Match Day is this Thursday. Reynold Duclas, from the Class of 2006, celebrates his success at last year's Match Day.

Match Day is this Thursday. Reynold Duclas, from the Class of 2006, celebrates his success at last year's Match Day.  More...

Around Campus
arrow Retirement Plan Decision Guides
arrow Learn About Your Retirement Plan Options
arrow new  March is National Nutrition Month
arrow new  Travel Management Office Announcement
arrow new  Professional Development Classes Available
arrow new  Verify Your Demographic Information
arrow new  Camp Discovery: UM Canterbury Summer Camps
arrow new  Wellness Services: Preventive Care
arrow IT Update: Computer-Based Calendars
arrow Finish your Degree at the University of Miami
arrow Performance Evaluation/Appraisal Policy Changes
arrow Calder Library: Create a New Ovid Personal Account
arrow AIG VALIC presents "Understanding 403(b) Plans"
arrow National Biotechnology Information Workshops
arrow Go Online with CME
arrow Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute Research Grants Available
arrow Questions about Compliance? UM Helplines Can Assist You
arrow e-Update Submission Guidelines

Human Subjects Research Opportunities
For information on current Human Subjects Research Opportunities, see the listings below.

Feedback

Faculty and staff submissions should be e-mailed to the Office of Communications, at update@med.miami.edu.


Events
arrowTODAY
  Tuesday, March 13, 2007, Noon
new  Pharmacology Lecture: Localization of Arrestin and Transducin in Rod and Cone Photoreceptors
arrowTOMORROW
  Wednesday, March 14, 2007, 9 a.m. to noon
new  Enter Grant Proposals Electronically
  Wednesday, March 14, 2007, 6 p.m.
new  Colorectal Cancer Forum
arrowUPCOMING
  Tuesday, March 13, 2007, Noon
Lecture on Glyconutrients and Stem Cells
  Tuesday, March 13, 2007, 1:30 p.m.
Conversations About Cancer: Swallowing for the Head and Neck Cancer Survivor
  Wednesday, March 14, 2007, 12:15 p.m.
Mining Anger Productively
  Thursday, March 15, 2007, 11 a.m.
new  Cancer Biomarker Presentation: Hyaluronic Acid Synthase
  Thursday, March 15, 2007, Noon
new  Pharmacology Lecture: Regulation of Replication in Vertebrate Genes
  Thursday, March 15, 2007, Noon
new  The Technology Transfer Process
  Thursday, March 15, 2007, 12:30 p.m.
Advanced Practice Council
  Thursday, March 15, 2007, 12:30 p.m.
Ophthalmology Lecture: Glaucoma Signs and Symptoms
  Friday, March 16, 2007, 8 a.m.
Rehabilitation Medicine Lecture: State of the Art Spine Surgery Techniques
  Friday, March 16, 2007, Noon
new  Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Lecture: Facing Down the Macrophage
  Friday, March 16, 2007, 1 p.m.
Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Advances in Insomnia Management
  Friday, March 16, 2007
Environmental Ethics Conference
  Saturday, March 17, 2007, 9:30 a.m.
Living With Bladder Cancer
  Monday, March 19, 2007, Noon
new  Mary Bartlett Bunge Distinguished Women in Cell Biology Lecture
  Monday, March 19, 2007, Noon
Physiology/Biophysics Lecture: The Chemical Synapse Goes Electric
  Monday, March 19, 2007, 4 p.m.
new  Vascular Biology Institute Lecture: Cardiac Stem Cells
  Tuesday, March 20, 2007, Noon
new  Jay Weiss Center Grand Rounds: The Global War on Drugs
  Tuesday, March 20, 2007, Noon
new  Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute Lecture: Nuclear Envelope Defect and Chromasomal Instability
  Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Medical Issues and the Growing Child Conference
  Wednesday, March 21, 2007, 11 a.m.
Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Phosphodiesterase Genes and Susceptibility to Depression
  Thursday, March 22, 2007, 12:15 p.m.
new  EAP Seminar: The Golden Years
  Thursday, March 22, 2007, 12:30 p.m.
Ophthalmology Lecture: Imaging Vertebrate Retinal Development
  Wednesday, March 28, 2007, 11 a.m.
new  Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Post Partum Mood Disorders
  Wednesday, March 28, 2007, Noon
new  Healthy Eating Seminars
  Thursday, March 29, 2007, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
new  Wine and Food Festival to Benefit the Lung Association
  Friday, March 30, 2007, Noon
Geriatrics Lecture, Genetics and Cell Biology in Aging
  Friday, April 9-11, 2007
Post Polio Conference
e-update.med.miami.edu

 Back to top
This Thursday is Match Day 2007

There aren't many people on the medical campus who don't know what this Thursday is - Match Day, 2007. Students in their final year of study at medical schools across the country will learn where they'll serve their medical residencies this Thursday starting at noon.

UM Miller School students, 134 of them, will join nearly 15,000 peers at medical schools around the country and another 10,000 applicants from foreign medical schools, osteopathic schools and elsewhere in learning from the National Resident Matching Program where they will begin practicing medicine. Students apply for their top three choices of location and specialty through the matching program. The UM Miller School of Medicine routinely places more than 90 percent of students in their first choice.

Please join Dean Pascal Goldschmidt, M.D., and many other members of the UM Miller School family, this Thursday at noon in the Schoninger Research Quadrangle for what is always an emotional and inspiring event.


Around CampusBack to top
Retirement Plan Decision Guides

The Retirement Plan Decision Guides have been mailed to faculty and staff to their mailing address as recorded in myUM.  Information regarding your existing retirement plan, the new Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) and online resources will be included in the Retirement Plan Decision Guide.

The University is introducing a new retirement plan, the Retirement Savings Plan, which will be the only plan available to faculty and staff whose date of employment is on or after June 1, 2007. Faculty and staff in existing retirement plans will be given a one-time opportunity to elect to stay in their current plan or begin earning benefits in the new RSP. The election is irrevocable and becomes effective June 1. Regardless of your election, you will not lose benefits you have already earned in your existing retirement plan.

Participants in the existing retirement plans must make their retirement plan election by midnight, April 6, at myum.miami.edu.

The University will be holding a series of information sessions on the new retirement plan. For a list of information sessions visit www.miami.edu/benefits/InformationalSessions.pdf. For a list of frequently asked questions concerning the plan, visit https://www6.miami.edu/benefits/RSP-FAQs.pdf. If you have further questions, contact Benefits Administration at newretplan@miami.edu.


Learn About Your Retirement Plan Options

A representative from Lincoln Financial Group will be on the medical campus March 20 and April 17 to conduct individual counseling sessions. To schedule an appointment, contact Theresa Yong toll free at 866-772-4163 or via email at tmyong@lnc.com.

