. During this event three significant awards were presented: the Peter Russell Clinical Fellowship Award (presented to Dr. Stephen Tilley); the LB Mitchell Award for Clinical Research (presented to Dr. Jorge Wong) and the Cardiology Resident Teaching Award (presented to Dr. Hank Duff).—Shannon Perry LIBIN LIFE 9

DR. SATISH R RAJ

NEW RECRUITS

NEW RECRUITS

POSITION Associate Professor, Cardiac Sciences; Adjunct Associate Professor of Medicine, Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) PROVENANCE Born in Vancouver, BC, raised in Toronto, ON DEGREES Masters of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN (2002-2004); Research Fellow/Instructor, Clinical Pharmacology/Autonomic Disorders, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN (2002-2004); Fellow, Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology , University of Calgary, Calgary, AB (1999-2002); Resident, Cardiology, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON (1996-1999); MD, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON (1993); Resident, Internal Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON (1993-1996); BSc (Biology), Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY (1991); WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS Clinical research in people that don’t tolerate gravity WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE As long as I can remember; my favourite question has always been “why?” It is because of this focus on clinical research I chose to come to Calgary for my cardiac electrophysiology fellowship. The EP group here was well known for their research commitment. While in Calgary, I wanted to understand why some people suffered from reflex faints. Dr. Robert Sheldon inspired me to pursue further training in human physiology research at Vanderbilt University under the mentorship of Dr. David Robertson. At Vanderbilt, I learned about the physiology underlying different disorders of autonomic cardiovascular regulation. In particular, I focused on patients with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a poorly understood disorder that affects women of childbearing age. Their heart rates climb excessively (sometimes >150bpm) just with standing up, and this can be associated with a lot of functionally disability. I want to understand why this happens, and I hope to develop better treatments for these patients. MY ULTIMATE GOAL To apply my background in cardiology, physiology and pharmacology to better understand autonomic nervous system disorders and to develop more effective and evidence-based treatment approaches to alleviate suffering. I expect the University of Calgary can have the premier Centre for Autonomic Disorders in Canada.

HARDEST LESSON LEARNED Success requires 5 per cent inspiration and 90 percent teamwork...and 10 per cent luck. HOBBIES Spending time with my wife, Vidya, and children (ages 10 and five years). We hope to explore Alberta. Following the National Football League. WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME While in Calgary during Fellowship, I won the Edgemont Tennis Club’s Paddle Tennis Doubles Tournament, partnering with Dr. Dan Roach (also from the Libin Cardiovascular Institute).

DR. BOBBY HEYDARI

Compiled by Amber Arsneau

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POSITION Academic MRI Cardiologist PROVENANCE Calgary, AB DEGREES MPH, Harvard School of Public Health, 2013; Research Fellow, Advanced Non-Invasive Cardiac Imaging, Brigham and Women’s Hospital (2010-2013); Cardiology Residency (2007-2010), Internal Medicine Residency (2004-2007), UBC; MD, University of Alberta (2004); BSc, University of Alberta (2002) WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS Clinical and research application of advanced imaging of the heart. WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE A mix of both exciting research and clinical applications that may significantly improve cardiac health care for Canadians.

MY ULTIMATE GOAL To promote the cardiac health of Canadians and improve diagnostic and therapeutic uses of cardiac MRI. HARDEST LESSON LEARNED Always strive to question what you think you know for sure, and always be humble. HOBBIES Tennis, biking, running. WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME Recently became a vegan

DR. LOUIS KOLMAN POSITION Clinical Assistant Professor, Cardiologist PROVENANCE Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA DEGREES Cardiovascular MRI Fellowship, University of Calgary (2014); Cardiovascular Medicine Fellowship, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2013); Internal Medicine Residency, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (2010); MD, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia (2007); Post-Baccalaureate Studies, Columbia University, NYC, (2003); BS, Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (2000).

WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS Clinical cardiologist with an interest in advanced cardiac imaging. WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE My paternal grandfather, my musical background, and my cardiac mentors. MY ULITMATE GOAL To provide the highest level of cardiac care to the residents of Calgary and to have an active role in the division’s teaching and research endeavors. HARDEST LESSON LEARNED Medicine is a team effort and to always surround yourself with support.

