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College of Medicine and Life Sciences

Voting Deadline:

Points of Pride 2023

RESEARCH STORIES OF NOTE FACUlTY ACCOLADES STUDENT ACCOLADES
MEDIA EVENTS IN MEMORIAM FACULTY/ STAFF NEWS

RESEARCH

UToledo receives $7 Million federal grant to upgrade biomedical research facilities

The University of Toledo has received a $6.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The funding will be used to update and expand the university's biosafety level 3 laboratory, enhancing the University’s ability to study dangerous pathogens and prepare against future pandemics. Additionally, the grant will support infrastructure updates in other biomedical research facilities.

 

Dr. Shi-He Liu

Researcher awarded $2.5 million from NIH to study pancreatic cancer

Dr. Shi-He Liu, assistant professor in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, has received a five-year, $2.5 million R01 grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to advance his studies of targeted therapies for pancreatic cancer (PDAC). His research focuses on engineering exosomes for pancreatic cancer-targeting therapies.

 

Researcher awarded $1.7 million to study IBD

Dr. Matam Vijay-Kumar, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, received a four-year, $1.7 million grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases to advance his studies of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). His research focuses on neutrophil extracellular traps, a powerful but not well-understood function of the body’s immune response.

Dr. Matam Vijay-Kumar, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, pictured on campus.

 

Dr. Rujun Gong

Faculty member receives $1.7 million NIH grant for diabetic kidney disease research

Dr. Rujun Gong, professor and vice chair for research in the Department of Medicine, was awarded an R01 grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The grant award amount is $1.7 million over five years. The title of the award is "Role of GSK3beta in diabetic kidney disease." The overall goal of this project is to decipher the role of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3beta in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease in hopes of developing innovative therapies to halt the progression of diabetic kidney disease with the goal to improve kidney health. In this study, Dr. Gong collaborates with Dr. Lance Dworkin, professor and chair in the Department of Medicine, and Dr. Amira Gohara, professor, chair of the Department of Pathology and Dean Emerita, as co-investigator or consultant.

 

 

Researchers advance algal bloom initiative

Ohio Sea Grant released its annual update on the Harmful Algal Bloom Research Initiative, documenting statewide researchers’ progress seeking solutions for harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie. Researchers at The University of Toledo completed four of 12 research projects funded between 2019 and 2021, advancing our understanding of toxic algae and its impact on people and the environment. Read more in UToledo News.

 

Dr. Jeremy Laukka

Senior leader publishes multiyear case study

Dr. Jeremy Laukka, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education and principal investigator, published a multiyear case study on patients with an inherited leukodystrophy called Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease (PMD). This study was in collaboration with the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics at Wayne State University School of Medicine and the Department of Neurology at Iowa Carver College of Medicine. 

 

 

research by students explores step exams’ predictive power for resident performance

M.D./M.B.A. students Conner V. Lombardi, Neejad T. Chidiac and Benjamin C. Record recently had a manuscript accepted for publication by BMC Medical Education Journal. This journal has a special focus on curriculum development, evaluations of performance, assessment of training needs and evidence-based medicine. The manuscript, titled “USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK as Indicators of Resident Performance,” was submitted with Dr. Jeremy J. Laukka, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education. Read the publication.

 

Researcher leads systematic review to improve early identification of liver cancer

A new review from The University of Toledo suggests focusing on a different biomarker than what’s currently in clinical use could help expedite diagnoses and, potentially, lead to better treatment outcomes. Dr. Mona Hassan, an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine, recently led a systematic review of 53 peer-reviewed studies from across the globe that evaluated blood-based biomarkers, known as AFP and PIVKA-II. Read more.

 

Research dollars for college increase to nearly $22M

The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences received $21.97 million in fiscal year 2023 for research, an increase of $500,000 from the period prior.

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STORIES OF NOTE

UToledo adds new undergraduate program in radiation therapy

Dr. David Pearson pictured in the clinical space.

The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences is launching a new baccalaureate program in radiation therapy to meet a growing need for qualified therapists in northwest Ohio and throughout the country. The creation of the degree program is in direct response to high demand for radiation therapists in the region who specialize in operating the complex equipment used to deliver radiation to patients.

Dr. David Pearson, associate professor in the Dept. of Radiation Oncology: “You’re spending time with patients playing an important role in their care, and I think that’s a very appealing prospect for people who want to help in medicine and want to be on the front line.”

Read more.

 

M.D. program earns high satisfaction rating

Our medical school continues to improve its student experience, recently earning the highest graduate satisfaction rating score in at least 15 years. The Association of American Medical Colleges surveys fourth-year medical students annually about their collegiate experience just before graduation.

This year, 92.6% of students participating in the survey reported being satisfied with their overall experience at UToledo, putting the program’s graduate satisfaction rating just outside the top quarter of all U.S. medical schools. UToledo’s satisfaction rate on the AAMC’s graduation questionnaire has improved in each of the last three years. Read more in UToledo News.

 

College of Medicine and Life Sciences nationally ranked in Research and Primary Care

According to the latest rankings by U.S. News & World Report, our institution has been nationally ranked in both Best Medical Schools: Research and Best Medical Schools: Primary Care categories. These rankings recognize our commitment to producing exceptional primary care physicians and our faculty’s groundbreaking research. Our Physician Assistant program is also nationally ranked. These achievements are the result of our collective dedication and pursuit of excellence. By expanding our faculty, improving the faculty-to-student ratio, enhancing our curriculum with early clinical experiences, and implementing effective outreach strategies, we have made significant strides in advancing medical education. We are grateful for the support and collaboration of our clinical partners, including UTMC and ProMedica, whose contributions have been instrumental in our success.

 

Assistant in Pathology program receives reaccreditation for 10 years

Our Assistant in Pathology program received notification from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences that it was awarded Continuing Accreditation status for 10 years. The Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBS) in Assistant in Pathology program utilizes innovative instructional methods in conjunction with the medical school and physician assistant program’s diverse resources to provide students with outstanding educational opportunities.

A collage of three pictures showcasing students in the Assistant in Pathology program working in the lab.

 

New certificate program available: Certificate in Clinical Bioinformatics

Junior faculty among others have a new certificate program available for them to join: Certificate in Clinical Bioinformatics. Sponsored by the Bioinformatics program in the COMLS’ Department of Neurosciences, this is open to junior faculty members, residents and fellows, amongst others. Learn more about the program and apply. 

 

Simulation Center re-accredited as level-one comprehensive simulation center

The Lloyd A. Jacobs Interprofessional Immersive Simulation Center (IISC) was recently re-accredited by the American College of Surgeons as a level-one comprehensive simulation center. This is the highest designation a simulation center can achieve and as a highlight, there were no areas of improvement or citations. The Simulation Center continues to be one of 105 centers worldwide with this exclusive accreditation.

 

Rockets raise the bar for Day of Giving

Our college campaign received $723,050 from 128 donors, with a collective total of 3,177 donors contributing $2,193,302 to The University of Toledo's entire campaign. Read more.

 

UToledo partners with Case Western Reserve University on research funding

The University of Toledo is partnering with Case Western Reserve University on its Clinical and Translational Science Collaborative (CTSC) award. This grant is focused on the scientific and operational principles underlying each step of the translation process — understanding these processes, identifying effective approaches, and removing barriers speeds the adoption of best practices into community settings and helps bring more treatments to more people more quickly. 

