August 3, 2012
Vol. 30, No. 49
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Telescopic lens offers high-tech treatment
Dr. Charlene Grice, center, assisted by Dr. Luis Fernandez de Castro, begins the telescopic lens implant surgery on Justine Wise’s right eye at Rutledge Tower. Wise has end-stage age-related macular degeneration.
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ustine Wise, 86, tried to adjust for the dark smudges that blurred her vision that she has had to cope with for more than 10 years. Having end-stage age-related macular degeneration, doctors told her there was no further treatment. Then her daughter told her about the implantable telescopic lens procedure now available at MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute. Wise became part of history July 13 when she became the first patient in the Southeast to receive a telescopic lens implant. Charlene Grice, M.D., removed a cataract in her right eye and then inserted an Implantable
An estimated 1.8 million Americans suffer from age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss in patients older than 55. MUSC became the first in the Southeast July 13 to implant a telescopic lens, a treatment that offers hope for these patients.
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Pharmacy award Jean M. Nappi, PharmD, honored for her excellence as a teacher and researcher.
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Miniature Telescope. The miniature telescope, which was implanted immediately after removal of a cataract, is smaller than a pea, and sits behind the iris projecting an enlarged image of what patients see in their central vision. Age-related macular degeneration involves the loss of vision in the center of the visual field because of damage to the retina. It is the leading cause of vision loss in patients older than 55 years and affects 1.8 million patients in the United States. The trade-off for gains in central
See Lens on page 12
Governor’s school
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Employee Campaign
MUSC hosts Summer Program for Research Interns.
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Meet Dan
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Classified Ads
READ THE CATALYST ONLINE - http://www.musc.edu/catalyst
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PeoPle
Around Campus
Carolyn D. Britten Carolyn D. Britten, M.D., a noted expert in cancer drug development, has joined MUSC’s Hollings Cancer Center and will serve as director of the cancer center’s growing Phase I Clinical Trials Research Program. The medical oncologist was recruited from UCLA’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center where her leadership positions from 2001-2012 included serving as director of ProtocolSpecific Research Support and associate director of the Signal Transduction and Therapeutics Program. Hollings Director Andrew S. Kraft, M.D., said the center is glad to have her join the team. “Known for her knowledge and experience in drug discovery and Phase I clinical trials, she will work closely with our clinicians, researchers and industry partners to build a renowned Phase I program. Her contributions will lead to more novel early-phase treatment options for our cancer patients and help transition promising laboratory research into the clinic.” Hollings has 30 Phase I trials in progress and 11 scheduled to open this year. Britten said MUSC and Hollings demonstrate a commitment
The MUSC Hollings Cancer Center Mobile Health Unit and the MUSC Level 1 Trauma Center were at Front Beach Isle of Palms July 14. The Mobile Health Unit provided free skin cancer screenings and the Trauma Center provided summer safety tips. Participants received free sunscreen samples and sunglasses. The next screening and safety event will be Aug. 11 at James Island County Park. For information call 792-0878. to developing an impressive Phase I program by earning designation from the National Cancer Institute, recruiting accomplished scientists and investing in technology and infrastructure. “Phase I trials are where we begin to explore whether a new drug that looks promising in the lab can make a difference in the lives of patients,” Britten said. “There is a keen interest in drug development at MUSC, and I look forward to collaborating with the basic, translational and clinical researchers here.”
Robin Bissinger Robin Bissinger, Ph.D., R.N., associate dean for academics in the College of Nursing, has been selected for Fellowship in the American Academy of Nursing. The academy is composed of more than 1,800 members who are leaders in education, management, practice, policy and research.
Golden Rose Hartley Fourth-year dental student Golden Rose Hartley was named the 2012-2013 Pierre Fauchard Academy’s Dental Student Scholarship Award winner. The Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., native was praised for her contributions to the dental school and meeting the scholarship’s qualities of integrity, imagination, initiative and excellent communication skills.
Joseph Meserve Joseph Meserve, Hematology/Oncology, is one of 44 recipients of the 2012 American Society of Hematology Trainee Research Award. Meserve will receive $1,000 to travel to the society’s annual meeting at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Attendance at this event provides recipients with opportunities to network with leaders in the field and to learn about the latest research and therapies in hematology.
evenTs Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Kim Draughn catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Cindy Abole, aboleca@musc.edu Dawn Brazell, brazell@musc.edu
The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
Faculty Convocation
Strides for Autism
The 2012 Faculty Convocation titled, “From Discovery to Improved Therapeutics: The role of entrepreneurialism,” will begin at 4:30 p.m., Aug. 21 in Room DD110, Drug Discovery Building. The keynote address will be delivered by Perry V. Halushka, M.D., Ph.D., dean, College of Graduate Studies. A reception will follow in the lobby. For information, visit http://academicdepartments. musc.edu/convocation.
The Strides for Autism event will be held Oct. 6 at the Memorial Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant. Onsite registration begins at 8 a.m. and the walk kicks off at 9 a.m. Although there is no minimum donation, individuals who participate at the $25 level will receive a free walk T-shirt. Registration and other inforamtion for Strides for Autism is available at www. scautism.org/strides or by calling 800438-4790.