Classmates, mentors, and colleagues motivated me to study harder and have inspired me to become a more human physician. HOBBIES Following Philadelphia sports (baseball and football), running (I just finished my first half-marathon in Calgary!), trying to learn guitar, spending time with my children, 2 and 5, and my wife, Claire, due with our third child in October. WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME I’ve played piano since I was five. Through high school and college, I had a great time playing weddings and parties.

DR. JILLIAN COLBERT POSITION Cardiologist, Clinical Assistant Professor PROVENANCE Souris, Prince Edward Island DEGREES Echocardiography Fellowship (2013-2014) and Cardiology Residency (2010-2013), University of Calgary; Internal Medicine Residency (2007-2010), Graduate Diploma in Clinical Epidemiology (2008-2010) and MD (2003-2007) Memorial University of Newfoundland; BSc (Hons) Biochemistry/Microbiology & Immunology (1999-2003), Dalhousie University WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS General cardiology and echocardiography. WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE Cardiology is an exciting and rewarding specialty. I end every day feeling privileged to be involved in the care of cardiac patients and to work with such skilled physicians, nursing and support staff. MY ULTIMATE GOAL To provide the best cardiac care for my patients. HARDEST LESSON LEARNED Always exercise! No matter how tired, stressed or busy you are, exercise will always make it better. HOBBIES Run, cycle, yoga and family time. WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME I owned and operated an ice cream shop at Basin Head Provincial Park in PEI from the age of 16 – 21.

DR. RICHARD J. NOVICK

POSITION Consultant Intensivist and Cardiac Surgeon; Clinical Professor in the Departments of Critical Care, Cardiac Sciences and Surgery. Formerly, Chair, Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Western Ontario and Head Examiner, Cardiac Surgery Examination Board, Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada PROVENANCE Born and raised in Montreal. DEGREES FRCPC (Adult Critical Care Medicine, 2013); Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgery Fellowship, McGill University, ON (1987); General Surgery Fellowship, (1985); MSc, McGill University, ON (1983); MD, McGill University, ON

(1980); BA in Philosophy and Biology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA (1976). WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS Heart surgery, critical care medicine, teaching, outcomes, and educational research. WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE Cardiovascular and the joy of working with multi-disciplinary teams in the ICU and operating room.

ULTIMATE GOAL To mentor medical students, postgraduate trainees and junior faculty, and to continue to make important contributions to both clinical outcomes and qualitative educational research. HARDEST LESSON LEARNED Never be complacent and must always to strive to reinvent oneself and develop new professional passions. HOBBIES Hiking with my family, skiing, and travelling. WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME I love to speak different languages. I can “get by” speaking, in a medical environment, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese (and a little bit of Arabic and Japanese), in addition to English and French.

DR. ANAND JOSHI

POSITION Staff Cardiologist PROVENANCE St. John’s, NL DEGREES MD, University of Calgary (2004-2007); Internal Medicine training/residency, Memorial University of Newfoundland (20072010); Cardiology Fellowship, University of Calgary (2010-2013); Echocardiography Fellowship, University of Ottawa Heart Institute (2013-2014) WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS As a cardiologist, I will be helping people who suffer from acute and chronic cardiovascular disease. WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE My immediate and extended family (have a lot of physicians in my family). MY ULTIMATE GOAL To educate medical students, residents and cardiology fellows as well as being a cardiology program director. HARDEST LESSON LEARNED Recently my brother, who is an IM resident, was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma.

Fortunately, it was caught early and he’s been cured. Being a physician, we can sometimes get desensitized and therefore take for granted our health and the health of our loved ones. Because of this experience, I’ve learned to really cherish time with family and friends. HOBBIES Play golf, exercise regularly, travel, indulge in an episode of Suits!

WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME When I was young, I was the second best chess player in the country for my age! I almost went to music school, having played Jazz trombone growing up!

DR. NAKUL SHARMA POSITION Advanced Heart Failure/ Cardiac Transplant Cardiologist PROVENANCE Born in Edmonton but raised in Calgary DEGREES Heart Failure Fellowship, University of Calgary (20122014); Internal Medicine/Cardiology/Transplant fellowship, University of Alberta (2005-2012); MD, University of Saskatchewan (2005); BSc, University of Calgary (2001) WHAT I DO, IN 10 WORDS Help people with heart failure live better.

