APUBLICATIONFORALUMNI&FRIENDSOFUMDNJ-ROBERTWOODJOHNSONMEDICALSCHOOL

SPRING 2010

Education Forging a Stronger Link Between Science and Medicine “We believe our first responsibility“ is to the doctors, nurses and patients, to mothers and fathers and all others who use our products .”and services.” Our Credo letter from the dean

Dear Colleague,

his issue of our magazine highlights the premium we place on our academic program. By pursu- ing excellence in our four mission areas — education, research, clinical care, and community health — we strive to achieve our leading priority: to preserve and advance medical education. TOur cover story, The Evolution of a New Curriculum, reports in depth on academic initiatives that are reshaping our academic program at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. This fall, with the introduction of Curriculum 2010, we will begin teaching the basic sciences through integrated modules, organized by body systems. We have added new opportunities for first- and second-year students to apply basic science knowledge in clinical settings. And we have intensified our graduation requirements for independent student research, while expanding our array of research programs. With this issue we introduce six of our newest faculty members. They bring exceptional expertise and a record of leadership in a broad variety of fields: cardiac electrophysiology, surgical critical care, pedi- atric immunology, gastroenterology, maternal-fetal medicine, and developmental neuroscience. Robotics and Beyond explores three areas in which we are applying and developing robotic technolo- gy: robotic surgery is improving patient outcomes, real-time intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging is creating surgical and therapeutic miracles, and a new generation of robots safely analyzes environ- mental risks to children. Turning Disabilities into Possibilities spotlights the Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities. Thanks to this remarkable center, people with developmental disabilities lead fuller lives, and their families and teachers find the resources they need. The faculty and staff of The Boggs Center train our students and residents and share best practices in and beyond New Jersey. On our Piscataway campus, two leading researchers are using the complementary tools of their disciplines to identify and decode autism- susceptibility genes. Their collaboration is the subject of Genetics and Neuroanatomy: Teamed to Solve the Mysteries of Autism. RWJMS has launched New Jersey’s first residency program for radia- tion oncology physicists. This complex, multi-disciplinary initiative takes our graduate education to the next level of excellence and enhances the quality of care available to our patients. Steven J. Kravet, MD ’92, introduced in our alumni profile, brings his training as a pharmacist, a physician, and a hospital administrator to his EMERSON JOHN position as president of Johns Hopkins Community Physicians, compris- ing 18 primary care practices across the state of Maryland. Our Young Alumni Profiles describe the outstanding work of two physician-scientists: Mahalia Desruisseaux, MD ’00, who is investigating a cure for malaria, and Ronny Drapkin, MD ’98, PhD, who has shifted the paradigm of ovarian cancer research. As always, Robert Wood Johnson Medicine takes you into many corners of our school and introduces you to the faculty, staff, and students who are leading the way to the future.

Sincerely,

Peter S. Amenta, MD, PhD Dean

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 1 Wouldn’t it begreat to: • Make a significant contribution to a cause in which you believe; and • Receive lifetime income for yourself or a loved one? If you establish a Charitable Gift Annuity of $10,000 or more through the Foundation of UMDNJ, you can accomplish both. And, a Charitable Gift Annuity allows you to designate your gift to the Robert Wood Johnson Medicine School department or program that means the most to you.

Rates are determined by your age at the time you establish your annuity.They are set by the American Council on Gift Annuities and are generally significantly higher than current CD or bank rates (see box below). So, if you open a Gift Annuity and you are 73 years old, you receive 6%…for the rest of your life.*

To learn more about how you can leave a legacy at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and help to secure your financial future or the future of a loved one, contact Denise Gavala, vice president for development, at (908) 731-6595 or [email protected].

* Subject to rate changes.

Sample Rates Beginning February 1, 2009. Call Denise Gavala for updates. Age Rate 65 5.3% 70 5.7% 73 6.0% 76 6.4% 80 7.1% New Brunswick. Stratford. Newark. 85 8.1% www.umdnj.edu/foundation 88 8.9% S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 Contents DEPARTMENTS FEATURES

Letter from the Dean 1 Blazing a Trail: New Faculty Bring Leading-Edge Technologies to RWJMS 18 RWJMS News 4 Profiles of six new faculty members — each a recognized leader in his or her respective Volunteer Faculty Member Profile 7 field of medicine — who bring with them the promise of new knowledge, advanced therapies and technologies, and hope for a brilliant future at RWJMS. Community Health 8 By Joni Scanlon and Kate O’Neill Research News 9 Evolution of a New Curriculum: Research Highlights 11 Forging Stronger Links between Science and Patient Care 31 Awards and Honors 14 Curriculum 2010 will transform the way first- and second-year students learn, with body-system-based teaching modules that better integrate scientific information, new opportunities Education Highlights 16 for clinical experience, and added programs dedicated to independent research. By Kate O’Neill Letter from the Alumni Association President 63 Robotics and Beyond: RWJMS Alumni News 64 How Technology is Transforming Therapy 44 Creative scientific and technical innovations in medical procedures and environmental research Young Alumni 67 are making the impossible possible. Class Notes 73 By Lynda Rudolph

Last Page 76 Turning Disabilities into Possibilities 46 The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities is influencing thought and changing lives through community and clinical education. By Lynda Rudolph

RobertWoodJohnson Genetics and Neuroanatomy: Teamed to Solve the Mysteries of Autism 56 MEDICINE In a cross-disciplinary collaboration on the Piscataway campus, James H. Millonig, PhD, and Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom, MD, seek to decode ENGRAILED 2, an autism-susceptibility gene, APUBLICATIONFORALUMNI&FRIENDSOF and determine its function. UMDNJ-ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON MEDICAL SCHOOL By Kate O’Neill S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 • Volume 12, Number 1 RWJMS Launches New Jersey’s Dean Alumni Association First Residency Program for Medical Physicists 60 Peter S. Amenta, Officers: RWJMS launched New Jersey’s first residency program for radiation oncology physicists. MD, PhD President Trained to work on cross-functional cancer-treatment teams, these specialists ensure that patients Nancy Sierra, MD ’89 Executive Editor receiving radiation therapy experience minimal discomfort and maximum treatment efficacy. Patricia M. Hansen Vice President/ By Joni Scanlon Director, President-Elect Communications Tamara LaCouture, MD ’94 and Public Affairs Treasurer Alumni Profile Editor Hank Lubin, MD ’83 Steven J. Kravet, MD ’92: Roberta Ribner Secretary A Leading Advocate for Primary Care Andrew Stefaniwsky, MD ’77 and Patient-Centered Medicine 71 Writers Kate O’Neill Chair, Membership Dr. Kravet brings his wide background in pharmacy, business, and medicine to his new position Committee Lynda Rudolph as president of the Johns Hopkins Community Physicians. Sonia Garcia Laumbach, MD Joni Scanlon ’99 By Kate O’Neill Copy Editor Chair, Development Richard Slovak Committee Thomas McPartland, MD ’01 Art Director Barbara Walsh Co-Chairs, Reunion Editorial and Advertising Office Committee UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School • Roberta Ribner, Editor, Robert Wood Johnson Medicine Cover Illustration Geza K. Kiss, MD ’95 335 George Street • Suite 2300 • New Brunswick, NJ 08903 • Telephone: 732-235-6310 • Fax: 732-235-9570 Rob Colvin Francine E. Sinofsky, MD ’81 Email: [email protected]

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 3 r w j m s NEWS

Study Identifies that Multiple Risk Factors Existed in 78 Percent of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Cases

udden Infant Death Syn- SIDS in the United States. sleep practices should drome (SIDS) continues Forty-four of those deaths oc- address the importance Sto be the third leading curred in New Jersey. The of “Back-to-Sleep,” the cause of infant death, accord- study notes that the incidence position associated with CLYMER NAT ing to the Centers for Disease of SIDS has declined by more the lowest risk, but also Control (CDC), despite a de- than 50 percent since the on- should cover all other Thomas Hegyi, MD and Barbara M. Ostfeld, PhD cline in SIDS that is associated set of public health initiatives practices that have been with a rise in safe-sleep prac- during the 1990s, most nota- identified as lowering the risk even after a comprehensive eval- tices for newborns and infants. bly the AAP’s “Back-to-Sleep” of SIDS according to the guide- uation consisting of a complete A new study by Barbara M. campaign, to raise awareness lines of the American Academy autopsy, a death scene investiga- Ostfeld, PhD and Thomas of infant care practices that of Pediatrics. These include, tion and a review of medical his- Hegyi, MD, professors of elevate the risk of SIDS. How- but are not limited to, avoid- tory of the infant and the family. pediatrics, has identified that ever, the study indicates that ance of exposure to tobacco Many studies now suggest that more than 96 percent of risk-reduction education needs smoke, elimination of the use one of the potential causes may infants who died of SIDS were to be more comprehensive. of pillows, quilts and soft or be an abnormality in the brain- exposed to known risk factors, “It is important that health loose bedding in the infant’s stem that would prevent an among them sleeping on their care providers communicate sleep environment, avoidance infant from responding to side or stomach, or exposure all of the risk factors of SIDS of any face covering, and breathing challenges, such as to tobacco smoke, and that 78 ideally during the prenatal avoidance of the use of a those posed by prone (on the percent of SIDS cases con- period as well as at birth and shared sleep surface during stomach) sleep in soft bedding. tained multiple risk factors. throughout the first year of an sleep. The complete guidelines However, until the biological The study, “Concurrent Risks infant’s life,” said Dr. Ostfeld, of risk reduction practices bases for SIDS are fully defined in Sudden Infant Death who also is program director recommended by the Ameri- and can lead to the identifica- Syndrome,” appeared in the of the SIDS Center of New can Academy of Pediatrics can tion and treatment of living March issue of Pediatrics. The Jersey. be found on the SIDS Center infants who may be vulnerable, study provides evidence that “Risk-reduction education of New Jersey website: risk-reducing practices, often despite a decline in SIDS, a of new parents and all other www.umdnj.edu/sids. The site defined as safe sleep practices, continuing effort should be caregivers, such as grandpar- also contains a link to the remain the most effective inter- made by health care providers ents and babysitters should be publication by the American vention to date. to educate parents and other detailed,” said Dr. Hegyi, who Academy of Pediatrics Task The SIDS Center of New caregivers and to do so with also serves as the medical dir- Force on Sudden Infant Death Jersey was established in 1988 attention to all identified risk ector of the SIDS Center of Syndrome, with additional and operates under a grant to factors, as recommended by New Jersey. “Parent’s ques- details on risk reduction. UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson the American Academy of tions and concerns should be SIDS is defined as a sud- Medical School from the New Pediatrics (AAP). addressed thoroughly.” den and unexpected death of Jersey Department of Health In 2005, according to the The authors note that guid- an infant before the first birth- and Senior Services. An addi- CDC, 2,234 infants died of ance to parents regarding safe day that remains unexplained tional site based at The Joseph

4 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Master Educators’ Guild Inducts New Members

he UMDNJ Stuart instrumental in inspiring classes for both medical “ D. Cook, MD, the next generation of students and graduate TMaster Educators’ physicians,” said Akira students. Guild recognizes faculty Yamamoto ’11 in presenting “Dr. Rosenthal is the who have advanced the the first inductee. He noted Oslerian ideal,” said Brian educational mission of the Dr. Barone’s development of Gable, MD ’03, instructor university in extraordinary two teaching programs: the of medicine, when introduc- ways,” says Denise Rodgers, urology elective, for first-, ing his longtime mentor. MD, executive vice presi- second-, and third-year Dr. Rosenthal is an “inno- dent for academic and clini- students, and an online vator and a doer,” added M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital cal affairs, UMDNJ, and video that allows students Dr. Gable, noting her at Hackensack University Med- professor of family medi- and residents to learn inde- achievements in piloting ical Center receives funding cine, RWJMS. Dr. Rodgers pendently from simulations and growing the White from the CJ Foundation for led the 2009 University Day of Web-based cases. Educa- Coat Ceremony and the SIDS. The program provides ceremony at which the families with bereavement sup- guild inducted 13 new port and information about members, including three sudden infant death, educates from the RWJMS faculty: the health care community Joseph G. Barone, MD about methods for reducing the ’87, associate professor TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE risk for SIDS, and monitors the of surgery and chief, A CLYMER NAT epidemiology of SIDS in New division of urology; Smita Jersey. Since the onset of the S. Patel, PhD, professor program, the rate of SIDS in of biochemistry; and Joseph G. Smita S. Susan Rosenthal, Barone, MD ’87 Patel, PhD MMS ’75, MD New Jersey has declined by Susan Rosenthal, MMS more than half and remains ’75, MD, clinical professor tion grants from UMDNJ Gold Humanism Honor below the national rate. of pediatrics and corporate provided key support for Society at RWJMS. “She Compliance with risk reducing director of medical educa- development of the pro- embodies professionalism infant care practices has also tion for the Meridian grams, says Dr. Barone. and takes a personal inter- improved. Health System. Dr. Patel was nominated est in each student, helping — Jennifer Forbes Mullenhard “Dr. Barone has been for guild membership by the them to maximize their UMDNJ-Graduate School potential.” of Biomedical Sciences at Sharing the master of The Robert Wood Johnson RWJMS. “Biology research ceremonies honors with is at the forefront of the Dr. Rodgers was the newly Medical Group sciences,” she says, “and we elected president of the can best teach our students Master Educators’ Guild, “ e are pleased to announce that the name of our how to tackle the complex Gloria A. Bachmann, MMS faculty practice has changed from University Medical problems of biology by ’72, MD, professor and WGroup (UMG) to The Robert Wood Johnson Medical employing interdisciplinary interim chair, Department Group,” says Anthony T. Scardella, MD, professor of medicine and approaches.” Dr. Patel of Obstetrics, Gynecology, acting senior associate dean for clinical affairs. The Board of Governors emphasizes the importance and Reproductive Sciences, recommended the name change to more accurately reflect the rela- of using quantitative meth- associate dean for women’s tionship of the medical group with the school and its reputation for ods to solve biological health, and director, quality programs. The UMDNJ Board of Trustees made this decision problems by teaching the Women’s Health Institute. final at its November 17 meeting. principles of thermodynam- — K.O’N. ics and kinetics in her

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 5 r w j m s NEWS

Princeton Event Inspires New Support for CINJ

n her incomparable style, as a financial investment Audrey S. Gould is helping adviser, but she also demon- Ito shape the future of The strates her commitment to Cancer Institute of New philanthropy with a flair that

Jersey (CINJ). A member of inspires others to follow her PHOTOGRAPHY LINZ the CINJ Foundation Board example. of Governors, Mrs. Gould not Last summer, as she wait- only contributes her expertise ed in the CINJ lobby for a The Cancer Institute of New Jersey bene- fited from a dinner co-hosted by Kenneth S. Gould, MD, clinical professor of psychiatry, Dr. Paul Lioy Publishes Dust: and Audrey S. Gould (second and third from An Exposure Scientist’s Engagement in 9/11 left) and their family, including (from left): Aftermath Georgeanne Gould Moss, Ellen Gould Baber, Charles Baber, and Jessica Goodman, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Baber. he terrorist attacks that exposure and the health effects Several more years would pass shattered and disinte- of environmental toxins. In addi- before EOHSI Laboratories and board meeting to begin, she Tgrated the World Trade tion, he is a member of the their collaborators could com- observed the faculty and staff Center produced a dense plume plete the minute analysis of at work in the area. She recalls of dust — a mixture composed the dust particles and determine feeling an enormous sense of of a then-unknown number and their potential health risk — pride in their high level of variety of particles that could unique in each person exposed. competence, kindness, and circulate through Lower Man- Dr. Lioy recently published collegiality. In that moment, hattan for months, exposing Dust: The Inside Story of Its Role Mrs. Gould decided to host anyone in its path. in the September 11th Aftermath, an elegant dinner that would To understand the short- and an account that melds scientific celebrate and benefit the insti- long-term risks of exposure to study with personal reflection. tute, broaden its donor base, this complex cloud, the National In Dust, Dr. Lioy rebuilds the and raise public awareness of Institute of Environmental timeline of his involvement with CINJ. Health Sciences immediately WTC dust, from the early days, Organizing the dinner called in a world leader in expo- working alongside rescuers amid became a family affair. Mrs. sure science: Paul J. Lioy, PhD, the drama and chaos at Ground Gould was joined by her hus- professor of environmental and Science Advisory Board of the Zero, through the years of band, Kenneth S. Gould, MD, occupational medicine, and U.S. Environmental Protection discovery and analysis that clinical professor of psychiatry; deputy director of government Agency. followed. The book ends by her daughters, Georgeanne relations and director of expo- Twice during the week fol- discussing ways in which an Gould Moss and Ellen Gould sure science, Environmental and lowing the attacks, Dr. Lioy and understanding of exposure Baber; her sons-in-law, Peter Occupational Health Sciences colleagues from EOHSI went science may provide the means Moss and Charles Baber; and Institute (EOHSI). Since 1983, Dr. into Lower Manhattan. Both to better prepare for future her granddaughter, Jessica Lioy has been a member of times, Dr. Lioy collected samples environmental catastrophes. Goodman. Mrs. Gould says numerous National Research of the material that would — K.O’N. that preparing for the party Council committees on human become known as “WTC dust.” became “a second job” for her daughters and herself. The

6 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 7 MEDICINE I Robert Wood Johnson “Every week, we have one or “As educators, physicians in pri- two pre-meds, medical students, or residents in our office,” says Dr. Salwitz. “They see cancer patients with complex, challenging problems, and it’s enormously gratifying to us to see how excited these students are when they see what we canfor do these patients. vate practice tend to put a different slant on clinical training,” he adds. “We’re not only in the trenches with their patients night and day, but we also have to run the business side of a private practice. Eventually, most medical students will be in private Theypractice. need to be exposed to physicians who have to balance business management with patient care.” course that relies heavily on the par- ticipation of the volunteer faculty. “The real question in clinical edu- cation is how to teach patient- physician communication, and the answer is, ‘By says example,’” Dr. Salwitz. “Students can watch a lecture on video or learn basic science from a textbook, but they acquire the art of bedside medicine from a clinician’s example.”

JOHNEMERSON , ames C. Salwitz, MD ’81 clinical associate professor of medicine, was selected as the Dr. Salwitz completed his residen- Although they are “But above all,” he adds, “we Dr. Salwitz teaches a block of J James C. Salwitz,Teaching MD Communication ’81 by Example By Kate O’Neill Alpha Omega Alpha Volunteer Faculty Member of the Year in his second year on the Today, faculty. he continues to enjoy every oppor- tunity to teach. cy at Northwestern University School of Medicine, where he served as chief resident. In 1987, Dr. Salwitz joined his current practice: the Central Jersey Oncology Center, where policy requires everyone not only to teach at the medical school, but also to participate in cancer education programs throughout the community. unsalaried, the 1,500 members of the RWJMS volunteer faculty find huge rewards in teaching, says Dr. Salwitz. “First, it’s one way of repaying the medical community for the thousands of hours invested in our own educa- tion,” he explains. “Second, teach- ing creates a good balance for the pressures of medical practice and keeps us humble. love the excitement that medical students, residents, and fellows bring to health care. They see the world have differently, a different take on the and literature, sense when a teacher doesn’t have the same understanding they do. Their questions can be merciless! It’s a very rare day when we don’t learn something from them!” physical diagnosis, a second-year — J.S. Joseph Volunteer Profile William F. F a cM u l e t m y b e r , a private-practice surgeon who served at a — K.O’N. , and co-sponsored by UMDNJ-University discussion about the challenges of treating theinjuries suffered grave by thousands of menand and Afghanistan women was in the Iraq focus of this fall’s second annu-

The program was presented by UMDNJ President

2008. military hospital in Kuwait in 2005 and at a field facility in Iraq in Costabile, MD ’86 al President’s Lecture series. Featured speakers included Owen, Jr, MD and Veteran Affairs, and the New Jersey National Guard. Behavioral HealthCare, the New Jersey Department of Military A

Examines “The Wounds of War” President’s Lecture Series Ninety guests, including care. dinary research and clinical ple at CINJ, through extraor- good work done by the peo- introduced her guests to the says Mrs. Gould, the evening jewelry. But most important, tion that included antique restaurants and a silent auc- cates to Princeton’s best raffle featuring gift certifi- raised $20,000 through a and hosted by the Babers — underwritten by the family ner. The event — entirely the sparkling, sit-down din- CINJ’s top leaders, attended Princeton community and influential members of the Nassau Street in Princeton. at Wells Fargo Advisors on partners in The Gould Group three women are business Community Dr. Siriade Filipe-Izaguirre H e a l t h Leads St. John’s Health Center

BYKATEO’NEILL

iriade Filipe-Izaguirre, served members of the commu- DO, instructor of family nity who have sought and found Community Health Finds an Smedicine and community care within its walls,” says Dr. Academic Home in Family Medicine health (appointment pending Filipe-Izaguirre. “I look forward approval by the Board of to working with RWJMS faculty Trustees of UMDNJ), was memberstocontinue the cen- n 2009, the Department high-quality health care. appointed medical direc- ter’s 20-year record of of Family Medicine cele- “The renamed department tor of St. John’s Family providing impressive Ibrated its 38th anniversary gives an academic home to Health Center. She care.” and acquired an expanded our mission in community most recently served on While serving in pri- name: the Department of health,” says Eric G. Jahn, the faculty of UMDNJ- BYRON PETER vate practice, Dr. Filipe- Family Medicine and MD ’88, senior associate New Jersey Medical Izaguirre became inter-

Community dean for School in the division of Siriade Filipe- ested in caring for home- Health. “The community academic medicine, geri- Izaguirre, DO bound patients — the new name health. “It atrics, and community pro- elderly and the frail, as well as validates our affirms the grams. An enthusiastic teacher younger patients. She developed TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE department’s EMERSON JOHN academic and respected mentor, Dr.Filipe- a house-call business, first in long-standing rigor that Izaguirre emphasizes that devel- Union County and then in commitment frames our oping a lifelong understanding Jersey City, which sought to to community Alfred F. Tallia, MD Eric G. Jahn, MD preparation of health behaviors is key to pro- remove barriers that block ’78, MPH ’88 health,” says of learners as viding optimum clinical care. access to health care by immi- Alfred F. Tallia, MD ’78, physicians in each of our “St. John’s has been a clini- grants and others with disrupt- MPH, professor and chair, four core mission areas.” cal home for the many under- ed or non-existent insurance. Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. Camden Pilot Program Helps Avert Costly Trips The department has made to the Emergency Department significant contributions to RWJMS programs for those nnecessary trips to a hospital’s emergency Dr. Brenner’s team, comprising a nurse practi- in the community who are department (ED) cost much and strain tioner, social worker, and community health worker, under- or uninsured. In addi- Ualready overcrowded facilities. Yet has intervened in the lives of 35 patients tion to its close clinical and to a large segment of Camden’s population, responsible for racking up ED medical academic ties to the Eric B. lack of funds and insufficient knowledge charges of $1.2 million a month. By offer- Chandler Health Center and make the ED their choice of first resort for ing them focused care, the team is already health care. showing positive results, with their average

