RPCI EARNS LEAPFROG TOP HOSPITAL RECOGNITION, ASCO QUALITY CERTIFICATION

Two prestigious quality designations are latest commendations of RPCI from national organizations

  

BUFFALO, NY — Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) has again been recognized at the national level for providing high-quality, patient-centered care. One of only three National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in New York State, RPCI this month received Leapfrog Top Hospital recognition for the second consecutive year and earned Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) Certification from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

The Leapfrog Top Hospital designation puts RPCI in a class representing just 5% of eligible hospitals — 65 from a field of nearly 1,200. The Leapfrog Group, a coalition of public and private employers, selects hospitals for the designation based on an annual national survey measuring performance in areas such as error prevention and nurse and physician staffing — the most complete picture available of a hospital’s record on quality and patient safety.

“For the second year in a row, Roswell Park Cancer Institute has achieved the highest distinction for quality and patient safety that any hospital in America can achieve. We are proud to count them among the select group of 2011 Leapfrog Top Hospitals,” said Leah Binder, CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “As the demand for information about hospital quality grows, hospitals like Roswell Park that participate in Leapfrog’s annual hospital survey are providing a great service to their community by making important information readily available.”

Launched by ASCO in 2006, the QOPI enables medical facilities to examine the quality of care they provide to patients based on evidence-based guidelines and established quality measures. Its rigorous set of more than 100 quality measures was developed by practicing oncologists and quality experts, and spans the continuum of cancer care. The QOPI Certification Program was launched in 2010. RPCI is one of approximately 100 facilities nationally to earn the certification, and one of only seven in New York State.

“Consistency is one of the most important aspects of high-quality delivery of care,” said Donald L. Trump, MD, FACP, RPCI President and CEO. “To be recognized by national organizations as respected as the Leapfrog Group and ASCO, we have to not only be able to provide great and safe care but to have a proven track record of doing so routinely.”

RPCI has frequently been recognized for high-quality care and overall excellence. The Institute was again recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s 2011-12 Best Hospitals list for Cancer Care; holds Magnet Recognition Program designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center; has been named one of the eight best hospitals in the nation for complex or “extremely difficult” cancer cases by AARP The Magazine; and has received other special commendations from BlueCross BlueShield, Optum Health, The Scientist magazine and others.

About The Leapfrog Group, ASCO and RPCI:

The Leapfrog Group is a coalition of public and private purchasers of employee health coverage founded a decade ago to work for improvements in health care safety, quality and affordability.  The annual survey is the only voluntary effort of its kind.  More information is available at http://www.leapfroggroup.org.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has more than 30,000 members and is the world’s leading professional organization representing physicians who care for people with cancer. For more information, go tohttp://www.asco.org.

For more information, visit RPCI’s website at http://www.roswellpark.org, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or email askrpci@roswellpark.org.

A Hanukah Favorite - Latkes!

Fried food is traditionally eaten on Hanukkah in commemoration of the oil that miraculously burned for eight days when the Maccabees purified and rededicated the holy Temple in Jerusalem. Fried Potato Pancakes (called Latkes in Yiddish) are the hands-down, mouth-open holiday favorite. Here’s a healthier version made from sweet potatoes.

Sweet Potato Latkes (cholesterol-free)
from the kitchen of Laura Strauss

6 medium sweet potatoes

6 ounces egg substitute

4 scallions (diced)

2 tbsp. honey

1/4  tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp white pepper

1 1/2 tsp salt

4 tbsp. flour

1 tsp. minced garlic

1/2 tsp. baking powder

Oil for frying (canola oil recommended)

Makes about 20 latkes

Shred potatoes in food processor  ( It is not necessary to peel the potatoes.)

In a large bowl combine potatoes, egg substitute, scallions, honey, cinnamon, pepper, salt, flour, and garlic. 

Work mixture with your hands until thickened.

Form into 2-3 ounce patties and press thin.

In a large frying pan, heat 1/4 inch of oil until hot.

Fry patties until golden brown on both sides.