WHAT INSPIRED MY CAREER CHOICE I personally find all aspects of cardiology exciting, but when I witnessed my grandfather pass away from profound heart failure, it sparked an interest within me to try and improve the care heart failure patients receive. MY ULTIMATE GOAL Make a meaningful contribution to the future of advanced therapies in patients with severe heart failure. HARDEST LESSON LEARNED My patients and colleagues have provided me with more insight into the practice of medicine than any textbook could ever do. HOBBIES I play competitive basketball and enjoy working on my car in the garage.

WHAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME My first job was a pizza delivery driver for my parent’s pizza establishment- they still own the franchise today, in case I need something to fall back on to!!

LIBIN LIFE 11

Dr. Norm Campbell, speaking as President of the World Hypertension League at the opening ceremonies of World Health Day 2013 at the Pan-American Health Organization headquarters.

Photo credit: Pan American Health Organization

FEATURE

JOURNEY TO

WELLNESS Recognizing Dr. Norm Campbell’s navigation of an evolving landscape

BY LAUREN SHARP

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I

f you’ve ever had a meal with Dr. Norm Campbell, CM you’ve probably never heard the words, “please pass the salt,” come out of his mouth. The Libin Cardiovascular Institute’s globally renowned hypertension expert is a multiaward winning researcher/internist who has dedicated his career to raising awareness regarding hypertension, assisting the very ill, and divulging the public about the health repercussions of one of North America’s favourite condiments – salt.

Dr. Campbell’s commitment to the betterment of the health of Canadians does not just hit one level. Whether he’s educating clinical trainees, chairing a variety of health coalition and committees, developing innovative research, or receiving one of the country’s most prestigious honours, the Order of Canada, Dr. Campbell has literally done it all.

With an earned medical degree from Memorial University in St. John’s Newfoundland and specialty training in clinical pharmacology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, this Ottawa-born internist came to the Foothills Hospital in 1990 to assist patients with multi-complex illnesses and

hypertension. His tireless dedication to his patients did not go Dr. Campbell’s efforts have resulted in over 300 peer-reviewed unnoticed and in the early 2000s when the planning committee manuscripts and the development of several innovative apfor the development of the Libin Institute sought out proaches to hypertension prevention and control.

Dr. Campbell’s expertise, he jumped on the opportunity.

“When we started, only 13 per cent of Canadians were “During the early stages of planning at the Libin Institute, being treated and controlled; now we’re at 66 per cent. This I joined its committee to help determine its mandate, polihas been done by using a more in-depth approach where we cies, and to assist with the installment of the Libin Institute’s look thoroughly into the care gaps for hypertension and create health promotion and disease prevention initiatives,” says specific programs to address the care gaps. By doing so, we can Dr. Campbell. develop more precise interventions and alert medical profesTwo years ago, Dr. Campbell decided to pack up his clinical sionals to the key clinical issues,” says Dr. Campbell. practice and devote his efforts to raising awareness about the His research, teaching, and advocacy have led to countless, consequences of poor dietary consumption, thus resulting in world-wide achievements; however, when he received a call hypertension. from the Governor General’s office in June announcing he “Dietary risks are the leading cause of death and disability had been awarded the Order of Canada — well, that was just a in Canada. We estimate there are approximately 66,000 deaths little different. a year in Canada due to poor food consumption, with salt “I couldn’t believe it. I initially thought it might have been being one of them,” says Dr. Campbell. a prank, but I quickly realized it was actually happening. I was Dr. Campbell’s voice is echoed and supported by a variety so excited to hear I had been awarded with the Order of Canof committees and coalitions “Dr. Campbell has made very important contribu- ada – it really is such an honour.” he chairs and leads. Currently, says Dr. Campbell. tions to our understanding of the risk of excessive he is the chair of the Canadian Although Dr. Campbell’s salt intake and high blood pressure both nationally Hypertension Advisory Comrecognition and high profile staand internationally. We are very proud of the work mittee (CHEO) a coalition that tus has turned him into a global he has done at the Libin Cardiovascular Institute.” involves national health and health superstar, his undying scientific organizations such as support and appreciation to the —Dr. Todd Anderson, Director, Libin the Canadian Cardiovascular Libin Cardiovascular Institute and Cardiovascular Institute Association, Canadian Nursing Calgary is unwavering.