St. John’s Family Health SOKOLOFF KIM Center, both in New Camden-based family practitioner Jeffrey number of monthly ED visits shrinking from Brunswick, the department Brenner, MD ’95, instructor of family 61 to 37 and total hospital charges reduced includes the Center for medicine, is leading a pilot to reduce ED Jeffrey Brenner, to $531,000 so far. The pilot costs about Healthy Families and visits by these so-called “super users.” The MD ’95 $300,000 a year to run, but the savings Cultural Diversity, an initia- program, coordinated by the Camden Coalition of gained by hospitals and federal programs such as tive that has earned an inter- Healthcare Providers, is funded by the Robert Wood Medicaid and Medicare more than validate that national reputation for pro- Johnson Foundation. expense, says Dr. Brenner. — J.S. moting culturally responsive,

8 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Research News

By Kate O’Neill

Dr. Steven Levin Appointed The National Institutes of “The Role of Neurotrophins in Medical Director of Health (NIH) awarded Oligodendrocyte Function.” grants of $1 million or Chandler Health Center • Michael Hampsey, PhD, pro- more to the following fessor and interim chair, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Department of Biochemistry: teven J. Johnson Medical School a four-year, $1,303,938 grant Levin, faculty members: for “Genetic Analysis of Trans- MD, S • Jeffrey L. Carson, MD, cription Initiation in Yeast.” associate pro- Richard C. Reynolds Profes- • Masayori Inouye, PhD, dis- fessor of family sor of Medicine and chief,

OREYO TVNJ EI,MD LEVIN, J. STEVEN OF COURTESY tinguished professor of bio- medicine and division of general internal chemistry: a three-year, community medicine: a two-year, $1,641,155 grant for “Deci- health, has $2,012,845 grant for “Trans- phering of the Toxin-Antitoxin been appointed fusion Trigger Trial in Systems in E-Coli.” medical director Coronary Heart Disease: A • Alla S. Kostyukova, PhD, of the Eric B. Pilot Study.” assistant professor of neuro- Chandler Health Center. Steven J. Levin, MD • Joseph P. Dougherty, PhD, science and cell biology: a An exceptional family professor of molecular genet- four-year, $1,482,000 grant physician and a member and constructive change.” ics, microbiology, and for “Factors Influencing of the faculty since 1989, Dr. Levin says his leading immunology: a five-year, Regulation of the Dynamics of Dr. Levin served for 20 years goal is to provide all $1,919,308 grant for “Gene the Actin Filament.” as medical director and sole Chandler patients with the Regulation Using Novel Drugs Modulating Premature • Michael Leibowitz, MD, PhD, physician at St. John’s same premium health servic- Translational Termination.” professor of molecular genet- Family Health Center, which es that would be available to ics, microbiology, and immun- provides primary care to them in a private practice. • Cheryl F. Dreyfus, PhD, pro- ology and director of academ- medically underserved “It’s extremely impressive fessor and acting chair, De- ic diversity initiatives, UMDNJ- members of the community. that Chandler has minimal partment of Neuroscience and Graduate School of Biomedical A valued teacher and turnover of faculty and staff Cell Biology: a five-year, Sciences at RWJMS: a four- $7,515,018 competitive re- mentor, Dr. Levin was and provides such continuity year, $2,103,640 grant for the newal for a five-institution instrumental in guiding of care,” he says. UMDNJ-Rutgers University program project, “Growth and The new medical director Pipeline Program. medical students in the Development of the Nervous creation of The Promise looks forward to building on System: Molecular Mechan- • Shaohua Li, MD, assistant Clinic in 2004 and continues the synergy between the two isms.” Emanuel DiCicco- professor of surgery: a three- to supervise the group once centers. “Chandler is more Bloom, MD, professor of year, $1,243,520 grant for a week. “We are fortunate complex than St. John’s,” he neuroscience and cell biology “Regulation of Embryonic that Chandler could recruit says, “but the two centers and pediatrics, division Epithelial Morpho- someone with Steve’s creden- deliver the same type of of child neurology genesis.” tials and knowledge of the services to similar popula- and neurodevelop- • Leroy Liu, PhD, community,” says Eric G. tions, and they share the mental disabilities, is professor and chair, Jahn, MD ’88, senior associ- goal of improving the quality principal investigator Department of Phar- on a sub-project of ate dean for community of care in New Brunswick. macology: a five- Dr. Dreyfus’s grant. health, who preceded Dr. In addition, each fills an year, $1,492,358 In addition to sup- Levin as medical director at important role in providing grant for “Mechan- porting the program ism of Action of Chandler. “Steve and programs and venues where project grant, the TOP2 Directed Anti- Executive Director Sandra students learn to provide NIH awarded Dr. cancer Drugs.” Adams form a good partner- culturally competent primary Dreyfus a four-year, ship that promises continuity care.” $1,365,000 grant for — Continued on Page 10

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 9 Research News

By Kate O’Neill Continued from Page 9

• Vikas Nanda, PhD, assistant P u b l i s h e d Resistance,” published in the • Yufang Shi, DVM, PhD, profes- professor of biochemistry and res- R e s e a r c h : Proceedings of the National Aca- sor of molecular genetics, micro- ident member, Center for Advanc- The following is a repre- demy of Sciences of the United biology, and immunology, was ed Biotechnology and Medicine: States of America 2008:105(46): senior author of “Mesenchymal sentative sample of articles by a five-year, $2,340,000 NIH 17682–17687. Stem Cell-Mediated Immunosup- RWJMS faculty members Director’s New Innovator Award pression Occurs Via Concerted published in leading • Stephen F. Lowry, MD, profes- for “Computational Design of a Action of Chemokines and Nitric sor and chair, Department of Synthetic Extracellular Matrix.” biomedical journals: Oxide,” published in Cell Stem Surgery, and senior associate Cell 2008:2(2):41–50. • Smita S. Patel, PhD, professor • Marc R. Gartenberg, PhD, pro- dean for education, was senior of biochemistry: a four-year, fessor of pharmacology, was the author of “Influence of Acute • Michael B. Steinberg, MD, $1,271,400 grant for “Mechanis- author of “Life on the Edge: Epinephrine Infusion on MPH, associate professor of tic Studies of Hexameric Telomeres and Persistent DNA Endotoxin-Induced Parameters medicine, was first author of Helicases.” Breaks Converge at the Nuclear of Heart Rate Variability: A “Triple-Combination Pharmaco- Periphery,” published in Genes • William G. Wadsworth, PhD, Randomized Controlled Trial,” therapy for Medically Ill Smokers: and Development 2009:23(9): professor of pathology and labo- published in the Annals of A Randomized Trial,” published 1027–1031. Dr. Gartenberg also ratory medicine: a five-year, Surgery 2009:249(5):750–756. in the Annals of Internal Medicine was senior author of “Bypassing 2009:150(7):447–454. Jeffrey $1,706,250 grant for “Molecular • Grace Lu-Yao, MD, MPH, asso- Sir2 and O-acetyl-ADP-ribose in L. Carson, MD, Richard C. Mechanisms Regulating Axon ciate professor of medicine, was Transcriptional Silencing,” pub- Reynolds Professor of Medicine Guidance Receptor Activity.” first author of “Outcomes of Lo- lished in Molecular Cell and chief, division of general • Nancy C. Walworth, PhD, pro- calized Prostate Cancer Following 2008:31(5):650–659. internal medicine, was senior fessor of pharmacology: a four- Conservative Management,” pub- • Michael Hampsey, PhD, profes- author of the article. year, $1,537,877 grant for “Cell lished in the Journal of the sor and interim chair, Department Cycle Checkpoint Control in American Medical Association • Ann M. Stock, PhD, professor of Biochemistry, was senior Response to DNA Damage.” 2009:302(11):1202–1209. Siu- of biochemistry, Investigator, author of “Eukaryotic Trans- Long Yao, MD, clinical assistant Howard Hughes Medical Institute, • Eileen White, PhD, adjunct pro- cription Initiation,” published in professor of medicine, was sen- and associate director, Center for fessor of surgery, associate direct- Current Biology 2009:19(4): ior author of the article. Advanced Biotechnology and or of basic science, The Cancer R153–156. Institute of New Jersey (CINJ), Medicine, was senior author of • Eunsung Junn, PhD, assistant • Monica J. Roth, PhD, professor and professor of molecular biolo- “Biological Insights from Struc- professor of neurology, was first of biochemistry, was senior author gy and biochemistry, Rutgers tures of Two-Component Pro- author of “Repression of Alpha- of “Single-Round Selection Yields University, and colleagues: a teins,” published in the Annual Synuclein Expression and Toxi- a Unique Retroviral Envelope two-year, $1 million research Review of Microbiology October city by microRNA-7,” published in Utilizing GPR172A as Its Host grant for “The Role of Tumor and 2009:63:33–154. the Proceedings of the National Receptor,” published in the Stromal Cell Metabolism in Stress Academy of Sciences of the United Proceedings of the National • Eileen White, PhD, adjunct Adaptation and Progression.” States of America 2009:106(31): Academy of Sciences of the professor of surgery and associ- United States of America ate director of basic science, Additional grants of 13052–13057. M. Maral 2009:106(14):848–853. The Cancer Institute of $1 million or more included: Mouradian, MD, William Dow New Jersey (CINJ), was Lovett Professor of Neurology, • Federico Sesti, PhD, associate • The New Jersey Commission on senior author of “Autophagy was senior author of the article. professor of physiology and bio- Cancer Research: a $1 million, Suppresses Tumorigenesis physics, was senior author of multi-institution, team-project • Terri Goss Kinzy, PhD, profes- through Elimination of p62,” “Oxidation of a Potassium Chan- grant to Michael Reiss, MD, sor of molecular genetics, micro- published in Cell 2009:137(6): nel Causes Progressive Sensory professor of medicine and biology, and immunology and 62–75. Function Loss during Aging,” molecular genetics, microbiolo- senior associate dean, UMDNJ- published in Nature Neuroscience gy, and immunology and associ- Graduate School of Biomedical 2009:12(5):611–617. ate director for translational Sciences at RWJMS, was senior research, CINJ, for “Imaging and author of “Genome-wide Screen Targeting TGFB in Breast Cancer.” of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Null Allele Strains Identifies Genes Involved in Selenomethionine

10 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Stimulus Grants to RWJMS Exceed $15 Million

n February 2009, Congress school. The result was a broad disease was more conservatively general made support for scientific mix of proposals, and the managed. “Radiation therapy is internal Iresearch a key part of the National Institutes of Health common.” says Dr. Lu-Yao. “Still, medicine, nation’s economic recovery. The (NIH) responded with a full we really don’t know whom it allows him

American Recovery and range of grants: new and sup- benefits, or why and how.” HOCKSTEIN STEVE to retain Reinvestment Act (ARRA) pro- plemental, program project, and “Challenge grants were staff for a vided an unprecedented level of instrumentation grants, to both among the most competitive pilot study aid: $8.2 billion in extramural junior and senior faculty. and difficult grants to obtain,” of the Jeffrey L. Carson, MD funding. The program benefits Although not every proposal says benefits principal investigators as well received funding, ARRA opened Arnold B. of transfusion for patients with as those hired to work on the door and keeps it open for Rabson, coronary artery disease. “The research teams — and, ulti- scientists who can submit revis- MD, pro- NIH hopes this study will mately, the patients who will ed proposals through standard fessor of become the first step to a large, benefit from their discoveries. funding EMERSON JOHN molecular multi-center trial,” says Dr. “Congress has declared that mecha- genetics, Carson. research is good for science, nisms, microbiol- In addition, an award to good for the country, and good says Arnold B. Rabson, MD ogy, and Arnold J. Levine, PhD, pro- for the Céline immunology, pathology and fessor of ..SUNDSTROM A.J. economy,” Gélinas, laboratory medicine, and pedi- pediatrics says PhD, pro- atrics; interim senior associate and bio- Cheryl F. fessor of dean for research; and interim chemistry, Dreyfus, Céline Gélinas, PhD biochem- director, Child Health Institute RWJMS, TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE PhD, pro- istry and associate dean for of New Jersey. EMERSON JOHN and pro- fessor and research. The NIH awarded one of fessor of acting Grace Lu-Yao, PhD, MPH, only a few grants for stem cell systems Cheryl F. Dreyfus, PhD chair, associate professor of medicine, research to Shaohua Li, MD, Arnold J. Levine, PhD biology, Department of Neuroscience and assistant Institute for Advanced Study, and Cell Biology. member, professor provides funds for the hiring of More than $15 million was The Cancer of surgery, a new, young investigator and a awarded to members of the Institute to ad- three-member support team to UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson of New vance his work in the field of systems TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE Medical School faculty. This EMERSON JOHN Jersey, research biology and cancer. included a total of 43 research received a on the Each institution was limited grants to 39 different faculty Challenge mecha- to three proposals for renova- members. Grace Lu-Yao,PhD,MPH grant, Shaohua Li, MD nisms of tion of research infrastructure As soon as President Barack allowing her to accelerate her blood vessel formation and the and expansion of core facilities. Obama signed the bill into law, analysis of the benefits of creation of vascularized grafts These awards were not RWJMS scientists pulled togeth- different forms of treatment for for tissue repair using embryonic announced in the first round. er in a coordinated effort to prostate cancer. Using a nation- stem cells. Dr. Rabson is optimistic that weigh priorities and determine al database, the project tracks A “Grant Opportunity” grant the medical school’s high pre- which types of grants would outcomes for patients who were to Jeffrey L. Carson, MD, liminary scores bode well for most benefit both individual treated with radiation therapy Richard C. Reynolds Professor of success in the next round too. researchers and the medical as compared with those whose Medicine and chief, division of — K.O’N.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 11 Researchers Identify Missing Piece of the DNA Replication Puzzle

NA replication is a basic tal problem, by a team led by “DNA replication is a fun- function of living organ- Smita S. Patel, PhD, professor damental reaction required Disms, allowing cells to of biochemistry, in conjunc- for the maintenance, sur- divide and multiply, while main- tion with the University of vival, and propagation of taining the genetic code and prop- Illinois, was published in living cells,” says Dr. er function of the original cell. The the December issue of Patel. “Our study process, or mechanism, by which Nature. The study identi- explains how the replica- this is accomplished presents many fies three essential ways in tion is coordinated — challenges, as the double-helical which the synthesis of the an important piece of the DNA divides into two strands that two strands is coordinated by puzzle, because errors in are duplicated by different meth- enzymes, settling scientific DNA replication can cause ods, yet both strands complete the deliberations over how the two disabilities and disease, replication at the same time. New DNA strands are copied in the such as cancer.” research addressing this fundamen- same time span. — J.S.

Researchers Progress Toward AIDS Vaccine

longstanding research professor, Department of Chemistry using the resulting product to team and their col- and Chemical Biology, Rutgers, The immunize lab animals. The animals Aleagues may have State University of New Jersey; and responded by creating antibodies found a crack in the armor Edward Arnold, PhD, adjunct pro- able to stop a wide array of HIV of the mighty AIDS fessor of molecular genetics, micro- types — which is important virus — and with biology, and immunology, resident because prior vaccines have proven it the possibility member, CABM, and professor of effective only against limited HIV of developing a chemistry and chemical biology, types. routine HIV Rutgers University — along with a Dr. Edward Arnold describes the vaccine. The team of CABM researchers. discovery as a “proof of principle,” discovery was The researchers identified a part but still an early first step in devel- made by Gail of the AIDS virus critical to its sur- oping a potent vaccine. Ferstandig vival, which, if threatened by a The Arnolds’ research was sup- Arnold, PhD, strong vaccine, could potentially be ported largely by a four-year grant principal inves- destroyed. They discovered this so- from the National Institute of tigator, called Achilles’ heel by fastening a Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Center for Ad- portion of the human immunodefi- part of the National Institutes of ONEMERSON JOHN vanced Biotech- ciency virus (HIV) — which helps Health. It was first reported in the nology and Medicine the disease enter cells — to the Journal of Virology in March. (CABM), and research surface of a common cold virus, — J.S.

12 Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE Survival Outcomes Improving for Prostate Cancer Patients

n what investigators say is prostate cancer. the most comprehensive look Grace Lu- Iat survival outcomes for Yao, PhD, MPH, prostate cancer patients to date, associate pro- researchers at The Cancer fessor of medi- Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) cine and cancer have shown that older men epidemiologist ONEMERSON JOHN diagnosed with localized dis- at CINJ, was ease beginning in the early lead author of 1990s had significantly improved the study. Con- survival outcomes compared with tributors included Robert S. Above (from left): Robert S. DiPaola, MD; Grace Lu-Yao, PhD, MPH; Dirk F. Moore, PhD; those diagnosed earlier. Published DiPaola, MD, professor of med- Yong Lin, PhD; Siu-Long Yao, MD; and Weichung Shih, PhD, authors of the prostate September 16 in the Journal of icine, chief, division of medical cancer research study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. the American Medical Association, oncology, and director of CINJ; the study found that a patient’s Siu-Long Yao, MD, clinical as- risk of dying from prostate can- sistant professor of medicine Study Offers Hope for Host of cer over a ten-year period fol- and executive director of oncol- Neurodegenerative Diseases lowing diagnosis declined by ogy clinical research at the more than 60 percent compared Schering-Plough Research Insti- with patients diagnosed in the tute; and Dirk F. Moore, PhD, esearchers at RWJMS are which includes Alzheimer’s and 1970s and 1980s. The investiga- Weichung Shih, PhD, and Yong a step closer to deter- Parkinson’s diseases. Their tors say these findings could Lin, PhD, all at CINJ and the Rmining how to protect research also provides a founda- lead to a reassessment of treat- UMDNJ-School of Public Health. human cells from the effects of tion for developing therapies for ment options for localized — J.S. age-related neurodegeneration, disorders including multiple scle- rosis and cardiovascular disease. Their findings, published in Nature Neuroscience, link the oxi- Researchers Discover Possible Therapeutic dation of potassium channels — Target to Slow Parkinson’s Disease which control a variety of cell functions and are essential to neuronal function — to the loss of neuronal function in aging. esearchers at RWJMS out the study. the National The study also found that the oxi- have discovered a M. Maral Academy of dation process can be blocked by Mouradian, Sciences. Rtherapeutic target that, HOCKSTEIN STEVE modifying the potassium channel, when manipulated, may slow the MD, William Dow The inves- making it resistant to age-related progression of or halt Parkinson’s Lovett Professor tigators report deterioration. disease, a debilitating neurode- of Neurology and that the small The study was conducted by generative disorder that affects director of the center, was the RNA molecule microRNA-7, pres- Federico Sesti, PhD, associate an estimated one million people study’s lead investigator. A ent in neurons, directly repress- professor of physiology and bio- in the United States. paper on the team’s findings, es the expression of a-synuclein, physics, and Shi-Qing Cai, PhD, A team from the Center for “Repression of A-synuclein a protein that, in excess, proves research associate. Their research Neurodegenerative and Neuro- Expression and Toxicity by deleterious to certain types of was supported by a National immunologic Diseases in the MicroRNA-7,” appears in the brain cells. Institutes of Health grant. Department of Neurology carried July 20 edition of Proceedings of — J.S. — J.S.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 13 R D A s W & A Honors

International Team Discovers Role of Peers Help Smokers Calcium in Cell Growth, Disorders Make “CHOICES”

n international calcium from intra-cellular he division of addiction research team has stores. psychiatry’s “CHOICES” Asolved the mystery of Calcium may prove to play Tprogram has been how calcium is released in- a role in human disease, recognized by the American Psy- to the body. The team’s study, according to Jianjie Ma, chiatric Association for its efforts reported in Nature in April, PhD, university professor and to reduce tobacco use identified the mechanism that acting chair, Department of among mental health triggers the release of calcium, Physiology and Biophysics. patients, a group “We are proud estimated to con- to be part of a sume nearly half study that will of all cigarettes in the stand as the United States. foundation for CHOICES — Consumers further explo- Helping Others Improve their ration of human Condition by Ending Smoking — disease, helping provides peer counselors with researchers to intensive training to coach current better under- smokers. Peer counselors are stand how calci- non-smokers or former smokers um contributes moderately impaired or disabled TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE to cell growth by mental illness who receive and disorders, intensive training to coach cur- including aging- rent smokers. as well as the specific sites of related cardiac disease, dia- “Peers are less threatening calcium stores targeted for betes, lysosomal cell dysfunc- than professionals,” says Jill release. It may have broad tion, and the metastasis of Correction: Williams, MD, associate professor implications in cell biology cells in cancer,” Dr. Ma says. There was a typographi- of psychiatry and co-founder and and human disease research. The study involved inves- cal error in “The Great medical director of the program. The researchers identified a tigative teams at Ohio State Mystery of Cystic According to Dr. Williams and new family of proteins, TPC2 University, the University of Fibrosis” in the Spring co-founder Marie Verna, the pro- (two-pore channels), that Edinburgh, and the University 2009 issue of Robert gram’s advocacy director and facilitates calcium signaling of Oxford, as well as RWJMS. Wood Johnson Medicine. senior training and consultation from structures within cells Support was provided by the The first line on page specialist at UMDNJ-University that perform a special func- United Kingdom’s Wellcome 48 should have read: Behavioral HealthCare’s Center tion. They also are the first to Trust and the British Heart “Dr. Scanlin was for Excellence in Psychiatry, the isolate TPC2 as a channel that Foundation, the American appointed the new CHOICES team has reached binds to a second-signaling Heart Association, and the director of the CF more than 9,600 smokers with messenger known as NAADP, National Institutes of Health. Center in 2005.” mental illness since 2005. which results in the release of — J.S. — J.S.