A representative from TIAA-CREF will be at the University of Miami March 27 and 29. To schedule an appointment call 1-800-842-2003, ext. 3522.

A representative from Fidelity Investments will be on the medical campus March 27 to answer financial questions about its retirement plans. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-642-7131.

And a representative from VALIC will be at the University of Miami on March 30, April 18 and May 16 to conduct individual counseling sessions. To schedule an appoint please call Brad at 786-205-5617 or 1-800-892-5558 ext. 89413, or e-mail brad_baumgartner@aigvalic.com.

All meetings will take place in the Human Resources Benefits Office, 901 NW 17th St., Suite D.


new  March is National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month.

Did you know that one pound of body fat is equal to 3,500 calories? That a typical 12 ounce regular soda contains 40 grams of sugar and about 150 calories? That some of your favorite coffee drinks can have as many as 560 calories in one drink?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have some tips for increasing your fruit and vegetable consumption. Start the day with whole fruits or vegetables. Slice bananas or strawberries on top of your cereal. Have a salad with lunch and carrot sticks for an afternoon snack. Include a vegetable with dinner and you already have about five cups of fruits and vegetables. Try adding a piece of fruit for a snack or an extra vegetable at dinner.

There are so many choices when selecting fruits and vegetables so try something new that helps you reach your goal. Keep things fresh and interesting by combining fruits and vegetables of different flavors and colors, like red grapes with pineapple chunks, or tomatoes and yellow peppers. When you keep fruits and vegetables visible and easily accessible you tend to eat them more; for instance, store cleaned produce at eye-level in the refrigerator, or keep a big bowl of fruit on the table. And look for fruits and vegetables at restaurants, too.

To start taking action for your health, utilize the preventive programs available to you here at UM, including the Coral Gables and Medical Wellness Centers and the Walking Canes Program. Humana members may call a personal nurse at 877-416-8773, ext. 8542 or ext. 8462, for health coaching and guidance.

For additional information, please check these web links:
• http://www6.miami.edu/wellness
• http://wellness.med.miami.edu
• http://www.eatright.org
• http://www.5aday.gov


new  Travel Management Office Announcement

Travel Management regretfully announces the dissolution of the commercial relationship between Miami World Travel Agency and the University of Miami as of March 15. Employees that presently use Miami World Services must transfer their travel needs to any of the four authorized agencies at www.miami.edu/travel. Miami World will facilitate ticket exchanges through March 30.

For further help and information, please contact Travel Management at 305-284-1087.


new  Professional Development Classes Available

The Professional Development and Training Office exists to ensure that professional development activities are designed and implemented that meet or exceed research-based standards for effective professional development at UM. This week's schedule includes classes on team building and delegating tasks. To browse a list of upcoming PDTO courses available this month, visit http://www6.miami.edu/UMH/CDA/UMH_Main/1,1770,36483-1;52542-3,00.html.


new  Verify Your Demographic Information

We would like to remind all faculty and staff to verify and, if necessary, update demographic information before Friday, March 30. It is very important that your information is accurate to ensure that you will receive important University communications including those relating to your benefits. It is also important for emergency contact purposes.

To verify/update your information, log on to https://myum.miami.edu using your CANEID. Once you have logged on, select "Verify Address and Other Information" on the right side under the "Personal and Biographical Info" heading. Check the "Verify" box next to each item to confirm the information is correct or click the "Change your...." and change the information on the Update page, then click "Submit" to record your changes. Once all items are verified, click the "Submit" button on the bottom of the Verify/Update page to complete the verification process. Changes to your information will be made immediately, however, there may be a slight delay in processing work title and supervisor changes.

Please note: You may also verify/update your information at any time and should do so whenever a change occurs.


new  Camp Discovery: UM Canterbury Summer Camps

UM Canterbury has another fun-filled summer planned. Our summer camp program is located on the Coral Gables Campus across from the Lowe Art Museum and is geared toward toddlers through third grade. Our summer program is divided into two age divisions: juniors, which are toddlers through pre-kindergarten, and seniors, which are kindergarten through third grade. Two four-week sessions run from June 4 through July 27, 2007. Our eight fun-filled weeks include themes such as Animal Mania, Abracadabra, Lights, Camera Action, and Construction Production with each week ending with a theme-based show. We also offer a wide variety of enrichments, including swimming, dance, soccer, and tennis. Each week, children will participate in special activities and will have the opportunity to dress up for weekly themes. Daily activities include arts and crafts, music, and sports. For more information and an application, visit our website at http://umcanterbuy.miami.edu. If you have any questions feel free to contact camp director Michelle Klein at mklein@miami.edu.


new  Wellness Services: Preventive Care

To help you focus on the importance of preventive care, the following wellness services are being provided by Humana in 2007 at no cost to the member:

Routine physicals/labs, once a year after age 16; routine immunizations, visit www.miami.edu/benefits for vaccine guidelines; HPV vaccine, three doses for females age 9-26; well child care up to age 16; well woman exam, once a year after age 16; breast cancer screening, mammogram every one to two years beginning at age 40; cervical  cancer screening, Pap test after age 21 at the latest, then every three years after age 30 if you show three negative results in a row; prostate cancer screening, PSA and digital rectal examination annually after age 45; osteoporosis screening beginning at age 60, every two years; colorectal cancer screening at age 50 and over, annual fecal occult blood test, flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years, colonoscopy every ten years, and a double barium enema every five years.

These recommendations assume you have no symptoms or diagnosis of an illness or disease. If you have symptoms or a diagnosis of a disease or illness, your provider may make other recommendations.

In order to facilitate the zero co-pay and zero deductible for these services, please have your provider's office call the Humana customer service number on the back of your membership card and take your Summary of Benefits with you to your appointment. Your Summary of Benefits can be printed out from the MyHumana website. You may also want to print this page and take it to your preventive care visits.


IT Update: Computer-Based Calendars

If you rely on a computer-based calendar, such as Microsoft Outlook or other e-mail software, it is critical that you read this advisory. Daylight Saving Time has a new, expanded schedule starting this year. The extended DST period is between March 11 and April 1 this spring, and between October 28 and November 4 this fall.

"Patches" (software upgrades) are available to adjust computer clocks to the new DST schedule. Some patches can be applied automatically, depending on the type of computing device and the configuration of its operating software. Others will require action by you.

Due to the complexities of this change, it cannot be guaranteed that ALL computer calendars will shift correctly. You should consider the time of all calendar entries in the extended DST period as suspect until confirmed.