Association, Canadian Medical Association, and the Canadian “It’s the Alberta and Calgary advantage. It is such a wonPharmacy Association to try to better educate government derful part of the country to work in and I have developed so groups and the public about the side effects of poor diet/ many amazing colleagues and friends throughout my time at excessive salt intake. He also co-chairs the Pan American the Libin Institute. They are all so strongly supportive and this Health Organization / World Health Organization Dietary Salt is truly the type of environment that encourages people to do Technical Advisory Group and is president of the World Hy- innovative studies. I don’t think I would have been successful pertension League which has a mandate to aid the prevention if it wasn’t for the Libin Institute,” says Dr. Campbell. and control of hypertension globally and is in official relations with the World Health Organization.

“Our national hypertension advisory committee’s efforts are trying to reach a consensus on what are the types of policies needed in Canada, and then we use the power of this consistent approach from the health and scientific sector in Canada to advocate for the types of policies that we need in Canada to drive awareness for this issue,” says Dr. Campbell.

With most of his research dealing with hypertension,

Order of Canada Medal by Rideau Hall

Dr. Campbell’s three tips to reduce your salt intake

1 2 3

Advocate for healthy public policies in the places you live, work, and play Buy fresh local produce especially fruit and vegetables

Avoid processed and restaurant foods

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To Lend a Helping Hand

LIBIN ABROAD

Story written by Lauren Sharp • Photos given by Sue Plum

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2

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1 Calgary, Flordia, Trinidad & Tobago medical team.

2 L-R: Donna Gellert (scrub RN), Dr. Knudtson, and Dr. Nath

his past spring, Libin members Drs. Mouhiedden (Dean) Traboulsi, Merril Knudtson, Jim Hansen and University of Calgary alumni Dr. Colin Nath embarked on a one week surgical journey to Mt. Hope, Trinidad and Tobago to assist local health specialists with angioplasty procedures.

The epidemic of heart disease is spreading fast in this Caribbean country with 37 per cent of its mortalities caused by the condition – higher than most developed countries – and prevalent in an alarming number of young people. Genetic factors contribute to the condition along with poor lifestyle, diabetes, smoking, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

“About a year ago I returned to my home country of Trinidad and Tobago to find that there was an epidemic of heart disease. I wanted to assist with the back log of patients who needed angioplasties, so I contacted Dr. Knudtson along with my former U of C colleagues, Drs. Traboulsi and Hansen who were more than happy to assist with the procedures. The local hospital along with the non-profit, Sai Baba organization, were instrumental in helping with travel and accommodation for visiting staff, ” says Dr. Nath (interventional cardiologist at Broward General Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, Flordida) With seven days to assist, 42 angioplasties were completed at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex. Most surgeries were completed via the Libin standard surgery technique - radial approach.

“This is a standard surgical practice in Calgary – not commonly used in the US,” says Dr. Nath. “This was a great experience for the Trinidad staff because not many people use that method and it was transformational to have experts from the Libin showcase the technique.”

Completing eight to ten patients a day, the four physicians were accompanied by 14 Calgary/Florida medical staff as well as 10 other local staff (two physicians and eight scrub/regular nurses) to assist with the operating and post procedural care.

“The whole experience was incredible. The Trinidad staff members were delighted to be exposed to the specialists from Calgary and the Libin staff were able to see diseases they had never seen before,” says Dr. Nath. “It was a mutually helpful experience for us to go through this exercise and to be of service to these patients.”

Libin Guyana Video Conference Centre Officially Launched On June 26, 2014, the Libin Guyana Video Conference Centre officially opened its doors in Georgetown, Guyana. This medical patient care and education infrastructure will allow Guyana physicians to have access to other global health care institutes. All state-of-theart equipment was a generous gift by the Libin Foundation and will continue to receive ongoing support from the Libin Cardiovascular Institute.

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Dr. Debra Issac (left) and High Commissioner of Canada, Dr. Nicole Gilles (right), unveiling the Guyana Video Teaching Centre plaque

CARE DELIVERY

State-Of-The-Art Cardiac Hybrid OR to Open at Foothills Medical Centre Story by Lauren Sharp The Libin Cardiovascular Institute, along with the Calgary Health Trust, are proud to announce the opening of Calgary’s new cardiac hybrid operating room at the McCaig Tower (connected to Foothills Medical Centre).

This OR will support the use of endovascular and traditional surgical methods. By partnering both approaches, cardiac surgery and cardiac intervention, medical professionals will now be able to work together and complete a variety of procedures with the most state-of-the-art x-ray equipment, surgical tables, supplementary ultrasound/imaging equipment, and monitoring devices.