The Clinical and Translational Science Collaborative of Northern Ohio is funded by the National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program, which supports a national network of over 60 medical research institutions — called hubs ― that work together to improve the translational research process to get more treatments to more patients more quickly. The hubs collaborate locally and regionally to catalyze innovation in training, research tools and processes.

 

CommunityCare Clinics named Ohio’s Free Clinic of the Year

Congratulations to the CommunityCare Clinics (CCC), which was named the 2022 Free Clinic of The Year by the Charitable Healthcare Network of Ohio. Current and previous directors accepted the award on behalf of CCC. The group also received commendations from both the Ohio Senate and House of Representatives.

A group of students and volunteers pose for a photo at a recent CommunityCare Clinic.

 

Neurosciences Center celebrates five years

ProMedica and The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences have collaborated for five years to provide top-quality neurosciences services to patients with neurological conditions close to their homes. Their partnership has brought together outstanding clinical practice and academia at the Neurosciences Center, located on the north campus of ProMedica Toledo Hospital. The three-story, 122,000 sq. ft. building offers several services under one roof, including Centralized Registration, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Imaging, Neuro-diagnostics, Rehab, Infusion, and Research.

 

Anatomy visualization system comes to campus, thanks to generous support from donors

This fall, significant technological enhancements were introduced to the first floor of the Lloyd A. Jacobs Interprofessional Simulation Center and the Mulford Library, aimed at enriching students' understanding of anatomy, physiology, and histology. The cutting-edge Anatomage Tables stand out as the most advanced 3D anatomy visualization system in the realm of anatomy education. This innovative technology allows clinicians, residents, and medical students to explore internal and surface anatomy in three dimensions via touchscreens, offering unparalleled resolution and accuracy.  We'd like to thank the generous support of our donors. This transformative addition enhances learning opportunities, shaping the future of education.

 

Upgraded classrooms open on Health Science Campus

Following an extensive renovation project, classrooms 103 and 105 in the Health Education Building (HEB) reopened in January. The rooms underwent a complete overhaul, including the installation of new window walls, upgraded technology, and new laser projectors. To enhance viewing, TVs were added to each side of the rooms, and the sound system and lighting were also upgraded, with customizable lighting options. Other improvements include new glass whiteboards, document cameras, and full HDMI for better video quality.

Renovated classroom.

 

Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology hosts annual meeting for Ohio Physiological Society

Our Department of Physiology and Pharmacology recently hosted the 37th Annual Meeting of the Ohio Physiological Society (OPS), with the theme "Physiology in Ohio, The Heart of it All." It was organized under the leadership of Dr. Charles Thodeti, President of OPS (2022-2023). Students, post-doctoral fellows and faculty from universities across Ohio and neighboring West Virginia participated in the meeting. The highlight of the meeting was a marvelous and inspiring keynote address by Dr. Joseph C. Wu, president of the American Heart Association. Continuing the tradition of being a wonderful platform for the trainees, the following day of the OPS meeting was filled with scientific oral, poster, and datablitz presentations by undergraduate and graduate students, and post-doctoral fellows; not only giving them a chance to network but also collaborate with each other. The University of Toledo made its presence felt with 40 attendees.

 

Mission trip to Ukraine

Thanks to Dr. Richard Paat, Clinical Professor of Medicine, for sharing a photo of UToledo alumni and faculty during their most recent mission to Western Ukraine. "We treated 350 internally displaced Ukrainians and brought in medical supplies for the front," he tells us. "Only two air raid warnings where we were at. Praying for peace in Ukraine."

 

Dr. Thomas Wakefield

Alumnus appointed to Board of Trustees

Alumnus Dr. Thomas Wakefield, the Stanley Professor of Vascular Surgery at the University of Michigan Medical Center, was appointed a national trustee to the UToledo Board of Trustees.

 

A longtime surgeon at the University of Michigan, he joined the faculty in 1986 and was awarded an endowed chair in 2002, the S. Martin Lindenauer Collegiate Chair in Vascular Surgery, and was section head of vascular surgery from 2004 to 2020. He became the Stanley Professor in Vascular Surgery in 2012. He served as the Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center from 2014 to 2022.

 

Medical Students Provide Care to Hundreds in Trip to Guatemala

During a medical mission trip to Guatemala, a team of students, faculty and doctors, about 30 in total, from the College of Medicine and Life Sciences and The University of Toledo Medical Center were able to help more than 1,100 patients with limited or no access to medical care.

Dr. Svitlana Zhukivska, a UTMC family medicine doctor and College of Medicine and Life Sciences professor, said that UToledo contingent were able to provide medical help and treatments to patients with arthritis, UTIs and diabetes, including patients who had not been previously diagnosed as diabetic. Read more.

 

Memorial service honors individuals who donated their bodies to UToledo

Second-year medical students held the 2023 Donor Memorial Service at the Stranahan Theater and Great Hall to honor the 181 amazing individuals who donated their bodies to The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences in 2022.  Watch the 2023 Donor Memorial Service.

 

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FACULTY ACCOLADES

Researcher elected president of the Central Society for Clinical and Translational Research

Dr. David Kennedy, Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine, who was recently elected as president of the Central Society for Clinical and Translational Research (CSCTR) – the first Ph.D. to hold the position in the 95-year history of the Society. And there is a link to our College of Medicine and Life Sciences. Dr. Patrick Mulrow was president of CSCTR in 1988. Dr. Kennedy will begin his term in 2024.

 

Dr. Coral Matus

Faculty member honored by MAC for commitment to student success

Dr. Coral Matus was selected as The University of Toledo’s recipient of the 2023 Mid-American Conference (MAC) Outstanding Faculty Award for Student Success.

 

Dr. Matus, who joined the University in 2016, is associate dean for foundational sciences and an associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine. She’s also a practicing family medicine specialist with UTMC. Read more.

 

Faculty member receives career development award from American Heart Association

Dr. Laura Mike, assistant professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, who recently received an American Heart Association (AHA) Career Development Award for her project, titled "Metabolic and surface-exposed determinants of K. pneumoniae bloodstream dissemination." This three-year award began April 1. 

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STUDENT ACCOLADES

Student awarded prestigious AAMC scholarship

Third-year medical student Noelle Thompson was selected by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) as one of five medical students to be awarded the prestigious AAMC Herbert W. Nickens Medical Student Scholarship. This award recognizes medical students who have shown leadership in efforts to eliminate inequities in medical education and health care and demonstrated leadership efforts in addressing the educational, societal, and health care needs of minorities in the United States. Learn more about the scholarship.

Student selected as chair of Ohio Medical Association Medical Student Section

Fourth-year medical student Kris Jackson was selected as chair for the Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA) Medical Student Section, as part of the OSMA Council. 

Student receives leadership scholarship

Second-year Physician Assistant student Lauren Vandenhout received the 2023 Past Presidents Leadership Scholarship from the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants (OAPA) this fall. The Leadership Scholarship is awarded by the OAPA Past Presidents Council. Applicants possess the characteristics of what the Council envisions in a future leader within the profession and have vision and a high degree of faith and confidence in themselves to attain these visions. They are to become the spokesperson of the profession. They are self-motivated and able to communicate to their peers their expectations.

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Media:

SheKnows:

Everything You Should Know About RSV, Including the New Vaccines and When to See a Doctor
Dr. Jennifer DeLucia, assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics and a board-certified pediatrician, discusses a newly available vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus for infants.