The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012 3
Professor earns distinguished pharmacy award The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) honored Jean M. Nappi, Pharm.D., professor of clinical pharmacy and outcome sciences at the S.C. College of Pharmacy, for her excellence as a teacher, achievements as a researcher and scholar, and impact on pharmacy education and the profession. Nappi received the Robert K. Chalmers Distinguished Nappi Pharmacy Educator Award July 17 during the Examining Excellence Awards Plenary at the AACP Annual Meeting, Pharmacy Education 2012, in Florida. “I am humbled to be among the recipients of the Chalmers award. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with colleagues who are dedicated to their students and residents,” Nappi said. “We share a passion for pharmacy education and patient care, and we encourage each other to become better educators and clinicians. I thank the students and residents who have inspired and challenged me. Their constructive critiques motivated me to improve what I do. I also want to recognize my mentors at The University
of Texas, especially Drs. Charlie Walton and Bob Leonard.” Nappi has been at the forefront of postgraduate residency training, particularly pharmacotherapy specialty residencies. She is a leader at the S.C. College of Pharmacy in the area of interprofessional education and a substantial contributor to scholarship in pharmacy education. She has authored more than 125 publications, 34 of which contribute to pharmacy education. Not only has Nappi had a significant impact on pharmacy education through her own work, but also through the careers of those she has taught. Nearly 80 students and residents have gone on to become pharmacy faculty members at approximately 40 pharmacy schools across the country, a record rarely matched in the academic pharmacy community. Robert L. Page II, Pharm.D., associate professor of clinical pharmacy at the University of Colorado Schools of Pharmacy and Medicine and former mentee of Nappi’s, said he has never found a more motivated, energetic, and innovative practitioner and educator as Nappi. “Her many years of dedication to patient care and her contributions to clinical pharmacy education have made her an excellent role model to students, residents and new practitioners. She’s paved the way
for growth and expansion in areas of clinical pharmacy practice and academic pharmacy.” Nappi was appointed to lead the MUSC residency program in 1997. In that role she brought together 12 residency program directors under one administrative umbrella and was able to generate consensus that all postgraduate year one and postgraduate year two programs follow the same requirements for successful completion of the individual programs. Nappi also developed and implemented the first 24-month Pharmacotherapy Residency Program in the United States and served as its director for 11 years. It was developed to produce practitioners who are able to design and implement pharmacotherapy regimens for patients with a broad range of diseases and to work effectively in health care systems. Lucinda L. Maine, Ph.D., AACP executive vice president and CEO, said it would be impossible to count the lives that have been touched and enhanced by the work of Nappi. “Her teaching has an exponential impact on patients as her inspired students go on to teach others and improve patient care.” The award, named for the late Robert K. Chalmers, former AACP president and distinguished educator, consists of a Steuben glass owl sculpture and a monetary prize.
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MUSC employees give back through yearly campaign T his year’s Yearly Employee Campaign raised more than $370,500 for MUSC. Thank you to the following employees: Zsolt Ablonczy, Julie Acker, Jeffrey Acsell, Deborah Adams, Robert Adams, Jayne Ahlstrom, Mary Albano, Jennifer Aldrich, Susan Alexander, Carrie Allen, Mary Allen, Elaine Amella, Leona Anderson, Richard Anderson, Shirley Anderson, Vertonya Anderson, Jeannette Andrews, Natalie Ankney, Dustin Annan, David Annibale, Pamela Arnold, John Arthur, Pamela Ash, Sharon Ashburn, Sharlene Atkins, Lynne Barber, John Barry, Kelly Barth, Lillian Batiste, Analina Bayag, Howard Becker, Julie Benke, Lindsey Bennett, Ann Benton, Alan Berendt, Kristofor Bergmann, Robin Bissinger, Deborah Blackwell, Alva Blair, Galina Bogatkevich, Gilbert Boissonneault, Jeanne Bonadonna, Heather Bonilha, Sarah Book, Deborah Bordeau, Christina Bourne, Ted Bouthiller, Barbara Bozarth, Andrew Bracken, Darby Brass, Karen Bridgeman, Deborah Brooks, Robert Brooks, Carol Brown, Susan Brown, Truman Brown, Faith Brownlee, Brenda Brunner-Jackson, Deborah Bryant, Siobhan Buckley, Lisa Burkhardt, Joy Burns, Jeffrey Bush, Paula Butler, Ernest Camp, Yue Cao, Shana Caporossi, Maryann Carruthers, Amy Carter, Hope Cattles, Marcella Chambers, Geoffrey Cheek, Robert Chisholm, Frank Clark, Kristen Clasen, Lora Clekis, Susan Coates, Joel Cochran, Debra Cohen, Stefanie Cole, Michaela Coleman, Brian Collins, Hope Colyer, Brian Conner, Kathryn Coons, Cameron Craft, Heather Craven, Dianna Crawford, Regina Creech, Amanda Crocker, Crystal Crocker, Sandra Crosby, Bruce Cross, Rosalie Crouch, Catherine Cummins, Nancy Curry, Jennifer Davidson, Talarico Davis, Kathy Daw, Sharon De Grace, Jesse Dean, Sharon Dean, Luciano Del Priore, Deborah Dewaay, Lauren Dickerson, Lori Dickerson, Jonathan Dilgen, Robert Donato, Barbara Donnelly, Tara Dorundo, Arly Douglass, Harry Drabkin, Megan Draper, Erin Drevets, Julie Driggers, Karen Driggers, Mary Dubis, Susan Duckworth, Nancy Duffy, Bonnie Dumas, Chris Earl, Megan Edge, Richard Elder, Dallas Ellis, Constance Elrod, Juanita Epps, Gwendolyn Ewing, Weimin Fan, Traysha Farber, Hugh Farris, Amy Ferguson, Charles Ferguson, Pamela Ferguson, Kay Fernandes, Larry Field, Mary Fischer, Wayne Fitzgibbon, Pamela Fogle, Stephanie Ford, Joyce Foster, Matthias Frye, Jeffrey Fuller, Morgan Furr, Jeanine Gage, Sandra Garner, Lasasha Garrett, Kelli Garrison, Gerald Garza, Andrew Gelasco, Margaret Gethers, James Getsinger, Mark Ghent, Pierre Giglio, Gary Gilkeson, Candace Gillespie, Sandra Gilliam, Sharon Gilliard, Jennifer Gilson, Therese Ann Ginn, Frances Glanville, Neil Glover, Patrice Goletz, Martha Gomez, Andrew Goodwin, Joan Graesch, Valda Grant, Ashley Green, Kathleen Green, Susan Greene, Holly Griffin, William Griffin, Richard Gross, Jonathan Halford, Stephanie Hall, Adam Hamilton, Myra Haney, Elizabeth Hansell, Luanne Harley,