“There is an increasing role for hybrid procedures in treating patients with heart disease. With highly specialized equipment and infrastructure, the cardiac hybrid OR supports state-of-the-art cardiac intervention and surgery care for our patients. These types of procedures can now be performed with the best technology and in the best environment,” says Caroline Hatcher, Executive Director of Cardiac Sciences/Critical Care/ NICU at the Foothills Hospital.

Procedures to be completed in this OR include, but not limited to, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR), complex lead extractions, and cardiac resynchronization therapy implantations.

A representative image of the Libin Cardiovascular Insitute’s new cardiac hybrid operating room (OR).

Operating room to open September, 2014.

Smaller is Better Story and photo by Lauren Sharp

ABOVE Impella CP device 16 LIBIN LIFE

On July 15, Foothills registered nurses received hands-on training on the latest “heart pump” to be used at the Libin Cardiovascular Institute – the Impella CP. The Impella CP (cardiac power) is the world’s smallest “heart pump”–about the width of a pencil. It is inserted in high risk patients who have coronary blockages leading to heart failure. It may be used as an adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures or as a bridge to other therapies.

The Impella CP offers a minimally invasive procedure since it can be inserted in the catheterization lab opposed to the surgery suite.

The device is inserted through a small hole in the femoral artery that runs through the aorta to the heart’s left ventricle (the heart’s main pumping chamber). From there, it can either be used to augment the pumping action of a patient’s heart making high risk procedures safer.

It stands out amongst other catheters as it does not require invasive surgery (completed in the catheterization lab, not operating room), thus reducing the patient’s recovery time.

While prior versions of the Impella have been used in Calgary for some time, the first CP device was inserted at the Foothills Medical Centre on June 29th.

Pacing Into The Future

By Lauren Sharp

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hen it comes to the latest technology in heart rate assistance, pacemakers with leads are becoming a thing of the past. The world’s first leadless pacemakers are soon to be clinically tested at the Libin Institute.

Since 1958, traditional pacemakers have helped over four million people, with approximately 700,000 individuals receiving one each year. Although these heart beat assistants are vital for saving lives, their current structure can be seen as bulky with multiple components, difficult to remove, and could cause serious infections.

The Libin Institute noted this, and when the leadless pacemaker clinical trial became available, it wanted to be part of this revolutionary cardiac technology. Dr. Vikas Kuriachan, Libin Institute cardiac electrophysiologist, says,“We were one of the few sites asked to take part in the study which is pretty exciting since centres are usually only picked if they have high quality results.”

So what’s the big deal?

This titanium pacemaker is revolutionary as it is about the length of a quarter, is leadless, has a lengthier working duration and may last even twice as long as compared to the traditional models in some patients.

“With no leads, there are fewer chances for mechanical issues and possibility for infections,” says Dr. Kuriachan.

Insertion is also different. Instead of being surgically placed just below the collarbone, the leadless pacemaker is inserted via a catheter into the femoral vein that extends to the heart. The pacemaker is then deployed through the catheter to the heart’s right ventricle. Once inserted, it senses native heart beats from the heart and can provide extra beats as needed. This procedure may be safer, require less procedural time, and avoids many of the arm/shoulder restrictions that patients with traditional pacemakers face.

The ethics approval study is expected by the end of the summer, with Dr. Kuriachan and Dr. Derek Exner hoping to do the first implants soon after the approval.

ABOVE Leadless Pacemaker compared to a quarter. Photo by: St. Jude’s Hospital

LIBIN LIFE 17

Institute Joins the Canadian Vascular Network

RESEARCH

By Judy Siu

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Dr. Todd Anderson and Dr. Edward O’Brien [inset]

n February 2014, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Government of Canada announced the launch of three pan-Canadian research networks: the Canadian Respiratory Research Network, the Canadian Stroke Prevention Intervention Network, and the Canadian Vascular Network.

Two of the Libin Institute’s leaders were invited to be co-investigators of the Canadian Vascular Network: Dr. Todd Anderson and Dr. Edward O’Brien, the Institute’s Director and Director of Research, respectively. The network is comprised of a group of co-investigators spanning from basic science to population health. It brings together scientists from various disciplines across Canada, all of whom have an interest in vascular disease.

It is being led by Dr. Duncan Stewart, CEO and Scientific Director of the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute.

“The two main research themes [of the network] focus on prevention of vascular disease and identifying novel methods of early detection of at-risk individuals,” says Dr. Anderson, whose involvement with the network stems from over two decades of studying vascular disease. “For patients, we look to improve outcomes by better understanding vascular risks.”