 

13abc:

  • VIDEO: UTMC is the first and only hospital in the region to offer deep brain stimulation therapy. Patient Steve Brown discusses on 13abc the life-changing effects of his procedure to treat essential tremors with Dr. Alastair Hoyt and Dr. Jennifer Amsdell.
  • VIDEO: Dr. Obi Ekwenna, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a transplant and urologic surgeon at UTMC, and Sherry Baker, who received the 3,000th kidney transplant in UTMC’s history, talk about the impact of the hospital’s transplant program.

 

The Blade:

John Presloid, a Ph.D. candidate in the Medical Microbiology and Immunology Track of our Biomedical Science Program, wrote a column in the Toledo Blade discussing his research on Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. John is conducting his research in the laboratory of Dr. Mark Wooten. 

 

WTOL:

  • VIDEO: Dr. Ahmed El-Zawahry, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a urologist with University of Toledo Physicians Group, explains the burden of pelvic floor disorders and UTP’s comprehensive approach to treating urological issues.

 

UToledo News

Scientists at The University of Toledo have proven that engineered bacteria can lower blood pressure, a finding that opens new doors in the pursuit of harnessing our body’s own microbiome to treat hypertension. The study, published in October in the peer-reviewed journal Pharmacological Research, represents a paradigm shift, said Dr. Bina Joe, a hypertension researcher at UToledo and the paper’s senior author.

Issam Andoni, who faced a lengthy wait at his home hospital near Washington, D.C., received a life-changing transplant the day after getting on UTMC’s wait list. Dr. John Rabets, the surgeon who performed the transplant and associate professor in the Department of Urology, said though UTMC’s reputation for quickly transplanting patients has been well earned, Andoni’s case was exceptional.

Tracy Pakulski and Bethany Liedel, who both suffer from polycystic kidney disease, were among the featured speakers at a celebration recognizing UTMC’s 3,000th kidney transplant.

Harmful algal blooms and invasive species may be top of mind when many people think about environmental risks in the Great Lakes, but they aren’t the only potential threats.

  • Bariatric Surgery at UTMC Helps University Leader Shed 80 Pounds
    Charles Jake, vice president and general counsel at The University of Toledo, has lost about 80 pounds since undergoing bariatric surgery at The University of Toledo Medical Center in the spring of 2021.
  • There are numerous highly infectious diseases for which we have no vaccine and limited therapeutic options. A $7 million expansion of The University of Toledo’s biosafety level 3 laboratory, led by Dr. Jason Huntley, a professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, expands UToledo’s ability to safely study current and emerging pathogens. The video is part of UToledo's latest campaign, "Confronting Challenges: Addressing Societal Concerns Through Academic Research."

 

Hear about the UToledo Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research (CeDER),which was established with the mission to foster the interdepartmental communication and research of the translational nature, on diabetes and diabetes complications. Learn more.

 

Daily Mail:

Breakthrough Pill for Parkinson’s Could Treat Disease Early and Relieve Symptoms Without Side-effects
Dr. Lawrence Elmer, professor in the Department of Neurology, explains a promising new treatment that combines two existing Parkinson’s medications in a slow-release formula.

Medical News Today:

Gut Bacteria Can Increase Plaque Buildup in Heart Arteries
Dr. Bina Joe, Distinguished University Professor and chair in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, discusses a new discovery that further links gut bacteria to cardiovascular health.

 

Faculty member featured on pediatrics podcast

Dr. Deepa Mukundan, professor in the Department of Pediatrics, was featured on two podcast episodes for the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The two episodes are titled "Germs are Everywhere: Stop Them Before They Spread."

 

Woman’s World:

How to Pop Your Back Safely: Top Chiropractors + Spine MD Weigh In
Dr. Hossein Elgafy, UToledo professor of orthopaedics and chief of spine surgery at UTMC, explains it is usually safe to crack your back but not if you are in pain and not too often. (Also published via Yahoo.)

 

Medical News Today:

Artificial Sweeteners: Why Health Officials May Declare Aspartame a Possible Carcinogen
Dr. Srini Hejeebu, professor in the Department of Medicine and an internal medicine specialist at UTMC, discusses some of the problems with artificial sweeteners like aspartame

 

Everyday Health:

Migraine After 60: What You Need to Know
Dr. Gretchen Tietjen, professor emerita of neurology, discusses how migraine characteristics tend to change with age.

 

13abc:

  • Despite the Buzz, Ozempic isn’t Meant to be a Weight Loss Drug
    Jyothi Sri Pappula, associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine and a family and bariatric medicine specialist with The University of Toledo Medical Center, discusses how a medication developed for diabetes became a popular weight loss treatment.
  • VIDEO: UToledo celebrated an incoming class of 175 medical students
    with a traditional white coat ceremony.
  • VIDEO: UToledo will receive nearly $7 million to improve key biomedical research facilities on Health Science Campus, including the University’s biosafety level 3 laboratory.
  • VIDEO: Dr. Todd Brookens, a clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine, and UToledo emergency medicine residents Dr. Mohamad Ali Cheaito and Dr. Michael Baer discuss with 13abc an opportunity to train alongside emergency responders.

 

UToledo News

Emergency Surgery at UTMC Saves Archbold Businessman’s Leg
Nearly six years after his procedure, Terry Henricks and his wife, Dixie, are thankful for the expert care. “He had a very high chance of losing his leg,” said Dr. Munier Nazzal, chief of the Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at UTMC. “His condition had grown serious and Terry was within hours of losing his leg.”

 

The Blade:

 

WTOL:

  • Med Students Welcomed in White Coat Ceremony
    Christopher Cooper, dean of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, welcomes 175 incoming medical students at the annual ceremony.
  • Play kickball to raise money for the Miracle League
    Jeff Barton, department administrator for the Department of Pediatrics and OBGYN, appeared on WTOL 11 to promote a kickball fundraiser for The Miracle League of Northwest Ohio. He appeared with Dan Dower, president of Key Bank for this region and a Miracle League board member. The Miracle League of NW Ohiois a nonprofit Jeff started in 2006, a baseball league that includes kids with special needs.
  • UToledo Awarded Federal Funding
    UToledo will receive nearly $7 million to improve key biomedical research facilities on Health Science Campus, including the University’s biosafety level 3 laboratory.
  • VIDEO: Courtney K. Combs, director of the UToledo and Ohio Area Health Education Center programs, talks to WTOL 11 about the importance of exposing teens to the possibilities within medicine.

 

UroToday:

Practice Changing Abstracts in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma, A Review from the 2022 AUA
Dr. Firas Petros, assistant professor in the UToledo Department of Urology, Chief of Urologic Oncology and Frank Stranahan Endowed Chair for Oncologic Research, joins Dr. Sam Chang of Vanderbilt University Medical Center in reviewing practice-changing and hypothesis-generating abstracts from the upper tract urothelial carcinoma podium session at the 2022 Annual Meeting of the American Urological Association (AUA). 

 

Researchers from The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences are studying how toxins found in soil, water and pharmaceuticals may affect individuals with conditions like Type 2 diabetes. Watch this video from WDTN 2 in Dayton.

 

UToledo News

  • A patient’s search for the best prostate cancer treatment
    Edward Heinz's exhaustive search for an alternative option to radiation led to a treatment called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) — and to The University of Toledo Medical Center, which was among the first hospitals in the United States to embrace the cutting-edge prostate cancer treatment. Read more in UToledo News.