Drain on paper towels.

Serve hot. 

Wanted: Physician Assistants - A Growing Career

Wanted: Physician Assistants - A Growing Need for Passionate, Caring Professionals

When Virginia Kaufman graduates in May she will be a Physician Assistant (PA), and she can’t wait. Virginia didn’t always know that she wanted to become a PA, and wants to tell others who share her passion for pursuing a career in the medical profession about this unique opportunity.

PAs are healthcare professionals authorized to practice medicine as part of a team with physicians. There are 81,000 certified PAs licensed to practice in all states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. They deliver a broad range of medical and surgical services, and are trained to:

•                Conduct physical exams 

•                Obtain medical histories

•                Diagnose and treat illnesses 

•                Order and interpret tests 

•                Counsel on preventive health care 

•                Assist in surgery 

•                Prescribe medications 

It takes a team of skilled professionals to deliver quality health care, and PAs are increasingly becoming vital members of the healthcare team.  Interestingly, the role of the PA began in the 1960s to fill a need created by a shortage of physicians. In fact, the first PAs were military medics with experience in critical care and emergency medicine during active duty. Now with the demand for health care services outpacing the number of physicians available, PAs are again helping fill the void.

PAs can practice medicine in any specialty from family medicine to surgery to cardiology. A PA also gains clinical privileges in a hospital setting much the same way as a physician would. PAs are often the primary health care provider for individuals and families, and physicians who have a PA on their team know that they are qualified to perform up to 80 percent of primary and preventive care.

To become licensed to practice, PAs must attend an accredited program and pass an exam administered by the National Commission on Certification of PAs. They must obtain authorization to practice through state licensure, registration or certification, and complete 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years, and pass a recertification exam every six years. Most students have a BA/BS degree and prior healthcare experience before admission to a PA program, and 80 percent of PA programs award a master’s degree. Today, approximately 12,470 students are currently enrolled in PA programs, and more than 6,000 PA students graduate each year. They earn a median annual salary of $90,000, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the number of PA jobs will increase by 27 percent between 2006 and 2016.

Clearly, becoming a PA holds promise for a great future. Now a new book is available to anyone contemplating a career as a PA that provides helpful information and resources, including a list of schools, websites, salary information and more. But Hratch Karamanoukian cautions, “Although becoming a PA offers significant earning potential, it isn’t just about the money. It’s about having passion for what you do.” Listen to what one PA has to say at http://youtu.be/NnFKdEZIVTU.

WNY Resource:
The Past, Present and Future of Physician Assistants in America, by Hratch Karamanoukian, M.D., Raffy Karmamanoukian, M.D., and Virginia Kaufman, PA-S, copyright November 2011. For a look inside, or to purchase a copy visit www.Amazon.com. 

When Is a Headache More Than Just a Headache?

What would cause a 34-year-old woman to waken with severe and throbbing head pain, nausea and dizziness?  A 9-year-old to have a headache lasting four months? Or an otherwise healthy 32-year-old woman to have severe headaches and seizures?

These are just some of the difficult cases of severe headache pain the DENT Neurological Institute sees every day.

Laszlo Mechtler, M.D., Director of DENT’s Headache Center and President elect of the American Society of Neuroimaging, says, “Most of the people we see have primary headache disorders, such as migraine and tension type headaches. A common medical complaint, they are experienced by 75% of the population with over 5% seeking medical aid. In fact, about 16% of emergency room (ER) visits are attributable to headache complaints.”