We STRONGLY recommend that you "confirm" the scheduled time for appointments between March 11 and April 1 of this year by typing it in the subject line of all events on your calendar within the extended DST period.

These required computer patches may shift times for calendar entries between March 11 and April 1, and between October 28 and November 4, as part of the correction process. Again, we recommend that you enter the scheduled time for appointments in the subject line between March 11 and April 1 prior to any software upgrades.

For additional information on DST, go to http://it.med.miami.edu.


Finish your Degree at the University of Miami

The Division of Continuing and International Education is hosting a Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) open house on Thursday, March 22 at 6 p.m. in the University Center, room 245. If you have delayed or interrupted your education, the BGS program may be just what you need to enhance your career. This is your opportunity to hear about the many features of this adult-friendly, University of Miami interdisciplinary degree program that encourages students to design their own course of study based upon personal preference and career goals, at a special tuition rate. Reservations are required by calling 305-284-2727 or visiting www.miami.edu/bgsdegree. Complimentary refreshments will be served.


Performance Evaluation/Appraisal Policy Changes

Human Resources announces important changes to the Performance Evaluation/Appraisal Policies. For more information about these changes, please visit these sites:

A01 Staff - http://www6.miami.edu/UMH/CDA/UMH_Main/1,1770,13610-1;11502-3,00.html

A03 Staff - http://www6.miami.edu/UMH/CDA/UMH_Main/1,1770,13610-1;11354-3,00.html

A06 Staff - http://www6.miami.edu/UMH/CDA/UMH_Main/1,1770,13610-1;14437-3,00.html

If you have any questions about Human Resources policies, please contact Medical Human Resources at 305-243-6482.


Calder Library: Create a New Ovid Personal Account

The Calder Library encourages all Ovid users to create a new personal account as soon as possible. Access to all current usernames and passwords, necessary to create and maintain “Saved Searches” and “Auto Alerts,” will be suspended on March 31. To set up a personal account on campus, click on the Personal Accounts button in the upper right corner of the Ovid window and choose a personal account name and password. When you click on the “Save Search/Alert” icon at the bottom of the Search History box, you will be prompted to sign on to an existing personal account or to establish a new one. For off-campus users, it is necessary to first register with the library to procure a barcode which is needed to login to the proxy server by clicking the “Remote Access” links under “Quick Links” on the Library’s website at calder.med.miami.edu.

Users who have previously saved Ovid searches need to transfer their saved searches and auto alerts. Once the new personal account is established, users need to ask the Library’s systems department to transfer all saved material into their newly created personal account. It is necessary to provide the systems department with the existing username and the newly-created username. Transfer normally takes twenty-four hours. For additional information or to request the transfer of saved searches or auto alerts, please e-mail caldersystems@med.miami.edu or contact the systems department at 305-243-5530.


AIG VALIC presents "Understanding 403(b) Plans"

Representatives from AIG VALIC will present “Understanding 403(b) Plans” this Thursday. Topics will include utilizing eligible tax credits, asset allocation techniques, new legislation that affects 403(b) plans and distribution rules. The seminars will be held in the Professional Development and Training Office, Dominion Parking Garage, room 155, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and from 2:30 to 4 p.m., both days. To register for one of the seminars call 305-284-6834.


National Biotechnology Information Workshops

The Office of Graduate Studies will host four workshops by the NIH's National Center for Biotechnology Information on Wednesday, March 21, and Thursday, March 22. All workshops will be held in the Calder Library third-floor computer lab and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. You may choose from one to four sessions. Please e-mail ogs@med.miami.edu with the workshops you would like to attend by Monday, March 19. See details about the four seminars below.

Wednesday, March 21, workshop 1, 9 a.m. to noon: "Making Sense of DNA and Protein Sequences." We will find a gene within a eukaryotic DNA sequence, then predict the function of the implied protein product by seeking sequence similarities to proteins of documented function using BLAST and other tools.

Workshop 2, 1 to 4 p.m.: "Identification of Disease Genes." This mini-course deals with the identification of a disease gene using NCBI's human genome assembly.

Thursday, March 22, workshop 3, 9 a.m. to noon: "Correlating Disease Genes and Phenotypes." We will learn to determine what is known about a disease and the gene associated with it. We will then elucidate the biochemical and structural basis for the phenotype caused by the mutant protein.

Workshop 4, 1 to 4 p.m.: "Structure Analysis Quick Start." This course covers how to visualize and annotate 3D protein structures using NCBI's Cn3D, identify conserved domain(s) present in a protein, search for other proteins containing similar domain(s), explore a 3D modeling template for the query protein and find distant sequence homologs that may not be identified by BLAST.


Go Online with CME

You can accomplish a lot by visiting the Continuing Medical Education web page at: www.cme.med.miami.edu:

CME Transcripts
Did you know you can view and download your CME transcripts online?  Visit the Continuing Medical Education web page at www.cme.med.miami.edu and click on the CME transcript link. 

CME Listings
See which UM Miller School of Medicine-sponsored CME activities are being held on or off campus by visiting the CME webpage at www.cme.med.miami.edu.  View a listing of upcoming CME activities that outline the conference topics, speakers, objectives, target audience and credits offered.

Online Registration
Go to www.cme.med.miami.edu and click on the conferences link.  Find the event, register, and pay online. A confirmation will automatically be sent to your e-mail address upon successful processing of your registration. 


Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute Research Grants Available

The Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute at UM/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is pleased to announce one-year pilot projects in the amount of $50,000 to encourage the development of new discoveries in basic, translational and clinical research in breast cancer. These pilot project grants are intended to support novel research that moves findings in a scientific field toward novel clinical implementation and brings provocative clinical observations back to the laboratory. The hope is that these projects will ultimately grow into full R01 proposals. Support from the Women’s Cancer League will allow the BFBCI to fund projects of relevance to ovarian cancer in this round of grant funding. Only faculty members are eligible to apply and applicants whose projects were funded in the previous grant cycle are not eligible.

The deadline to apply is March 30. For an application and additional information, please contact Cristina Llanos at 305-243-6292 or via e-mail at: cllanos@med.miami.edu.