Shannon Harmon, Karen Harper, Bonnie Harris, James Harris, Kimberly Harris-Eaton, Anita Harrison, Deborah Harrison, Donna Harrison, Emily Hartwell, Megan Hatfield, Harold Haun, Carlton Hawkes, Geoffrey Hayden, Callan Hazelbaker, Latha Hebbar, Anette HebebrandVerner, Robert Hedin, Gail Heitman, Joseph Helpern, Scott Henderson, Lakilya Hill, Robert Hill, Tammy Hill, Cynthia Hipp, Susan Hoffius, Stanley Hoffman, Gloria Holloman, John Holmes, Donald Holzheimer, Gale Horinbein, Beverly Horne, Gregory Horres, Margaret Hotchkiss, Linda Howard, Kristina Huebner, Clint Infinger, Kayethe Infinger, Kimberely Irk, Leigh Jaimes, Sheila Janikowski, Edward Jauch, Nicole Jefferson, Sonia Jenkins, Walter Jenner, Toni Jernigan, Wanda Johnson, Peter Kalivas, Diane Kamen, Steven Kautz, Bruce Keck, Brad Keith, Teresa Kelechi, Jane Kelley, Kelly Kercher, Sharon Kest, Elizabeth Khan, Annette Kibler, Jaemyung Kim, Sylvia Klineova, Jade Knapp, Peter Kobes, Janis Koenig, Heather Kokko, Masahiro Kono, Mary Koval, Laurie Krafsig, Diann Krywko, Katy Kuder, Jerome Kurent, Jan Kylstra, Daniel Lackland, Nancy Lamble, Dianna Lankford, Steven Larowe, Eric Larson, Patricia Latham, Michelle Lattimore, Stacey Laws, Kimberly Lee, Kyu-Ho Lee, Morris Lent, Stuart Leon, Leanna Leonard, Christine Lewis, Katherine Lewis, Casey Liddy, Wendy
Littlejohn, Yolanda Long, Marcelo Lopez, Susan Lucas, Nancy Macaulay, Mary Macbain, Jill Mackey, Lauren Magaldi, Viktoriya Magid, Gayenell Magwood, Robert Malcolm, Stephen Malley, Joanne Marcell, Catherine Martin, Peter Martin, Thomas Martin, Ashley Martindale, Collette Mayes, Mary McCall, Debbie McCravy, Paul McDermott, Marisa McEntire, Marshall McFadden, Amanda McGarrigle, Dianne McGarry, John McGinnis, Elizabeth McGuan, Nancy McKeehan, Whitney McLuen, Meaghan McNamara, Karen McPherson, Linda Meehan, Pauline Meekins, Donald Menick, Jennifer Merrill, Cami Meyer, Deborah Middleton, Christine Miller, Peter Miller, Sherry Miller, Maryann Milligan, Maralynne Mitcham, Verna Mitchell, Stephanie Montgomery-Idema, Emily Moore, Paul Moss, Patrick Mulholland, Tonnia Mullen, Karen Murphy, Margaret Myers, Margaret Myrick, Krista Mysock, Jennifer Nall, Jean Nappi, John Nash, Alonzo Nesmith, Paul Nietert, Tamara Nowling, Stephanie Oberempt, Sandra Oberman, Terrence O’Brien, Austin O’Malley, Kathryn O’Neal, Janet Onkotz, Christopher Oranyeli, Richard Ottmar, Ruby Owens, Carolyn Page, Yuko Palesch, Priscilla Parker, Pamela Parris, Elizabeth Parrish, Julie Parrish, Steve Paterniti, Robert Peiffer, Shawn Phillips, John
See Campaign on page 10
Employees donating $1,000+ Anne Abel, David B. Adams, Lawrence B. Afrin, Thomas P. Anderson, Raymond F. Anton, Jane C. Ariail, Prabhakar K. Baliga, Thomas G. Basler, Helena G. Bastian, Phillip D. Bell, Ronald A. Bell, Laurence S. Blumenthal, John A. Bosso, Kathleen Brady, Leslie M. Brady, Gwendolyn B. Brown, Ruth C. Campbell, Tara B. Campbell, Peter J. Carek, Joseph Cavanaugh, Eugene Y. Chang, Laurine T. Charles, Kenneth D. Chavin, Alexander W. Chessman, Katherine H. Chessman, Salvatore Chiaramida, Anthony J. Chipas, Neal P. Christiansen, David J. Cole, Stephanie K. Collins, Philip Costello, Fred A. Crawford, William T. Creasman, Craig E. Crosson, Camilia J. Darby, Betsy K. Davis, Deborah V. Deas-Nesmith, Anna W. Delamar, Harry Demos, Joseph T. Dipiro, Brenda M. Dorman, Becky Dornisch, Jonathon C. Edwards, C. Betts Ellis, Evert A. Eriksson, John R. Feussner, William J. Fisher, Timothy Fitzharris, Patrick A. Flume, Marvella E. Ford, Melissa S. Forinash, Dennis J. Frazier, David R. Garr, Marion B. Gillespie, John A. Glaser, Michael R. Gold, Raymond S. Greenberg, Philip D. Hall, Stephen A. Hargett, Langdon A. Hartsock, Sherron M. Jackson, Paul F. Jacques, Tariq Javed, Donna D. Johnson, Arnold Karig, Michael C. Keels, J. Michael Kilby, Sarah L. King, Janice M. Lage, Paul R. Lambert, Jody M. Latham, John Lazarchick, Lee R. Leddy, Walter E. Limehouse, Louis Luttrell, George N. Magrath, Lucinda Magwood, Leigh
W. Manzi, Vicki A. Marsi, Mary P. Mauldin, Jane B. McCullough, Matthew D. McEvoy, Toni W. McHugh, Stephen A. McLeod-Bryant, William W. Merrill, Lisa P. Montgomery, William P. Moran, David C. Morrisette, Christine W. Murray, David C. Neff, Brad W. Neville, Roger B. Newman, Edward D. Norcross, James C. Oates, G. Shashidhar Pai, Murray H. Passo, Mae Millicent W. Peterseim, Etta D. Pisano, Roberto Pisoni, Ross B. Pollack, Eric R. Powers, Paul B. Pritchard, Amy C. Ramsay, Shannon G. Ravenel, Scott T. Reeves, Charles S. Rittenberg, Christopher J. Robinson, Jacob G. Robison, Steven A. Sahn, Lisa K. Saladin, John J. Sanders, J. Philip Saul, Richard A. Saunders, Margaret P. Schachte, Stephen D. Schaer, Marilyn J. Schaffner, J. Bayne Selby, Sally E. Self, Darlene L. Shaw, Priyattam J. Shiromani, Richard E. Sillivant, Richard M. Silver, Chloe Singleton, Sabra C. Slaughter, Charles D. Smith, W. Stuart Smith, William D. Sneed, Edward E. Soltis, David E. Soper, David Q. Soutter, Terry Stanley, Antine E. Stenbit, Gail W. Stuart, Robert Stuart, Steven E. Swift, Nancy F. Tassin, Marian Taylor, Fred W. Tecklenburg, Bruce H. Thiers, Kenneth J. Thomas, Becky Trickey, Ronald C. Turner, Paul Underwood, J. Peter Van Dorsten, Charles Wallace, Patrick Wamsley, Sally Webb, M. Edward Wilson, Jeffrey Wong, Catherine Wood, Shane Woolf, Cathy Worrall, Patrick Woster, and Peter Zwerner.
The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012 5
Meet Dan
Yu ‘Dan’ De-cai College College of Graduate Studies, Master of Science of Clinical Research Hometown Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China Favorite organization Toastmasters Dream job My current job, surgeon Meal you love to cook Tofu with fish A must-have in your fridge Yogurt Words of advice The word is with God. What do you like about Toastmasters The leadership Favorite Toastmasters meeting role Table topics master or speaker, which activates my potential Best thing about living in Charleston Playing tennis Unique talent My creativity