The Libin Institute’s involvement with the network will be beneficial for both its researchers and students. “Being part of the network will bring new graduate students to the Libin Institute,” says Anderson. “More importantly, new collaborative relationships will be established, allowing Canadian scientists to collectively study larger and more important vascular issues.”

The Canadian Vascular Network’s priority areas will focus on collaborative research, training the next generation of scientists and promoting knowledge translation.

“A great foundation of research and training will lead to better patient care,” says Anderson.

Heart and Stroke Lab Tours

By Susan Wilmot • Photos by Rob McMorris

Elizabeth Cannon, University of Calgary President and Vice-Chancellor speaking at Heart and Stroke lab tours

18 LIBIN LIFE

On May 22nd, 2014 the partnership between the University of Calgary and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada was celebrated.

This recognized the Foundation’s established partnership and generous financial commitment of $25 million in support of heart and stroke research at the University of Calgary over the next decade.

Following the private celebration, more than 150 Heart and Stroke Foundation donors, volunteers, and special guests toured both Libin Cardiovascular Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute laboratories.

Participants selected three different “real time” tours of twelve available laboratories where principal investigators demonstrated how the grants from the Heart and Stroke Foundation contribute to support linking leading edge research to positive patient outcomes, highlighting research milestones and successes, and sharing their visions for the future.

Libin Institute presenters included Drs. Ed O’Brien, Paul Fedak, Hank Duff, and James White. Following the tours, participants had the opportunity to mix and mingle with Institute clinicians, researchers, and their teams.

C-Spin annual general meeting

New Stroke Network Brings Researchers Together The Canadian Stroke Prevention Intervention Network (C-SPIN) is a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) funded Emerging Network recently launched by the Canadian Government. It supports multiple clinical trials aimed at preventing embolic stroke.

By Judy Siu

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ed by Dr. Jeff Healy at McMaster University and Hamilton Health Sciences, the C-SPIN network includes researchers from across Canada, including general cardiologists, electrophysiologists, neurologists and family physicians.

There are currently seven members of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta participating in C-SPIN, including prominent electrophysiologists such as Dr. Robert Sheldon, who serves on C-SPIN’s Executive Committee, and Dr. D. George Wyse, MD, PhD who is part of the network’s Advisory Committee.

“I believe the contribution of Libin members to the success of C-SPIN – both the research trials and educational platform – will be very significant,” says Dr. Lisa Welikovitch, member of the Libin Institute, C-SPIN’s Education Director and Chair of the Royal College Exam Board.

The network has made great strides in its first year of development. C-SPIN has already initiated several large clinical research trials focused on atrial fibrillation and stroke—both conditions being extremely common and resulting in significant morbidity.

There are also studies investigating new strategies to communicate with patients and family physicians to ensure suitable therapies are offered to the appropriate patient population.

A significant component of C-SPIN’s mandate focuses on mentoring trainees and junior faculty who are interested in developing careers in clinical trials research.

“C-SPIN will have a major impact on the ‘supply of researchers’ in the future,” says Dr. Welikovitch. “The educational programs are intended to provide salary support and mentoring for junior faculty and postgraduate trainees to ensure that these individuals have the tools, infrastructure, and mentorship to develop successful careers in clinical research.”

Welikovitch is very excited to see where C-SPIN is heading.

“I believe there is a tremendous potential for growth and expansion as these trials get underway and the educational program is unveiled,” says Welikovitch.

In January 2015, the network is holding a C-SPIN Workshop at the Ottawa Heart Institute. This three-day retreat will expose trainees to clinical trial design, statistical methods, knowledge translation, and offer mentorship for career development. “It is only one of several components of C-SPIN’s educational program, says Dr. Welikovitch.”

The network also recently launched the C-SPIN–Bayer Fellowship, which is awarded annually to faculty within the first five years of an academic appointment. It provides $50,000 annually for two years, with matching funds from the applicant’s sponsoring institution. Dr. Peter Leong-Sit, an Assistant Professor and electrophysiologist at the University of Western Ontario, and Dr. Lena Rivard, a clinician researcher at the Montreal Heart Institute were the first recipients of the C-SPIN–Bayer Fellowship in 2014.