14 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE r w j m s

Researcher Earns RWJMS Celebrates NEWS New Innovator Award Publication Awards

ikas Nanda, PhD, receive $1.5 million over he UMDNJ-Robert In Memoriam assistant profes- five years to support his Wood Johnson Dr. Parvin Saidi Vsor of biochem- novel approach to creat- T Medical School- istry and a resident mem- ing a synthetic network of Robert Wood Johnson ber, proteins resembling the Hospital 2007 Annual adly, we report the Center extra-cellular matrix of Report and April 22 death of for mammalian cells. This Robert SParvin Saidi, MD, will allow research into Wood professor of medicine and

TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE Advanced Biotech- the role of the matrix in Johnson chief, division of hematology nology normal and disease Medicine and oncology. Dr. Saidi joined and processes and help trans- magazine Rutgers Medical School in Medicine, late new findings into the received 1968 and was named profes- is a recipient of the development of biomate- several awards for sor and appointed director Director’s New Innovator rials, which can then be excellence: of the Melvyn H. Motolinsky Laboratory for Hematology Award from the National used to engineer artificial • A gold award Research in 1974. She was Institutes of Health tissue for treatment of from the 2009 the first to hold the Melvyn (NIH). Dr. Nanda will human diseases. Aster Awards: and Ab Motolinsky Chair in Excellence in Medical Hematology. Marketing, for the Recognized internationally annual report for her work, she garnered Distinguished Professor Receives • A silver award in nearly $19 million in hema- the 26th annual Prestigious Psychology Award tology/oncology research Healthcare Market- grants and earned numerous ing Advertising Awards awards, including the Foun- ichael Lewis, a commitment to Competition, for the dation of UMDNJ Excellence PhD, univer- research, education, annual report in Teaching Award and the Msity distin- and the exchange of • A bronze award in the 2006 Physician of the Year guished professor of pedi- information to share same competition, for the Award from the National atrics and psychiatry and with parents. — J.S. Spring 2008 issue of the Hemophilia Foundation. director, Institute for the magazine — J.S. She also chaired the New Study of Child Develop- Jersey Governor’s Task Force ment, has received the on Women with Bleeding 2009 Urie Bronfenbrenner Disorders and served on the Award for Lifetime Con- Award Highlights: Governor’s Advisory Council tributions to Develop- on AIDS. mental Psychology in the Joseph R. Bertino, MD, university professor of medicine Surviving are her husband, Service of Science and and pharmacology and associate director and chief A. Verdi Farmanfarmaian, Society from the develop- scientific officer, The Cancer Institute of New Jersey, PhD, emeritus professor of mental psychology sec- was honored with the Freundlich Leadership Award by physiology at Rutgers, The tion of the American the Lymphoma Research Foundation. State University of New Psychological Robert Pinals, MD, clinical professor of medicine and vice Jersey, and daughters Lara Association. chair, division of rheumatology and connective tissue Terry, MD ’95, and Kimya Dr. Lewis has directed research, Department of Medicine, was honored by the Harris, PhD. the Institute for the Study Arthritis Foundation at its annual banquet. — J.S. of Child Development for — J.S. more than 25 years, with

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 15 EDUCATION HIGHLights

The Class of 2013 in Profile

he Class of 2013 is remark- able for the high quality of its Tresearch and writing — including several articles published in top-cited journals. “Our students’ TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE diverse experience is key to our educa- tion of competent physicians,” says Carol A. Terregino, MD ’86, associate professor of medicine, associate dean The new class had the highest under- Carol A. Terregino, MD ’86, associate professor for admissions, and interim senior asso- graduate grade point average and the of medicine, associate dean for admissions, and interim senior associate dean for the Camden ciate dean for the Camden regional highest MCAT scores in the history of the regional campus (standing), with members of the campus. medical school. Although their average Class of 2013.

age is 23, the members of the class have accumulated an excellent record of New Degree Program at Forefront scholarly achievement, while enjoying a of Translational Research broad spectrum of interests. The 156 members of the Class of rofessionals wishing to expand career opportunities in science and 2013 were educated at 58 different insti- medicine can take advantage of a new advanced-degree program tutions. Twenty percent graduated from Precently introduced by the UMDNJ-Graduate School of Biomedical Rutgers, The State University of New Sciences (GSBS) at RWJMS. Jersey, and 22 percent from Ivy League The program, toward a master’s degree colleges, including 14 graduates of the in clinical and translational science, will pro- University of Pennsylvania. Four students vide innovative training for doctors, nurses, were admitted as members of the pharmacists, dentists, and research scien- MD/PhD program. Half of the class tists, as well as others who want to learn majored in the biological and physical the complexities of translational research sciences; more than half of the 17 and better understand how research is

TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE double majors were double science transformed into clinical diagnoses and majors. Nine were undergraduate engi- treatments to improve patient care. neering majors, and 14 bring a liberal “This degree will enhance a profession- arts background to the mix. Twenty-three al’s employment value and strengthen his or her opportunities for career advance- percent were born abroad, representing ment,” says Terri Goss Kinzy, PhD, professor of molecular genetics, microbiolo- more than 21 different countries, and gy, and immunology and, senior associate dean for GSBS at RWJMS. they have served in 19 different global A relatively new discipline, translational research integrates basic biomedical health settings. Two-thirds were born in investigations with clinical applications, accelerating medical research to improve the tristate area — half in New Jersey. health care delivery. The progressive degree, the first of its kind in New Jersey, was Ten percent are from groups traditionally developed to complement the goals of the National Institutes of Health “Road underrepresented in medicine, and, Map” for medical research, designating clinical and translational science as a reflecting a nationwide trend, more than major initiative. — J.S. half — 56 percent — are women. — K.O’N.

16 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Dean’s Scholars

he Dean’s Scholars Program was inaugurated in 2006 by Peter S. TAmenta, MD, PhD, dean. The following exceptional students in the Class of 2013 were named Dean’s Scholars this year. Each earned a four-year scholarship.

I

Janelle Billig earned a BS in neuro- HOCKSTEIN STEVE science and kinesiology at the College of William and Mary. An American Physiological Society award finalist, she co-authored an article published in the Peter S. Amenta, MD, PhD, dean (fourth from left) is joined by Dean’s Scholars from the Class of 2013 (left American Journal of Physiology and did RWJMS Taking to right): Anmol Gupta, Elise Sideris, Hussein Rahim, Advantage of Mobile research at the National Institutes of Jonathan Wooden, Jessica Malin, Janelle Billig, Health’s Center for Molecular Studies in Andrew Moore, and Aleksandr Rozenberg; not pictured: Technology in Education Digestive and Liver Diseases. Gabriel Estremera and Matt Linger. ast fall, RWJMS introduced a mobil- I Gabriel Estremera graduated Phi Beta Wharton School of Business, where he ity initiative designed to integrate Kappa from Rutgers College, where he researched political parties and affordable electronic content (images, audio, earned a BS in biological science. He is housing. L video, and other digital assets) and make it committed to practicing medicine in an I Hussein Rahim holds a BA in genetics available through mobile technologies. While urban area. from Rutgers. From 2006 to 2009, he assist- it is anticipated that I Anmol Gupta earned a BA in molecular ed in clinically focused research at The this initiative will biology from Princeton University and did Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ). He significantly affect genetic, stem cell, and cell signaling presented posters in consecutive years at the the way digital research at the University of Pennsylvania. RWJMS Annual Retreat on Cancer Research assets and tech-

I Matt Linger taught English in the and one at a Rutgers symposium. nologies are utilized at RWJMS, it will United States and China and completed I Aleksandr Rozenberg double- not replace many of pre-medical studies at Columbia University. majored in chemistry and biomathematics our existing At New York-Presbyterian Hospital, he at Rutgers, earning a BA. He was first resources (Web assisted in a study of Parkinson’s disease author of a submitted research paper and sites, Web applications, email, and so on). and researched how dystonia affects musi- presented posters at three symposiums. cians. The first mission area to benefit from I Elise Sideris holds a BS in biology from mobility is education. In August, all enter- I Jessica Malin holds a BA in biology Cornell University, where she assisted in ing medical school students were required from the University of Delaware. She did osteoarthritis-focused research at the to have an iPod Touch or iPhone 3G as research at Nemours Biomedical Research/ Fortier Laboratory. She participated in a well as a laptop computer. It was also rec- Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, service-learning program in Peru. ommended that all second-, third-, and studying behavioral aspects of autism in I Jonathan Wooden earned his BA in fourth-year students purchase an iPod children. biological science at Rutgers. He assisted in Touch or iPhone 3G. While first-year stu- I Andrew Moore earned a BA in eco- research at CINJ, where he studied the dents require laptops, second-, third-, and nomics from the University of Pennsylvania, relationship between chemotherapy-caused fourth-year students may use any computer where he completed his post-baccalaureate DNA damage and the development of drug with Internet access and the capacity to studies. A nursing unit volunteer at resistance. connect to the RWJMS iTunes U. Pennsylvania Hospital, he attended the — K.O’N. — J.S.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 17 New Faculty Bring Leading-Edge Technologies BLAZINGto RWJMS A TRAIL:

The UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School advanced significantly with the recent strategic appointments of six new high-profile faculty members. These medical experts are Vicente H. Gracias, MD, recognized leaders within their professor of surgery respective fields, bringing with them and chief, trauma/ surgical critical care, new knowledge and advanced and medical director, therapies and technologies to help trauma and surgical critical care at RWJUH; propel the medical school to higher says, “I really believe levels of excellence. that creating a structured environment that supports education is the foundation that leads to our overall excellence. The division we are establishing at the medical school will have a philosophy of doing just that.” PORTRAITSBYJOHNEMERSON

18 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Vicente H. Gracias, MD: A New Model for Trauma and Surgical Care

T’S NOT OFTEN THAT A NEW FACULTY In addition to his teaching responsibilities as asso- Iarrival warrants a stream of superlatives ciate professor of surgery, Dr. Gracias’s leadership from Stephen F. Lowry, MD, professor and positions at Penn included service as interim direc- chair, Department of Surgery, and senior associate tor, medical director, and chief of surgical critical dean for education. But in the case of Vicente care at the Hospital of the University of Penn- H. Gracias, MD, professor of surgery and chief, sylvania. He also has served as a surgical liaison for trauma/surgical critical care, and medical direc- trauma chaplains, medical director for performance tor, trauma and surgical critical care at Robert improvement, and director of a medical sonogram Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH), implementation program at the hospital. He has this enthusiasm seems more than justified. taught students at all levels, including nationally, A trauma/critical care surgeon with significant earning four teaching awards along the way. leadership and teaching experience, Dr. Gracias “From a surgical point of view,” says Dr. has been recruited to RWJMS to help merge and Gracias, “the majority of my interests now are to elevate the RWJUH’s Level 1 Trauma Center and create a center that can deliver the cutting edge of Surgical Critical Care programs to world-class sta- catastrophic care — continuing the wonderful tus as a comprehensive catastrophic care center. tradition the medical school and hospital have “He is a nationally recognized expert in quali- earned — combining the ability to render help to ty improvement and protocol-driven care, so we Level 1 trauma patients seen here at our trauma are excited and filled with anticipation over his center while enhancing surgical intensive care.” arrival. We think he’s the kind of faculty member In his new position, he hopes to be able to draw who will be the future of our institution, someone upon his extensive experience at the University of who can propel us to becoming one of America’s Pennsylvania, where, he says, “we learned how to premier medical schools,” says Dr. Lowry. develop and implement both the clinical and sys- Working with Dr. Lowry and Stanley Z. tem aspects necessary for supporting a mature Trooskin, MD, professor of surgery and chief, trauma system and the team it depends on.” division of general surgery at RWJUH, Dr. Gracias will be responsible for combining and Opportunities for Learning improving the quality of Level 1 trauma care, sur- gical critical care, and emergency surgery services Dr. Gracias’s immediate goal is to establish a at the hospital, mirroring a growing national strong clinical program, but he says his trend that maximizes efficiencies and services. Dr. ultimate goal is to develop a curriculum in acute Gracias will lead the effort to improve care while care surgery — an integral part of his overall plan combining emergent surgical responses to trauma to create meaningful learning opportunities for and other surgical diseases under Acute Care students from differing professions at all levels. “I Surgery. He will also establish a fellowship pro- really believe that creating a structured environ- gram and create educational opportunities for ment that supports education is the foundation graduate and undergraduate students. that leads to our overall excellence. The division we are establishing at the medical school will Extensive Leadership Experience have a philosophy of doing just that,” he adds. To maintain that crucial link with students, Dr. Dr. Gracias arrived at RWJMS in July from Gracias is basing his offices within the school’s the Hospital of the University of Penn- Medical Education Building. Medical students, sylvania, where he held numerous administra- along with house officers (residents with additional tive, clinical, and faculty appointments over a surgical training), nurses, and other team members, career spanning nearly 12 years. will be considered a vital part of the trauma/acute

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 19 care surgical team. They will receive daily morning James Coromilas, MD, reports from attending physicians and participate in a professor of medicine review of clinical-care issues each day, he says. and chief, division of cardiovascular diseases Since coming to the school, Dr. Gracias has and hypertension, and chief, already recruited two new members to his staff. They cardiology at RWJUH, are Adam Shiroff, MD, assistant professor of surgery, envisions a new cardiology who completed the Penn Fellowship program in trau- center where breakthrough ma and surgical critical care at the University of research and therapies Pennsylvania, and Hesham Ahmed, MD, assistant can be applied to both professor of surgery, who recently completed his fel- complex and common heart disorders, especially those lowship training at the Medical College of Virginia. now afflicting aging He also welcomes the opportunity to work once baby boomers. again with Meredith S. Tinti, MD, assistant professor of surgery, whom Dr. Gracias mentored as a fellow at Penn and who is now at RWJMS and RWJUH. Clearly a believer in teamwork, Dr. Gracias stress- es that the work ahead will owe its success to the residents, fellows, house officers, students, nurses, and other team members working alongside him. “In my personal philosophy,” he adds, “it’s all about the team being created. It’s about the people we’re recruiting to help us.” Students will be treated as important team members, he is careful to note. “The students who come here will not be looked upon as visitors,” he says emphatically. “They are very much a part of our overall philosophy and of the mission that we intend to live.” — By Joni Scanlon

James Coromilas, MD: Emergent Role of the “Heart Electrician”

ORTHREEYEARSRUNNING,ROBERT FWood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) has ranked among the nation’s top heart and heart-surgery hospitals in U.S. News & World Report, this year placing 36th of 5,000 evaluated. While hardly preoccupied by such rankings, James Coromilas, professor of medicine and chief, division of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension, and chief, cardiology at RWJUH, is certain that the cardiology program he is leading at RWJMS will one day be on

20 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE a par with any of the academic hospitals deemed “elite” in the magazine’s rankings. In full agreement is his department chair, John B. Kostis, MD, John G. Detwiler Professor of Cardio- logy, professor and chair, Department of Medicine, and founding director of the Cardiovascular Institute of New Jersey. He is convinced that Dr. Coromilas is the man who will get the job done. “We anticipate his broad experience and achievements will elevate cardi- ology at our academic medical center to among the best,” says Dr. Kostis. “So, he has a tall order to fill, which is to bring us to number ten in the U.S. News rankings,” quips Dr. Kostis.

Teacher, Researcher, Electrophysiologist A board-certified electrophysiologist, or “heart electrician,” Dr. Coromilas came to RWJMS last year, leaving a distinguished career at New York- Presbyterian, the University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell, where he taught, practiced, and led a number of academic and research initiatives for the better part of two decades. Through his affiliation with Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, he conducted extensive research on a host of heart defects and dis- eases, particularly focusing on arrhythmia disorders. At Columbia, he directed the Ambulatory Electro- cardiogram (ECG), Signal Averaged ECG, and Inter- ventional and Diagnostic Electrophysiology labora- tories. Dr. Coromilas directed the Cardiology Fellow- ship Training Program for nearly two decades, and he was selected by its fellows in 2002 as “Best Teacher.” For many years, he served as preceptor for the third-year student medical clerkship, and he also taught pharmacology courses to second- and fourth- year medical students. No stranger to headlines, Dr. Coromilas has been published extensively in a number of prestigious, peer- reviewed journals. Recently, his writing touched off considerable debate when the Journal of the American Medical Association published his editorial supporting an accompanying, and provocative, Yale study. That study suggested that patients receiving implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) might

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 21 Amale Laouar, PhD: be at greater risk if the device is implanted by a Studying Childhood Gut-Related physician without experience in electrophysiology. Diseases Electrophysiologists belong to one of the fastest- growing disciplines within cardiology. They’re cardi- NHERNEWPOSITIONHEADINGABIOMED- ologists who receive additional training to install car- Iical research team at the Child Health Institute of diac rhythm-management devices such as defibrilla- New Jersey (CHINJ), Amale Laouar, PhD, assis- tors and pacemakers, and they also perform tant professor of surgery, will lead vital research inves- advanced cardiac ablations to treat such irregularities tigating gut mucosal immunity. Although it’s not exact- as atrial fibrillation — a common arrhythmia affect- ly a household term, parents of infants born with a gut ing more than 10 million Americans. In performing immune disorder are all too aware of the potentially these procedures, electrophysiologists employ special devastating effects it can have on their child’s quality of catheters equipped with electrodes to promote non- life. And even if the child is healthy, no other system in invasive treatment and enhanced patient comfort. the infant body is subject to so many problems as the It’s a discipline Dr. Coromilas will expand in his gastrointestinal system, according to Dr. Laouar. new role by providing increased practice, research, These disorders thwart the normal development of a and training opportunities to residents and students. balanced immunity that simultaneously allows tolerance He also envisions a new cardiology center where of good antigens, such as milk and food, and provides breakthrough research and therapies can be applied active protection against harmful pathogens. Usually to both complex and common heart disorders, espe- these immune disorders develop in the days following cially those now afflicting aging baby boomers. birth, during which the gut microflora — “good” bacte- He also plans research to better interpret fainting ria — is allowed to populate the gut. But abnormal con- episodes, which he says are among the most com- ditions, which are related to the levels at which these bac- mon reasons for a hospital admission and often teria are present, can also occur during this time frame indicative of a serious problem. His other plans and can have serious, lifelong consequences for the baby. include introducing MRI technology and applying it This is indicated in recent studies, which have found that to the analysis of complex cardiovascular diseases, these “good bacteria” — usually passed from mother to as well as ushering in advanced cauterization tech- child — have enzymes that help the human body break niques offering non-surgical valve replacement and down the undigested carbohydrates it consumes, including artery-blockage repair options to patients. some starches, fiber, and sugars. However, as the studies Genetic mapping as it relates to cardiovascular indicate, the level at which they are present in the gut has disorders also intrigues him, and it could find a place been linked to such problems as lactose intolerance. Even in the program. “The theory is that certain genes more disturbing, an alteration in the number or types of could help us identify which people might be at risk bacteria may interfere with the early development of an for cardiac arrest and would benefit most from pre- infant’s immune system, both now and in the future. ventive treatment,” he explains. It’s suspected that this chain of action may very well be the culprit behind a whole host of diseases, including food To Be the “Best of the Best” allergies, inflammatory bowel diseases, food-borne infec- tions, and gastrointestinal cancers. In her research, Dr. While mapping the future, Dr. Coromilas Laouar will specifically investigate the gut mucosal im- acknowledges the solid program he has munity as it relates to inflammation, tolerance, infection, inherited, which has a reputation for its mastery of and cancer. minimally invasive heart surgery, heart transplanta- tion, and the implantation of ventricular assist devices. Research Fulfills CHINJ Mission “All of these initiatives — past and future — go hand in hand,” he says. “We can only be the best if The research that Dr. Laouar is leading reflects the we offer things that others don’t have.” work CHINJ hoped to foster when RWJMS estab- — By Joni Scanlon lished it in 1998, with the mission of advancing basic

22 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE In her new position heading a biomedical research team at the Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Amale Laouar, PhD, assistant professor of surgery, will lead vital research investigating gut mucosal immunity. Jason Rogart, MD: scientific knowledge of vertebrate development and Mastering Virtual Chromoendoscopy childhood diseases. CHINJ is part of a larger biomed- ical research program that includes the neighboring OR MOST ADULTS OF A CERTAIN AGE, A Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital at Robert Fphysician’s referral for a colonoscopy can be Wood Johnson University Hospital, The Cancer part of a complete physical exam. Although a Institute of New Jersey, the Cardiovascular Institute of vital and fairly reliable predictor of a pre-cancerous New Jersey, and the Stem Cell Institute of New Jersey. condition, the colonoscopic procedure that most peo- “We are now in the process of recruiting world- ple have experienced can carry a significant “miss” class investigators such as Dr. Laouar to CHINJ,” factor in identifying pre-cancerous polyps. says Arnold B. Rabson, MD, professor of molecular But now, high-definition virtual chromoendoscopy genetics, microbiology, and immunology, pathology techniques are available that not only improve the per- and laboratory medicine, and pediatrics; interim formance and success of routine colonoscopy and director, CHINJ; and interim senior associate dean endoscopy, but also aid the gastroenterologist in deter- for research. “These outstanding researchers will be mining the extent and type of lesion found so that it can studying basic and translational aspects of child- be optimally treated. hood diseases, trying to answer fundamental ques- These and other state-of-the-art diagnostic and thera- tions and to translate their findings into new peutic procedures are currently being employed at only a approaches to treatment and prevention, and ulti- limited number of medical facilities, including at mately offering hope to parents of babies and chil- RWJUH. Administering these procedures there is a spe- dren who are afflicted by these diseases.” cial cadre of doctors who have acquired extensive post- doctoral training to employ the sensitive, specially Amid Challenges, a Researcher designed imaging equipment required for these proce- Finds Her Purpose dures and to interpret test results accurately.