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Medical Center
‘Making a difference every day’ Employees of the Month
Sandra Purdie, left, and Courtney Nelson, Patient Admissions “A very distraught patient came to the Hospital Admitting desk looking for help. She was in tears and almost inconsolable explaining that she was unable to get her prescriptions filled. It was obvious she was going through some difficulties and instead of judging her, Sandra and Courtney banded together to help her. After finding out how much it would cost to get her prescription filled, they decided to pay for the prescriptions themselves. What touched my heart was not that they spent their own money to help this woman, but rather they took the time to sit down, talk to her and to let her know that whatever she was going through, everything was going to be all sright. Now she knows, if she didn’t before, that people care. Bravo Sandra and Courtney, in my book, you are heroes and the best that MUSC has to offer.” Nominated by Helina Selassie Anita Shuler, Pediatric Respiratory Therapy “Anita represents our department on the Pediatric Asthma committee and the Pediatric Emergency Department Operation’s committee. She is frequently recognized by families in follow up phone calls and in patient satisfaction surveys for her excellent care and the asthma education she provides. During
these phone calls she inquires as to how they are doing, are they following their action plan, and asking if there are any questions or anything she can review with them. All this information is entered into a database to later be used to determine strides MUSC is making in caring for those with asthma. In June, Anita was recognized by the pediatric residents and the Department of Pediatrics with the Most Supportive Staff Member 2011-2012 for outstanding service and commitment to resident education.” Nominated by Marian Miller Stephanie McGowan, Physical Therapy “I am an employee but I was a patient in the PT department and had a wonderful experience. Early this year, I found out I had to have some pretty extensive hip surgery and was very anxious about this as the recovery period was quite long. I met with Stephanie before the surgery, and she was very familiar with this surgery and the therapy protocol. She really decreased my anxiety about the surgery. I had to get back to my long term goal of riding dirt bikes and running again. After the surgery, I had a three month recovery period with physical therapy several times a week. Stephanie was just amazing. If I had any questions, I could just email her and she was there for me. It was pretty frustrating at times, and Stephanie was there to pump me up and keep me going. I had some pretty interesting exercises to do at home and she worked with me until I got them down. I could not have made it without her. We are so lucky to have such an awesome person that really cares about her patients and what she does. The entire department was just great, including registration.” Nominated by Sonja Muckenfuss
Physician of the Month Alice Boylan, M.D., Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy & Sleep Medicine “I would like to nominate Alice Boylan as the physician of the month not for her clinical patient care skills, which I am confident are exemplary, but for her support and mentorship of the entire respiratory care team. As busy as Alice is, she is always present to support the initiatives of the respiratory care department. She encourages the professional growth of our therapists by attending RT Practice Council and reviewing their clinical ladder projects on a regular basis. Alice is a therapist and patient advocate. Therapists do not hesitate to bring concerning clinical issues to her. No matter what service involved, Alice addresses the issues at hand and brings the matter to resolution. Alice is so dedicated to the respiratory care department that when her plate became too full (she also serves as medical director of the ICU and MACC/SACC), she became concerned she did not have the time to devote to respiratory care that she would like to. In response she was instrumental in assigning another medical director with the time to devote. However, Alice did not use that opportunity to totally wipe a few things off her plate. She is dedicated to mentoring the new medical director until she is sure the needs of the department are met. Her agenda is pure: Support the department team members and ensure the highest quality of respiratory care for our patients.” Nominated by Sally Potts
Winner is ‘passionate about senior care patients’ The MUSC DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award for Nurses is a monthly award and is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day. The foundation was formed in 2000 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. The winner for June is Alison Meeks, clinical nurse coordinator, Department of Psychiatry. The following is an excerpt from her nomination: “Alison has worked for years on the Senior Care Psychiatry Inpatient Unit with extremely challenging patients. She spends her own money on items that are personally important to a patient,
like boiled eggs for a man who refused medications and other treatments unless he got an egg. She works at knowing the things that are most important to each patient and incorporating these into her relationships. Alison makes safety a priority. She recognized that many geriatric psychiatry patients choke because they may have forgotten how to eat. Alison noticed that many patients cannot remember the movements necessary to get into bed. She has techniques for these, learned through experience, that she shares with others. The staff applauds her for never finding a task below her to perform and for helping other staff without being asked. Alison is passionate about nursing and especially about her senior care patients.” All award winners received an African Shona Tribe sculpture titled, “A Healer’s Touch,” a framed certificate and a DAISY Award pin. Visit http://www. musc.edu/catalyst/daisy.html.