 

Postdoc interviewed by national society

Dr. Shang Su, post doctoral associate in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, was interviewed by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). Dr. Su is  studying prostate cancer and tumor dormancy in cancer bone metastasis. Learn more about his career path in the video.

 

HealthCentral:

What That Pins-and-Needles Feeling Really Means
Dr. Jacqueline Nicholas, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Neurology, explains some of the causes of paresthesia, or the pins-and-needles feeling you experience when your foot falls asleep.

 

Study Finds:

This Common Insecticide Could Increase Risk of Autism, Study Warns
A study by Dr. James Burkett, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences, suggests early exposure to pyrethroids may increase the risk of autism and other developmental disorders.

 

13abc:

  • VIDEO: Katie Himich, director of the Ryan White Program at UTMC, discusses with 13abc the medical and support services provided by the UTMC Care Clinic.
  • VIDEO: 13abc recently profiled UToledo’s student-run CommunityCare Clinics, which provides free medical care to those with limited or no health insurance.
  • VIDEO: A study by  James Burkett, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences, published in the journal PNAS Nexus suggests early exposure to pyrethroids may increase the risk of autism and other developmental disorders.
  • UTMC Podcast Debunks Fake News About Organ Donation
    Obi Ekwenna, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a transplant surgeon at UTMC, and Tessa Lackey, digital media specialist and host/producer of Prescribed Listening, sort out fact from fiction to help families make more informed decisions about whether to donate organs after death or while alive and healthy.

 

The Blade:

 

WTOL:

  • UToledo's Free, Student-run Health Clinic Named Largest in U.S.
    The CommunityCare Clinics see patients at locations across Toledo to care for different populations.
  • VIDEO: A team of medical providers are traveling again to western Ukraine to deliver supplies and provide care. The team includes Dr. Svitlana Zhukivska, assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine and a family medicine specialist at UTMC who is originally from Ukraine; Dr. Susan Batten, associate professor in the College of Nursing; and Dr. Richard Paat, a clinical professor of medicine.
  • VIDEO: Julie DeSantis, an assistant professor and director of
    UToledo’s Transplantation and Donation Sciences Program,
    discusses with WTOL 11 how the unique program prepares students for careers coordinating and overseeing organ donation and transplantation.

 

UToledo News

Graduate Profile: Student parents among medical school graduates

What does it take to be a successful medical student and a parent at the same time? For two graduating medical students, the answer is support and some planning.

 

UToledo Research Links Common Insecticide to Neurodevelopmental Disorders

A new study from The University of Toledo suggests early exposure to a common class of insecticides called pyrethroids may increase the risk of autism and other developmental disorders, even at levels currently recognized as safe by federal regulators.

 

UTMC Delivers Christmas Miracle for Man in Need of Kidney
Dr. Obi Ekwenna, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a transplant and urologic surgeon, discusses the recovery of a patient after his transplant at UTMC.

 

Men’s Health:

5 Ways to Naturally Boost Testosterone
Dr. Ahmed El-Zawahry, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a urologist at UTMC, discusses lifestyle changes that can help keep testosterone levels from getting too low. The article was also published on Yahoo and on AOL.

 

Insider:

Experts Say the Authoritative Parenting Style Can Help Your Kids Develop Responsibility, Self-Esteem and More
Dr. Michele Knox, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and a psychologist at UTMC, discusses parenting styles.

 

13abc:

The Blade:

 

NBC 24:

 

WTOL:

  • Match Day for UToledo Med Students
    Fourth-year medical students learned where they will embark on their residency training at UToledo’s annual Match Day celebration.
  • Neuroscience Undergrad Degree at UToledo
    Robert Smith, professor and chair of the Department of Neurosciences, talks about the new degree program that provides students a unique opportunity to learn not only how the brain works but also train alongside established biomedical researchers who are working to solve pressing questions about complicated brain disorders.
  • Give Kids a Smile Program Kicks Off
    Jaime Snook, a pediatric dentist and assistant professor in the Department of Dentistry, discusses the program offering free dental care.

 

UToledo

In February, faculty, students and researchers from our college are featured in The University of Toledo's campaign, "Studying Minds: Developing New Therapies for Brain Disorders." UToledo researchers are working to better understand how the brain responds to toxins and other influences to create more effective therapeutics for disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and addiction. The campaign also highlighted our new undergraduate neuroscience degree.

 

USA Today:

What is Cardiac Arrest? What to Know After Buffalo Bills Player Damar Hamlin's Hospitalization

Dr. David Sohn, professor in the Department of Orthopedics and chief of the Shoulder and Sports Medicine Division at UTMC, explains commotio cordis and how a hard blow to the chest can trigger cardiac arrest.

 

PBS Next Avenue:

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

Dr. Dionis Kononov, assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and medical director of the Senior Behavioral Health Unit at UTMC, explains burnout and ways to help take care of your physical, spiritual and mental health.

 

13abc:

Dr. Obi Ekwenna, associate professor in the Department of Urology and transplant surgeon at UTMC, discusses with 13abc UTMC’s growing kidney transplant program.

Dr. Joan Duggan, professor in the Department of Medicine, an infectious disease specialist and medical director of the UTMC Ryan White Program, discusses racial disparity in HIV infection rates.

Researchers at The University of Toledo are working to better understand the microorganisms living in our bodies and how improving our gut health can help treat and even prevent illnesses.

 

Dr. William Saunders, assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine and chief of emergency medicine at UTMC, discusses the increased risk of heart attacks, frostbite and slip and fall injuries during the winter that require immediate medical care.

Medical students Kaylee Fredrickson, Dean Watkins and Shivani Ambardekar discuss with 13abc how they spread joy to sick children through their student organization called Rockets for Wishes.

Medical students Addison Sparks and Katherine Esser discuss with 13abc their work with UToledo’s CommunityCare Clinics, a student-run organization that provides free medical care to those with limited or no health insurance.

Dr. Srini Hejeebu, professor in the Department of Medicine and an internal medicine specialist at UTMC, talks with 13abc about the dangers of listening to social media influencers and self-medicating without consulting a doctor first.

Dr. Srini Hejeebu, an internal medicine specialist at UTMC, talks about the spread of the flu.

Dr. Stephanie Pannell, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and a colorectal surgeon at UTMC, discusses with 13abc the importance of early diagnosis of colon cancer.

 

The Blade:

Justin Franco, an M.D./Ph.D. student in the Medical Microbiology and Immunology Track of our Biomedical Science Program, wrote a column in the Toledo Blade discussing his research on treatments against severe COVID-19. Justin is conducting his research in the laboratory of Dr. Kevin Pan.

The free, public lecture, titled “A Doctor’s Humanitarian Journey,” will begin at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, in Health Education Building Room 110 on Health Science Campus.

Dr. Jennifer DeLucia, a pediatrician and assistant professor of pediatrics, discusses the late outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease.

Dr. Michael Ellis, an infectious disease specialist and chief medical officer at UTMC, emphasizes the importance of getting your flu shot and explains everyday recommendations for families to keep their immune systems healthy through the holiday season.

 

WTOL:

Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week

Dr. Benjamin Hart, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine and a gastroenterologist at UTMC, discusses with WTOL 11 treatment and management of inflammatory bowel diseases that have no cure.

 

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Events:

Welcome Class of 2027!