Questions about Compliance? UM Helplines Can Assist You
  • University Compliance (anonymous hotline): 866-YOURCALL
  • Billing (anonymous hotline): 305-243-HELP or 877-415-HELP
  • Research Integrity and Compliance: 305-243-6415
  • Financial Improprieties: 305-284-2605
  • Privacy Office/HIPAA: 305-243-5000 or 1-866-366-HUSH
  • University Ombudsperson: 305-284-4922

Any University of Miami employee reporting or deciding whether to report activity that may be in violation of a law, rule, or regulation is protected against retaliation by the Whistleblower Protection Statement. For more information, visit the Office of Compliance site.


e-Update Submission Guidelines

  • Please note that submissions are due no later than 5 p.m. Thursday for publication on Tuesday.
  • We are unable to include attachments.
  • Please use URL addresses in your announcements rather than hyperlinks.
  • Event announcements should include the time, date, location, speaker, topic and cost if applicable. All events should have a contact phone number or e-mail address for further information. We will run event announcements for three weeks only.
  • Information must be written in paragraph form. PDFs, Publisher files and flyers are not accepted.
  • Human Subject recruitment announcements must be IRB approved.
  • Events to be listed should be either held on the medical campus, sponsored or hosted by the Miller School of Medicine, or affect all or most of the employees on the medical campus.
  • Please be sure to e-mail items to e-Update at update@med.miami.edu. Submissions to other e-mail addresses run the risk of being missed.


EventsBack to top
Lecture on Glyconutrients and Stem Cells
March 13, 2007, Noon, Division of Complementary Medicine, Dominion Tower, fourth floor

H. Reg McDaniel, M.D., founder and director of research at the Fisher Institute for Medical Research in Grand Prairie, Texas, will present “The Impact of Glyconutrients on Stem Cells,” today from noon to 2 p.m. in the Division of Complementary Medicine on the fourth floor of Dominion Tower. This presentation is based on Dr. McDaniel’s 22 years of clinical work with glyconutrients. We will also have time available in the morning and afternoon to discuss a study on glyconutrients and Alzheimer's disease that will be conducted by John E. Lewis, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health. For more information, please contact John Lewis at jelewis@miami.edu.


Conversations About Cancer: Swallowing for the Head and Neck Cancer Survivor
March 13, 2007, 1:30 p.m., UM/Sylvester at Deerfield Beach, 1192 East Newport Center Drive

Please join us for the Mort Silverblatt Head and Neck Cancer Support Group, discussing “Swallowing for the Head and Neck Cancer Survivor," presented by Donna S. Lundy, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Otolaryngology at the UM Miller School of Medicine. The group will meet today from 1:30 to 3 p.m., at 1192 East Newport Center Drive, Suite 100, Deerfield Beach, as part of the Conversations about Cancer series. The support group is free and open to all head and neck cancer survivors and their families, not only those associated with UM/Sylvester, and meets the second Tuesday of every month. Please call 1-800-545-2292 for more information.


new  Pharmacology Lecture: Localization of Arrestin and Transducin in Rod and Cone Photoreceptors
March 13, 2007, Noon, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, fourth-floor auditorium

Please join us today at noon in the RMSB fourth-floor auditorium for a seminar by Vladlen Z. Slepak, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology at the UM Miller School of Medicine. Dr. Slepak will present “Localization of Arrestin and Transducin in Rod and Cone Photoreceptors: Unexpected Implications for Protein Trafficking and Basic G Protein Function.” For additional information, please contact Nilcer Aviles at 305-243-6691 or e-mail naviles@med.miami.edu.


Mining Anger Productively
March 14, 2007, 12:15 p.m., Medical Wellness Center

Anger is a source of power and self-preservation but it can also be used to intimidate and harm others. This seminar will outline positive ways to use anger using case studies about situations that stimulate anger. Participants will identify ways they use anger constructively and each participant will plan to use anger in a productive way in a situation that often triggers destructive actions.

Join us tomorrow from 12:15 pm to 1:15 pm in the Medical Wellness Center. For more information, call 305-284-6604. To register please call the Medical Wellness Center at 305-243-7600, and please post this announcement for those who do not have access to e-mail.


new  Enter Grant Proposals Electronically
March 14, 2007, 9 a.m. to noon, Calder Library, third-floor computer classroom

Computer lab training is being offered tomorrow morning to provide hands-on instruction for NIH electronic submission of proposals through Grants.gov. Trainers will walk participants through the process as well as provide tips for avoiding common errors when submitting electronically.

Attendees will gain a better understanding of the requirements for electronic submission through Grants.gov. The emphasis will be on finding and using the correct application package, following grant application instructions and understanding the procedures for the internal routing of your proposal.

The class runs from 9 a.m. to noon tomorrow at the Calder Library in the third-floor computer classroom. This training will be offered again on April 20 on the Coral Gables Campus.

Register early through NetLearning at http://netlearning.miami.edu because space is limited.


new  Colorectal Cancer Forum
March 14, 2007, 6 p.m., Aventura Hospital

UM/Sylvester, in conjunction with Aventura Hospital, is presenting a colorectal cancer forum to recognize Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month tomorrow from 6 to 8 p.m. at Aventura Hospital.

Michael Hellinger, M.D., associate professor of surgery and chief of the Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery at the UM Miller School of Medicine, and Carolyn Messere, M.D., colorectal surgeon at the Aventura Hospital and Medical Center Comprehensive Cancer Center, will present "Risk, Prevention and Treatment for Colorectal Cancer," at Aventura Hospital, 21110 Biscayne Boulevard, conference room 101. Refreshments will be served and free parking will be available. Please call 1-888-256-7692 to RSVP. For more information please contact Carthy Thomas at 305-243-4071.


new  Cancer Biomarker Presentation: Hyaluronic Acid Synthase
March 15, 2007, 11 a.m., Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, fourth-floor auditorium

Join us this Thursday at 11 a.m. in the Rosenstiel Medical Science Building fourth-floor auditorium for a seminar by Rooz Golshani, a graduate student in the Molecular and Developmental Biology Program in the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy at the UM Miller School of Medicine. Mr. Golshani will present his dissertation seminar, “Hyaluronic Acid Synthase: The Pursuit of a Cancer Biomarker and its Function.” For more information please contact Nilcer Aviles at 305-243-6691 or e-mail naviles@med.miami.edu.


new  Pharmacology Lecture: Regulation of Replication in Vertebrate Genes
March 15, 2007, Noon, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, room 6018

Join us this Thursday at noon in the Pharmacology conference room, RMSB room 6018, for “Regulation of Replication in Vertebrate Genes,” presented by Anthony Caswell, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology at the UM Miller School of Medicine.

For additional information, please call 305-243-5909.


new  The Technology Transfer Process
March 15, 2007, Noon, Batchelor Children's Research Institute, Baxter Conference Room

Join us this Thursday at noon in the Baxter Conference Room, on the first floor of the Batchelor Children's Research Institute, for a sponsored roundtable discussion, "The Technology Transfer Process and the Responsibilities of the PI," presented by Alexey Titov, Ph.D., licensing manager in the Office of Technology Transfer.