The Catalyst, August 3, 2012 7
Governor’s School students contribute to research
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ome of South Carolina’s brightest high school minds converged on MUSC’s campus for six weeks this summer to collaborate and expand their experiences while conducting biomedical research. A total of 14 junior students from the S.C. Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) participated in MUSC’s Summer Program for Research Interns (SPRI). GSSM requires its students to complete a summer research project prior to the start of their senior year. Students choose from research-oriented programs at MUSC, College of Charleston, Furman University, Clemson University and the University of South Carolina as well as at corporate research centers throughout the state. Participants may live at home or participate in a live-in dormitory at the College of Charleston, coordinated by the College of Graduate Studies Dean’s Office, while working at MUSC. At the end of the program, participants present their research summaries at the host institution, at the school’s colloquium and each spring at the S.C. Junior Academy of Science before a panel of judges. Sponsoring College of Graduate Studies Dean Perry V. Halushka, M.D., Ph.D., has supported this research intensive program since early 2000. It is among several of the college’s summer research program experiences offered to students from high school to graduate-level participants. Other longterm programs include the Summer Undergraduate Research Program for undergraduate students and the Summer Health Professionals Research Program targeting medical, dental and health profession students who are interested in clinical research. At the July 20 closing event and final research presentations, Halushka thanked parents, faculty, sponsoring mentors and staff. “You’ve raised bright, enthusiastic and hard working students, and I commend you for your parenting success in preparing these young men and women to be able to attend a fine school as with the Governor’s School. These students
Above, Governor’s School student Rachel Chen explains her summer research working in the lab of Pharmaceutical Sciences’ Dr. Patrick Woster. Pictured left, Charleston Governor’s School student Ashani Ranwala, right, and mom, Dr. Dayan Ranwala, enjoy a break prior to her July 20 research presentation with SPRI participants. have given up most their summer to work and learn from our faculty. I hope that this program, combined with your school’s internship program, has helped ignite a passion for research that’s exciting to those who choose to move forward in biomedical research.” GSSM outreach and research director Randy LaCross is in his ninth year coordinating research experiences for Governor’s School students. He also praised students and the partnership with MUSC. Students stayed in one of the College of Charleston dormitories while conducting their research on
MUSC’s campus. “This continues to be a phenomenal partnership and experience for our students. The interaction with scientists and research staff deepens a student’s knowledge, confidence and understanding relating to the nature of science, data collection and scientific research in a professional environment. I’m very proud of their efforts,” LaCross said. One Charleston area student who gained a lot during her six-week experience was Ashani Ranwala, 17. Last summer, Ashani wasn’t sure what part of the medical field or scientific
research she wanted so she volunteered to work with patients and staff through MUSC’s junior volunteer program. This year, Ashani worked in the lab of Ken Tew, Ph.D., professor and chair in the Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, to get her research experience. She is the daughter of Dayan Ranwala, Ph.D., SCTR Institute, and has an interest in medicine and cancer therapeutics. This spring, Ashani connected with Tew, who is program leader in Hollings Cancer Center’s Developmental Cancer Therapeutics Program and serves as the John C. West Endowed Chair of Cancer Research. Throughout this six-week program, Ashani shadowed under post-doctoral fellow Christina L. Grek, Ph.D., who introduced Ashani to their team’s research and taught her lab protocols. In turn, Ashani wrote summary reports and supplemental readings, conducted lab experiments working with protein gels, analyzed data and attended and observed weekly lab meetings. “It was exciting to work in this lab environment. I learned a lot,” she said. “At school, our experiments are more controlled to help teach a concept. But at MUSC, this is real science where you can’t predict the outcome and one doesn’t always get perfect results. Everyone took their time to help me learn and feel included.” Ashani’s research supplemented work already conducted by Grek in Tew’s lab. Her research focused on oxidative stress and how it can modify proteins. More specifically, she collaborated on Grek’s pilot study evaluating how hydrogen peroxide in mouthwash can change and modify proteins in cheek cells. This study of biomarker changes can help researchers develop more effective drugs to combat cancer. Ashani, who eventually wants to be an oncology physician, asked to continue with her research work until Aug. 3. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and experience and want to thank Dr. Tew, his research team, Dr. Halushka, Debbie Shoemaker, Mr. LaCross and others for giving me this valuable experience.”