Students in our 55th entering class are coming to the university from more than 20 different states, representing undergraduate universities from Notre Dame to Case Western. More than 60 percent of the new students are Ohio residents, and approximately 25 percent are from northwest Ohio. 

52nd Commencement Exercises

A total of 220 degrees/certificates were awarded on at our 52nd Commencement Exercises on May 19 at John F. Savage Arena on Main Campus: 162 doctor of medicine degrees, nine doctor of philosophy degrees, 45 master’s degrees and four certificates.

Medical students celebrate Match Day 2023

Fourth-year medical students learned their residency placements at the annual Match Day ceremony on March 17. Among our students, 21 matched with UToledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences Residency Programs and four others will be returning to our residency programs, after completing a preliminary year. A total of 29 fourth-year students matched in residency programs in northwest Ohio and 74 within the state of Ohio. A little less than half of the students matched with residency programs in Ohio. Michigan was the second most popular state, with 14, followed by Illinois and North Carolina with eight each. In total, students matched with 21 different medical specialties in 28 states. Read more. See the 2023 Match Results.

Faculty members speak at patient education event on deep brain stimulation

UToledo hosted a community discussion on deep brain stimulation therapy, an advanced treatment option to address movement disorders associated with Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. Dr. Jennifer Amsdell, assistant professor in the Department of Neurology and a neurologist and movement disorder specialist at UTMC, and Dr. Alastair Hoyt, Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery and a neurosurgeon at UTMC, spoke at the patient educational event. The event was held in a hybrid in person and virtual format; 49 people in total attended. UTMC is the first in the region to offer deep brain stimulation therapy.

Emergency Medicine completes community education series on substance abuse

We recently completed our community education series on substance abuse. The series of free information sessions focusing on substance use disorder and its impact on minority communities was presented by the UTMC Emergency Department and the Frederick Douglass Community Center. These sessions aimed to raise awareness about substance use disorder, provide prevention strategies, and guide individuals on accessing the necessary help for themselves or their loved ones. The events were supported by a $25,000 grant from the Ohio Commission on Minority Health.

Celebration for Dr. Peter White, M.D. Endowed Professorship in Hematology

Our college held an event celebrating the establishment of the Dr. Peter White, M.D. Endowed Professorship in Hematology. The celebration at The University of Toledo Center for Alumni and Donor Engagement included the inauguration of Dr. Danae M. Hamouda as the first Dr. Peter White, M.D. Endowed Professor at The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences. This endowed professorship will provide resources to the recipient to conduct research, purchase equipment, and provide support that will enable life-changing opportunities for clinicians, patients and residents in the field of hematology. This endowment will serve as Dr. White’s legacy as a pioneer, compassionate caregiver and mentor in the College of Medicine and Life Sciences.

Community Involvement: Skin Cancer Awareness and Prevention Event

On May 12, 2023, Hanley Speidel (MD Candidate, Class of 2024 – Dermatology focus), Emma Scott (MD Candidate, Class of 2026 – Dermatology focus), and Megan Schramm, PA-C went to the Chester J. Zablocki Community Center, Toledo, Ohio, and  spoke with senior citizens about Skin Cancer Awareness and Prevention.

College of Medicine and Life Sciences hosts summer campus

  • The Department of Neurosciences hosted a Virtual Bioinformatics summer camp beginning Monday, June 12. This virtual camp was 24 days of educational sessions, workshops, team meetings and keynote lectures.
  • The Department of Neurosciences also planned a Laboratory Summer Camp for high school students. Running July 17 to 21, this highly interactive camp included tutorials and laboratory activities. Participants had the opportunity to interact with faculty and current students in the neurosciences program and gain hands-on experience in research laboratories on campus.
  • The college is also hosted Pre-Med Summer Camp, a weeklong program designed to enhance one's ability to understand the medical field and to encourage interest in physiology, genetics, immunology and bioinformatics in Medicine. Running June 5-9, this camp is designed to give students – entering grades 9 and above this fall – the tools they need to prepare for a career in the field of medicine. Students experienced fun and creative student-centered activities and challenges.
More Events from 2023:
  • Dec. 1: Inaugural Medical Education Symposium
  • Nov. 28: Holiday Run/Walk with the Dean
  • Nov. 8: Faculty development session with Dr. Gaurava Agarwal, Director of Physician Well-Being for Northwestern Medical Group and Associate Professor of Medical Education and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Northwestern University.
  • Oct. 30: Hallow-Dean Run/Walk
  • Oct. 26: "Narrative Power in Health: Inquiry, Equity, and Care" – 14th Annual S. Amjad Hussain, M.D. Visiting Lecture in Medical Humanities
  • Oct. 7-8: Health Equity Hackathon
  • Oct. 6-7: UToledo to host Ohio Physiological Society’s annual meeting
  • Sept. 28 Department of Medicine Research Symposium 
  • Oct. 7-8: Health Equity Hackathon
  • Oct. 6-7: UToledo to host Ohio Physiological Society’s annual meeting
  • Sept. 28 Department of Medicine Research Symposium 
  • Sept. 18: Healthcare Simulation Week
  • Sept. 7: Biomedical Lab Coat Ceremony
  • Aug. 23: Interactive, in-person faculty development session on work-life balance
  • Aug. 28: Crucial Conversations on Social Determinants of Health with Dr. April Demers
  • Aug. 24: Run/Walk with the Dean returns
  • Aug. 22: Fellowship proposal workshop
  • Aug. 21: P.A. White Coat Ceremony
  • Aug. 18: Graduate Medical Education celebrates Professionals Day
  • July 28: M.D. White Coat Ceremony
  • July and August: Substance Use Disorders series
  • June 24: Department of Urology hosts annual Kropp Symposium
  • On April 17: Language of Diversity Lecture with Alex Lewin
  • On April 18: "Starting to Unravel the Mysteries of Feedback" faculty development session
  • On April 20: Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program open house 
  • On April 22: Second Look Saturday
  • On April 25: Run/Walk with the Dean on campus
  • On April 28: Student Clinician Ceremony
  • On May 9: Meet and greet with leader of American College of Surgeons
  • On May 16: “Writing Case Reports” faculty development session
  • On May 17: Special Run/Walk with the Dean
  • On May 18: Graduation Awards
  • On May 19: Grand Rounds with Commencement Speaker
  • On May 19: Commencement 2023
  • On June 2: Celebration for Dr. Peter White, M.D. Endowed Professorship in Hematology
  • On Feb. 13: Crucial Conversations with Dr. Shipra Singh
  • On Feb. 21: ‘Using Statistics in Research and Clinical Practice’ faculty development session
  • On Feb. 21: Run/Walk with the Dean
  • On Feb. 22: ‘Understanding the Underrepresented Minorities in Medicine’
  • Resident & Fellow Appreciation Week 2023: we celebrate those that play an integral role on the healthcare team. February 20-24
  • Health Science Campus Artist Showcase (Feb. 20-April 10)
  • On March 7: ‘Technology Transfer: Anatomy of an Invention Disclosure Form’ faculty development session
  • On March 14: Special Run/Walk to Packo’s
  • On March 17: Neurology Research Day
  • On March 17: Match Day 2023
  • On March 20: Language of Diversity Lecture with Alumnus Dr. Antonio Jackson
  • Spring 2023: Sesquicentennial exhibit on campus
  • March 27-31: Mental Health Awareness Week
  • March 30 and 31: Graduate Research Forum
  • April 3-7: Graduate Student Appreciation Week
  • On April. 6: Journal Club Workshop – ‘How to Peer-Review a Scientific Article’
  • On April 18: ‘Starting to Unravel the Mysteries of Feedback’ faculty development session
  • A. Program Patch Ceremony 2023 (Jan. 20, 2023)
  • The Department of Medicine was the Presenting Sponsor for the Maumee Chamber Business to Business Expo. Each division had representation to share information about who we are and how we are here to help the community. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the many different divisions within the Department of Medicine. Danny Barazi, DNP, was a speaker at the luncheon and informed the attendees about the advances we have been making in Cardiology.
  • ‘Centering Disabled People In Healthcare’ diversity lecture (Jan. 25, 2023)
  • Trans Affirmative Healthcare Panel (Jan. 25, 2023)
  • Grand Rounds Lecture: Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease In Women And Girls With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (Jan. 19, 2023) and Academic Justice: We Demand A Seat At The Table, The System Is Why There Are Not More Like Me (Jan. 19, 2023) by Dr. Stanley Andrisse of Howard University and executive director of organization From Prison-to-PhD
  • Medical Student Council hosted an inaugural Health Equity Hackathon Jan. 7 and 8