Dr. Laouar earned her MS and PhD in immunolo- Building upon Strengths gy from the Faculty of Medicine Saint-Antoine, Paris, and the Pierre and Marie Curie Institute, Paris, One such expert is Jason Rogart, MD, assistant respectively. She completed her post-graduate training professor of medicine, who joined the division at the University of Chicago and Argonne National of gastroenterology and hepatology faculty in August. Laboratory in Illinois and the Harvard Medical School A graduate of Brown Medical School, Dr. Rogart and Immune Disease Institute in Boston. She has taught served his residency in internal medicine — including a in the Department of Pediatrics and at the Immune year as chief resident — at Yale Medical School. He Disease Institute at Harvard. Dr. Laouar has published completed a three-year clinical fellowship in digestive in many outstanding journals and contributed to diseases at Yale. He spent an additional year as an numerous books. advanced endoscopy fellow at Thomas Jefferson She grew up in an Algerian family in which, she University Hospital in Philadelphia. says, she was encouraged to transcend boundaries of “Dr. Rogart will bring to our team yet another gender, important in a society where women are not dimension of state-of-the-art, interventional endoscop- usually considered equal to men. She credits her par- ic management of various complex gastrointestinal ents, who highly value education, for inspiring her and disorders,” says Kiron M. Das, MD, PhD, professor of her sisters to professional heights. It was in Algeria medicine, chief, division of gastroenterology and hepa- where the spark to research the root causes of diseases tology, and director, the Crohn’s and Colitis Center of was lit within Dr. Laouar. New Jersey. She first witnessed the ravages of gastrointestinal “In particular,” he adds, “Dr. Rogart has expertise disease on the Algerian populace, as an influential in using narrow-band imaging to assist in the early biology teacher and later as the recipient of two pres- detection and demarcation of pre-neoplastic and neo- tigious MS and PhD fellowships. plastic tissue, such as Barrett’s esophagus (a rare, often — By Joni Scanlon deadly cancer of the esophagus), ulcerative colitis,

24 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Jason Rogart, MD, assistant professor of medicine, division of gastroenterology and hepatology, especially looks forward to his teaching responsibilities at RWJMS, and he hopes to inspire at least some of his students to take the extra time needed to specialize in advanced technologies that are improving patient comfort and outcomes. Todd Rosen, MD: colon cancer, and benign and malignant colon polyps.” Treating Babies at Risk The new faculty member also brings an important new capability to this select team, Dr. Das notes: T THE CORE OF MODERN MATERNAL- experience applying new, deep small-bowel diagnostic A fetal medicine lies one of life’s most and therapeutic enteroscopy technology for small- enduring mysteries: How — and why — intestinal disorders. does natural childbirth occur precisely when it does? “We simply don’t understand why women ovulate. Handing Down Knowledge We don’t know exactly what the mechanism is behind the normal timing of labor,” says Todd Rosen, MD (NJMS r. Rogart especially looks forward to his ’92), assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and D reproductive sciences and director, maternal-fetal medi- teaching responsibilities at RWJMS, and he hopes to inspire at least some of his students to take cine and the Regional Perinatal Center at RWJUH, who the extra time needed to specialize in advanced tech- will explore this puzzling question in his new faculty nologies that are improving patient comfort and position at RWJMS. outcomes. When not researching this age-old mystery, Dr. Rosen Among the advances Dr. Rogart will share with his will take a leadership position in establishing a centrally students are new, non-invasive diagnostic and thera- located, state-of-the-art, multi-disciplinary maternal-fetal peutic procedures used for treating a wide range of medicine center that incorporates advanced treatments gastrointestinal conditions, including pancreatic can- and diagnostic options for not only high-risk pregnan- cers and cysts, pre-malignant lesions of the esopha- cies, but also extremely high-risk pregnancies. The cen- gus, and intestinal blockages. In some cases, they’ve ter will give New Jerseyans a place to go for these at-risk eliminated the need for drastic surgery, while in oth- pregnancies so that parents-to-be no longer have to trav- ers — such as in the diagnosis of pancreatic tumors el out of state to receive this caliber of treatment. and cysts — they’ve allowed for less invasive internal Still another challenge that Dr. Rosen will turn his biopsies instead of needing to go through the skin. attention to as a specialist in the area of high-risk preg- Yet patients unable to travel for advanced diagnosis nancy is medical malpractice. It is well known that the or treatment to the rare medical facility offering these malpractice crisis has hit the field of maternal-fetal medi- advanced technologies are at a distinct disadvantage. cine especially hard, through high insurance premiums Equipment costs and a shortage of available expertise and costly lawsuits. substantially limit the expansion of these facilities. Part of the problem is that most traditional med- New Challenges, New Opportunities ical students, residents, and fellows don’t have the time or the opportunity to master the technologies Dr. Rosen comes to RWJMS from Columbia Uni- that are rapidly being introduced to the discipline — versity’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, without committing to a significant extension to their where he served since 2005 as assistant clinical professor of post-doctoral training period, laments Dr. Rogart. obstetrics and gynecology, directed the perinatal research This year, there are perhaps 40 such fellowship program, and was an attending physician in its division positions available throughout the United States for of maternal-fetal medicine. He completed his residency at the kind of advanced training Dr. Rogart received. Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a fellowship in The problem is one that Dr. Rogart hopes to address maternal-fetal medicine at the New York University during his tenure at RWJMS. “The complexity of dis- School of Medicine. He also has advanced training in eases and the technical complexity of the procedures invasive ultrasound-guided procedures. He brings an themselves are outpacing the years we have to train abundance of needed qualities to the program, including fellows,” he says. “The good news is that these an extensive knowledge base of cutting-edge research advances are coming to us more rapidly than ever. The necessary to build a world-class multi-disciplinary fetal bad news is that they’re coming to us more rapidly medicine program, says Gloria Bachmann, MMS ’72, than we have the time or the ability to train doctors.” MD, professor and interim chair, Department of Ob- — By Joni Scanlon stetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, asso-

26 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Todd Rosen, MD (NJMS ’92), assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and repro- ductive sciences and director, maternal-fetal medicine and the Regional Perinatal Center at RWJUH, will take a leadership position in establishing a centrally located, state-of-the-art, multi-disciplinary maternal-fetal medicine center that incorporates advanced treatments and diagnostic options for not only high-risk pregnancies, but also extremely high-risk pregnancies. ciate dean for women’s health, and director of the there is a hint of risk evident during childbirth. As a Women’s Health Institute. “The fetal program Dr. result, says Dr. Rosen, Caesarean procedures are ris- Rosen is helping to bring to New Jersey will include ing, performed today in 30 percent of all births. neonatologists, pediatric surgeons, neurosurgeons, car- The program Dr. Rosen envisions would bring diologists, anesthesiologists, radiologists, and an entire together a blind panel of experts objectively reviewing team devoted to fetuses in need of special care for con- potential malpractice cases based solely on the evi- genital anomalies and birth defects,” she explains. dence. Indeed, Dr Rosen’s “expert reviewers” would This inter-professional team will treat high-risk not know whether they were working for the plaintiff cases now referred to out-of-state hospitals, says Dr. or the defendant, and they would be able to serve as Rosen. “We should be doing this here,” he says. “We objective presenters of factual information in the are centrally located, we have a brand-new children’s courtroom. Such a program could be offered through- hospital and operating room (The Bristol-Myers out New Jersey and potentially nationwide, he adds. Squibb Children’s Hospital at RWJUH) to take care of The program he envisions would provide a shorter these newborns, and we have the required expertise to time to resolution of the case for parents and provide give babies the greatest chance of a healthy outcome.” expert medical feedback to obstetricians regarding The proposed fetal program also offers tremen- each of their cases reviewed by the expert panel. dous teaching possibilities for all students, optimal- — By Joni Scanlon ly preparing them to be the next generation of health care providers. Currently, in addition to traditional lectures, Dr. Rosen leads clinical rounds as well as “strip rounds,” for tracing fetal heart rates, to famil- iarize students and residents with hands-on practice in monitoring and managing fetal heart-rate tracings and tracking the stages of labor. Mladen-Roko Rasin, MD, PhD: Harking back to the age-old question of why some Decoding Molecular Secrets women experience labor too early, Dr. Rosen will of the Cerebral Cortex share his extensive knowledge of translational research on pre-term birth and lead an investigatory study on HISISLIKESCIENCEFICTION,”SAYS the topic. Finding answers could prove crucial in pre- TMladen-Roko Rasin, MD, PhD, assistant venting pre-term labor — a leading cause of fetal death professor of neuroscience and cell biology. and disability. Yet, despite all of the advances made in “It you’d told me two years ago that I’d be here today, maternal and fetal medicine, pre-term labor rates are in my own lab, doing in vivo manipulation of genes actually on the rise in the United States, up from 9 per- and analyzing how they affect the development of the cent in the 1980s to 13 percent today, he says. neurons that drive my voluntary behavior, I’d have said that was impossible.” Addressing the Malpractice Crisis Dr. Rasin, a developmental neuroscientist, joined the RWJMS faculty in October 2009, opening a new Dr. Rosen also hopes to reform the manner in chapter in a decidedly non-fiction story, built on his which expert testimony is provided in child- discovery during medical school of a love for research, birth malpractice cases. It is widely believed that the his evolving, insightful science, and a forward- current malpractice system usually has parents wait- focused attitude that all support his work and the ing for years for a resolution of their cases, results in work of those around him. many experienced OB/GYN physicians leaving the “Roko’s sub-specialty appealed to the department,” practice of obstetrics, deters young physicians from says Cheryl F. Dreyfus, PhD, professor and acting entering this medical field, and ultimately drives up chair, Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology. health care costs. “He had excellent training in excellent places, and his It’s also hurting women by making many doctors research is very in tune with what we do. We knew it hesitate to do the least invasive procedure when would add to the excellence of the department.”

28 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Mladen-Roko Rasin, MD, PhD, assistant professor of neuroscience and cell biology hopes to determine exactly how the cerebral cortex connects to the rest of the brain and how disruption of normal molecular mechanisms affects behavior and causes devastating motor diseases. “Dr. Rasin’s recruitment drew not only on faculty vanced his understanding of neuroanatomy and neu- from our department, but from all the basic sciences rostructure in the laboratory of Tamas Freund, MD, at RWJMS and Rutgers,” adds Dr. Dreyfus. In every PhD, director, Institute of Experimental Medicine, setting — from his seminar to his “chalk talk,” Hungarian Academy of Sciences, training in immuno- lunches with graduate students, and one-on-one electron microscopy, a technology that would allow meetings with faculty — Dr. Rasin impressed fellow Dr. Rasin to study neurons in the minutest detail. scientists with his deep knowledge of brain develop- Upon his return to Zagreb, he met fellow Croatian ment and function, his well-conceived long-term goals and developmental neuroscientist Nenad Sestan, in research, and his collaborative, enthusiastic spirit. MD, PhD, associate professor of neurobiology, Yale “Roko makes everyone smile,” say Dr. Dreyfus. “He’s University School of Medicine. Dr. Sestan learned happy, because he loves his research.” that Dr. Rasin’s interests were a perfect match for the In his visits to RWJMS, recalls Dr. Rasin, he felt he scope of work in his laboratory at Yale, which inves- “was coming home.” He was pleased by the high level tigates how neuronal identity and connectivity are of scientific inquiry and the genuine welcome extended established and maintained in the cerebral cortex. by the medical school. And he found that his work Dr. Rasin was soon headed for New Haven, reflects the interests of his departmental colleagues, where he completed his doctoral and post-doctoral who explore the development and function of the cen- work under Dr. Sestan’s mentorship. “His work in tral nervous system and investigate the molecular basis the Sestan lab opened up highly promising new for this process: “Each makes a special contribution areas of research,” says Michael P. Matise, PhD, that complements my study of the connections between associate professor of neuroscience and cell biolo- the cerebral cortex and whole nervous system.” gy, who was on the team that recruited Dr. Rasin Moreover, many members of the department use and now serves as his senior mentor. At Yale, Dr. vertebral models to study human systems, just as Dr. Rasin also worked and published with Pasko Rakic, Rasin uses a special line of “knock-out” mice and in MD, PhD, professor and chair, Department of utero electroporations to study molecular mecha- Neurobiology, a pioneer in the understanding of nisms in vivo in the cerebral cortex — the outer and brain function, whom Dr. Matise characterized as most highly evolved part of the brain, the center of one of the giants in the field. voluntary behavioral abilities. “We anticipate that Roko’s research will con- One of his immediate goals is to determine the tribute to a better understanding of the molecular expression patterns in human brains of all the genes and cellular mechanisms underlying a multitude of he studies in mouse brains. In the long term, Dr. human neurological disorders — an understanding Rasin hopes to determine exactly how the cerebral that will make a significant impact on diagnosing cortex connects to the rest of the brain and how dis- and treating such disorders in the future,” adds Dr. ruption of normal molecular mechanisms affects Matise. behavior and causes devastating motor diseases, While Dr. Rasin was still at Yale, the National such as hereditary spastic paraplegia, primary later- Institutes of Health awarded him a highly compet- al sclerosis, or Tourette syndrome. itive and coveted K99/R00 award. The grant, A decade ago, Dr. Rasin entered the University of “Molecular Control of Corticospinal System Zagreb School of Medicine, planning a career in neu- Formation by Intermediate Targets,” is a Pathway rology or neuropathology. But in his second year, he to Independence Award, a category created to sup- studied in the laboratory of Ivica Kostovic, MD, PhD, port the most promising young scientists, helping professor of anatomy and neuroscience, learning them to make the transition to an independent about the basic neuronal differences in the human research position. The grant has provided funding brain — differences in neuronal morphologies that for Dr. Rasin’s first laboratory, supporting the hir- drive behavioral responses such as the initiation of ing of his first team and the pursuit of his own voluntary movement initiation — and realized that research, a process that he describes as “unknown, his real passion was for research, not medicine. challenging, and, above all, exciting.” After completing medical school, Dr. Rasin ad- — By Kate O’Neill

30 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 2010 M3 M4 M1 M2

Forging Stronger Links between Science and Patient Care evolution newof a curriculum To succeed, medical education must constantly evolve, adapting to a changing and challenging world. Over the past five years, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School has responded dynamically to this need.

BYKATEO’NEILL

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 31 2010 M3 M4 M1 M2

“ In 2004, the Task Force on Education met and laid the ground- work for a curricular evolution that significantly reshaped the way medicine is taught and learned across all four years of our education program,” says David E. Swee, MD, professor of family medicine and associate dean for education. “This vision of the Task Force has given us a more relevant curriculum that might be the envy of students who graduated just five years ago.”

Systems-Based Learning and Early Clinical Training: Forging a Stronger Link between Science and Medicine

n 2010, RWJMS will launch a reorganized curricu- ing and problem-solving — how to link facts and Ilum for first- and second-year students. Curriculum make deductions.” 2010 will improve integration of scientific informa- First- and second-year students formerly learned tion horizontally, or across a single year. At the same basic science in modules organized along disciplinary time, it will promote the integration of knowledge lines. Starting in 2010, a multi-disciplinary faculty vertically — or through all four years — by increas- will team-teach the basic sciences in modules orga- ing the number of clinical contexts in which students nized according to body systems. can apply the science they have learned. “Foundations of Biomedical Science,” a module “Curriculum 2010 makes an earlier connection devoted to cell function, will introduce the systems between the sciences and clinical conditions,” says approach to first-year students. “The Body in Motion” Siobhan A. Corbett, MD ’87, associate professor of sur- will cover the musculoskeletal system and the skin, to gery and chair, Curriculum Committee. “We want be followed by “Maintaining Homeostasis: Normal students to see the Structure and Function,” encompassing four addition- impact of science on al systems. The first-year modules will conclude with medicine. “Mechanisms of Disease and Defense.” “Traditionally, we The second-year curriculum will revisit the sys- HTSB TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE BY PHOTOS emphasized acquiring tems, focusing on the disorders that can afflict them. data, not processing In each block, students will explore a key scientific it,” adds Dr. Corbett. discovery that transformed the management of dis- “Now we increasingly ease — such as the discovery of the gene mutation focus on critical think- that causes cystic fibrosis. Cancer will be studied

32 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE with an emphasis on translational research. sions, and interim senior associate dean, Camden Curriculum 2010 will be taught in a variety of regional campus. Weekly formative assessments will learner-centered settings. The faculty will still present serve a dual purpose, by identifying weaknesses in the information in lectures, although there will be fewer curriculum while alerting the faculty to any gaps in the lectures than before and more material will be avail- students’ grasp of content and concepts. able online. Students will be expected to take addi- tional responsibility for their education in such ways Pass/Fail and Core Competencies as participating in small groups — team-based tutori- als led for two years by the same faculty member — ver the last several years, we have taken delib- to complete laboratory exercises, self-directed learn- “Oerate steps to prepare the way for Curriculum ing modules, and correlations with clinical scenarios. 2010,” says Stephen F. Lowry, MD, professor and The curriculum also provides opportunities for self- chair, Department of Surgery, and senior associate directed learning through electives. Starting with the dean for education. In 2007, RWJMS adopted a first year, students will begin exploring their options pass/fail grading system, encouraged by the system’s through pre-clinical, non-credit electives. By the third success in a baseline trial during the previous aca- year, they will have up to eight weeks for electives, and, demic year.“It takes students’ attention from grades per in the fourth, they will have an additional 26 weeks. se and frees them to study more broadly, looking for Adult Learning Assessment and Evaluation is one of integrated — not siloed — content,” says Dr. Lowry. many interdisciplinary working groups planning “We view pass/fail as a very positive change,” says Curriculum 2010, says Carol A. Terregino, MD ’86, asso- Norma B. Saks, EdD, associate professor of psychiatry, ciate professor of medicine, associate dean for admis- assistant dean of educational programs, and director,

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 33 C arol A. medical knowledge, practice-based learning and Terregino, MD ’86, improvement, interpersonal and communication associate professor skills, professionalism, and systems-based practice. of medicine, associate dean for Each area encompasses learning objectives that stu- admissions, and dents must meet before being judged competent as interim associate physicians. HTSB TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE BY PHOTOS dean, Camden By establishing core competencies for medical stu- regional campus dents that reflect the ones established for residents by (above, standing), the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical looks on as second-year Education (ACGME), RWJMS expects to better peer mentors position its students for their clerkships, residencies, teach physical cognitive skills program. Dr. Saks reports that the and careers in medicine examination skills first pass/fail class achieved scores on the Step I U.S. The competence-building process begins with the to students in Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) that were recruitment of each new class, says Dr. Terregino, “Patient-Centered Medicine I.” much better than the national average. “The next who directs the RWJMS Clinical Skills Center. “In class has also done very well,” she adds, “demon- our assessment of applicants, we look for future stu- strating that this was a true effect of the change of dents whose motivations reflect the objectives of our the grading paradigm.” core competencies. They demonstrate a humanistic Coincident with the launch of Curriculum 2010, outlook, an interest in communication, a desire to RWJMS defined six areas in which students must self-evaluate, an ability to work in teams, and they develop competence before graduation: patient care, have a passion for learning and discovery.”

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Technology Upgrades and Innovations mobile access to email, and mobile access to the class calendar. “The university-wide mobility initiative has Kessler Teaching Labs taken the medical school a quantum leap forward in learning possibilities,” according to Alexander G. ecent technological upgrades advance the med- Izaguirre, PhD, assistant professor of molecular genetics, R ical school’s missions. Two areas in particular microbiology, and immunology and director, Office of have seen significant change. First, the multi-discipli- Information Technology (OIT). nary Kessler Teaching Laboratories, the hub for teaching and learning basic science, underwent extensive improvements. The upgrades raised the CATS and KITTENS: Teaching Labs to the level of a core facility, which Viewing Education from provides the learning community with specialized 30,000 or 1,000 Feet instruction, instrumentation, and methodology. mong the first applications of the mobility ini- Atiative is the Clerkship Activities Tracking System (CATS) — nicknamed “KITTENS” when mobile phones are used. The Web-based system pro- E ugene vides students on clinical rotations — along with Martin, PhD, supervising residents and attending physicians — professor of pathology and with the means to record every patient encounter, laboratory using a mobile phone or computer. medicine “To demonstrate competence before graduation, our (standing), clerks are required to see patients presenting with A, B, TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE leads a small and C symptoms, such as abdominal or chest pain, and group session with second-year to have followed steps X, Y, and Z,” says Archana students. Pradhan, MD, MPH, assistant professor of obstetrics, In addition, the medical school introduced RWJMS gynecology, and reproductive sciences (OB/GYN), iTunes U, making all first- and second-year lectures assistant dean for education, and clerkship director, downloadable to computers. Early planning for an inter- OB/GYN. “The mobility nal platform designed to integrate electronic content at initiative plays a huge RWJMS now includes all the schools within UMDNJ. role in tracking the clerk- ship experience and solv- The Mobility Initiative es the problem of record-

ing these minimum en- PHOTOGRAPHY LINZ n September 2009, RWJMS rolled out new mobility counters.” Iresources. Through RWJMS iTunes U, students have By reviewing their mobile use of lecture presentation and audio files, accumulated experience and comparing it to the requirement list, students track and remediate any gaps in their clinical train- ing. For instance, a student might partially fill the “abdominal pain” requirement in the OB/GYN rota- tion and have additional encounters that would com- plete this requirement — during the family medicine rotation or in a clinic setting, for example. CATS tracks these encounters and centralizes the records for easy access by students and their advisers. “CATS lets us see the progress of a whole class or an indi- TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE vidual student,” says Dr. Pradhan. “It’s like viewing education from 30,000 feet, then zooming in to see it at 1,000.”

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 35 J ohn The Clinical Continuum: an effective learning community, based on small groups Walker, MD, Teaching, Learning, and Practicing of eleven or twelve students. A single clinician leads the professor of Patient-Centered Care group, and follows it for the first two years. medicine Starting with the second week of the course, stu- (above, center), reviews patient linical training progresses along a continuum that dents work with standardized patients, developing information Cbegins in the first year and continues through interviewing skills, exploring the patient’s percep- with residents clinical rotations in years three and four. Introduced tions, and discovering that culturally sensitive com- and medical in 2006 as a two-year course, “Patient-Centered munication is intrinsic to a correctly done physical students during Medicine” (PCM) I and II replaced several courses, examination or medical history. Objective Structured rounds at Robert including “Introduction to the Patient” and “Medical Clinical Examinations, better known as OSCEs, begin Wood Johnson University Ethics.” It is the central course for teaching medical Hospital. Left to ethics, cultural competence, communication skills, right: James and diagnostic skills, and it is the only course that will Fischkoff, MD; remain unchanged in the new curriculum. It proved Samira Farouk, so successful that PCM I and II were expanded in MS III; Pankaj Kakkar, MS IV; 2008 to create PCM III and IV, completing a four- HTSB ONEMERSON JOHN BY PHOTOS and Arvin year progression. Kheterpal, MD. In the first and second years, all students meet weekly for a half day of PCM. Starting in 2010, these sessions will be synchronized with the systems-based modules of the new curriculum. From day one, the course establishes

36 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 2010 M3 M4 M1 M2

in the first year, as a regular means of evaluating the preparation for the Resi- students’ progress as clinicians. dency Match, where a stu- dent’s professionalism and The Proof Is in the Clerkship clinical skills are extreme- ly important to success,” CM is better preparing students for the third- and says Marie C. Trontell, MD ONEMERSON JOHN Pfourth-year clinical experience, says Dr. Saks, who ’76, professor of medicine co-directs PCM I along with Dr. Terregino. “Ultimate- and associate dean for ly, the proof is in the clerkship,” Dr. Saks adds, “and graduate medical educa- we’re hearing wonderful things from clerkship directors tion. RWJMS sponsors 43 residencies and fellowships about how well prepared our third-year students are to accredited by the ACGME or the appropriate agency.