8 The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012
Financial Aid Services helps students navigate loans By Bilan Williams Public Relations
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here is a famous saying given to those entering medical school: “Live like a student now so you can live like a doctor later.” The saying is used to advise students to save luxurious spending for the future once they obtain jobs to avoid debt caused by tuition costs. Cecile Kamath, Ph.D., director of Financial Aid Services, said it is a vital piece of advice for students who use loans to save money. “We encourage students to borrow only what they truly need.” For the upcoming 2012-2013 academic year, most MUSC students will meet another rise in tuition. Although some students will not be subject to an increase, others will bear the responsibility of paying more than they paid last year. MUSC is not the only state university that will experience a tuition increase. Most all state university students will be paying more to attend schools, such as the University of South Carolina, Clemson University and The Citadel, meaning several students will have to borrow bigger loans to cover the cost. Kamath says there is no easy explanation for what specifically causes tuition to rise, and it is influenced by various elements. “Tuition is set by administrators who take into account a wide range of contributing factors that are not readily apparent.” Brandon Hagan, president of the MUSC Student Government Association and a College of Dental Medicine student, said he has seen a tuition increase every year since he has been a student. He also says the increases will likely affect him more when he begins his loan repayment, but they make students like himself more mindful about the things they spend money on. “Everyone has different ways of handling the burden of high tuition. I actually lived alone for the last two years, but this year, I have roommates to save more money and borrow less.” The College of Dental Medicine will face the biggest rise in tuition, with both in-state and out-of-state students paying 5 percent more than they did last year. Hagan suggests current and incoming students create a weekly or monthly budget to help avoid spending more than what they actually need. “Stick with the necessities, but be comfortable.” One of the main concerns of those who depend on loans for school is the amount of debt they will have to pay back. In 2011, roughly 84 percent of the MUSC student body received some type of financial aid. Kamath said the amount of debt students have after graduation differs based upon their incomes. Recently, Congress took measures to prevent an increase in interest rates on federal direct subsidized
College of Dental Medicine students paid one of the institution’s highest rates for tuition, books and living expenses in 2012. This fall, MUSC students will face yet another tuition hike with rates in some colleges rising as much as 5 percent more than last year. To help students manage the soaring cost of higher education, Congress approved legislation to extend the 3.4 percent rate for subsidized student loans for one year.
“Now a graduate degree is like what a college degree was 25 years ago. ” Brandon Hagan Stafford loans. The bill was created to freeze the interest rates at 3.4 percent to prevent students from being subject to paying twice that amount at 6.8 percent. The bill was signed into law by President Obama and is supposed to last until July 1, 2013. According to Jamie Hood, a student services program coordinator in the College of Dental Medicine, there are six repayment options for students. “I’m impressed by all of the positive changes that have occurred in the last few years in regards to student loan repayment options.” Hood, who used to work as a financial aid coordinator, said previously students had only 10 years to pay their loans back. “Students seeking degrees in health care fields incur a higher loan debt, so having more options for repayment greatly benefits them.” Each individual college offers scholarships that can help offset any financial woes. Hagan advises
fellow students not to shy away from any scholarship opportunities their college may offer. “Work-study is also a good option because it allows you to be a part of campus life and get paid while not having to repay it.” Despite the risk of large debt, Hagan believes tuition should not deter students from attending the graduate school for the program of their choice. “Now a graduate degree is like what a college degree was 25 years ago. Jobs are becoming more scarce and even with a basic college degree, it’s becoming harder to get those ideal jobs students want. If it is something you dream about doing, then I say go for it.” Kamath believes obstacles are inevitable regardless of what career path a person chooses to pursue. “People have personal challenges in their lives. As such, students in all of the colleges and programs face similar life issues that impact their abilities to deal with financial questions.” Hagan says the students have to take into account many factors when making the decision to enter graduate school despite financial woes. “Most of the time, receiving advanced training will be more beneficial in the long run, including salary and lifestyle. I don’t look at rising tuition as a burden because I know this is the profession I want to be doing for the rest of my life.” For information about MUSC’s financial aid services, visit http://www.musc.edu/em/financialmanagement.
The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012 9
University F&A
Employees recognized for performance The university’s Finance & Administration Division recognized staff from the Engineering & Facilities, Finance, and Operations departments who were nominated during the past quarter (April through June) for their commitment to MUSC Excellence. Employee of the Quarter Charles Martin, Carpenter Shop, Engineering & Facilities “In these times of ours, it is rare to find a man who finds pleasure in his work, and by so doing, conveys the satisfaction and pride in a job well done. Such is the work ethic of Charles Martin. Assigned to dismantle my large desk and subsequently assemble two new smaller desks, Mr. Martin arrived on the job site early and began the task of disassembling my desk. Despite the frustration encountered, Mr. Martin remained resolute and politely determined to find the solution. Not once did he allow his frustration to manifest in any way that would deter the task at hand or create a negative atmosphere around his work space
PEER Milestone recipients are (from left): Tarsha Williams-Smalls, Felecia Curry, Tonia Brown, Peggy Cunningham and Ella Jenkins. Not pictured are Diane Campbell, Tina Chapman, and Andrew Rider. or in our office. When he finished assembling the first desk in the late afternoon, it was obvious there was not enough time left in his work day to complete the second desk. To my surprise, he quietly proceeded to unbox and prepare the parts for the second desk. It has been my experience after almost 26 years at MUSC that most any other workman would have simply stopped work for the day after the completion of the first desk. Nominated by Rhonda Ferris, Student Health, Services
Employee of the Year Award The winners of the Division of Finance & Administration’s Employee of the Year and the Cindy Garmon PEER of the Year will be announced at the annual employee celebration Aug. 15. For information on the programs, email a Rewards & Recognition Committee representative at oltmannj@musc.edu, robinsmo@musc.edu or myrickmk@musc.edu.