Mechtler explains, “Patients who are the most complex are those where headaches come from a secondary cause, which includes more than 316 life-threatening disorders and illnesses. They are the toughest cases, and neuroimaging studies are required to determine the underlying cause.” Some of the key symptoms or red flags that help clinicians determine if further studies are needed include:

·   First or worst headache, onset of headaches after age 50, following head trauma, or in someone with cancer or HIV

·   Chronic daily headaches unresponsive to treatment or headaches with increased frequency and severity

·   Headaches always on the same side, or following exertion, strain or positional changes

·   Headaches accompanied by fever, stiff neck, rash, atypical aura, abnormal neurological exam or seizures

Of adults with headache seen in the ER, only 16-20% have secondary headaches, as compared with 77% of children. Of these children 45% suffer from secondary headaches due to neurological causes. Red flags in children differ from adult warning signs and include:

·   Persistent headaches that last less than 6 months but don’t respond to treatment

·   Headaches that awaken the child from sleep or occur when awakening or with episodes of confusion or disorientation

·   Family and/or medical history of central nervous system involvement or abnormal neurological test results

DENT is home to the only Headache Center in Western New York where more than 17,000 patients are seen yearly. In fact, the only other centers within reasonable traveling distance are located in Cleveland, New York City and Philadelphia. Trained staff at the Center include physicians who are board certified in neurology, neuroimaging, and  neuro-oncology supported by physician assistants, nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, nurses and clinical research staff.  Research and education are ongoing, as are new treatments and medications unavailable anywhere else. An onsite infusion lab and Urgent Care Center assures that patients can be seen 24/7. Meanwhile, Dr. Mechtler says, “About 120,000 people in our region suffer from migraines, but only 15% receive treatment. To learn more about headaches visit www.headache-advisor.com.

WNY Resource:

DENT Headache Center
716-250-2000
www.dentinstitute.com

ROSWELL PARK WILL LEAD $5.1M GENE-SEQUENCING EFFORT FUNDED BY NYS INITIATIVE

Effort will examine genetic factors in common diseases and advance field of personalized medicine

BUFFALO, NY — The Roswell Park Cancer Institute Genome Project was approved December 8, 2011 as part of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative. RPCI will lead this project, which will compile and analyze the detailed genetic data (the “genomes”) of Western New York citizens. This will significantly enhance our ability to develop personalized, more effective medical care plans and treatments for citizens of Western New York (WNY) — and beyond.

The $5.1 million award for the RPCI Genome Project covers the two-year pilot phase of the project. During this phase of the project, 1,000 area residents will be asked to donate a blood sample and provide detailed medical information; all these data will be collected in a fully protected way to ensure the privacy of all participants. The Genome Project will examine genetic factors that play a role in cancer as well as common diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

RPCI President and CEO Donald L. Trump, MD, FACP, and Deputy Director Candace Johnson, PhD, will lead the RPCI Genome Project as Co-Principal Investigators. Partners include the University at Buffalo, Kaleida Health, the Catholic Health System and Erie County Medical Center as well as the three major health insurers in WNY (HealthNow/BlueCross BlueShield, Independent Health and Univera Healthcare), The P2 Collaborative and HEALTHeLINK.

The Roswell Park Cancer Institute Genome Project was championed by WNY Regional Economic Development Council (WNYREDC) Co-Chairs Satish K. Tripathi, University at Buffalo President, and Howard A. Zemsky, Managing Partner of Larkin Development Group, along with Andrew Rudnick, President of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership and Health & Life Sciences Co-Chair for the WNYREDC.

“Together, they ably and energetically oversaw the maturation and development of this proposal, working closely with RPCI at every stage,” said Dr. Trump. “We are grateful for the leadership they, Governor Cuomo and all the members of the Western New York Regional Council have provided through this ambitious development program, and eagerly look forward to implementing this effort.”

For more information, visit RPCI’s website athttp://www.roswellpark.org, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or email askrpci@roswellpark.org.

Community Leaders Find Solution for Kidney Transplant Patients

Fresh off the heals of the  National Kidney Foundation closing the doors to the Buffalo, NY office, community leaders have come together to find a solution for local kidney and transplant patients.  The Northeast Kidney Foundation would be working with local clinicians, patient advocates and transplant professionals to reinstate services no longer available in the community.

Barbara Breckenridge, a kidney transplant recipient, long time patient advocate and former staff of the NKF, is thrilled that a solution is available.  “I know the needs of the patients,” Breckenridge said.  There are so many issues these patients are dealing with, when these services were taken out of the community it was a great loss.”