The goal of this bi-monthly hour-long roundtable discussion is to provide a forum for administrators and staff to discuss topics of interest related to sponsored programs. Presenters deliver a 20- to 30-minute presentation followed by a discussion. Because of space limitations, registration is required.

To register, log on to NetLearning using your UM ID # (C-Number) at https://netlearning.miami.edu.
Search for class you want by changing the dates at the top to reflect classes offered in March, 2007.
Scroll to locate the March 15 class and click on Enroll located on the left. For more information  please e-mail Maria Valero-Martinez at mvalero@med.miami.edu.


Advanced Practice Council
March 15, 2007, 12:30 p.m., UM/Sylvester conference room 1301

The University of Miami Advanced Practice Council invites all advanced practitioners (ARNPs, physician assistants, midwives, nurse anesthetists and clinical specialists) to attend our monthly meetings. Lectures covering a wide range of topics from all disciplines will be discussed. The council's goals include community involvement, educational opportunities for members and an opportunity to network with peers. Please join us this Thursday at 12:30 p.m. in UM/Sylvester conference room 1301 for a business meeting followed by a lecture from Gerri Smith on diabetes. For more information or to be added to our contact list, call Vanessa Fuelling at 305-243-4909.


Ophthalmology Lecture: Glaucoma Signs and Symptoms
March 15, 2007, 12:30 p.m., Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Retter Auditorium

Please join us in the Retter Auditorium this Thursday at 12:30 p.m. as Richard K. Lee, M.D., Ph.D. assistant professor of ophthalmology at the UM Miller School of Medicine, presents “Glaucoma I: Clinical and Basic Science Signs and Symptoms," a Research Training Program lecture.

 For more information please contact 305-326-6047 or jshum@med.miami.edu.


Rehabilitation Medicine Lecture: State of the Art Spine Surgery Techniques
March 16, 2007, 8 a.m., Jackson Memorial Hospital Rehabilitation Center Building, third-floor auditorium

The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine will present grand rounds on “State of the Art Spine Surgery Techniques,” presented by Steven Vanni, D.O., D.C., assistant professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery, this Friday from 8 to 9 a.m., in the Jackson Rehabilitation Center Building, third-floor auditorium. For further details, please contact Coretha Davis at 305-585-1431.


new  Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Lecture: Facing Down the Macrophage
March 16, 2007, Noon, Gautier, room 118

Please join us this Friday at noon in the Gautier Building, room 118, for “Facing Down the Macrophage: Yersinia and its Type 3 Secretion System,” presented by Kurt Schesser, Ph.D., assistant professor of microbiology and immunology at the UM Miller School of Medicine.


Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Advances in Insomnia Management
March 16, 2007, 1 p.m., Mailman Center for Child Development, eighth-floor auditorium

Please join us for Psychiatry Grand Rounds, "Advances in Insomnia Management," presented by Tom Roth, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Wayne State University School of Medicine, and chief and division head of the Sleep Disorders and Research Center at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. Dr. Roth will speak this Friday at 1 p.m. in the Mailman Center for Child Development eighth-floor auditorium.

Physicians, psychologists, and social workers can earn 1.0 CME/CEU.

For more information please contact Carmen Bou-Crick at 305-355-9073 or cbou@med.miami.edu.


Environmental Ethics Conference
March 16, 2007, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, downtown Fort Lauderdale

Join us for the sixth annual Florida Environmental Ethics Conference this Friday at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The day-long conference, co-sponsored by the University of Miami Ethics Programs, Florida Atlantic University, the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust and the Florida Bioethics Network, focuses on ethical issues in Florida's environmental future, urban design and environmental journalism. Learn more at http://www.fau.edu/environment/.


Living With Bladder Cancer
March 17, 2007, 9:30 a.m., Florida Atlantic University, Business Building, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton

Physicians from UM/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center will present a special seminar on living with bladder cancer this Saturday in the Business Building on the campus of Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton. Urology Chairman Mark Soloway will lead a team of faculty members discussing who is at risk, early-detection screening, and a variety of treatment options. Bladder cancer survivors will share their inspiring stories.

The seminar is free and lunch will be provided. For more information please call 305-243-6597.


new  Mary Bartlett Bunge Distinguished Women in Cell Biology Lecture
March 19, 2007, Noon, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, fourth-floor auditorium

Please join us for the Mary Bartlett Bunge Distinguished Women in Cell Biology Lecture Series,
March 19th at noon in the Rosenstiel Medical Science Building fourth-floor auditorium.
Jennifer Lippincott-Schwartz, Ph.D., from the Cell Biology and Metabolism Branch at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, will present "Emerging Fluorescence Technologies for the Analysis of Protein Localization and Organelle Dynamics." For additional information please contact Maria Penton at 305-243-6691 or e-mail mpenton@med.miami.edu.


Physiology/Biophysics Lecture: The Chemical Synapse Goes Electric
March 19, 2007, Noon, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, room 5122

Hanna Parnas, Ph.D., and Itzchak Parnas, Ph.D., professors in the Department of Neurobiology and Hebrew University in Jerusalem, will present "The chemical synapse goes electric: Voltage dependent GPCRs control the time course of transmitter release in fast synapses," on Monday, March 19 at noon in the Physiology/Biophyics Conference Room, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, room 5122.


new  Vascular Biology Institute Lecture: Cardiac Stem Cells
March 19, 2007, 4 p.m., Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Retter Auditorium

The Vascular Biology Institute invites you to a seminar to hear Piero Anversa, M.D., director of the Cardiovascular Research Institute at New York Medical College. Dr. Anversa will present “Cardiac Stem Cells,” on Monday, March 19, at 4 p.m. in the Bascolm Palmer Eye Institute, second floor, in the Retter Auditorium. For further information call 305-243-2811.


new  Jay Weiss Center Grand Rounds: The Global War on Drugs
March 20, 2007, Noon, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, third-floor auditorium

The Jay Weiss Center is pleased to announce that Ethan Nadelmann, J.D., Ph.D., a leading expert on drug policy reform and executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, will present "Rethinking the Global War on Drugs: Past, Present and Future," as part of our Grand Rounds Series on Social Medicine and Health Equity. Dr. Nadelmann will discuss the social and economic implications of the drug policy regime and the possibility of reform in favor of decriminalization and harm reduction on Tuesday, March 20 at noon in the Rosenstiel Medical Science Building third-floor auditorium.