For more information on C-SPIN or the C-SPIN Workshop, Dr. Welikovitch will be at the Libin Institute’s booth (615) at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress (October 25-28 2014 in Vancouver, BC) on Monday, October 27, 2014 from 10:00am to 11:00am.

The C-SPIN Workshop is a three-day retreat being held on January 21-23, 2015 at the Ottawa Heart Institute. The workshop provides an opportunity for trainees to network with one another as well as faculty. Each trainee will also develop and present a research proposal during the retreat with feedback, guidance and support from a research mentor. For more information, please visit the C-SPIN (www.cspin.ca) website. Interested applicants should contact Dr. Lisa Welikovitch at lisa.welikovtich@albertahealthservices.ca for complete application material.

LIBIN LIFE 19

#CalgarianWithHeart When you see the Libin heart, make sure to take your picture with it and upload it to Twitter with the hashtag #CalgarianWithHeart The Libin heart will be at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress from October 25-28, 2014 at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC)

[Inside Heart] Libin Insititute Team BACK Lauren Sharp, Amber Arsneau, Miranda Wilson, Al-Karim Walli FRONT Judy Siu, Susan Wilmot

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PATIENT CARE

Patient Spotlights

By Lauren Sharp

MARK SUCHLANDT Mark Suchlandt, long-time athlete, couldn’t run away from his poor heart history {mother had a stroke at 37; diabetes and cardiovascular disease in family} and on August 13, 2013 right before his 36 birthday he had a heart attack.

“I am a pretty active individual. I’ve run a half and full marathon, love to exercise, and play on a dodgeball league. I couldn’t believe it when I had a heart attack. You just never think those things are going to happen to you,” says Mark.

Mark rehabbed at the Talisman Centre for Sport and Wellness where he took the Libin Institute’s cardiac rehabilitation program delivered by Total Cardiology. The recovery included light exercise regimens, proper dietary guidelines, and taking a variety of medications.

“You know you have to make changes, but you don’t know how. I especially loved the knowledge sessions. That’s where the nurses would come in and give me the mental assistance I needed – it was truly a wonderful experience,” says Mark.

Mark sees Dr. Angela Kealey on an annual basis at the Foothills Medical Centre. He hopes to run the Melissa’s half marathon in September.

PAULENE ORTON Pauline Orton, a patient of Dr. Anne Gillis, has been living with pacemakers for almost 25 years to stabilize her atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm).

“Shortly after delivering twin girls in February, 1988 I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and a year later received my first of three pacemakers, “ says Pauline.

“Before the pacemaker I struggled with daily activities and for a while required home care to help look after the twins. Once I was given the pacemaker, my life went back to normal and I could enjoy an active lifestyle again,” says Pauline.

Pauline sees Dr. Anne Gillis at the Foothills Medical Centre. She credits her and the Pacemaker nurses for her health.

“Dr. Gillis has always been so attentive and helpful. I have developed such a great relationship with her and the pacemaker staff they definitely go above and beyond and I am so grateful for their care,” says Pauline.

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WHATEVER YOUR HEART DESIRES — WE CAN HELP 12 Locations Caring for Calgary Content by Lauren Sharp and Al-Karim Walli; Design by Steven Tov

A

Basic Science Research

B

Translational Research

C

Outcomes/Health Services Research

D E F

Clinical Training

(Cardiac Surgery and Cardiology Residencies and Sub-Specialty Fellowships)

Clinical Care

(Cardiac Science Wards, Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, Coronary Care Unit)

G

Cardiac Operating Rooms, Ablation and Catheterization Labs

H

Echocardiography Imaging

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Nuclear & Computerized Tomography (CT) Imaging

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Cardiac Sciences Outpatient Clinics

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Stephenson Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CMR) Centre

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Pediatric Cardiology

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Education

(Undergraduate, Graduate, Post-Doctoral)

Cardiac Rehabilitation

N C D J A

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY MAIN CAMPUS

B E

F H PETER LOUGHEED J CENTRE

E H J

L D C ALBERTA B CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

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A

C D FOOTHILLS K CAMPUS E J F I G H

E B C

B E

ROCKYVIEW GENERAL HOSPITAL

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TALISMAN CENTRE

D E M

H J

B

S

E

F G

SOUTH HEALTH CAMPUS

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I J K

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Share your heart stories with us via social media or by contacting us via libin@ucalgary.ca.

Use the hashtag #Libin10 so we can collect and share your heart stories all through 2014.

Visit libin10.ca for more.