Disaster planners discuss how to strengthen services By Caroline alTman Public Relations MUSC’s Center for Health Professional Training and Emergency Response (CHPTER) hosted a conference July 16 with state leaders to address South Carolina’s “C” rating in disaster preparedness. The conference initiated a discussion about how to strengthen and streamline emergency systems. Lancer Scott, M.D., MUSC Emergency Services, said that about 30 ideas were considered that may one day be part of legislature or policy. “This is the first step. It is all about ideas today.” The past shows the consequence of a lack of preparation. In 2005, during the days after Hurricane Katrina, a limited supply of health care providers in a New Orleans airport aided victims. With an overload of 2,500 patients, eight to 10 people died each day until federal help arrived.
“We all saw what happened after Hurricane Katrina,” Scott said. “Patients flocked to hospitals, airports and other facilities, and bad things happened to them. We want to be prepared for our communities in need. It takes well-developed emergency and trauma systems and a well-trained patient care workforce. Right now, we are lacking in these departments.” The conference focused on issues in South Carolina emergency health care systems, such as the 62 percent of South Carolina nurses who have not had disaster training. The small percentage contributed to the state receiving a “C” in disaster preparedness from the American College of Emergency Physicians 2009 National Report Card. Less than half of patient care providers are required to train for disasters by employers. According to Scott, the conference is about a group of community leaders trying to prepare South Carolina before
Emergency Services’ Dr. Lancer Scott discusses emergency preparedness during a conference with state leaders July 16. the next disaster hits. providers advanced, performance-based “It’s the right thing to do and the right disaster training. Whereas most disaster time to do it. We know the next disaster training courses are designed for first is coming. We are long overdue.” responders, CHPTER training targets Lancer said the center has developed a first receivers. regional training collaborative of disaster To learn more about CHPTER, visit medical experts to provide patient care www.musc.edu/chpter or call 792-9705.
10 The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012
Lunchtime Losers celebrate weight-loss success T
he latest participants of MUSC Weight Management’s group Lunchtime Losers celebrated the participants’ combined weight loss of 136 pounds July 26 as the 10-week program concluded. Ann Benton, an occupational therapy manager, opted to share her story in MUSC’s Employee Wellness Spotlight on Wellness series, hoping that it might help others who are trying to lose weight. Benton said she decided to sign up to get healthier and lose the weight that she gained the last few years. “I was just tired and disappointed as to where I was at and knew by signing up to participate, it would make me commit to losing weight. As I told Josh (Brown) when I asked him to send me the info – ‘I just need to commit to it otherwise I will never do it.’ It was a good class – it was fun and easy to talk about all the bad behaviors and not feel a failure.” Becoming healthier while feeling less tired were her primary goals Susan Johnson for joining the program, and she found her biggest takeaways from the program were learning how to select the right foods for weight loss, nutrition and such improved health factors as lower cholesterol. “What is so funny are the things I’ve changed since starting the program. For instance there have never been so many fruits and vegetables in my refrigerator as there are now. Planning ahead, daily tracking of both my weight and what I ate and truly understanding portion size and calories made a big difference.” Benton found motivation in letting others know about her participation in Lunchtime Losers. “I printed the results and posted them on my door each week, and announced to my co-workers I was going for my weekly
Health at work
CamPaign
Participating teams included Sassy by Summer, The Avengers, The Last Timers, Tri Lams and team winners “I’ll have another,” with members Bonnie Jones, Kathy Sellers, Vanathi Vignesh and Lauren Mattox with a combined team weight loss of 6.59 percent. The next class scheduled is “Happy Healthy Hour,” which follows the same format as Lunchtime Losers but is held 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. For more information on this program, contact musc-empwell@musc.edu or browjosh@musc. edu. Employee Wellness events Individual winner Ann Benton, right, got encouragement from dietitian Tonya Turner. weigh-in. It was fun to see the results outside of class when they’re posted on Facebook and the monitors around MUSC.” Tonya Turner, a registed dietitian with the center, emphasized that a daily weigh in is the best way to keep accountable during and after the program. “Many people go by how their clothes fit as a measure of whether or not they are gaining weight. It takes 10 to 12 pounds before you’ll generally feel your clothes getting tighter. At that point, you’re mad and it may be harder to continue and stay focused.” Benton also noted that being part of a team made her more accountable. Simple, easy tools presented in an effective manner along with an easily accessible oncampus program were the ingredients for her successful weight loss of 10.8 percent. “We had fun supporting each other with encouraging emails during the week. The class for me gave me a goal – a goal to lose weight and be successful in doing so, to have fun in the process and have others to talk to and support you. I still have a way to go – but am excited as to where I have gotten in really a short period of time.”
q MUSC’s Pitch the Pack Program: Free smoking cessation program offered to MUSC employees and students. Enroll online at: http://ceii.muschealth.com/ SCP/SCPRegistration.aspx. q Zumba at Harborview Office Tower: Join licensed Zumba instructor Felecia Curry for a weekly Wednesday night Zumba class held in HOT room 910 from 5 – 6 p.m. Space is limited, so email curryf@musc.edu or call 822-6136 for more information or to register. q MUSC Urban Farm Work & Learns: “Planning Fall Gardens: What, When, Where and Why.” 9 – 10 a.m. Thursday, August 2, and 9 -11 a.m., Saturday, August 4. Bring water, sunscreen and a plastic bag to take home some fresh produce in return for work efforts. Closed toed shoes required. Open to MUSC employees, students, and the general public. Families welcome on Saturdays. Email musc-empwell@musc.edu to register. q MUSC Urban Farm Lunch & Learn: “Planning Fall Gardens: What, When, Where and Why” - Thursday, August 2 from noon - 1 p.m. Bring lunch and a favorite recipe that uses seasonal farm-fresh produce to share. Preregistration not required for this event. For more information visit www.musc.edu/urbanfarm and on facebook at www.facebook.com/MuscUrbanFarm.