The Resident’s Role

resident’s responsibilities go far beyond teaching Aclinical skills, says Brian P. Gable, MD ’03, instruc- tor of medicine and assistant program director, inter- G ary nal medicine residency program. Residents are also Ebert, MD ’93 responsible for modeling and reinforcing profession- (first person alism. As he teaches students and fellow residents, Dr. seated, top left), associate professor Gable has three main goals: first, to increase students’ of obstetrics, and residents’ self-confidence and develop their full gynecology, potential as physicians; second, to bridge any gaps in and reproductive the continuum that runs from PCM through the resi- sciences, leads an EMERSON JOHN dency; and third, to train them to think like a clini- OB/GYN tutorial cian — to trust their team members, to construct evi- session with third- year students. dence-based differential diagnoses, and to interpret learn and to contribute during their clinical rotations.” the data to formulate a treatment plan. Dr. Terregino attributes the logical and creative de- velopment of PCM III and PCM IV to Robert Risimini, MD, assistant professor of family medicine and commu- The Growing Role of nity health and assistant dean for student affairs, Research in Medical Education Camden regional campus, and Joyce G. Afran, MD, assis- tant professor of family medicine and community For Undergraduates: health. Throughout the third and fourth years, PCM A New Research Requirement offers seminars, discussions, clinical activities, and peer teaching responsibilities that reinforce the princi- n September 2007, RWJMS introduced a new re- ples learned in the first two years. Iquirement: before graduation, every student must Every month, PCM III students spend an afternoon complete 160 hours of independent research — together dealing with problems commonly faced in another evolutionary step that grew out of the clinical practice, including medical economics and Education Task Force. Students are encouraged to end-of-life issues. Among the topics they explore are work in teams of two or more, building a multi- chronic illness, coordination and management of disciplinary approach into care, health promotion and disease prevention, and their investigation. The professionalism. In PCM IV, students gain teaching project may focus on any experience, working with students in PCM I and II. of the medical school’s Those who teach in PCM III usually do it in the lon- four mission areas and ..SUNDSTROM A.J. gitudinal care settings; if they teach in PCM I or II, may take place at any they usually do it in the small group settings. time, as long as it is sub- “The learning that takes place in PCM is important mitted in time for review

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 37 before graduation. Many students satisfy the require- grams at RWJMS that respond to this critical problem. ment through other research programs offered by the “[The drop-off in numbers of physician-scientists] is medical school or in off-campus fellowships, such as occurring at a time when increased translational, those offered at the National Institutes of Health disease-oriented, patient-oriented, and clinical research (NIH) or the Doris Duke Foundation. are national goals,” says the report. “One of the keys to providing sufficient numbers of physician- Exploring Research scientists to support this goal is the active targeting as a Medical Student of medical students.” The report notes the importance of new RWJMS n January 2009, an RWJMS-based team published programs such as Students Interested in Research Ian article, “Medical Student Research Exposure via a Series of Modular Research Programs,” in the Journal of Investigative Medicine. Christopher G. Langhammer, an MD/PhD candidate, was first author of the article. The senior author was Terri Goss Kinzy, PhD, professor of molecular genetics, microbiology, HTSB TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE BY PHOTOS and immunology and senior associate dean, UMDNJ-Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) at RWJMS. Noting data indicating that physician-scientists are “a disappearing breed,” the team examined pro-

38 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 2010 M3 M4 M1 M2

(SIR). This two-semester, lecture- and/or laboratory- “To be a good physician, based elective in the first-year curriculum connects you have to be a good scientist.” students to UMDNJ’s research resources and faculty Nancy L. Hayes, PhD, and familiarizes them with the range of projects associate professor of neuroscience under way at the university. and cell biology “In addition,” it says, “RWJMS has developed an array of research participation programs that are acces- he faculty has sible throughout undergraduate medical education.” “Twidely and enthusi- astically endorsed the The Excitement of Scientific Discovery new approach provided by Curriculum 2010,” hen medical students have exposure to says Dr. Hayes, who is Wresearch, it is an enormous plus both for the chair of the first-year student and for the school, says Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom, course directors. “This is HOCKSTEIN STEVE MD, professor of neuroscience and cell biology and the way we love to pediatrics, division of child neurology and neurodevel- teach, and students love opmental disabilities. “Research is exciting!” says Dr. to learn. With the sys- tems approach to teaching “The old way was to science, students will learn teach science from a text- the same amount of science book, with the approach, as they did before, but it ‘Read it now. Use it later,’” will be presented with clini- she says. “Now, we’re cal connections in a way giving students more that gets them charged up. responsibility, treating them ONEMERSON JOHN It gives them a reason to as colleagues and adult understand and enjoy learners.” science and engage in In addition, Dr. Hayes DiCicco-Bloom, who accepts student interns in his lab, learning. created “Neuroscience as well as doctoral and post-doctoral candidates. “The “To be a good physician, News of the Week,” a series researcher’s job isn’t memorization, it’s discovery and you have to be a good sci- for her students, drawing creating new hypotheses. In addition, research devel- entist,” adds Dr. Hayes, on articles in current media, ops a healthy level of skepticism about what you read. whose teaching innovations professional journals, or As members of a research team, students learn how help students understand medical literature that different areas of knowledge and skill come together the connection between demonstrate the practical to contribute to making research progress.” clinical practice and scientif- applications of course mate- The RWJMS Summer Research Fellowship Pro- ic research. In her first-year rial at both the popular and gram works particularly well for first-year students, neuroscience course, Dr. scientific levels. who have the summer off. Accepted students receive Hayes offers a “selective” Dr. Hayes shared these a stipend co-funded by the Office of the Dean, the that requires students to and other curricular innova- Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, and pose a question about any- tions with colleagues at a the Foundation of UMDNJ. This competitive pro- thing related to the content retreat sponsored by the gram, which requires that participants design and of the course. They must RWJMS Office of Education, conduct a short research project, can be a stepping- conduct independent and at “Gateway to stone to pursuing Distinction in Research honors or research and then provide Where?” — a symposium of other research-focused training programs, says Diane some element of an answer, the Northeastern Group on Ambrose, PhD, director of special projects. describing what they dis- Educational Affairs The Distinction in Research program is one of covered, where they found of the Association of three at RWJMS that offer graduation with distinc- it, how it advanced their American Medical Colleges, tion, a process that can take more than a year and understanding, and what its held in May, in Hershey, approximates the rigors of graduate work. The other applications might be. Pennsylvania.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 39 B arbara two are Distinction in Medical Education (DIME) outside the school — who has agreed to work with Brodsky, PhD, and Distinction in Service to the Community. Parti- them. If they are accepted, candidates meet regularly professor of cipants in DIME develop an independent project, with the Student Advisory Committee, which is com- biochemistry such as a scholarly work, educational resource, or in- parable to a thesis committee. Ultimately, their man- (above, standing), discusses results structional material appropriate for adoption in a uscript, publication, or written report must be re- on collagen course, clerkship, or elective. viewed and approved by the committee as a condition structure with Applicants for all three distinction programs must for graduation with distinction. Eileen Hwang, write an extensive proposal describing their independ- an MD/PhD ent project and identifying a mentor — at RWJMS or The Multi-disciplinary student who is doing her thesis Master’s Program research in Dr. Brodsky’s n September 2009, RWJMS introduced a new laboratory. Igraduate program: the Master’s in Clinical and Translational Science. This program, the first of its kind in New Jersey, reflects the emphasis on bench- to-bedside research set forth in 2004 in the NIH HTSB TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE BY PHOTOS Roadmap for Medical Research. People who hold, or are working toward, a PhD, DDS, PharmD, or MD are eligible, and the Office of the Dean makes schol- arship funds available to RWJMS students accepted into the program.

40 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 2010 M3 M4 M1 M2

“With prominent researchers, clinicians, and in- sion to understand how dustry professionals as faculty, participants learn how things work,” says Dr. to take an idea from the hypothetical stage to the com- DiCicco-Bloom. Part of mercialization of a clinically useful test or treatment,” what graduate students says the program’s director, Ramsey A. Foty, PhD, associ- do is science and discov- ate professor of surgery. “It’s important for clinicians ery, he adds, but they also to talk to scientists, and for both groups to talk to peo- learn to collaborate with SUNDSTROM A.J. ple in business outside the university’s walls. We’re try- their team and the teams ing to create and foster a multi-lingual community.” working around them. This is the newest dual-degree program at RWJMS, “When they are able to connect their research find- which has offered other combined degrees for many ings to related medical disorders, they succeed in years. They include an MD/PhD, MD/MPH, MD/JD, translating basic science to the clinic,” he says. MD/MBA, and MD/MS in Jurisprudence; more His doctoral candidates learn about animals, tissues, recently it added an MD/MS in Bioinformatics. The cells, and genes. He also requires that they master at MD/PhD program accepts about six students each least two basic science research techniques or modali- year, who complete their degree with a mentor at one ties, such as how to do cultures or how to work in vivo. M.Maral Post-docs bring that training, knowledge, and experi- Mouradian, ence to the lab, says Dr. DiCicco-Bloom. “In addition, MD, William they bring their own research, which often takes us into Dow Lovett disparate new areas that I hadn’t expected.” Professor of Neurology (left), and her student The Post-doctoral Career Hilary Grosso, Development Program: A Potential an MD/PhD Model for Faculty Development candidate, HOCKSTEIN STEVE observe the ichard S. Nowakowski, PhD, professor of neuro- growth of yeast cells engineered Rscience and cell biology, serves on the ad hoc to express of three schools: GSBS at RWJMS, the Graduate steering committee for faculty development. The certain genes School of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, committee’s objective is to enhance faculty perform- involved in the or the Graduate Program in Molecular Biology at ance in the next few years, helping new faculty move pathogenesis Princeton University. ahead faster, while improving overall outcomes. of Parkinson’s disease. “‘School’ is the defining word in our name,” says Dr. Graduate and Post-doctoral Nowakowski. “That means we have a commitment Research: When Science Becomes to helping our faculty produce scholarly products in a Passion teaching, research, and clinical care.” The post-doctoral career development program he GSBS decentralized from UMDNJ in 2007. offers a regular lecture series as well as mentors who TWith greater local autonomy, the graduate guide post-docs in how to write basic science grants, school strengthened its interaction with the medical school and reinforced the long-standing affiliation in graduate education between RWJMS and Rutgers University. “Decentralization allowed us to enhance the research program, especially for students, by cap- italizing on our own education and research envi- ronment,” says Dr. Kinzy. The medical school’s 220 graduate students have access to all clinical and basic science departments at RWJMS and in the eight PhD TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE programs jointly run with Rutgers. “For doctoral candidates and post-graduate stu- dents, the mission in research is science and the pas-

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 41 publish papers, and earn invitations to speak at clientele includes a high percentage of Spanish-speaking international meetings. The program, which Dr. patients of all ages, and it is a superb site for training Nowakowski directs, could serve as an effective culturally competent students and residents. model for a revitalized faculty development curricu- lum, he believes. “We are training the trainers,” he Sensitivity and Cultural Humility says, “and we must train our faculty to educate great in Patient-Centered Care new doctors who can continue to learn.” he longitudinal clinical care curriculum provides Tfor students to follow a single patient in a clinic Cultural Competence and or practice setting, where they observe the course of Community Health treatment over at least several months. PCM III also addresses cultural competence from n addition to achieving competence in six core clin- many standpoints, says Iical areas, RWJMS students are expected to graduate Dr. Afran. The uniqueness as culturally competent physicians. Cultural com- of each patient, family, petence has long been part of the RWJMS curriculum and caregiver is the cen- and continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s tral question as students patients. Now in its 22nd year, the Eric B. Chandler explore the importance of ONEMERSON JOHN Health Center at RWJMS exemplifies this commitment. evidence-based medicine In 60,000 annual patient encounters, Chandler offers and patient-centered care multi-disciplinary clinical care and social services. Its through the life cycle. In a

42 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 2010 M3 M4 M1 M2

variety of settings, including many outside the medical sponsors programs both school, students observe and discuss cultural differ- within and outside the re- ences, obstacles, and disparities in health care delivery quired curriculum. Under and deliberate how to address them to improve clinical the HIPHOP umbrella is care. the student-run Promise Clinic, established in 2006, Service Learning in the Curriculum which provides health care services, screenings, and n 1997, the Department of Family Medicine created supplemental social ser- Ithe Center for Healthy Families and Cultural Di- vices to clients of Elijah’s Soup Kitchen who have no versity. Under the directorship of Robert C. Like, MD, regular access to primary care. Initiated by students on professor of family medicine, the center has promoted the Camden campus, the Healthcare Outreach Project culturally responsive, quality health care for diverse (HOP) Clinic is a primary care center run by the populations. Dr. Like helped design the PCM course third-year medical students. and shepherded the integration of the principles of cul- tural competence into the RWJMS curriculum. Global Health: Experiential Learning RWJMS offers a wide variety of community health- in Unfamiliar Territory

he Office of Global Health was established in T2008 to help promote and advance programs in this area. Many students gain global health experience in “semester off” or summer programs. In the summer of 2009, assisted by 38 small scholarships, 50 RWJMS students traveled to every continent except Antarctica. TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE “Students really begin to appreciate what they have at home, when they work in clinics in the third world,” says Javier I Escobar, MD, professor of psychiatry and oriented electives that teach and reinforce cultural associate dean for global health competence. They include the interdisciplinary Community-Oriented Primary Care Assistantship Asking Questions (COPC), a seven-week program that brings together a and Seeking Answers select group of medical students, physician assistant students, and social work students for intensive com- r. Lowry expects the medical school to evolve in munity-based projects. For the medical students, a Dmany exciting directions. Medical education will summer COPC project can serve as a pathway to grad- become increasingly inter-professional, with teams of uating with Distinction in Service to the Community. nurses, social workers, and other health care profes- sionals helping to train physicians for the 21st century. Student Initiatives in “RWJMS will continue to follow the rule that knowl- Community Health: Programs edge comes from asking the important, if difficult, Advance Cultural Competence questions of yourself and those around you,” adds Dr. Lowry. “And not flinching when the answers suggest n both New Brunswick and Camden, students engage there is work to be done.” Iin school-run, student-run, and community-based Following this path, Dr. Lowry sees the medical outreach programs. The programs supplement the school achieving a position in the topmost tier of regular curriculum by providing wide opportunities to American medical schools. “Forty years ago, we start- gain both cultural and clinical competence while ed out by recruiting a core of noted physician-scientists caring for underinsured and uninsured patients in who were also leading educators, an indication from their communities. the start that our academic mission would always en- The student-founded Homeless and Indigent Popula- rich — and be enriched by — our missions in research, tion Health Outreach Project (HIPHOP), in New Brunswick, clinical care, and community health,” he says. M

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 43 44 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE By Lynda Rudolph

PORTRAITSBY

JOHNEMERSON

andRobotics Beyond How technology Is Transforming Therapy

ot long ago, robots and bionics were the

stuff of science fiction. They had names Nlike Hal, Robbie, Rosie, and the Six Million Dollar Man. Even the term “robotics”

(derived from “robot,” which originated in a 1920 Czech play by Karel apek, RUR) was coined by a popular science-fiction novelist, Isaac Asimov; theČ word first appeared in a futuristic short story he wrote in 1942. Today, robots, robotics, isaac Yi Kim, and implantable technology are changing the face of medicine. They are real, MD, PhD, associate viable, prominent players not just in how treatment is delivered, but in the doors professor of surgery, they open to new discoveries. executive director, Dean and New technologies are performing astonishing feats. Robotic surgery is vastly Betty Gallo Prostate Cancer improving not just outcomes, but the entire patient experience. Generators Center, and chief, section implanted into the brain are derailing tremors caused by movement disorders. of urologic oncology at Batteries surgically inserted into the spine are capable of telling the brain to turn The Cancer Institute of off pain. Robots programmed to mimic children’s behaviors are uncovering envi- New Jersey, has developed ronmental causes of childhood diseases. Although these technologies are remark- a variation of robotic able in themselves, the goal of physicians and researchers isn’t simply to use prostatectomy surgery that them, but to improve them and explore new applications for them. The work is dramatically improving they do is serving as a catalyst for discovery that could influence scientific outcomes for patients. thought and the practice of medicine.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 45 Robotic Surgery posed to the technology, more creative appli- the perspective Influences Creativity cations are emerging. of physicians who Isaac Yi Kim, MD, PhD, associate professor have been involved in owhere is the influence of tech- of surgery, executive director, Dean and Betty minimally invasive nology more evident these days Gallo Prostate Cancer Center, and chief, section techniques since their Nthan in the operating room. of urologic oncology at The Cancer Institute of inception is insightful. Multi-arm robots capable of making infinites- New Jersey, has developed a variation of robot- Murali K. Ankem, MD, imal incisions and rotating instruments 360 ic prostatectomy surgery that is dramatically associate professor of degrees, equipped with three-dimensional improving outcomes for patients. After per- surgery and director, vision fields, have become the icons of surgi- forming robotic prostatectomy procedures for minimally invasive cal advancement. Even though robotic surgery two years, Dr. Kim developed a new approach urology at Robert is still considered to be in its infancy, more known as the athermal intrafascial robotic, or Wood Johnson than 1,000 of the most commonly adopted AIR, prostatectomy. “The robot offers different University Hospital, robotic systems are already performing sur- angles not available during open surgery. I has experienced geries worldwide. And the use is destined to began to see that there was a radically different the evolution firsthand. increase as hospitals learn how to take advan- way to enter the tissue planes around the tage of the technology’s capabilities. Accord- prostate rather than through the endopelvic ing to recent research conducted by BCC fascia — the conventional approach,” explains Research in Wellesley, Massachusetts, the use Dr. Kim. In the AIR prostatectomy, tissue that of medical robots and computer-assisted sur- surrounds the prostate is spared, reducing trau- gical equipment is worth roughly $648 mil- ma to the nerve that controls erections. Results lion today and is projected to grow to $1.5 have been very promising. The first 100 patients billion by 2014. As more surgeons are ex- reported a 91% sexual potency rate in nine

46 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE months and a 93% continence rate in three ing patients recover from and live with formerly months. That represents a 16% to 26% debilitating conditions. One example is intraop- improvement in return to sexual function and a erative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (iMRI). It 26% improvement in urinary leakage com- provides real-time brain imaging so that tumors pared to the conventional robotic procedure. can be removed without injury or damage to the The perspective of physicians who’ve been patient’s brain. involved in minimally invasive techniques since According to Shabbar F. Danish, MD ’01, their inception is insightful. Murali K. Ankem, assistant professor of surgery and director, MD, associate professor of surgery and direc- stereotactic and functional neurosurgery at tor, minimally invasive urology at Robert Wood RWJUH, these image-guided tumor resections Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH), has ex- are not as universal as you might think. “We’re perienced the evolution firsthand. “Now we one of only two hospitals in New Jersey who benefit from a ten-times magnification of the are using this technology to help us differentiate shabbar F. Danish, surgical field. Instruments give us seven degrees between residual tumor and normal brain tissue MD ’01, assistant of freedom,” observes Dr. Ankem. The tech- during the operation, rather than after the pro- professor of surgery nology has recently been used on children to cedure is completed,” says Dr. Danish. “Recent- and director, stereotactic remove congenital bladder cancer and to per- ly, iMRI was instrumental in the delicate resec- and functional neuro- form more complex procedures including tion of a pediatric brain tumor.” surgery at RWJUH, pyeloplasty — the surgical reconstruction or In the battle against Parkinson’s disease, neu- with his patient Audrey revision of the renal pelvis, necessary when there rosurgeons are implanting a new-generation Mansfield, of Freehold, is a congenital malformation between the kidney dual-channel battery — called an implantable the first patient on the and ureter. pulse generator (IPG) — to rebalance the brain’s East Coast to have Robert E. Weiss, MD, associate professor of electrical impulses and improve the symptoms the new Activa PC surgery and chief of urology at RWJUH, be- associated with movement disorders. The IPG device implanted. lieves the uses for robotic surgery will continue to grow. “We’re already finding ways to improve outcomes in cardiac, urologic and gynecologic and oncologic procedures. It seems inevitable that we’ll add to those as more surgeons begin to embrace robotics and recognize the opportu- nities the technology offers,” he says. What’s the next big advancement in surgery? According to Stephen F. Lowry, MD, professor and chair, Department of Surgery, and senior associate dean for education, “Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is being explored. It involves using fine instru- mentation through a natural orifice such as the mouth, vagina, or rectum, so there is no external scarring. The school is still out on how broad- ly it can be applied.”

Brain and Spine Technology Improves Outcomes

echnological marvels that improve patient care aren’t limited to Trobotic instrumentation. In the field of neurosurgery, amazing devices are help-

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 47 provides deep brain stimulation (DBS) by emit- ting hundreds of pulses per minute to stimulate certain neural pathways. “This newer battery has vastly improved pro- gramming characteristics that give us greater control for more effective patient response,” Dr. Danish says. Audrey Mansfield of Freehold, was the first patient on the East Coast to have the new device — called the Activa PC — implanted. “We call it my miracle operation,” she says. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Mrs. Mansfield was confined to a wheelchair. “I was incapacitated because of the dyskinesia, tremors and rigidity.” One week after the implantation, she was out of the wheelchair. “It has changed my life,” Mrs. Mansfield declares. A similar type of battery-powered im- plant — called a neurostimulator — is being used to remediate chronic back pain. About the size of a silver dollar, this mini-battery delivers mild electrical pulses to nerves located near the spinal cord, interrupting or masking pain sig- nals as they travel to the brain.

Low-Tech Idea Uncovers Environmental Toxins searchers could learn if there was a difference diagnosed with in how children are exposed because of their Parkinson’s disease, linical applications of tech- daily behaviors. confined to a wheelchair nology aren’t all that’s The prototype, made from a set of Legos, and incapacitated, Chaving an impact on patient was sent on its way in homes randomly selected Dr. Danish’s patient, care — and the level of sophistication, surpris- to participate in the project. Analysis of the first Audrey Mansfield, ingly, isn’t necessarily critical to success. It’s the samples collected showed that children’s expo- calls the surgery her idea that matters. Case in point: the Pre- sure to toxins was two to three times higher than “miracle operation.” Toddler Inhalable Particulate Environmental standard U.S. Environmental Protection Agency One week after the Robotic (PIPER) research project at the En- (EPA) protocol. Even more alarming, peak implantation, she was vironmental and Occupational Health Sciences exposures showed a thousand-fold increase in out of the wheelchair. Institute (EOHSI). A simply built robot — the distribution levels. There is a supposition that “It has changed my life,” invention of Stuart L. Shalat, ScD, associate health problems in children most likely are Mrs. Mansfield declares. professor of environmental and occupational caused during these peak exposure periods. medicine — is being used to understand how As further National Institute of Environ- children are exposed differently to environmen- mental Health Sciences grants were won in both tal toxins. The notion came to Dr. Shalat as he 2004 and 2007, the robots PIPER 2, 3, 4, and was watching his young son crawl on the floor 5 came into operation. The current model is the to follow a toy robot. It occurred to him that size of a robotic vacuum and features a tiny air- children may be closer to the toxins just by sample pump that can collect even microbial virtue of the way they play and act on a daily and fungal samples. According to Dr. Shalat, basis. By creating a mechanism that would imi- “The programming of the new generation of tate those behaviors — and using a robot that PIPERs has evolved so that we can record could also filter samples — EOHSI re- data while playing, crawling, sitting, standing,

48 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE and running. PIPER moves at the same speed as an understanding of how a child’s movements “very often the biggest a child and in the same breathing zones as a within a home suspend specific-sized particles breakthroughs happen child. that may cause asthmatic problems. not because of one thing, “The greatest thing about this technology is What could be the ultimate result of the but an accumulation of that we can learn how these toxins are hurting wealth of information being collected? Exam- things including chance children without a child being present,” ining the exposure of allergens in the home may finds. Good scientists explains Dr. Shalat. Other subsequent studies lead to better coatings on carpets or safer clean- doing good science — have taken advantage of PIPER’s technology to ing strategies. Understanding what agents trig- that’s where the magic aid in the discovery of how toxins affect ger problems in humans could lead to new happens.” says Stuart L. humans. PIPER took part in a New Jersey pub- treatments. By learning what factors and envi- Shalat, ScD, associate lic health study to learn if heavy metals in arti- ronmental toxins are present, better prevention professor of environmental ficial turf had an effect on children playing on strategies could be developed. “Very often the and occupational it. And a new pilot study that is a cooperative biggest breakthroughs happen not because of medicine (above, with effort by the EOHSI, the University of North one thing, but an accumulation of things the PIPER robot). Carolina, Wilmington, and the University of including chance finds,” Dr. Shalat says. Miami is helping to learn if chemicals present “Good scientists doing good science — that’s in beach sand affect children’s health. where the magic happens.” The program was awarded a $52,308 stimu- Imagination. Inventiveness. Innovation. lus grant from the American Recovery and These have always been the characteristics in Reinvestment Act (ARRA) in relation to a science and medicine that have led to new dis- current R01 grant on childhood asthma. The coveries. Now, technology is accelerating our funds will be used to build a new PIPER robot ability to find new answers, giving us better and equip it with a real-time air-particulate ways to treat patients. In some cases, it is mak- monitoring device — which may contribute to ing the impossible possible. M

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 49 We recognize “the contributions those with developmental disabilities can make in their communities as they lead meaning- ful lives,” says, Deborah M. Spitalnik, PhD, professor of pediatrics and executive director of The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities.