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In Memoriam:

Hal Fetterman, a retired business owner and UToledo benefactor, passed away June 25 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, South Detroit Avenue. He was 85. Read the full tribute.

Dr. Elizabeth S. Ruppert, Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, passed away on June 15 at Western Reserve Hospice Center in Westlake, Ohio. Dr. Ruppert was widely respected for the care she offered and the programs she developed to aid children with disabilities and other needs. She was 86. Read the full tribute.

Dr. Barney M. Wisinger, a founding member of our college, passed away on June 19 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Dr. Wisinger was an internal medicine physician with a specialty in pulmonary medicine. He was 93. Read the full tribute.

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Faculty/Staff News:

Faculty and staff honored with Dean’s Awards

We are honored to present the 2023 College of Medicine & Life Sciences Faculty and Staff Recognition Awards. Join us in recognizing these faculty and staff members. Read nominator notes on our dedicated webpage.

 

Dr. Jeremy Laukka, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education and associate professor in the departments of Medical Education and Neurology, who was selected to be part of the scientific program at the American Academy of Neurology 2023 Annual Meeting this week in Boston. His approved scientific abstract, "Preclinical Neuroscience Education: Planting the Seed for a Career in Neurology," will be displayed as a touchscreen poster presentation on Wednesday, April 26 during the Education, Research, and Methods session. The co-author on his poster is Dr. Mehmood Rashid, assistant professor and associate clerkship director in the Department of Neurology.

Dr. Matam Vijay-Kumar, professor in the Department of Physiology-Pharmacology, was honored by The University of Toledo with the Outstanding Research and Scholarship Award. Dr. Vijay-Kumar is a world-renowned scientist in gut microbiota, nutritional, metabolic and immunological sciences with demonstrated proficiency in multiple pioneering discoveries, running his own laboratory with multiple NIH and other foundation grants, publishing senior-authored papers in top-tier journals and mentoring trainees, many of whom have obtained postdoctoral funding for their work in Dr. Vijay-Kumar’s laboratory.

Saurabh Chattopadhyay, Associate Professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, has been invited to serve on NIH study section, Viral Pathogenesis and Immunity (VPI; previously Virology B). The role is for a four-year term beginning July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2027. Membership on study section represents a major commitment of professional time and energy as well as a unique opportunity to contribute to the national biomedical research effort. Study sections review applications submitted to NIH, make recommendations on the applications to the appropriate NIH national advisory council or board, and survey the status of research in their fields of science. These functions are of great value to the medical and allied research field.

Dr. Viviana Ferreira from the Departments of Medical Education and Medical Microbiology and Immunology attended the 29th International Complement Workshop (ICW) in Newcastle, UK, this fall. The ICW meeting is endorsed by the International Complement Society (ICS), which is the professional society that promotes advances of complement research and development through the encouragement of cooperative educational programs, clinical applications, and professional standards in the complement field, worldwide. Dr. Ferreira was invited to give the opening lecture on The Complement System for the teaching day. This is the first year where only one person is invited to give the lecture on the whole system versus dividing it amongst 3 or 4 lecturers.   

Dr. Lauren Koch of the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology was an invited in-person seminar speaker at Kent State University, Department of Biological Sciences on Oct. 20.  Title of the talk was “Theory-based Rat Exercise Models for Aging Research.” Dr. Koch with collaborators from Case Western University and University of Michigan are Catalyst Award Winners of the Healthy Longevity Global Competition 2022-2023 sponsored by U.S. National Academy of Medicine. The title of the award-winning project is “Exercise and Brain Health: Pre-clinical Study of the Energy Transfer Hypothesis of Aging using PET/MRI imaging.”  As PI on the project, Dr. Koch was invited to attend the 2-day virtual event “2023 Global Innovator Summit, September 26 & 27, 2023”. Dr. Koch along with two other catalyst winners were selected as co-leaders and speakers at the INNOVATORS CONNECT Breakout Session called Biological processes of aging & related interventions.  https://nam.edu/event/2023-healthy-longevity-global-innovator-summit/.

Cardiology fellow, Dr. Zeid Nesheiwat, won first place for his poster in the category of third-year fellow case at the ACC-OH conference.

Dr. Cathy Van Hook in the Department of OBGYN was elected to Board of Trustees for CAOG (Central Association Obstetrics and Gynecology).

Dr. Brian Kaminski, Clinical Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, was selected as a speaker for the Press Ganey National Client Conference 2024 for work related to DEI and serious safety events.

Dr. Martin Skie, who has accepted the position of Chair for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery after a competitive search process. Dr. Skie has been serving as Interim Chair since December 2022.

Dr. Robert Smith accepted the position of Chair for the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Smith had been serving as Interim Chair since April 7, 2023.

Dr. Laura Mike, assistant professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, who recently received an NIH R35 Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award (MIRA) from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) for her project titled, "Control of Klebsiella capsule biosynthesis and attachment." This five-year award began Sept. 1.

Dr. Jason Schroeder accepted the position of Interim Chair for the Department of Surgery.

Dr. Deepak Malhotra, Endowed Professor in Nephrology and chief in the Division of Nephrology, and Dr. Dinkar Kaw, professor in the Department of Medicine, were both invited speakers for the 2023 Annual West Kenya Nephrology Forum, held in Eldoret, Kenya.

At its September meeting, The University of Toledo Board of Trustees appointed two faculty members to the UToledo Health Board. Dr. Stephanie Pannell, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and colorectal surgeon, and Dr. Danae Hamouda, associate professor in the Department of Medicine and medical oncologist, will fill the roles on the UToledo Health Board designated for faculty members who are employed by University of Toledo Physicians. They will serve three-year terms.

Dr. Deepa Malaiyandi, assistant professor in the Department of Neurology, received recognition for her exceptional work and efforts with the Society of Critical Care Medicine for its Neurocritical Care Board Review Course.

Dr. Kris Brickman, Senior Associate Dean for Innovation and Simulation, with one of our UToledo ortho residents (Kyle Scarano, center) and a second-year medical student (Cade McGarvey, left) provide medical care at St. John's Jesuit High School football games.

Dr. Bindu Menon, associate professor in the Department of Medical Education, who was recently invited to participate as a volunteer faculty for the Harvard Medical School's Harvard Macy Institute Program for Educators in Health Professions course. She has been chosen as a faculty facilitator for the Microteaching component of the 2023-2024 course.