For further information please visit www.jayweisscenter.org, or call Maria Pieiga at 305-243-8893.


new  Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute Lecture: Nuclear Envelope Defect and Chromasomal Instability
March 20, 2007, Noon, Gautier Building, room 118

The Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute at UM/Sylvester will present Xiang-Xi (Mike) Xu, Ph.D., associate professor and a member of the Ovarian Cancer and Tumor Cell Biology Programs at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. Dr. Xu will present “Nuclear Envelope Defect and Chromosomal Instability in Breast and Ovarian Cancer,” next Tuesday at noon in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology conference room, Gautier Building, room 118. For additional information please call 305-243-9885.


Medical Issues and the Growing Child Conference
March 21, 2007, Mailman Center for Child Development, eighth-floor auditorium

Registration is still open for the Medical Issues and the Growing Child Conference – Mental Health Concerns: Assessment and Treatment Options for Young Children. The conference will take place in the eighth-floor auditorium of the Mailman Center for Child Development on Wednesday, March 21.

To learn more visit http://peds2.med.miami.edu/mailman/mailman.htm and click on Medical Issues and the Growing Child Conference – Part B. For more details please call Wanda Denise Castro at 305-243-4466 or wcastro@med.miami.edu.


Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Phosphodiesterase Genes and Susceptibility to Depression
March 21, 2007, 11 a.m., Sieron Building, 1425 NW 10 Avenue, second-floor conference room

Please join us for Psychiatry Grand Rounds, "Phosphodiesterase Genes and Susceptibility to Depression," presented by Ma-Li Wong, M.D., professor and vice chair for translational research and director of the Center on Pharmacogenomics in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the UM Miller School of Medicine. Dr. Wong will speak on Wednesday, March 21, at 11 a.m. in the Sieron Building, second-floor conference room.

This activity has been approved for 1.0 CME/CEUs for physicians, psychologists, and social workers.

For more information please contact Carmen Bou-Crick, 305-355-9073 or cbou@med.miami.edu.


new  EAP Seminar: The Golden Years
March 22, 2007, 12:15 p.m., Dominion Parking Garage, room 155

The Employee Assistance Program is pleased to offer "Golden Years," a seminar that gives an overview of issues facing the aging workforce and elder caregivers and will include a discussion of services available to the elderly. Long-term care insurance, Medicare and prescription drug coverage will also be reviewed. Participants will be better able to discuss retirement planning, low prescription drug care, and a variety of resources.

Join us Thursday, March 22, from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. in room 155 of the Dominion Parking
Garage. This talk is also available on the Coral Gables campus on Tuesday, March 20, from 12:15  to 1:15 pm in the Max Orovitz Building, room 139.

For either seminar, register on-line at http://netlearning.miami.edu. For help with registration, call 305-284-5110.


Ophthalmology Lecture: Imaging Vertebrate Retinal Development
March 22, 2007, 12:30 p.m., Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Retter Auditorium

Please join us for a Frontiers in Vision Science Seminar presented by Rachel Wong, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Biological Structure at the University of Washington. Dr. Wong will present “Imaging Vertebrate Retinal Development," on Thursday, March 22, at 12:30 p.m. in the Retter Auditorium at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute.

For more information or to RSVP please call 305-326-6047 or jshum@med.miami.edu.


new  Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Post Partum Mood Disorders
March 28, 2007, 11 a.m., Mailman Center for Child Development, eighth-floor auditorium

Please join us for Psychiatry Grand Rounds, "Treatment Considerations in the Pharmacotherapy of Women with Gestational and Post Partum Mood Disorders," presented by M. Beatriz Currier, M.D., associate professor of clinical psychiatry, director of the Division of Consultation Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, and director of the Courtelis Center for Psychosocial Oncology at UM/Sylvester. This is the Craig Beasley Memorial Lecture. Dr. Currier will speak Wednesday, March 28 at 11 a.m. in the Mailman Center for Child Development eighth-floor auditorium.

Physicians, psychologists, and social workers can earn 1.0 CME/CEU.

For more information please contact Carmen Bou-Crick at 305-355-9073 or cbou@med.miami.edu.


new  Healthy Eating Seminars
March 28, 2007, Noon, Medical Wellness Center classroom

UMatter is hosting a lecture and lunch series on the topic of healthy eating and fat consumption,
“The Healing Power of Fats,” by UM registered dietitian Karon Rzad. Karon will speak on Wednesday, March 21, at noon in the Coral Gables Wellness Center classroom, and the following Wednesday, March 28, at noon, in the Medical Wellness Center classroom.

Please RSVP by e-mailing eschy@humana.com or calling 305-626-5723 by the day before the talks, as space is limited.


new  Wine and Food Festival to Benefit the Lung Association
March 29, 2007, 5:30 to 9 p.m., Giralda Avenue between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street, Coral Gables

Join us Thursday night, March 29, for the Fourth Annual Coral Gables Wine and Food Festival to benefit the South Florida chapter of the American Lung Association and pulmonary research at the UM Miller School of Medicine. You'll be able to sample food and wine from around the world at 25 tables along Coral Gables' "restaurant row," and Giralda Avenue between Ponce de Leon and Galiano will be open only to foot traffic throughout the event. The VIP reception begins at 5:30 p.m. and the street festival runs from 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets for the street festival are $40 per person - VIP reception tickets are $100.

You can purchase tickets online at http://www.coralgableswineandfood.com or by calling the American Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA.

The festival is presented by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.


Geriatrics Lecture, Genetics and Cell Biology in Aging
March 30, 2007, Noon, Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, room 3109

Richard A. Miller, M.D., Ph.D., professor of pathology and associate director for research in the Geriatrics Center at the University of Michigan, will discuss: "Size, Stress, and Aging: Lessons from Long-Lived Mutant Mice." Dr. Miller's research work centers on problems in the genetics and cell biology of aging in mice as well as studies of treatments that repair immune function in old age. His talk will be held on Friday, March 30, in RMSB room 3109 from noon to 2 p.m. Lunch will be served. Please RSVP via e-mail to spurcell@med.miami.edu or call 305-355-9081.


Post Polio Conference
April 9-11, 2007, Radisson Hotel, 1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Downtown Miami

The Department of Neurology and the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, in conjunction with the UM Post Polio Treatment, Education and Research Centre and the Post Polio Association of South Florida, invites you to the three-day Post-Polio International Conference April 9 through 11. Seminars will feature local and national Post-Polio medical specialists who will discuss and answer questions about all aspects of diagnosis, treatment and research for polio survivors. A vendor exhibit area with disability-related products and services will be available. The deadline to register is March 16. For more information and to register, visit www.postpolioworld.com, call 305-230-0687 or e-mail postpoliomiami@aol.com


Human Subjects ResearchBack to top

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is recruiting patients for the following clinical studies:

• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Do you experience heavy menstrual bleeding on two to five days of your regular menstrual period? Does heavy menstrual bleeding keep you from your normal social and work activities? If you answered yes to these questions, you may qualify for a research study of an investigational drug for heavy menstrual bleeding. This investigational drug is not a hormone. You must be a generally healthy woman between ages 18 and 49, have regular menstrual cycles with heavy bleeding, and not have any other bleeding disorder.