50 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities changes lives Turning Disabilities into Possibilities

By Lynda Rudolph Photos by John Emerson

he day that Jonathan David Boggs cellence in Developmental Disabilities Educa- was born in 1945, no one could tion, Research, and Service, is aptly dedicated have predicted he would become to her, and to fulfilling her vision of progressive the catalyst that would inspire the launch of one social policy that supports individuals with de- of the most respected and recognized centers on velopmental disabilities and their families. Tdevelopmental disabilities in the nation. Or that Carrying on the mission of its namesake, he would change the lives of thousands of peo- who died in 1996 (followed by David four years ple like him. David, as the family called him, later), The Boggs Center provides educational was born with an umbilical-cord infection that programs, technical assistance, consultation, resulted in mental retardation and cerebral and research to inspire others to value and pro- palsy. His mother, Elizabeth M. Boggs, who mote the well-being of individuals with devel- until his birth was on the road to a career in opmental disabilities. According to Deborah M. mathematics and chemistry, shifted her focus to Spitalnik, PhD, professor of pediatrics and exec- advocacy for the developmentally disabled. utive director of The Boggs Center, “We affect Her influence as a policy maker and scholar the community in two interlocking ways. We became legendary and inspired the legislation that help enunciate a vision of full lives for people created a network of centers nationwide. Her with developmental disabilities and their fami- involvement and contributions both locally and lies, and we enhance the skills and capacities of nationally challenged the conventional roles that practitioners, communities, and service systems those with developmental disabilities played in to realize that vision. We recognize the contri- their communities. The Elizabeth M. Boggs Cen- butions those with developmental disabilities ter on Developmental Disabilities, New Jersey’s can make in their communities as they lead federally designated University Center for Ex- meaningful lives.”

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 51 Understanding the Diagnosis and Trends

evelopmental disabilities are severe and chronic dis- Much of the education about developmental disabilities in abilities that originate in childhood, produce signifi- New Jersey emanates from The Boggs Center. According to Dcant functional limitations, and extend throughout Michael Knox, PhD, assistant professor of pediatrics, and the the life span of the individual. Conditions such as Down syn- center’s deputy director, “People here are well grounded aca- drome, Fragile X syndrome, cerebral palsy, and autism; meta- demically and have an impressive breadth and depth of bolic disorders such as phenylketonuria (PKU); and degenera- expertise, but there is no ivory-tower mentality. We take our tive disorders such as Rett syndrome are all classified as devel- role seriously as a bridge between university thought and the opmental disabilities. It is estimated that about 17 percent of community.” One of The Boggs Center’s hallmark communi- all children have a disability or chronic health condition, and 2 ty education offerings is an eight-part annual Developmental percent have a serious developmental disability such as an intel- Disabilities Lecture Series, featuring nationally known lectual disability/mental retardation, cerebral palsy, or autism. experts, offered in central and southern New Jersey. In the early part of the 20th century, those with developmental Established in 1984, and funded in part by the New Jersey disabilities were feared and misunderstood, and institutional- Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental ization was a standard practice. But by the end of the century, Disabilities, the program has since gained a reputation for attitudes had changed. Education and integration into the being the forum for forerunners in thought and practice community emerged as trends that resulted in great successes. innovations, and it attracts people from great distances.

52 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE Pioneers in Adding Value to Lives

llie Byra, whose son Matthew was born with mul- Ellie Byra, whose son Matthew was born tiple disabilities, began her relationship with The with multiple disabilities, believes that the Boggs Center through the lecture series. “When I E lecture series and The Boggs Center’s attended, I got a sense of vision for the future for Matthew that had until then looked bleak,” Mrs. Byra says. “They educational efforts have had a huge expose those who attend to new ideas and offer information impact on family members who have a and the tools to bring them to life.” Matthew had been in seg- regated schools until he was 11 years old. Mrs. Byra learned loved one with developmental disabilities. through the lecture series that there was a way for him to matriculate with his peers in a traditional school. With her advocacy and hard work, Matthew was the first child in New Jersey with severe disabilities to be totally included in a regu- lar school environment. “Matt went to Hunterdon Central in all non-handicapped classes,” Mrs. Byra says. Because of what Mrs. Byra has been able to do for Matthew, he and other people like him have a very different life. “As Matthew aged, the question arose about what his future would be like. Day care was not an option. We want- ed him to have as normal a life as possible,” Mrs. Byra says. Today Matthew, who is 33 years old, is out in the commu- nity. He volunteers at Hunterdon Medical Center two days a week and works in the Raritan Cafeteria three days a week. Mrs. Byra also believes that the lecture series and The Boggs Center’s educational efforts have had a huge impact on family members who have a loved one with develop- mental disabilities. “You learn how to deal with behavioral issues, how to understand what resources are available to you,” says Mrs. Byra. “Education is empowerment.” Along with the lecture series, The Boggs Center is instru- “You learn how to deal with behavioral mental in bringing state-of-the-art practices to New Jersey. issues, how to understand what resources “The Boggs Center serves a unique role as a touchstone to are available to you,” says Mrs. Byra. give us balanced, person-centered guidance,” says Jennifer Velez, commissioner of the New Jersey Department of “Education is empowerment.” Human Services. “I feel it provides a safe space where we can bounce ideas off of each other. I know when I ask a opmental disabilities, and by responding to a felt need, question I’ll get feedback about a policy being considered The Boggs Center raises awareness and interest, which in that really takes the individual into consideration.” turn spawns a more intensive forum to take actions and solve problems. Last year alone, The Boggs Center con- ducted 838 activities, consultations, and advisory meetings Teaching, Training, with state and community agencies, school districts, and Serving, Healing families. The faculty and staff serve on more than 20 national committees and more than 36 state and local aking faculty and staff available to serve as subject- committees to share best practices and work collabora- matter experts, and on task forces and subcom- tively to build capacity and create change. Mmittees, furthers the center’s mission to keep the One of the cornerstones of The Boggs Center’s educa- dialogue going and the programs and thoughts about indi- tional efforts is the training it provides to students and res- viduals with developmental disabilities evolving. By stim- idents in the Department of Pediatrics. All of the students ulating interest in what’s being done for those with devel- in the required third-year pediatrics clerkship — most of

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 53 whom have had minimal prior experience with people having a tea party with them. The students then join the with disabilities — spend 12 hours at The Boggs Center’s family for dinner and, once Rachel goes to bed, have a Seminar on Family Centered Care and Developmental conversation with Mr. and Mrs. Bryant . “It’s amazing to Disabilities. First, there’s didactic study, during which the see the transformation of the students during the short students’ own values, perceptions, and attitudes are clari- time they’re with us,” says Mrs. Bryant. “Their expecta- fied. Then a family member of a child with a developmen- tions are blown away when Rachel makes eye contact and tal disability speaks about the family-centered-care talks with them.” The Bryants agreed to participate in the approach. The most dramatic element — and for some program because they feel it is critical for medical students a career-altering event — is the component of the providers to understand not just what Down syndrome program during which students spend time in the homes of children can’t do, but what they can. “It’s rewarding to families who have a child with a developmental disability. leverage our influence on these students that could poten- The encounter gives the student an opportunity to see the tially have a ripple effect in the medical community,” adds child in the context of his or her family, talk with the fam- Mrs. Bryant. ily, and learn what physicians can do better to meet the Erica and Steven Gendel and their son Joshua have also challenges of those living with developmental disabilities. participated in the training initiative for two years. Joshua Ginny and Stephen Bryant and their four-year-old weighed just 650 grams at birth. His medical issues are sig- daughter, Rachel, who has Down syndrome, are a host nificant, including severe cerebral palsy, seizures, vision family for The Boggs Center medical students’ training ini- impairment (he is legally blind), and Crohn’s disease. He tiative. Rachel typically meets and greets the students at has had more than 30 neurosurgeries, four gastrointestinal the front door of the Bryants’ home and spends an hour surgeries, and countless diagnostic tests in his young life.

54 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE As challenged as he is, Joshua is a sociable, happy child who Ginny and Stephen Bryant and their refuses to let his medical and developmental challenges get four-year-old daughter, Rachel, who has him down. Although he’s cognitively delayed, he attends school and does well in math. Mrs. Gendel feels that the Down syndrome, are a host family for work they do with medical students is valuable: “We want The Boggs Center medical students’ them to know what life is like on the other side of the wall. training initiative. “It’s amazing to see To be a better doctor, you have to be sensitive to all the issues people are facing.” The typical interaction involves dinner the transformation of the students with the family. “We pack a lot into that time at our house. during the short time they’re with us,” At the end of the evening, we ask the students what they got out of being with us,” Mrs. Gendel says. Some students give them hugs. Some shed tears hearing about and seeing Joshua, an outgoing, lively child who has been through so much. “In the end, we feel if we’ve made an impact on even a couple of students, to listen more, to see the big picture, and embrace a sensitivity, we’ve done our job,” Mrs. Gendel adds. At the end of the rotation, the students are asked to offer an evaluation of the experience. Among the com- ments (given anonymously), one was that, “it opened my eyes to a personal story of a disabled child.” Another stu- dent offered, “I would hope every medical student was able to get this experience. I now feel more comfortable interacting with people with developmental disabilities and know what families like,” and the person added that the experience would help the student “truly try to walk in the parent’s and patient’s shoes to understand their hard- ships and necessary changes in their health care.” As to how the rotation will affect future dealings with families that include children with disabilities, comments included, says Mrs. Bryant. “Their expectations are “I learned to really listen to the family and that the fami- lies really appreciate physicians working as a team to pro- blown away when Rachel makes eye vide the best care for their child.” contact and talks with them.” There are other collaborations and programs that help provide care and education to those with developmental dis- abilities. The Boggs Center, in collaboration with the Depart- ment of Family Medicine and Community Health — and uti- An Encouraging Future lizing a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and state funding — provides health care and a medical ne of the promising but challenging statistics is that home to adults with developmental disabilities at the Family those with developmental disabilities are living 90 Practice Center. Family medicine residents care for patients Opercent longer. There is a growing need to serve with developmental disabilities throughout their residency. these older populations. It requires a shift in thinking to build The Boggs Center has had a hand in making sure that chil- services and programs around people with developmental dren and adolescents with disabilities are prepared for disabilities so that they can live and work in the community meaningful adult life by working with school districts to pro- and age in place. “We are committed to promoting the under- vide behavioral support and educational and work experi- standing that people with intellectual disabilities are active, ences in the community. The center also is working with the valuable individuals who can have a career, a social life, and state and provider agencies in New Jersey to ensure that chil- make a contribution to society,” Dr. Spitalnik emphasizes. dren with significant behavioral disorders can live in the For David and Elizabeth Boggs, there is no legacy more community. fitting. M

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 55 Genetics and Neuroanatomy: Teamed to Solve THE Mysteries of

BYKATEO’NEILL

A Passion for Puzzles providing the book’s readers with a window into the little-known inner hristopher Boone has world of autism. MDNJ-Robert Asperger’s syndrome. Wood Johnson Although this form of Autism Spectrum UMedical School has brought together the autism is at the high- Disorder: complementary expertises functioning end of the A Mystery with More Questions of James H. Millonig, PhD, Cdisorder’s broad spectrum, it creates Than Answers assistant professor of neuroscience and cell characteristic social and emotional biology and resident hardships for Christopher — the fic- lthough autism has probably member, Center for tional, 15-year-old narrator of the best- existed throughout human Advanced Biotechnology selling 2003 novel by Mark Haddon, history, it was not named until and Medicine (right), and A Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the 1940s. The designation of autism MD, professor of neuro- the Night-Time. usefully grouped classic symptoms of science and cell biology Christopher’s challenges are not un- ASD under one umbrella. But progress and pediatrics, division of child neurology and usual for people with autism spectrum in understanding the disorder has neurodevelopmental disorder (ASD): he is virtually incapable been slow, and 65 years later, a full disabilities, to understand of deciphering people’s emotions, obses- understanding of its etiology and and dismantle the mysteries of autism.

sive in his interests, and inflexible in his pathogenesis is likely to remain elu- EMERSON JOHN views. But ASD gives him gifts as well, sive well into the future. such as his passion and talent for math- For several decades, ASD was thought ematics, puzzles, and deductive logic. to be caused by external factors, includ- ASD also gives Christopher a hero: ing parenting style. But when research- Sherlock Holmes. Following the fic- ers discovered that people with autism spokespeople recognize ASD as a com- tional detective’s deductive methods, he share not only specific behavioral plex, inherited, neurodevelopmental solves a neighborhood crime by forcing symptoms and coordination difficulties, disorder. In addition, a high likelihood himself to step outside his stringently but also certain brain malformations, it exists that, in some cases, the disorder self-limited world. Agonizingly, he became clear that the explanation for is triggered by environmental factors. solves the mystery on his own terms, ASD would prove much more complex Unlike Huntington’s disease or Down not only expanding his own ability to than initially believed. syndrome, which are caused by one in- decode people’s emotions, but also Today, most researchers and autism herited gene or an entire chromosome,

56 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE autism results from the interaction Because autism has compound School is among the leading studies among multi-genetic components and causes, understanding the disorder re- aimed at dismantling the mysteries of external factors. Alone, any — or even quires collaborative research, using the autism. It brings together the comple- many — of these factors would not tools of diverse disciplines including mentary expertises of James H. cause autism, but in permutations as genetics, neurology and physiology, Millonig, PhD, assistant professor of yet unspecified, they create a “perfect epidemiology, and statistics. A bi- neuroscience and cell biology and res- storm” in brain development that disciplinary collaboration at UMDNJ- ident member, Center for Advanced leads to ASD. Robert Wood Johnson Medical Biotechnology and Medicine, and

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 57 Growing Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom, MD, pro- Millonig has further support from Prevalence: fessor of neuroscience and cell biolo- the National Institutes of Health Another gy and pediatrics, division of child (NIH), U.S. Department of Defense, Mystery neurology and neurodevelopmental New Jersey Governor’s Council on of Autism disabilities. Autism Research, and Autism Dr. Millonig, a developmental Speaks. Dr DiCicco-Bloom has ne of the mysteries of geneticist, seeks to identify autism- additional support from the NIH autism is its apparently susceptibility genes and decode their and the National Alliance for Oincreasing prevalence. Esti- function. Dr. DiCicco-Bloom, a child Autism Research. Other grants are mates of the risk of ASD vary, but neurologist, applies his knowledge pending. the latest data from the Centers for of developmental neuroanatomy The RWJMS Piscataway campus is Disease Control and Prevention and neuroimaging to analyzing the one of three sites for the current (CDC) indicate that 1 percent of the physiological impact of autism- study; the others are at Rutgers, The children in the United States have susceptibility genes and understand- State University of New Jersey, and been classified with the disorder — the University of Ohio. Dr. Millonig or about 1 child in 100. Diagnoses ing the pathogenesis of the disorder. have increased by 10 percent annual- “Cross-disciplinary collaborations is the principal investigator for the ly, doubling in the last decade — are ideal for this sort of research,” RWJMS site; Dr. DiCicco-Bloom data that may be influenced by re- says Dr. Millonig. “They get you out serves as co-investigator. Their work vised referral patterns and diagnostic of your niche, encourage the cross- builds on a 2003 collaboration be- standards, or by diagnoses that sub- germination of ideas, and help you tween Dr. Millonig and Linda stitute ASD for mental retardation. see the next step in your research.” Brzustowicz, MD, professor of gen- New criteria that qualify children In their current collaboration, Dr. etics, Rutgers University, in which with autism for special-education Millonig and Dr. DiCicco-Bloom they were assisted by Dr. DiCicco- programs can also encourage clini- pursue parallel lines of inquiry aimed Bloom. cians to provide the diagnosis to en- at identifying and validating at least A brain-based gene named hance access to therapy. Another one autism-susceptibility gene among ENGRAILED 2 (EN2) is the focus puzzle for researchers is the recent up to 20 possible candidates and de- of their autism research. EN2 be- finding that ASD occurs in geograph- termining how, when, and why it is came a gene of interest when it was ic clusters, an observation suggesting expressed during the lifetime of peo- observed that mice with a certain that environmental factors, including ple with autism. In addition, they mutation in the gene displayed brain pollutants, and access to high-quality care might contribute to autism pre- hope to determine how other genes malformations similar to malforma- valence. To be classified as autistic, a and external environmental factors tions in the brains of humans with child must be diagnosed by the age interact with autism-susceptibility ASD. To investigate whether EN2 was of three, but diagnosis is complicat- genes to trigger the disorder. associated with autism, Dr. Millonig ed because it relies on evaluation of “We want to identify at least one and Dr. Brzustowicz compared the a complex group of behavioral variant,” says Dr. DiCicco-Bloom, “to DNA of ASD-affected children with symptoms, which can vary widely in help us understand how gene regu- the DNA of the children’s siblings. both expression and intensity. ASD lation predisposes a child to autism They found a DNA variant called ranges from Asperger’s syndrome at and by what cellular pathways.” the A-C haplotype that was consis- the high-functioning end of the spec- tently inherited more frequently in trum, through pervasive develop- ENGRAILED 2: individuals with ASD than in their mental disorder, to severe autism. A Prime Suspect unaffected siblings. In an infant, symptoms of ASD might In two subsequent data sets, Dr. include marked irritability or passivi- n 2005, the National Institute Millonig and Dr. Brzustowicz repli- ty, sleeplessness, or a lack of social of Mental Health awarded a cated these results. Dr Millonig says, reciprocity. Later, a normal, babbling toddler may turn quiet, introverted, Ifive-year, $2,268,670 multi- “The probability that these findings or self-abusive. Early diagnosis is a institutional grant to Dr. Millonig would occur by chance are approxi- priority, because behavioral interven- and Dr. DiCicco-Bloom. The grant mately one in a million.” tions can facilitate developmental supports their project, “The Identi- The next step was to learn progress and moderate intensifica- fication and Functional Assessment whether the A-C haplotype was tion of the disorder. of Autism Susceptibility Genes.” Dr. functional. Initially, Dr. Millonig

58 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE studied the function of the A-C hap- could be used to correct pathways neurotransmitter development in the lotype in mouse neuronal cultures. downstream of EN2, when disregula- forebrain? Many mental disorders He observed that the A-C haplotype tion causes chaos. are related to the altered production results in increased expression of the Dr. DiCicco-Bloom studied the role of monoamines, which determine gene. He then moved his studies in of EN2 by examining the effects of behavior patterns, mood, and percep- vivo by generating human EN2 trans- deleting the mouse gene (En2), on in- tion, says Dr. DiCicco-Bloom. genic mice. He again observed that dividual cells as well as on the gross Overproduction or underproduc- the A-C haplotype results in increased anatomical formation of the cerebel- tion of these monoamines play a role expression in the adult brain. lum and the whole brain. Comparing in attention, mood, affect, energy, The next step is to determine where measurements of brain structures in and response to novelty in one’s envi- and when the EN2 variants are func- the transgenic mice, he has found ronment as well as obsessive disor- tional during brain development, says that tiny differences can have huge ders and tics — all symptoms of ASD. Dr. Millonig. “These data will help effects. This is not surprising, he notes, Indeed, serotonin is found at reduced develop hypotheses of how the A-C considering that a 1 percent variation levels in the brains of children with haplotype affects development of the in the genome can separate entire autism. In a clinical trial in Michigan, central nervous system,” he adds. species. children with ASD were given a “We hope that ultimately the infor- Dr. DiCicco-Bloom credits a sub- serotonin-like drug, which improved mation will help translate our find- stantial finding about the En2 knock- some of their social symptoms — a ings into new therapies for ASD.” out mouse to Ian Rossman, PhD, MD promising lead. ’09. Dr. Rossman, who did his doc- In very recent work with the En2 Cerebellar Pathways toral work with Dr. DiCicco-Bloom, knock-out mice, monoamine levels Hold New Clues found that in the knock-out mouse, were also found at reduced levels in granule cells of the cerebellum — the the forebrain. This finding may sug- euroimaging and pathologi- most numerous cells in the brain — gest that changes in EN2 expression cal studies of the brains of proliferate more and differentiate due to the A-C haplotype may, in fact, Npeople with autism show less. “The correct numbers of granule affect forebrain monoamines and the that the cerebellum is significantly cell precursors must be made before behaviors they influence. Proof of underdeveloped. This finding has led they can differentiate,” he says. “But this mechanism could lead to rational to a separate line of inquiry testing in the absence of En2, the precursors pharmacological therapies, based on the hypothesis that EN2 might play a never reached the stage where they a person’s EN2 genotype. role in the development of the cere- would develop axons and dendrites.” Autism researchers will continue bellum. Evidence of the role of EN2 Dr. Rossman further tested his hy- discussing their discoveries and merg- in cerebellar development was pro- pothesis and substantiated his finding. ing their conclusions. Collaborative vided ten years ago, when “knock- He discovered that when he doubled thinking is the only way that science out” mice, in which En2 (mouse En- the amount of En2 in the mouse, the can unravel autism’s mysteries, says grailed) was eliminated, proved to cells stopped proliferating sooner and Dr. DiCicco-Bloom, and attain the have a cerebellum that was up to 30 differentiated more. “It was the first goal of translating scientific findings percent smaller than mice in the con- time the cellular role of this tran- into therapies that will help people trol group. scription factor had been described,” with autism. M The developmental pathways of some says Dr. DiCicco-Bloom, “and it other autism-associated genes, includ- helped explain the etiology of ASD.” ing Fragile X, are better known than The brain stem, where EN2 is Current information on autism is the pathways of EN2. Dr. DiCicco- found before development of the cere- available on the Web sites of the CDC Bloom applies that knowledge to de- bellum, is also the locus of the brain’s (http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/ fining EN2’s genetic and molecular three monoamine neurotransmitters: index.html) and the National Institute protein-signaling pathways. In the case serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopa- of Mental Health (http://www.nimh.nih of Fragile X, too much glutamate sig- mine. The axons of the monoamine .gov/health/topic). In addition, the naling in the synapses alters protein neurons project into the forebrain, Simons Foundation Autism Research synthesis, but an antagonist can be including the cerebral cortex and hip- Initiative is an excellent resource for used to offset that negative effect. pocampus. Could EN2 in the brain better understanding the science of Perhaps, he says, a similar therapy stem be important for monoamine autism: https://sfari.org/.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 59 60 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE RWJMS Launches New Jersey’s First Residency Program for Medical Physicists

n 2008, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) advanced their already- extensive program offerings for cancer patients by launching the state’s first residency program for radiation oncology physicists — experts specially trained to work with multi-disciplinary teams to administer meticulously correct doses of radiation to cancer patients undergoing therapy.