Continued from Page Four
Pigott, Leanne Piper, Tiombe Plair, Travis Poole, Iola Powell, Robert Poyer, Myron Pstrak, Melanie Puckhaber, Dara-Lynne Purvis, Jon Rampton, Robert Raynor, Jennifer Redfern, Carolyn Reed, Bruce Reeves, Diane Reeves, Archie Reid, Melinda Repphun-Harvey, Adrian Reuben, Deborah Reynolds, Beth-Ann Rhoton, Jonn Rhoton, Barbara Rivers, Gretchen Rivers, Sylvia Rivers, Theresa Roberson, Ragine Robinson, William Robinson, Benjamin Rogers, Catherine Rogers, Baerbel Rohrer, George Roof, Nathaniel Rosario, Robin Rose, Beverly Rosen, Cynthia Rosenblatt, George Rossi, Erica Rou-
valis, Eldrige Rowell, Teresita Ruz, Naomi Sampson, Cheryl Samuels, Catherine Sandifer, Derek Sanford, Nicolas Sarji, Christine Scheub, Sharon Schuler, Sharon Schwarz, Diana Sciarro, Lancer Scott, Laurie Scott, Suzanne Scott, Gretchen Seif, Pamala Shoaf, Mary Shoemaker, Wanda Shotsberger-Gray, Sarah Shrader, Ann Shuler, Betsy Sidebottom, Debra Jo Siler, Peggy Sires, Anna Skipper, Karen Sloggatt, Daniel Smith, Edwin Smith, Georgette Smith, Joshua Smith, Margaret Smith, Rachael Smith, Rebecca Smith, Reece Smith, Stanley Smith, Willette Smith, Corigan Smothers, Mary Snell,
Laura Snyder, Michael Snyder, Nancy Springs, Mary Staggers, Sara Stello, James Sterrett, Lauren Stitely, Cynthia Straney, Charlton Strange, Andrea Summer, George Summerford, Marvin Swindle, Barbara Taylor, Cynthia Teeter, Jacqueline Tepper, Suzanne Thomas, Margaret Thompson, Vernell Threat, Catherine Tobin, James Tolley, Elena Tourkina, Melanie Townsend, Rupalben Trivedi, Thomas Trusk, Dana Tumbleston, Lynn Uber, Walter Uber, Thomas Uhde, Michael Ullian, Lori Upshur, Odessa Ussery, Konstantin Voronin, Karen Wager, Debbie Walters, Yong Wang, Simon Wat-
son, Katie Weas, Holly Weekley, Rhonda Weichsel, Larry Werstler, Andrea Wessell, Susan Wetherholt, Darnella White, Dennis White, Kathleen White, Nancy White, Paula White, Christie Whitener, Melodye Whitfield, Donald Wiest, Richard Wigfall, Velma Wigfall, Kathryn Wiita-Fisk, Maria Wiley, Jennifer Williams, Sharon Williams, Deborah Williamson, Tonia Windham, Shari Wise, Christopher Wisniewski, Cynthia Wolfe, Daynna Wolff, John Woodward, Robert Young, Jane Zapka, Xian Zhang, Wenjin Zheng, Zhi Zhong, James Zoller, Mercedes Zubizarreta, and Sinai Zyblewski.
The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012 11
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12 The CaTalysT, August 3, 2012
lens Continued from Page One vision in the implanted eye is loss of peripheral vision in that eye. To compensate, only one eye is implanted, with the second eye providing peripheral vision. Patients wishing to undergo the procedure must also agree to a postprocedure vision rehabilitation training program that basically retrains the brain how to see and enhances the effectiveness of the implant. Trained optometrists and occupational therapists at the Feldberg Vision Rehabilitation Center at Storm Eye Institute or at other similar facilities help patients adjust to their new vision. Through clinical trials, it has been discovered that the telescopic lens can increase the patient’s vision by at least two lines on an eye chart. This offers patients the ability to have a more normal life and to return to some of the activities they were not able to do prior to the surgery, such as recognizing faces, writing checks and distinguishing colors. “Although not a cure, the telescopic
lens helps these patients live more independently in the meantime,” said Grice, assistant professor of ophthalmology at MUSC Storm Eye Institute. Grice said she’s pleased that Wise, who traveled from Ohio for the procedure, was already seeing improvements one week after her surgery, even before starting her occupational training. “She is doing much better than we anticipated because her vision is already improving and her wound is healing nicely. We are very pleased at the progress she has made,” she said. Wise attributes her progress to her determination to see better and her supportive family. She looks forward to more improvements as she goes through therapy. “I am seeing some with both eyes. I am very satisfied and hopeful. You need family to surround you and help you through it because without them you can’t do it.” To see a video of the surgery, visit http://tinyurl.com/d8reqj6.
Women’s Club seeks scholarship applications The Medical University Women’s Club is seeking MUSC’s most deserving students for its annual scholarships. All full-time students in their second or subsequent years from any of the six MUSC colleges are eligible to apply. Previous applicants may reapply. The women’s club has awarded $10,000 to $15,000 in previous years. Applications are available through the Volunteer Services Office (first floor of the Children’s Hospital, next to the gift shop) or by download at http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/
womensclub/scholarship.htm. The deadline for submission online or at the Volunteer Services Office is 4 p.m., Aug. 28, and notification will be Sept. 7. Applicants will be selected based on financial need, academic achievement and community and university service. An applicant’s transcript, personal statement and letter of recommendation from an MUSC faculty member are required. For information, email Cecily DiPiro, scholarship committee chairperson, at MUWCscholarship@ gmail.com.
Dr. Grice puts in the Implantable Miniature Telescope in 86-year-old patient Justine Wise's right eye after removing her cataract. The telescope will help Wise's eyesight that has been deteriorating for more than 10 years because of age-related macular degeneration.