Dr. Coral Matus accepted the position to serve as Associate Dean for Clinical Undergraduate Medical Education, effective Sept. 11.

Laura Hamid accepted the position of Executive Assistant/LCME Coordinator in the Office of the Dean of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. 

James A. Molnar, Supervisor of Web & Digital Media, was invited to join the steering committee as the marketing representative for the Group on Institutional Advancement (GIA) of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). The responsibilities that come with being a part of the GIA Steering Committee include biweekly meetings, participation in the AAMC Learn Serve Lead conference and contributing to the success of the spring conference. 

Dr. J.T. Zhang has accepted the position of Interim Senior Associate Dean for Research. 

A chief physician executive has been named to lead the University’s physician group under the new UToledo Health structure. Dr. Rebecca Ramirez, an internist and hospitalist, joined the University on Aug. 15 from Healthcare Advisory Network, a management consulting firm serving health organizations, where she served as chief clinical advisor.

Dr. Viviana Ferreira, associate professor in the Departments of Medical Education and of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, who was recently invited by The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) to serve as a faculty member during the Introductory Immunology Course at The UCLA Conference Center in California. She gave the lecture on The Complement System to participants that traveled from within the U.S. and from around the world to participate in this course.

Dr. Saurabh Chattopadhyay, associate professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, was invited to serve on NIH study section, Viral Pathogenesis and Immunity (VPI; previously Virology B). The role is for a four-year term, beginning July 1 and going through June 30, 2027. 

Dr. Carolina Wishner accepted the position of Associate Dean for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Dr. David Pearson accepted the position to lead our M.D. admissions program as Interim Assistant Dean for Admissions & Strategic Enrollment.  

Faculty recognized for tenure and promotion: Congratulations to members of our faculty who were approved for tenure and promotion this spring by The University of Toledo Board of Trustees. Read more in UToledo News.

Dr. Bashar Kahaleh and Dr. Nezam Altorok from the Department of Medicine were invited panel members at the 2nd Annual Lupus Awareness Luncheon, held on May 20, 2023, in Toledo.

Dr. David Kennedy and Dr. Steven Haller from the Department of Medicine attended the Central Society for Clinical and Translational Research meeting in Chicago, April 24-25, 2023.  The University had great representation from basic science and the clinical side. 

Dr. Jian Ting Zhang of the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology was among the group of faculty who received the 2023 President’s Recognition for Excellence in Sponsored Research Awards.

On April 13, Dr. Robert Smith of the Department of Neurosciences presented the lecture titled “Psychotherapy” to the CURESZ on Campus Club at the University of Cincinnati. Bethany Yeiser, the founder of CURESZ, states: “Dr Smith gave a captivating talk that engaged the members of our club including undergraduates and consumers. We plan to invite him back for another interesting lecture.”

On April 21, Drs. Smith, Andari and Wang traveled with Dean Cooper to attend the first SOAR initiative meeting in Columbus, Ohio. Goals for the State of Ohio Action for Resiliency (SOAR) program include identifying specific psychosocial factors that predict risk and resilience for suicidality, substance use disorders (SUD), and mental illness in the State of Ohio. The University of Toledo COMLS has applied to be a site for this innovative program focused on helping Ohioans with behavioral health challenges.

Dr. Nabila Azeem, a resident in the Department of OB/GYN, took third place at the Toledo Surgical Society Research Competition on April 20.

James A. Molnar, Supervisor of Web & Digital Media in the Dean's Office, recently joined institutional advancement colleagues within the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) community at their annual conference in Phoenix and participated in a session on digital marketing. The panel discussion was titled "The Future of Digital Marketing and What You Need to be Doing Today" and featured Ashley Anderson, director of Brand Engagement at Cedars-Sinai; Jen Brass Jenkins, web associate director of content and SEO/analytics at University of Utah Health; and Tina Kelly, chief marketing officer for content marketing agency Casual Astronaut. 

UToledo Pharmacist Megan Sizemore was honored at the Ohio ADCES annual conference as a Rising Star. Megan is a pharmacist in a family medicine clinic at the UTMC Comprehensive Care Center. She has developed work flows and templates to match provider and patient needs, adjusts medications and starts CGMs for patients, and has completed research proving that having a pharmacist as part of the patient care team improves A1c, BMI, cholesterol, and blood pressure values. Megan’s colleagues describe her and her successes with patients as a “shining beacon of hope.” Megan is also Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine.

Dr. Eilleen Quinn participated in two parts of the webinar series for the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group, "Down Syndrome Regression Disorder - Diagnosis" and "Down Syndrome Regression Disorder - Treatment." 

Dr. Charles Thodeti was invited to give a Grand Rounds presentation at the University of Cincinnati for their division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.  The title of his presentation is "TRPV4 Mechanotransduction in Cardiac Remodeling".

Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri was named to The American Physiological Society Cardiovascular Section Rank of Fellow.

Dr. Bina Joe was invited to be the Keynote Speaker at the 41st Association of Scientists of Indian Origin in America national meeting in Long Beach, California.

Dr. Lauren Koch was invited as a participant on an NIH workshop “Heterogeneity and Successful Aging” conducted by the National Institute on Aging, Division of Biology of Aging on May 8-9, 2023.

Dr. Ritu Chakravarti was invited to join the General Council of the Autumn Immunology Conference for a 3-year term ending in December 2026.

Dr. Tao Yang was invited to attend the 17th Annual Division of Aging Biology New Investigators Forum on June 27-28, 2023 at the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD and present a poster describing his funded work with an emphasis on how it relates to aging research in the broad sense.

In April, we announced two new leaders in the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Robert Smith accepted the position of Interim Chair, and Dr. Tanvir Singh accepted the position of Service Chief. 

Dr. Kathryn Eisenmann, professor of Cell & Cancer Biology, Krista Pettee, Research Assistant, and Kathryn Becker, MD/PhD student received a U.S. Patent entitled "Use of Formin Agonists in Overcoming Brain Tumor Radio- and Chemo-resistance by Targeting Tumor Microtubes." 

In March, Dr. Jyl Matson was invited to present a talk at the International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) in the Pacific Rim.  The focus of the 2023 EID conference was on bacterial and parasitic diseases/infections and associated cancers of importance in the Asia-Pacific region and of global health concern.  Dr. Matson presented a talk entitled “Characterization of the stress responsive protein SipA in Vibrio cholerae” in the Joint Panel Conference on Cholera and Other Bacterial Enteric Infections.  The 2023 EID conference was held in Metro Manila, Philippines.

A new study from the laboratory of Dr. Viviana Ferreira has shown that a certain protein in our blood, known as properdin, can affect how potent inflammation is depending on its conformation. The research, published in Frontiers in Immunology, offers insight into the specific role of this protein in inflammation through the development of a novel assay that allows to measure properdin function. This innovative, first-of-its-kind, assay has a patent pending and was recently licensed to SVAR biotechnologies.

A diverse team of researchers from the Department of Biological Sciences and the Department of Neurosciences has been awarded a $40,000 Interdisciplinary Research Initiation Award by the University of Toledo. The project is headed by Dr. Bruce Bamber and creates a new team including Drs. Robert Smith, Rammohan Shukla, and James Burkett from Neurosciences. The collaborative group will investigate whole-network recording in C. elegans using statistical analysis of neural activity patterns, automated behavioral tracking, and computational modeling of neural network dynamics.