Directed by Ning J. Yue, PhD, professor Once those accreditations are in Iand vice chair, Department of Radiation place, says Dr. Yue, “anyone who trains Oncology, and chief, division of radia- here will be recognized by other schools tion physics, the two-year residency pro- and hospitals around the country.” gram — still a relatively rare offering at Ning J. most teaching hospitals — has its first Bold New Initiative Yue, PhD (center), three residents on board and a plan to by Certifying Agency professor and vice chair, Department of add one new resident each year. Radiation Oncology, The school hopes to have the pro- ntil now, oncology physicists and chief, division of gram fully recognized next year by the have been certified by the ABR radiation physics, American Board of Radiologists (ABR), following a broad array of train- is director of the U state’s first residency which certifies radiologists, radiation ing paths, such as through post-doctoral, program for radiation oncologists, and medical physicists. By research, or clinical training programs. oncology physicists. next year, it will also need accreditation But beginning in 2014, the ABR will re- The program has its from the Commission on the Accredita- quire that all radiation oncology physi- first three residents on board, with a plan to tion of Medical Physics Educational cists complete a CAMPEP-accredited res- add one new resident Programs (CAMPEP), which accredits idency program, such as the one offered per year. With Dr. Yue medical physicist residency programs. by RWJMS, before they are allowed to are Lydia Levinson, take the board certification exam. MS (left), and Jinghao The ABR requirement reflects the Zhou, PhD, medical BYJONISCANLON physicist residents in increasing complexity of the field, as well the program. PHOTOSBYJOHNEMERSON as the growing sophistication of the

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 61 equipment used, according to Dr. Yue. By initiating a pro- The school’s radiation oncology program is well regarded gram now, the medical school will be a bit ahead of the trend, nationally. This is perhaps reflected by the program’s re- although other programs around the country do already nowned, multi-disciplinary approach to patient care, as well as have up-and-running residency programs, he noted. the sheer number of oncology specialists — currently eight — Yet there is an inadequate number of programs, and with a who are on call to review patient cases, says Dr. Haffty. 2014 deadline, many teaching programs will be scrambling to “We offer a multi-discipline health-care environment in put them in place. For this reason, as well as the reputation which each patient’s case is presented to a tumor board of the radiation oncology program at RWJMS, entry to the comprising medical oncologists, surgeons, nurses, radiolo- school’s new residency program is expected to be highly com- gists, plastic surgeons, and pathologists, who are all pres- petitive, says Bruce Haffty, MD, professor and chair, Depart- ent to discuss the case,” he says. This team reviews each ment of Radiation Oncology, and associate director, CINJ. case individually throughout the course of treatment to The oncology physicists in the pro- determine whether the patient needs gram will serve on a multi-disciplinary surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. team that treats patients on a case-by- “We discuss the overall treatment of case basis, depending on their type of the patient, not just the radiation cancer, says Dr. Haffty. He describes treatment.” their role with this analogy: “They are The program also is unusual in that to the radiation oncologist what a it has an array of separate tumor pharmacist is to the prescribing doc- boards staffed by experts on many tor. If we prescribe 200 radiation units, types of cancers. Indeed, the pro- we are relying on the physicists — gram’s oncologists specialize in working closely with the dosimetrists everything from cancers of the lung, who deliver the planning — to make gastrointestinal tract, and prostate sure the machine is calibrated to to pediatric, gynecologic, breast, and deliver exactly what’s needed and uterine cancers, he said. This is assure quality control.” unlike many hospitals, Dr. Haffty Enhanced quality control has been a says, where there may be just one major initiative for the program in the tumor board reviewing a wide range past several years, according to Molly “ of cancer cases. Gabel, MD, associate professor of radiation oncology and We really have Another aspect that distinguishes chair, Radiation Oncology Performance Improvement the full spectrum of the radiation program is the quality of all the most advanced Committee. “The physicist’s role is critical to many of our radiation equipment its state-of-the-art radiation equip- quality initiatives, ranging from timeliness of care to the pre- that’s currently ment. “We really have the full spec- vention of treatment errors,” she says. “Exposure to an available,” says trum of all the most advanced radi- aggressive quality assurance program is important for physi- Bruce Haffty, MD, ation equipment that’s currently professor and chair, cists-in-training and complements the physics division’s out- Department of available,” says Dr. Haffty. standing research and clinical expertise.” Radiation Oncology, The new medical physicist residen- and associate cy program will be funded in part by Putting the Program on the Map director, CINJ. residency training grants from the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and t is this cross-functional team of professionals, which Oncology Education and Development Fund, together will now include the new residents, that has really put with the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. Ithe program on the map, says Dr. Haffty. With the addition of the residency program, RWJMS and “We’re offering patients the care of a team that includes CINJ are doing all they can to provide high-quality training the radiation oncologist as well as advanced practice nurses, to the next generation of medical physicists, helping not therapists, physicists, and dosimetrists,” he says. In addition, only to improve cure rates, but also to ease some of the pain the nurses and therapists are involved in seeing patients in and worry that cancer patients feel, says Dr. Yue. consultation and discussing their treatment. “Our patients get “That’s why we started a clinical medical physicist res- the benefits of all these individuals involved in their care. idency program here — to ensure the quality of treatment If they’re having any difficulty at all, whether it’s related to our patients receive is the best and to improve the patient’s nutrition or pain, this team is there to help them.” comfort level and treatment advocacy,” he says. M

62 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE letter from the alumni association p r e s i d e n t

Dear Alumni and Friends:

elcome to the spring issue of Robert Wood Johnson Medicine! WI would like to personally thank everyone who attended the Alumni Reunion Dinner Dance in October. It was a wonderful celebration, filled with great school spirit. Alumni were delighted to return to RWJMS to reminisce and enjoy the festivities with fellow classmates, faculty members, and students. Congratulations to Alfred F. Tallia, MD ’78, MPH, the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award. A great turnout from the Class of 1978 was present to honor Al. Our best wishes to Honorary Alumni Award recipients Nancy Stevenson, PhD, and William Sharrar, MD. We hope you enjoy the collection of Alumni Reunion Weekend photos on pages 64–66. Our 22nd Annual Career Night in January was another terrific event. The Great Hall was filled to capacity with physicians and students, interacting and discussing career specialties. Career Night has become a bigger and better event each year thanks to your participation. It is also serves as a “mini- reunion” for alumni. If you reside in the area, please join us next year. The Alumni Association contributes in a very real and tangible way to the success and future of RWJMS by providing financial aid to our students. Thanks to your generous support, our Board of Trustees awarded $152,500 in scholarships and loans to RWJMS students during the 2009–2010 academic year. Financial support from alumni serves two purposes. We support out- standing young people who represent the future of medicine, and we also TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE provide a vehicle that allows classmates to reunite, work together, and remain active in the RWJMS community. We look forward to your generous contribution to the 2010 Annual Fund. I would like to invite all RWJMS alumni to become active members of the Alumni Association. You may get involved by participating in an event, making a contribution to support student scholarships and loans, or becoming a member of the board. Please join us at www.facebook.com by searching for Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Alumni Association. We look forward to working together to support RWJMS as it continues its pursuit of excellence throughout this new decade.

Best regards,

Nancy Sierra, MD ’89 President, RWJMS Alumni Association P.S. Please visit our Web site at http://rwjms.umdnj.edu/alumni and click on Make a Gift to contribute to the 2010 Alumni Association Annual Fund.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 63 r w jNEWS m s • a l u m n i

Alumni Reunion Weekend 2009

he 2009 Alumni Reunion Award in recognition of her selfless Weekend, on October dedication, humanistic spirit, and T10–11, was a great success! tireless commitment to RWJMS stu- Alumni from across the country dents and alumni. gathered to celebrate the anniver- Sunday brunch concluded the fes- saries of their graduation from tivities. It gave alumni another RWJMS. Faculty members and opportunity to get together in a students joined in the festivities. casual setting and catch up on what 1 The Dinner Dance, held at the is happening in their lives. Hilton East Brunswick, honored the following 3 anniversary classes: 1968, 1969, 1973, 1974, 1978, 1979, 1983, 1984, 1988, 1989, 1993, 1994, 1998, 1999, 2003, and 2004. The Alumni Associa- tion presented the Distinguished Alumni Award to Alfred F. Tallia, MD ’78, MPH, professor and chair, Department of

Family Medicine and 2 Community Health. There

was a large and enthusiastic turnout 1. Alumni reminisce and share photos. from the members of the Class of 4 2. Left to right: Alan Schwartzstein, MD ’78, and 1978 to honor Dr. Tallia. Sonia Garcia Laumbach, MD ’99, assistant dean Honorary Alumni Awards were for student affairs, present the Distinguished presented to Nancy Stevenson, Alumni Award to Alfred F. Tallia, MD ’78, MPH, professor and chair, Department of Family PhD, professor of physiology and Medicine and Community Health. biophysics, and William Sharrar, 3. Tamara LaCouture, MD ’94, vice president/ MD, professor of pediatrics. president- elect, Alumni A Meritorious Service Award 5 was given posthumously to Parvin Association, presents an Saidi, MD , professor of medicine Honorary and chief of hematology and oncol- Alumni ogy. The award was presented to Award to William her daughter, Lara Terry, MD ’95. Sharrar, MD, Upon her retirement, Stephanie professor Meister received an Alumni Service of pediatrics.

64 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE 7

6 8

4. Left to right: Peter S. Amenta, MD, PhD, 9 10 dean; Edna Amenta; Geza Kiss, MD ’95, co-chair, Alumni Reunion Committee; Denise Kiss.

5. Nancy Sierra, MD ’89, president, Alumni Association, and her husband, Calvin Sierra.

6. Members of the Class of 1978 celebrate the 30th anniversary of their graduation.

7. Hank Lubin, MD ’83, treasurer, Alumni Association, and his wife, Sandi-Byer Lubin.

8. Geza Kiss, MD ’95, presents an Honorary Alumni Award to Nancy Stevenson, PhD, professor of physiology and biophysics.

9. Geza Kiss, MD ’95, presents the Meritorious Service Award given 11 12 posthumously to Parvin Saidi, MD, professor of medicine and chief of hematology and oncology, to Lara Terry, MD ’95, Dr. Saidi’s daughter.

10. Sonia Garcia Laumbach, MD ’99 (right), presents an Alumni Service Award to Stephanie Meister.

11. Ernie Biczak, MD ’77 (center), and his wife, Cathy Biczak, renew acquaintance with Alan Schwartzstein, MD ’78. HTSB ..SUNDSTROM A.J. BY PHOTOS 12. Left to right: Michael Spedick, MD ’78, and David Barad, MD ’78, show yearbook photos to another guest.

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 65 a l u m n i NEWS

15 Alumni Reunion Weekend 2009

13 14

16 13. Deborah Camiscoli, MD ’79 (left), chats with Francine Sinofsky, MD ’81, co-chair, Alumni Reunion Committee.

14. Eduardo Fernandez, former presi- dent, Alumni Association, and his wife, Brenda Fernandez.

15 . Left to right: Members of the Class of 1984: Elyse Rubenstein, MD; Ann-Lee Yuan, MD; Paul Figlia, MD; and Mary Holowinsky, MD.

16. Peter S. Amenta, MD, PhD, dean, and students enjoy the festivities.

17. Left to right: Members of the Class of 1978 — Philip Zazove, MD; Wally Avello, MD; and

17

18 Dennis Parenti, MD — are delighted to get together at the reunion.

18 . Students enjoy looking at photos in anniversary class yearbooks.

HTSB ..SUNDSTROM A.J. BY PHOTOS 19. Left to right: John Kostis, MD, John G. Detwiler Professor of Cardiology and professor and chair, Department of Medicine; Michael Spedick, MD ’78; and his wife, 19 Deborah Camiscoli, MD ’79.

66 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE YOUNG

Manuel Jimenez, MD ’06, ALUMNI Selected for Capitol Hill Health Fellowship By Kate O’Neill

he Joseph P. Kennedy ’06 MD JIMINEZ, MANUEL OF COURTESY Health Foundation selected Care,” TManuel E. Jimenez, MD discussed the ’06, for a one-year fellowship success of a on Capitol Hill. Dr. Jimenez project creat- is working on health and dis- ed in 2004 ability policy issues in the and operated office of Senator Jeanne by RWJMS medical students, Mahalia Desruisseaux, MD ’00 Shaheen, Democrat from including Dr. Jimenez. The Fighting Malaria with Head and Heart New Hampshire. goal of the clinic, which con- In 2008, Dr. Jimenez was tinues to thrive, is to increase the lead author among stu- access to primary care for an dents, alumni, and faculty of underserved population, while very 30 seconds, malaria takes the life of a an article published in the strengthening the cultural com- child. Cerebral malaria (CM) is part of the Journal of Healthcare for the petence of medical students. Espectrum of severe malaria, which is caused Poor and Underserved. The “This is a great story about for the most part by infection with Plasmodium article, “The Promise Clinic: the success of a student with falciparum and results in 30 percent mortality. In A Service-Learning Approach a community health and children, the mortality rate is much higher, particu- to Increasing Access to policy focus,” says Alfred F. larly in Africa, where children less than five years Tallia, MD ’78, MPH, profes- old account for 8 percent of malaria-related deaths sor and chair, Department of worldwide. Death comes quickly, and while surviv- m a r k y o u r Family Medicine and ors may be afflicted with profound lifelong neuro- Calendar: Community Health. Dr. logical complications, including ataxia, hemiplegia, Tallia, who mentored Dr. learning disabilities, and memory impairment, long Jimenez at RWJMS, adds, after their malaria has been successfully treated. May 20, 2010 “This highlights the impor- Graduation Banquet Mahalia Desruisseaux, MD ’00, instructor of tance of our community Westin Hotel, Princeton medicine, Albert Einstein School of Medicine of health mission and demon- Yeshiva University, is committed to identifying May 24, 2010 strates how our students the pathogenesis of this devastating disease. After Convocation learn and prosper from it.” a clinical fellowship in infectious diseases at May 26, 2010 Dr. Jimenez recently com- Einstein, Dr. Desruisseaux decided to pursue her Commencement pleted a residency in pediatrics interest in CM. at Children’s National Med- For additional information, ical Center in Washington, “She brought the topic to our lab. It was her Contact Roberta Ribner at own initiative,” says her mentor Herbert Tanowitz, 732-235-6310 or D.C. He will join the Robert MD, professor of pathology and laboratory medi- email: [email protected]. Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholars Program at cine at Einstein. “She developed the project to study Continuing Medical the University of Pennsylvania CM in a mouse model. She made interesting Education in 2010, when his wife, observations about the possible role of endothe- Jennifer Endres Jimenez, MD lin in the pathogenesis of CM and how its expres- For information about ’07, begins a pediatrics fellow- sion may contribute to an array of related neuro- RWJMS Continuing logical dysfunctions. She is an excellent scientist, Medical Education ship in gastroenterology at the Opportunities, please visit Alfred I. duPont Hospital for a wonderful human being, and we are delighted our Web site: Children in Wilmington, to have her here.” www.umdnj.edu/ccoe/rjwms. Delaware. — K.O’N. — Continued on Page 68

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 67 YOUNG ALUMNI

— Continued from Page 67

culation in the brain, ing her fellowship in infectious diseases leading to a vasculopa- at Einstein and Montefiore. Other thy and resulting in the awards have included the Colin L. encephalopathy that Powell Minority Post-Doctoral Fellow- occurs during CM. Un- ship in Tropical Disease Research, treated, the disease from the Infectious Diseases Society of often leads to death America’s Education Research Founda- within days. tion and the National Foundation for By studying the host Infectious Diseases. response, as well as the alterations in the ex- pression of endothelin mRNA in the brains of Ronny Drapkin, MD ’98, PhD OREYO LETENTI OLG FMEDICINE OF COLLEGE EINSTEIN ALBERT OF COURTESY CM-infected mice, Dr. Shifting the Paradigm of Desruisseaux analyzes Ovarian Cancer Research the mechanisms that can lead to injury of cerebral vasculature arly detection of ovarian cancer and to downstream — a common, treatment-resist- nerve damage in sur- Eant, and often fatal disease — is vivors. Someday, she the research focus of Ronny Drapkin, hopes, her findings will MD ’98, PhD, assistant professor of pathology, Harvard Medical School. Mahalia Dr. Drapkin is an associate member of Desruisseaux, MD the Center for Molecular Oncologic ’00, instructor of medicine, n addition to pursuing her research, Pathology, a joint venture between the Albert Einstein School of IDr. Desruisseaux sees patients in the Medicine of Yeshiva University, is Dana Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) HIV/AIDS clinic at Montefiore Med- committed to identifying the and Brigham and Women’s Hospital ical Center. Her warm personality and pathogenesis of malaria. (BWH), where he is a principal investi- her fluency in French, her first lan- gator/scientist. His laboratory is fund- guage, have made her popular with the help lead to adjunctive therapies to ed by grants from the National Cancer clinic’s many patients from West Africa mitigate the neurological sequelae of Institute of the National Institutes of and the Caribbean, says Dr. Tanowitz, the disease. Health as well as the Ovarian Cancer adding, “Everyone wants to see Dr. In 2007, Dr. Desruisseaux won a Research Fund, Novartis Pharmaceu- Mahalia.” five-year Burroughs-Wellcome Fund ticals, and private foundations. In humans, CM develops when spor- Career Award for Medical Scientists, Dr. Drapkin was a leading partici- ozoites of mosquito-borne Plasmodium established to increase the number of pant in a multi-institutional project that falciparum invade and destroy red physician-scientists conducting bio- identified HE4, a new biomarker for blood cells, which mass in the endothe- medical research. It was her first award ovarian cancer. In October 2008, the lial lining of cerebral capillaries. from Burroughs-Wellcome and the lat- U.S. Food and Drug Administration Mechanical blockage ensues when est in a series of grants that began dur- (FDA) approved an HE4 blood test for white blood cells and platelets respond ing her residency at North Shore ovarian cancer. This was the first new to the mayhem, further obstructing cir- University Hospital and continued dur- biomarker approved by the FDA since

68 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE His laboratory contin- esis, genetics, and tumor markers — in ues the work on the the quest to understand ovarian cancer. genetics of ovarian cancer Assisted by six post-doctoral researchers, that he began as a post- Dr. Drapkin also uses mouse models to doctoral researcher at the investigate cancers arising in the fallopi- DFCI at Harvard, with an tubes. David Livingston, MD. Another project focuses on the BRCA Later, in collaboration 1 and 2 genes and their role in the DNA with a former clinical repair process and carcinogenesis. In mentor, Christopher addition, his lab is studying Elafin, a Crum, MD, at BWH, Dr. biomarker that may help guide efforts in Drapkin focused on the early detection and prognostication of pathogenesis of the dis- gynecologic cancers. ease. “Dr. Drapkin was Dr. Drapkin ensures that everyone in one of the few investiga- his lab feels invested in the work, moves tors involved in a para- forward with his or her own work, and digm shift in ovarian can- gets published. He also teaches at cer research,” says Dr. Harvard Medical School, where he stim-

A OGDEN SAM Crum. ulates students’ interest in research, and Dr. Drapkin initiated enjoys helping them choose among an analysis of the P53 sig- career options. “My mentors were a highlight of my Early detection experience at RWJMS,” he says. “All of of ovarian cancer is my professors were inspired teachers, the research focus of genuinely interested in our growth as Ronny Drapkin, MD ’98, PhD, young doctors. Dr. Robert Trelstad and CA125 was approved more than 20 years assistant professor of pathology, ago. Ongoing translational and clinical Harvard Medical School. Dr. Danny Reinberg, not only influenc- studies are aimed at defining the effica- ed my career path, but also shaped the cy of HE4 in predicting ovarian malig- nature gene for evidence of DNA dam- way I now approach science and men- nancies early, while they are still local- age and created a cell culture model to torship of my own students and fel- ized and potentially treatable. study early DNA damage in the epithe- lows.” “Blood tests for HE4 are now avail- lium of the fallopian tubes — not the The UMDNJ-Graduate School of Bio- able and could be performed in the com- ovaries, where these cancers had been medical Sciences (GSBS) at RWJMS munity setting, by a gynecologist. These thought to arise. “This is proving to be awarded its 2008 Distinguished Alum- patients could then be referred to the an important pathway in the genesis of nus Award to Dr. Drapkin. “Ronny dis- proper center for further treatment and this common and lethal form of ovarian tinguished himself as a graduate student testing,” says Dr. Drapkin. HE4 testing cancer,” adds Dr. Crum. at GSBS at RWJMS and has continued may well supplement the widely used se- Located at the DFCI, Dr. Drapkin’s to do excellent work as an independent rum biomarker CA125, a cancer antigen lab integrates genomic studies of human scientist and mentor to the next genera- that produces frequent false-positive ovarian cancer, new culture model sys- tion of young scientists,” says Terri Goss results.“Unlike CA125, HE4 does not tems, and rigorous protein biochemistry Kinzy, PhD, professor of molecular seem to be triggered by benign condi- and molecular biology to explore three genetics, microbiology, and immunolo- tions,” adds Dr. Drapkin. complementary approaches — pathogen- gy and senior associate dean, GSBS. M

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 69 a l u m n i NEWS

Alumni Association Awards Hippocrates Scholarship to Monica Chow

by Kate O’Neill

onica Chow of Child Life Program at The Whippany, a Bristol-Myers Squibb Mmember of the Children’s Hospital at Robert Class of 2013, is the Alumni Wood Johnson University Association’s eighth Hip- Hospital and in Rutgers’ Big pocrates Scholar. The associa- Buddy Program, a mentoring tion awards the Hippocrates initiative in New Brunswick. Scholarship annually to an Throughout her senior year TV HOCKSTEIN STEVE incoming first-year student, at Rutgers, Monica worked based on academic excellence. in the Clinical Research Hippocrates Scholars receive Center in the RWJMS $20,000 toward tuition each Department of Pediatrics. science lab.” RWJMS Alumni Association President, year. Monica worked on an on- Monica enjoyed getting to Nancy Sierra, MD ’89, with Monica Monica’s fascination with going quality improvement know RWJMS students dur- Chow, Class of 2013, recipient of the 2009 Hippocrates Scholarship. the intricate, finely balanced project that aims to assess ing the application process. workings of the brain led her and improve the quality of “They are open and gener- current students. to major in cell biology and care provided to patients ous, always willing to share “I was drawn to the neuroscience major at with HIV/AIDS. “It was new information with others,” school by its excellent aca- Rutgers, The State University to me,” she says, “and in- she says. When she was demics coupled with out- of New Jersey. During col- cluded the kind of human awarded the Hippocrates standing clinical exposure,” lege, she volunteered in the interaction I miss in a basic Scholarship, Monica wrote Monica says. “Being a doc- to Nancy Sierra, MD ’89, tor is more than a science; it president, Alumni requires compassion and Association, thanking her empathy, which are not RWJMS News and for the financial help that learned from a textbook but, Events Now Available on Monica regards as proof the rather, acquired through Social Media Sites association stands behind interaction with patients.”