Qualified participants will receive the study drug and study-related procedures including physical exams, electrocardiograms, eye exams and laboratory tests at no cost. They will also receive compensation for time and travel. For more information, please contact Marisol Sloane at 305-243-1616.

• Hot Flashes

Are hot flashes making you miserable? You’re not alone. As many as 85% of postmenopausal women experience the discomfort of hot flashes -- sudden sensations of heat, often accompanied by sweating, racing pulse, and anxiety. If you’re suffering from hot flashes, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is conducting a clinical research trial studying a non-hormonal investigational drug to see if it may relieve hot flashes. If you are a postmenopausal woman experiencing bothersome hot flashes with sweating every day you may be eligible to participate. Qualified participants will receive at no charge study-related medical examinations, laboratory tests, electrocardiograms, investigational medication and compensation for travel costs to doctors’ visits. For more information, please contact Marisol Sloane at 305-243-1616.

• HPV Vaccination

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is conducting a clinical research study comparing an investigational cervical cancer vaccine to the newly FDA-approved cervical cancer vaccine (Gardasil). The study requires 8 visits in a 2-year period. Please refer interested patients who are 18 to 45 years old, in good health and who have not previously been vaccinated against HPV/cervical cancer, to the OB/GYN Research Department at 305-243-5832 (Option 6).




Jay Skyler, M.D., and Jennifer Marks, M.D., from the Diabetes Research Institute, are currently recruiting patients 18 years of age and older with type 1 diabetes mellitus for participation in research studies to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of inhaled insulin. Patients must be taking multiple insulin injections daily, be non-smokers and in good health. Those who are interested should contact Rogelio Suarez at 305-243-6573 or rsuarez2@med.miami.edu.


Robert Kirsner, M.D., Ph.D., vice chairman of the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, is looking for people with foot ulcers as a complication of diabetes or venous insufficiency. Please contact Carol Kittles at 305-243-8485 for additional information on these studies.



The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences is conducting a federally funded HIV behavioral intervention research study for women and their partners, the New Opportunities for Women 2 (NOW 2) Project. The project will address topics related to safer sex, sexual risk reduction, STDs and communication skills. The NOW 2 Project is currently recruiting English-speaking couples, in which one or both individuals must be HIV positive. Participants must be 18 years or older, willing to be tested for STDs, and answer personal questions in a confidential interview. Women and men who participate may each receive compensation of up to $360 for an entire year of participation (this includes attendance at all interviews, examinations and sessions). If interested, please contact Arnetta Phillips or Jackie Gomez, at 305-243-2103, or (aphillips@yahoo.com / jgomez4@med.miami.edu).


The Center for Liver Diseases is recruiting participants for the following studies:

• Patients with chronic liver disease
This studies the correlation between liver histology and elasticity measured in patients with chronic liver disease using a device known as Fibroscan. This is a painless, non-invasive test. Qualifying patient must have received a laparoscopic liver biopsy within the past two months or scheduled a laparoscopic liver biopsy within the next two months by their PCP at Cedars Medical Center-Miami. This is a one time visit. Liver cancer patients are excluded. Contact: Zvi Leibovici at 305-243-2330 or zleibovici@med.miami.edu.

• Determining the relation of an elevated HBV DNA in hepatitis B patients
This is a chart review on hepatitis B subjects to determine the relation of an elevated HBV DNA and normal liver function tests to the histological findings of the liver biopsy. The study requires the subject has a previous liver biopsy between 2003-2006. They must also see the research team to obtain a hepatitis B serology panel, liver function tests (ALT and AST), and HBV viral load. Subjects must be more than 18 years old, have a documented laboratory diagnosis of HBV infection of at least six months, treatment naïve patient, and a documented HBV DNA. For further information, contact Zvi Leibovici at 305-243-2330, or e-mail at zleibovici@med.miami.edu.

• Patients with cirrhosis of the liver as a result of hepatitis B 
This is a phase III b protocol comparing entecavir vs. adefovir in chronic hepatitis B subjects with evidence of hepatic decompensation. Subjects must have cirrhosis because of hepatitis B infection, never been treated for hepatitis B or treated with lamivudine (epivir) only, and do not have HIV, hepatitis C or D. For further information please call: 305)-243-6939, or e-mail the study  coordinator, Connie Higgins at: chiggins@med.miami.edu.

• Patients with hepatic encephalopathy
This study will compare Lactulose and Rifaximin to determine the benefit of either drug, or a combination of both. We will be enrolling patients with cirrhosis of the liver and a history of a previous hospitalization for hepatic encephalopathy. Patients will be followed for six months and a one-month post-treatment. Contact Macy Ho, CRC 305-243-4648 or e-mail Mho@med.miami.edu.

Vaccine test in patients with chronic hepatitis C
The Center for Liver Diseases is conducting a phase I, double-blind, placebo controlled, dose escalation, multi-center trial of a therapeutic vaccine in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Subject must be > 18, have no hypersensitivity to baker's yeast, non-cirrhotic, compensated liver disease, and must have received a liver biopsy within the past two years or be willing to have one performed. Subjects can be naïve to previous treatment, or a relapser or partial responder to an interferon-based treatment. Must meet other criteria as well. Contact Macy Ho at 305-243-4648 or mho@med.miami.edu.

• Study of three treatments
The Center for Liver Diseases is conducting a phase 2, double-blind, multi-center, randomized research study in HBV decompensated subjects. Adult subjects with CPT score of 7-12 and no history of HCC will be assigned to one of the three treatment arms: tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), emtricitabine plus tenofovir disprocil fumarate (FTC/TDF) or entecavir (ETV). Patients can be on lamivudine or adefovir dipivoxil. Must meet other criteria. Contact clinical research coordinator Karina Herrera at 305-243-2148 or at kherrera@med.miami.edu.


Do you or does someone you know experience pain related to spinal cord injury? Eva Widerström-Noga, Ph.D., and her colleagues are conducting research into the nature and treatment of pain associated with spinal cord injury. Studies are enrolling now.  Eligible participants will be 18 to 70 years of age and at least two years post-injury.  If you are interested in enrolling, please call The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at 305-243-8132 for information.