Dr. Shukla was awarded a $45,000 Interdisciplinary Research initiation Award by The University of Toledo.

Anna Lundh, research lab technician of the CDRL Lab, Department of Neurosciences, was accepted to The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences for fall 2023.

Priyanka Pulvender was accepted into The University of Toledo Medical College via Bacc2MD, an early assurance pathway.  Priyanka has been a part of the Bacc2MD program for the past four years as a bioengineering major.  In the fall, Priyanka will graduate as an honors, engineering student and matriculate to the medical school in August 2024. 

Dr. Victoria Kelly was nominated by third- and fourth-year medical students and selected for the Office of Student Affairs Award for Excellence in Career Advising.

In March, Dr. Danae Hamouda was appointed the next permanent Chief of the Division of Hematology & Oncology in the Department of Medicine. Dr. Hamouda, associate professor in the Department Medicine, is a product of our own educational programs, having completed medical school at UToledo, followed by training in our residency program in internal medicine, and then fellowship training in oncology. She then joined the faculty at UToledo and has held a number of important roles in the Division, including serving as an attending physician at both the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center at UTMC and at the ProMedica Hickman Cancer Center, the program director of the Hematology/Oncology fellowship, and for the past year, interim Chief of the Division.

The Department of Medicine held its Fifth Annual Department of Medicine Chair’s Mentoring and Faculty Teaching Awards at Medicine Grand Rounds on Feb. 16. The faculty mentoring and teaching award was established to honor outstanding mentoring and teaching faculty in the Department of Medicine, including our community-based faculty and PPG practitioner faculty.

This year’s recipients are:

  • Dr. Sadik Khuder, Professor, for mentoring
  • Dr. Ruby Nucklos, Professor, for teaching
  • Dr. Christopher Lynn, Associate Professor, for teaching
  • Dr. David Jones, Clinical Assistant Professor, for teaching

Seven of our cancer researchers attended the UToledo Women’s Basketball "Rockets for the Cure" game on Feb. 18, for breast cancer awareness. Cancer researchers included: Dr. Daya Raman, Dr. Shobhit Srivastava, Dr. Kam Yeung, Miranda Yeung, Dr. Yue Zou, Beth Dong and Dr. J.T. Zhang. The team took home a win against Eastern Michigan in Savage Arena. Rockets for the Cure helps build breast cancer awareness and raise funds for Susan G. Komen and the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center.

In February, Kim Koesters accepted the position of Director of Administrative Operations in the Dean’s Office. Kim had been serving as Executive Assistant since August 2021.

Dr. Dionis Kononov, assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Medical Director of Senior Behavioral Health, led a conversation for the Alzheimer's Association on Feb. 28. This presentation provided a brief overview of Alzheimer's disease, dementia and the Alzheimer's Association services. Topics include the impact of Alzheimer's, risk factors, warning signs and how others can join the fight against the disease.

Dr. Kuo-Hui Su was invited to speak at the Cells in Stress & Disease symposium at the ASCB/EMBO meeting.

Dr. Kam Yeung was invited to give an oral presentation at International Symposium of prognostic and therapeutic implications of RKIP and YY1 in cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in Italy,  March 6-9, 2023. Dr. Yeung was also invited as a question author for the 3rd edition of Bob Weinberg’s The Biology of Cancer.

Dr. Jian Ting, Zhang was invited to speak at the Online Anticancer Together Forum. He was also invited to present a seminar to the OSU James Cancer Center.

Sadia Tahir presented an E-poster at the 2023 Medical Dermatology Society Annual Meeting; March 16, 2023; New Orleans, LA.  The poster titled “Therapeutic Potential of Dupilumab for the Treatment of Lichen Amyloidosis” is authored by Sadia Tahir (MD Candidate, Class of 2023) and Dr. Lorie Gottwald.

Drs. Steve Haller and David Kennedy, along with Dr. Lauren Koch, are excited to welcome an international visiting scholar, Dr. Vinicius Guzzoni, to our lab for the next 12 months as part of the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) Research Internships Abroad Program. Dr. Guzzoni arrived from Brazil this week and will be helping us on a research project examining the role of exercise and aerobic capacity in the prevention and treatment of chronic kidney disease.

Please join us in congratulating two new leaders in the Department of Pediatrics. Dr. Bruce Barnett has accepted the position of Interim Chair, and Dr. Deepa Mukundan has accepted the position of Interim Vice Chair. 

Dr. Martin Skie accepted the position of Interim Chair of the Department of Orthopedics. Dr. Skie received his undergraduate degree in Chemistry from Miami University and obtained his M.D. degree at the Medical College of Ohio. He completed his residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at the Medical College of Ohio and is fellowship trained in Hand and Upper Extremity.

Dr. Lance Dworkin, Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine, will serve as PI for the University of Toledo Quality Improvement HUB, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Medicaid/Government Resource Center, with initial funding of $500,000 for the first year, based on a 10-year plan.  UTCOMLS is one of six medical schools in the State of Ohio to receive this grant. 

Dr. Islam Osman in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology received notice of an award from the NIH for a period of three years. The project is titled YAP1, neointima formation, and blood pressure regulation.  It is sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute.

Dr. Bina Joe in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology was awarded the Arthur C. Guyton Distinguished Lectureship Award by the Association of Chairs of Departments of Physiology.

Dr. Bina Joe in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and her trainee, Xue Mei, were awarded the Excellence in Research award from the editors of Physiological Genomics for their article titled “Beyond the gastrointestinal tract: oral and sex-specific skin microbiota are associated with hypertension in rats with genetic disparities.”

Dr. Tao Yang in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology has been invited to review an article on the topic of Interaction Between Gut Microbiota and Antihypertensive Drugs for the journal Current Hypertension Reports.

Iluja Gautam in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology received a Pre-Doctoral fellowship from the American Heart Association to fund her graduate studies for two years (through Dec. 2024).

Dr. Ritu Chakravarti in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology has been awarded the Medical Research Society grant.

Dr. Leah Wuescher in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology received a grant from the Medical Research Society to support her research and submit a revised R21 or R01 grant.

General Surgery Resident, Dr. Sarah Hill, was selected the 2023 Brigid Scanlan/Women in Thoracic Surgery (WTS) Traveling Mentorship Award general surgery resident recipient.  This award includes up to $2,500 towards travel-related expenses including room and board for the designated travel elective to visit Dr. Sara Pereira, University of Utah.

Dr. Eileen Quinn in the Department of Pediatrics was appointed co-chair of the Regression Work Group for the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG-USA).

Dr. Yvette Perry, Associate Dean for Admissions & Strategic Enrollment, and Nicole Bell (Neuroscience and Neurological Disorders Ph.D. student) recently attended the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS) graduate fair in Anaheim, Calif. It was attended by undergraduate students from all 50 states and other territories including Puerto Rico, comprising over 5,000 undergraduate underrepresented minority students!

Dr. Viviana Ferreira, associate professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and M.D./Ph.D. student Justin Franco were in Puerto Rico this past fall to attend the graduate fair and conference for the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS). They are pictured above standing in front of our college's booth. Dr. Ferreira reports that this expansive conference's registrants included more than 1,700 professionals, 125 post docs, 1,500 exhibitors and 5,900 general attendees – 3,000 of which are students. 

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Last Updated: 12/21/23