WJMS news and events and an opportunity to participate in conversations with peers are now Ravailable on facebook.com, linkedin.com, and twitter.com. On Facebook and Alumni Association Approves TM LinkedIn, search for “UMDNJ- New Scholarships And Loans Robert Wood Johnson Medical School” and “Robert Wood he Alumni Association Board of Trustees approved Johnson Medical School Alumni $152,500 in scholarships and loans to be awarded to Association.” On Twitter, search RWJMS students during the 2009–2010 academic year. for “UMDNJ_RWJMS.” Participation on Facebook and T The scholarships included a $20,000 award to each of the LinkedIn is by approval of the site administrator, but all four current Hippocrates Scholars — one in each class. The can register. association contributed an additional $72,500 to named scholarships and loans. — K.O’N

70 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE ALUMNI PROFILE

Steven J. Kravet, MD ’92 ALEADINGADVOCATEFOR PRIMARYCAREANDPATIENT-CENTERED MEDICINE “ atient-centered, community-based health care is in my blood,” says Steven J. Kravet, MD ’92, assis- tant professor of medicine, JohnsP Hopkins Medical School. In January, Dr. Kravet was appointed president of the Johns Hopkins Community Physicians (JHCP), and his community expanded.

“Steve Kravet is that exceptional three generations of New Jersey physician who understands the family pharmacists, all known as importance of a good bedside man- “Doc” to their customers and ner and safe health care systems,” neighbors. The evolution of Dr. says David Hellmann, MD, chair of Kravet’s sense of community and medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview his interest in medicine began

Medical Center, and vice dean, the ’92 MD KRAVET, J. STEVEN OF COURTESY early, as he worked alongside his Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, father and uncle in the family Bayview campus. “Because he is pharmacy. effective at both, he was chosen by He chose to follow a less-trav- Johns Hopkins Medicine to serve eled route to medical school, first as president of Johns Hopkins earning a bachelor of science de- Community Physicians, the largest gree at the School of Pharmacy at group of primary care physicians in Maryland.” Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. JHCP is part of the Johns Hopkins Health Sys- “Medical school fit my career goal of returning to tem. It includes 150 primary care physicians, work- the community to serve the people who use our ing in 18 practices throughout Maryland, bringing family pharmacy,” says Dr. Kravet. “This was — Hopkins-level primary care to more than 450,000 and is — a logical extension of the family tradi- people in the state’s urban, suburban, and rural tion.” As a medical student, he worked as a phar- communities. macist at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospi- Dr. Kravet’s patient-centered bloodline includes — Continued on Page 72

BYKATEO’NEILL

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 71 ALUMNI PROFILE

— Continued from Page 71

tal (RWJUH). “I saw health care from a different perspective medicine and support the training of primary care physicians. than my classmates,” he says. “I learned to appreciate every- In early 2009, he received the Samuel P. Asper Award from body: not just physicians, but the whole staff. Everyone’s on a the American College of Physicians (ACP), presented by the team that supports the patient. Maybe having that apprecia- Maryland chapter to the ACP member who is viewed by fel- tion helps explain my good fortune at Johns Hopkins.” low members as, quite simply, the “Best Doctor.” Dr. Kravet says that the patient-centered approach taught by When the presidency of Johns Hopkins Community the RWJMS Department of Family Medicine and Community Physicians opened up, Dr. Kravet hesitated before deciding to Health and the generalist philosophy of the Department of become a candidate. Despite his long-held plans, he had by Medicine reinforced his interest in primary care. “I was also then spent ten years on the hospital side of health care. “‘Com- particularly impressed with my experiences at Princeton munity physician’ no longer felt like a good fit,” he recalls. Hospital and other RWJMS affiliates that were very much “But others sat me down and helped me to see that the posi- entrenched in their communities,” he adds. tion was definitely in my comfort zone. I realized that the job While completing his internal medicine residency at Johns could allow me to act, among other things, on my belief in the Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Dr. Kravet still believed he need for good ambulatory care — helping patients from the would return home to treat the families he outpatient side and encouraging hospitals had known all his life. Then, at the end of r. Kravet says to see the ambulatory care perspective.” his residency, Hopkins offered him an Dthat the patient- “Steve Kravet is a very special per- opportunity to join the faculty. “It was too son, with an interdisciplinary view of centered approach good to turn my back on, but it was a hard the world,” says Jo Walrath, PhD, RN, choice,” he recalls. “I’d always imagined taught by the RWJMS director, Baccalaureate Program, Johns myself as a community physician.” Department of Family Hopkins School of Nursing. For four Within a few years of his faculty appoint- Medicine and Community years, Dr. Walrath and Dr. Kravet were ment in 1998, Dr. Kravet was appointed Health and the generalist team mentors, co-researchers, and co- medical director of the ambulatory care cen- philosophy of the authors of a report on Achieving Com- ter at Bayview. For the next decade, he Department of Medicine petency Today II, a program funded by the would focus on the hospital side of health Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The care, combining the practice of internal reinforced his interest in ongoing study focuses on the experiences medicine with leadership positions in hospi- primary care. of interdisciplinary teams, composed of tal-based ambulatory care services and the one volunteer each from the faculties of development of on-the-job expertise in hospital business prac- the medical school and the nursing school, a hospital adminis- tices. He would later serve both as chief medical officer for trator, and a resident researching a specific problem in quality quality and patient safety and as deputy director for clinical improvement. activity in the Department of Medicine. As a member, and now a fellow, of the ACP, Dr. Kravet has “Some of the most exciting learning I’ve ever done took actively lobbied for a better appreciation of the role of primary place in the master’s in business administration (MBA) pro- care in American health care. Now serving on the Governor’s gram,” says Dr. Kravet, who earned his MBA from Johns Council of the ACP, Maryland Chapter, he has advanced the Hopkins University in 2006. As a hospital administrator, he organization’s active involvement in health policy advocacy was immediately able to apply concepts covered in the pro- and medical student mentorship. gram and was pleased to discover close analogies between his “Ambulatory care is the focus in health care and the future interests in health care teams and health care systems. Some of of medicine,” he says. “In the Hopkins system, nearly 90 per- the concepts found their way into his teaching. “Students and cent of patients never touch a hospital bed. The job of the pri- residents are eager to learn about the business of medicine,” he mary care physician is to keep people out of the hospital and says. “It’s the type of information they need to understand make sure that the only patients in hospitals are those who their place in the medical world.” really need to be there. Dr. Kravet’s considerable published work reflects his “Every other developed country in the world has better broad interests in health care. Topics range from business- health outcomes and a higher commitment to primary care,” side issues — such as efficiencies that benefit both the practice he adds. “Legislators are beginning to value primary care as a income and patient outcomes — to reforms in academic med- specialty and realize that it is the only way to save the icine that would focus the curriculum on patient-centered American health care system.” M

72 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE CLASS NOTES

NINETEEN novel, Terminal Neglect, NINETEEN as a computer engineer. Our SIXTY-NINE which focuses on an idealistic EIGHTY-ONE daughter, Jeramie, graduated Alan Compton writes: “I re- physician who battles against Andrew Rosenberg is chief of from Franklin and Marshall. I 66tired on 12/31/09 from the VA a group of power brokers staff at Mills-Peninsula Health am still in solo practice of ’’ Clinic in Santa Rosa, Calif., interested in advancing a drug 8Services in Burlingame, Calif. internal medicine and pedi- found to have serious prob-’ atrics in Morristown.” where99 I was a staff psychia- ’ He11 is also in private practice in trist. I plan to divide my time lems in clinical trials. urology. between Oregon (my son is an NINETEEN electrical engineer in Portland) NINETEEN Melanie Teasley is medical EIGHTY-FIVE SEVENTY-SIX and Juniper Hills, Calif. (my director, Princeton House Edward Niewiadomski is sen- daughter is a science teacher in Robert Chvala writes: “Frances Behavioral Services, North ior vice president and chief San Diego).” and I welcomed a grandson, Brunswick. She also has a pri- 8medical officer, Southern vate practice in psychiatry’ in 7Jonah, on July 11, 2009.” ’ Ocean5 County Hospital in NINETEEN Princeton. 5 ’ 6 Manahawkin. SEVENTY-THREE NINETEEN NINETEEN NINETEEN Neil Calman, president and SEVENTY-EIGHT EIGHTY-TWO EIGHTY-SIX CEO, New York’s Institute for Paula Krauser writes: “I was 77Family Health, has been ap- thrilled to see classmates who Rick Segal writes: “After being Joseph Costabile is president ’’ pointed33 by the Obama admin- 7remember me when I was 30 widowed in 2006, I remarried 8of the Vascular Society of two weeks after running the 8 istration to the new Health’ New Jersey. ’ years88 younger. Thank all of 88 ’ Information Technology Policy Boston Marathon.” 6 you for coming and celebrat-’’ 22 6 NINETEEN Panel. The panel will make ing. We made it!” EIGHTY-SEVEN policy recommendations on NINETEEN the development of a nation- NINETEEN EIGHTY-THREE Mark Fesen has been practic- wide health information tech- SEVENTY-NINE John Gallagher is chair, ing medical oncology in 8Hutchinson, Kan., since 1993. nology infrastructure. He will 8 Gary Balady is director, Pre- Pennsylvania Medical Society’ serve a two-year term on the 8Political Action Committee, He7 is a clinical assistant profes- ventive Cardiology Program at 8 7 new panel, which was estab- ’ sor at the University of Kansas ’ assistant chair, Department of 7Boston Medical Center, and 33 lished by the American Recov-’ professor99 of medicine at the Surgery, Sharon Regional Medical School. In June, he ery and Reinvestment Act. Boston University School of Health System, and chief, published Surviving the Cancer Medicine. Department of Ob/Gyn, System, which helps patients NINETEEN Sharon Regional Health understand the importance of SEVENTY-FOUR NINETEEN System. fostering a bond with their Michael Rushnak is a senior EIGHTY medical oncologist. medical consultant for the Linda Fortunato Sieglen Richard Liebowitz is vice pres- 7National Association for was appointed senior vice NINETEEN 7 ident, medical affairs, at New EIGHTY-EIGHT ’ Managed Care Physicians in president of medical affairs 4 8York-Presbyterian Hospital. Virginia. He published’ a 00 for Princeton HealthCare Brian McLeod joined Windham System. Urology Group at Windham 8Hospital in Norwich, Conn. NINETEEN ’ EIGHTY-FOUR NINETEEN8 What’s New? Please send your professional and NINETY-ONE Kathy Rosen Kerr writes: “Our personal news for C l a s s N o t e s to: Roberta Ribner Cathy Angell writes: “I am Editor, Robert Wood Johnson Medicine, Coordinator, son, Geoff, whom a lot of our 88class helped care for during starting my tenth year as a Alumni Affairs, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School ’ neonatologist at Santa Clara ’ our second year of medical Alumni Association • 335 George Street • Suite 2300 44 99 New Brunswick, NJ 08903 • Phone: 732-235-6310 school, was married on the’’ 4th Valley11 Medical Center in San Fax: 732-235-9570 • Email: [email protected] • Or log on of July. He lives in Tucson, Jose, Calif., and my seventh to our Web site: http://rwjms.umdnj.edu/alumni. Ariz., and works for Raytheon — Continued on Page 74

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 73 CLASS NOTES — Continued from Page 73

year as director of the NINETEEN NINETEEN Emilio Mazza reports: “I am O’Connor Hospital NICU. NINETY-FOUR NINETY-EIGHT a full partner with Allergy and My son, Bryce, started college Tamara LaCouture was Brijendra Kumar is a hospi- Pulmonary Associates, practic- at UCLA. Bob Wallerstein ’91 named vice chair, Department talist who recently joined the ing pulmonary care and sleep and his wife, Donna, have 9of Radiation Oncology, at 9Bayhealth Medical Center medicine. I am married to ’ Denise Mazza, and we have moved to California to start ’ ’ RWJMS4 and chief, Department8 of Medicine in the genetics program at Santa 4 two boys: Emilio (6) and Department of Radiation Dover, Del. Clara Valley Medical Center Oncology, at Cooper Christian (4).” NINETEEN in San Jose.” University Hospital. NINETY-NINE TWOTHOUSAND ONE Britt Borden is a neurosurgeon Owen O’Connor is a profes- Janine Kyrillos and Eduardo in Chicago, specializing in sor of medicine and pharma- Careaga ’02 were married on Yihong Cheng is an internist complex spine surgery, brain cology at NYU School of 9December 21, 2008. Dr. in Denville. Medicine. He was appointed’ tumor surgery, and pain relief Careaga is medical director, 0 9 Gerald Cioce is a general car- deputy director, clinical 9 ’ surgery. Kennedy Comprehensive’ research and cancer treatment, diologist1 in Morristown and Breast Center, at the Kennedy Newton. Debra Friedman was named at The Cancer Institute and Cancer Center in Washington chief of the new division of interim director, division of Township. TWOTHOUSAND pediatric hematology/ hematologic malignancies and TWO TWOTHOUSAND oncology, at the Monroe medical oncology at the Sathya Bhandari writes: Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital Department of Medicine. Prayag Barot writes: “Hello “Shiv Bhandari was born in at Vanderbilt Medical Center to the Class of 2000. For the NINETEEN 0Dubai, UAE, on February 9, in Nashville, Tenn. last three years, I have been a NINETY-FIVE 00 ’ 2009. We are all doing well!” general surgeon in private 2 NINETEEN Aalpen Patel joined the Depart-’’ practice right here in TWOTHOUSAND NINETY-TWO 00 ment of Radiology at Doyles- Piscataway. I finished my resi- THREE Ion Chuang practices with the 9town Hospital in association 9 dency in 2005 from St. Joe Tsung-Yi Huang married ’ with Doylestown Radiology. AtlantiCare Regional Medical 5 Barnabas Medical Cen- Patricia Lai Wu, MD, in May 99Center Satellite Emergency ter, and a laparoscopic fellow- 0 ’ Jenny Romero writes: “I 02009. He is doing a surgery ’ Department, Kessler campus, ship from North Shore ’ 22 wanted to announce that my fellowship3 at UMDNJ-New in Hammonton. son, Alejandro Mateo University Hospital. My wife, Jersey Medical School. Jinal, and I welcomed the Victor Gorloff practices pul- Romero-Kiser, came in at 4 birth of our first child, Neil, TWOTHOUSAND monary and critical care medi- lbs. 8 oz. on April 15, 2009. in April 2009.” FOUR cine in Englewood. We are all doing well.” Rupal Patel Panghaal and Jonathan Dunham is an assis- Anne Riordan practices derma- NINETEEN Viskash Panghaal ’05 are NINETY-SEVEN tant professor of medicine in 0 0pleased to announce the birth tology in St. Louis, Mo. the division of rheumatology’ Ravi Goel is president, New of4 their daughter, Anika at the University of 4 NINETEEN Jersey Academy of Ophthal- Panghaal, on March 28, NINETY-THREE Pennsylvania School of 99mology, and a member of the 2009. Medicine. Lois Ramondetta is an associ-’’ AMA-Young Physicians 77 Adam Rosh is assistant resi- ate professor in the Depart- Section Governing Council. Priya Gor specializes in 9 dency director, Department of ment of Gynecologic Oncol- hematology/oncology at the ’ Emergency Medicine, at ’ Aruoriwo Oboh-Weilke writes: ogy3 at the University of Texas Lourdes Health System. “Married with two kids, a son Detroit Receiving Hospital. M. D. Anderson Cancer Cen- She resides in Moorestown. ter. She is the recipient of the (3) and a daughter (1).” 2009 Julie and Ben Rogers Award for Excellence in Patient Care.

74 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE L a s t P a g e continued from page 76

Mark Yoa has joined the De- peaking of our students — what a These technology capabilities will partment of Anesthesiology and Swonderful group they are! I never promote real-time group- and evidence- Perioperative Medicine at cease to be amazed at their curiosity and based learning and encourage explo- AtlantiCare Regional Medical capacity to make the intellectual and in- ration beyond the bounds of the class- Center. terpersonal connections that are vital to room and direct patient experiences. This TWOTHOUSAND doctoring. I’m certainly not alone in this important strategic initiative places FIVE impression. The Class of 2009 had an RWJMS at the forefront of medical edu- Christopher Gentle was appoint- outstanding match this past year. These cation and comes at the same time that 00ed to the position of PEER review graduates are going to some of the our faculty practice, The Robert Wood chair for the Washington County ’’ world’s best institutions, including our Johnson Medical Group, is in the final Hospital55 Emergency Department. own, for the next phase of their careers. stages of fully implementing the electron- TWOTHOUSAND Clearly the word is out that RWJMS has ic health record in our practices. All of us SIX great students! The feedback we receive will have the opportunity to explore the Alex Kulczycki is in practice with from residency program directors around many advantages of this technology for Ocean County Family Care in the country is very laudatory, and more the betterment of patient care. 0Brick. ’0 than once it has been remarked to a re- The success of our educational efforts 6 cent graduate: “Wow—you learned that enriches everyone, and, in turn, the excel- FORMER there! . . . I wish I’d gone to RWJMS!” lence of our academic health center pro- RESIDENTS Now, maybe I’m just an old fogey who vides unique opportunities for all. Our Rosemarie Boehm practices at the is very proud of his younger colleagues, mission benefits from the provocative dis- Center for Pediatrics, Adolescent but I consider that high praise indeed. coveries of outstanding scientists as well and Adult Medicine in Berlin. Our younger (at least in my case) col- as insights from new translational projects Suzette Ettienne is owner and leagues also learn differently these days. and the application of technologies in our medical director, Ettienne’s My marketing professor in business hospitals and offices. You have read about Premier Pediatric Care, LLC, in school outlined the Generation X, Y, and many of these projects in this and previ- Bowie, Md. Z concepts for us, but it didn’t hit home ous editions of Robert Wood Johnson Kris Guerrier is a radiation oncol- for me until I saw our RWJMS stu- Medicine. Our students and trainees are ogist at Lakeland Regional dents in action. We need to deliver con- not only witness to this progress, they are Cancer Center in Lakeland, Fla. tent in a different context and through actively contributing to it and becoming Timothy Lin is a pulmonary and alternative channels—and that’s pre- imbued with the spirit of inquiry.Whether critical care physician with cisely what we’re implementing today. that spirit sustains a lifelong passion for Respiratory Consultants of You have read earlier about our technol- self-improvement and learning or broad- Georgia. ogy initiative. It was launched originally ens the palate of understanding for a wider Neeraj Mehra is a family physi- as an iTunesU program that provided ac- community — or both — we will have cian with Little Silver Medicine in cess to lectures and course materials any- succeeded in our mission. These are, Little Silver. where the student needed it. We have indeed, “interesting times,” and it’s excit- Marc Westle is president and near-term plans to move virtually all dig- ing to participate in them at RWJMS. M CEO, Mission Medical ital content online as our students pre- — Stephen F. Lowry, MD, MBA Associates, a not-for-profit pare for even more active ownership and physician-led subsidiary of Professor and Chair, Department engagement with their educational Mission Health System. of Surgery, and Senior Associate experiences. Dean for Education

Robert Wood Johnson I MEDICINE 75 PAGELAST Interesting Times

Mostof us are experiencing the age-old adage to school adopted the Accreditation Council for Graduate “live in interesting times.” Established norms of activity Medical Education competencies for post-graduate medical and outcomes are under constant revision, and the philos- education as a basis of the learning objectives for the med- ophy of “stay the course” is subject to challenge from many ical degree. Aligning learning objectives, content, and sup- quarters. When we mix in the uncertainties wrought of the port capabilities across the full spectrum of training and vigorous debates over future macroeconomic and health continuing medical education is an important strategic policies, we have the nearly per- direction for RWJMS. fect brew for “interesting times.” None of this would be possible Challenge and change are the without the support of an engaged constant companions and, indeed, faculty, staff, and the outstanding close friends of educators. The students, residents, and fellows at pace of biomedical research and this great institution. We are for- clinical investigation underscores tunate to have a cadre of accom- the importance of our mission plished and farsighted teachers and places it squarely at the inter- who recognize the opportunities section of the discovery, dissemi- at hand and are creatively engag- nation, and application of knowl- ing the talents of our students and edge. Other externalities aside, post-graduate trainees more effec- these are interesting times for tively than ever. Many are partici- sure! Rather than view these times pating in the Curriculum 2010 as obstacles, we choose, instead, N O S R E M E N H O J program, which was initiated by to consider them opportunities. Peter S. Amenta, MD, PhD, dean, In previous pages, you have and is being led by our Cur- read about many of the exciting and creative approaches riculum Committee. This exciting project will transform that are under way to transform the philosophy, methods, our pre-clinical curriculum from the current subject-based and technologies for health care education at UMDNJ- structure to one that promotes a systems-based/clinical cor- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Current times have relations approach that emphasizes the adult learning styles also reinforced for us that proactive strategic initiatives are of our students. Our current “Patient-Centered Medicine” needed to stay ahead of the curve. There have been many courses and “Integrated Cases” sessions during the first such initiatives, including the faculty-led decision in 2007 two years clearly indicate that students are ready and eager to change the pre-clinical evaluation system to a Pass/Fail for this content and experiential integration. basis. Another strategic step was taken in 2008, when the Continued on Page 75

BYSTEPHENF.LOWR Y, M D, MBA

76 Robert WoodJohnson I MEDICINE The Cancer Institute of New Jersey Network

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I Robert WoodJohnson Conquering University Hospital

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