Heather Woolery-Lloyd, M.D., of the Division of Cosmetic Dermatology, is looking for people between the ages of 18 and 39 who have mild to severe acne to participate in a research study to determine whether use of an investigational topical treatment will improve acne.  If you are interested, please contact a member of the research staff at 305-531-5788.


The Department of Psychology is recruiting participants for the following studies:

• A schizophrenia family study 
Have you or one of your relatives been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder? Are you in regular contact with this person? If so, you and your family may be eligible to participate in a free family-focused treatment research study. During the treatment, clinicians will provide factual information about schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. In addition, techniques to assist the family in coping with mental illness will be presented. Treatment is available in English and Spanish. If interested, please contact the Schizophrenia Family Project at 305-284-5455.


• A family factors and autism study
The aim of this project is to better understand families’ emotional reactions to autism spectrum disorders. We seek the participation of adults with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s and one of his or her parents. Participation will involve one hour-long telephone call. If you would like to help with this study or if you have any questions, please contact Stephanie Wasserman at 305-284-2307.


Researchers at the MRI Center need healthy subjects for a magnetic resonance imaging study. For more information, please visit http://midas.med.miami.edu/Research/MRStudies.htm.


Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are being recruited for a study of effects of sildenafil on exercise and breathlessness. Participants must have a firm clinical diagnosis of IPF, be 40 to 85 years of age, and not be on medication for IPF. Interested patients or physicians wishing to refer patients should call 305-575-3548, fax 305-575-3126, or e-mail rjackson2@med.miami.edu.


The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is testing experimental medications and therapies for the treatment of cervical dysplasia, a pre-cancerous condition that can lead to cancer if left untreated. Current treatments are surgical or invasive. This study is testing an investigational gene therapy to see if it safely and effectively treats HPV medicated cervical lesions as a result of dysplasia. If you are between 18 and 25 and have had an abnormal PAP test, you may be able to take part in this research study. Qualified participants will receive all study-related care and study therapy. To find out more, call Iliana Rivas at (305) 243-5832 or i.rivas@miami.edu


The Department of Psychology and the Division of Cancer Prevention and Control is conducting a quality of life research intervention with advanced prostate cancer patients. Participants should have Stage III or IV prostate cancer and have recently or currently been treated with hormone therapy. Eligible participants will take part in a ten-week cognitive behavioral stress and affect management program or a health promotions program. Three psychosocial/medical assessments are also required. If you are interested in this study or would like more information, please contact Frank Penedo, Ph.D., at 305-243-3329, or fpenedo@miami.edu.




Daniel Santisteban, Ph.D., of the Center for Family Studies in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, is currently conducting a research program that would provide adolescents and/or their family treatment for free. Participants must be 14 to 17 years old, have a parent or legal guardian willing to participate, meet DSM criteria for both substance abuse disorder and borderline personality disorder, and be willing to participate in four separate but paid evaluations. If interested, please contact Maite Mena, Psy., at 305-243-3658, or mmena@med.miami.edu for details. 




Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine is seeking patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) for phase III protocol that will assess the impact of pirfenidone on IPF. Subjects must be between 40 and 80, and have a confirmed diagnosis of IPF within 48 months of randomization. For more information please call: 305-243-3728, or e-mail Emmanuelle Simonet at esimonet@med.miami.edu.



The Center for Research and Education on Aging and Technology Enhancement is conducting research with family caregivers of dementia patients who speak English and are 50 years of age or older. If you are not a caregiver but are interested in participating, you may be able to help as well. Participants will receive basic training on how to use the Internet and will be asked to look for information about care-giving and dementia. If you are interested in being a part of this research study, please call 305-355-9200. You will be paid for your time and effort.


Jennifer B. Marks, M.D., is currently recruiting patients ages 18 through 40 with type 1 diabetes mellitus with a recent diagnosis for participation in a research study to test the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication. Patients must be taking multiple insulin injections daily and in good health. Those who are interested should contact Rogelio Suarez at 305-243-6573 or rsuarez2@med.miami.edu.


The AIDS Clinical Research Unit, directed by Margaret Fischl, M.D., is recruiting participants for the following studies:

• A phase I IL-7 study (IL-7 is a cytokine that aids T-cell development and improves T-cell survival). Participants must be 18 to 50 years of age, receiving antiretroviral therapy for at least 12 months, have an HIV-1 RNA level less than or equal to 50,000 copies/ml, and have a CD4 cell count of 100 cells/ccm or higher. Participants must be willing to do 12-hour IL-7 blood level monitoring. Up to $200 in food certificates provided.

• An investigational CC-chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) entry inhibitor for patients with HIV. The study will look at single dose, dose escalations of a study drug (0.5 mg, 2.0 mg and 5.0 mg) and a placebo. The study will determine how well the study drug blocks CCR5 receptors and is tolerated. Participants must be 18 and older, not taking antiretroviral therapy for at least three months and have a viral load greater than 5,000 and a CD4 count greater than 250. Must be willing to do six-hour drug level monitoring. Up to $250 provided.

For more information on studies conducted by the AIDS Clinical Research Unit, contact Juan at 305-243-3838 or Leslie at L.Thompson@miami.edu.


The SPARE Study (Soy Phytoestrogens As Replacement Estrogen) is currently recruiting women 45 to 60 years of age to study the role of soy phytoestrogens given in tablet form to prevent bone loss. Participants will be given a physical exam at study entry, an annual mammogram and bone density test, and will be asked to come for 10 study visits over a period of two years for blood tests and to complete questionnaires about diet, exercise, and well-being. Interested women should contact the SPARE Study Office at 305-243-4330 or via e-mail at aherrin@med.miami.edu.


The University of Miami Skin Research Group, directed by Brian Berman, M.D., Ph.D., is looking for people with acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and keloids. Participants should be 18 or older for the acne and keloid studies and ages 2 to 17 for the atopic dermatitis studies. If interested, please contact the research staff at 305-243-5519 or visit our website at http://www.skininvestigation.com/.


Bruce Rubin, M.D., is currently performing a study on trigeminal neuralgia (TN) treatment with subcutaneous injections of BOTOX® to evaluate the effectiveness of treating facial pain associated with TN. Patients must have a diagnosis of TN for more than three months and be at least 18 years of age.
 
Dr. Rubin is also seeking patients for a research study on the treatment of tightness/spasticity in the wrist, fingers, and elbow caused by a stroke while evaluating the effect of BOTOX® on pulmonary functioning. Patients must be 18 years of age, have had a stroke six months ago or longer, have a pulmonary/breathing problem and cannot have used BOTOX® or any other botulinum toxin previously for any condition. Please contact Amy L. Kaye, ARNP, at 305-243-6223 for additional information on either of these studies.

 


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