The Northeast Kidney Foundation, based in Albany, is a former affiliate of the NKF, separating in July.  In the newly created partnership with the Buffalo region, the Foundation will reinstate patient services, continue community screening programs, patient education, community outreach and education, school based programs, and all the services the community has received through the years.  “We are most thrilled that we can say there are no more gaps in service,” said Carol LaFleur, executive director of the Northeast Kidney Foundation.  “At the end of the day, what is most  important is that patients have the resources that they need, and that the Buffalo region knows the great dedication of their community leaders to serving the patients and family members affected by kidney disease.”

Services have already begun to be reinstated, including patient emergency grants and transportation subsidies, and just a few weeks ago a kidney screening was held where more than 40 people came out to learn if they were at risk for kidney disease or exhibiting early signs of the disease. Dr. Brian Murray, a nephrologist and medical director for Erie CountyMedical Center, volunteered at the screening.  “Offering programs like this in the community is so important for those at risk.  What a great experience to be able to talk with people and educate them about a disease that many are unaware that they may have.”  Also volunteering at the kidney screening were Dr. Jennie Hom, a nephrologist at Erie County MedicalCenter, and staff of Upstate New York Transplant Services, who manned the lab station.  “My staff enjoyed it – it gave them an opportunity to get out in the community and put their phlebotomy skills to work and provide a great service to those at risk for kidney disease.  Collaboration has always been the best way to meet the needs of our community, and UNYTS is a proud partner to many and is looking forward to this collaboration,” said Mark Simon, CEO of UNYTS.

While the Northeast Kidney Foundation moves forward with service implementation, community leaders are also keeping an eye on the possibility of creating a locally based organization.  Discussions will continue over the next several months but for now the message is clear – the needs of patients, family members, and clinical professionals will be met through the collaboration with the Northeast Kidney Foundation.

There are several important dates that the community should be aware of.  They include:

January 22, post holiday party for patients and family members

March 3, 2012 – free kidney screening for those at risk of kidney disease, 10 am – 2 pm

March 8, 2012 – World Kidney Day and Gift of Life Celebration, 5 pm

March 9, 2012 – Walk for Kidneys Kickoff Breakfast

June 3, 2012 - Walk for Kidneys

For more information on these activities, please contact Barbara Breckenridge at 716-885-7215 or Carol LaFleur at 518-533-7880 and visit www.healthykidneys.org.

New York State Professional Organization Partners with BWI to Offer Online Health Education Certificate Programs

BUFFALO, N.Y., November 27, 2011 – Professional development opportunities in health and wellness are expanding for educators through a new partnership between a statewide organization and a Buffalo-based business. The New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD) is the first membership organization to partner with the BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute to offer school wellness programming, as well as cost-effective and convenient health education certification courses, to its members at discounted rates.

As a BWI Health Promotion Affiliate, NYS AHPERD is promoting BWI programs that incorporate New York State learning standards – including healthy school assemblies, outcome-based in-classroom and recreation programs, and the “Be Fit Kids-online” educational online program – and staff development programs.

NYS AHPERD members also have access to BWI’s three health promotion-focused courses, which may be delivered through a web-based learning platform or via onsite education in the traditional classroom setting. They include:

BWI's Health Promotion Coordinator Certification: offers education, tools and skills for new employee wellness managers and wellness teams. BWI's Personal Health Certification: an annual program ideal for educating employees in preventative health and well-being (small to large business group rates available).

BWI's "Be Fit Kids" Instructor Certification: ideal for training individuals to administer an innovative, interactive youth health and fitness program. Continuing education units are available for all courses and have been approved by the Human Resource Certification Institute, IACET, BOC, NY State Office of Professions-PT Board and the National Board for the Certification of OTs. NYS AHPERD’s services are based on strengthening the relationship between physical activity, health and academic achievement. Its nearly 3,400 members include teachers of health, physical education, recreation and dance; agency, worksite health professionals; youth coaches; and future professionals.

Colleen Corsi, NYS AHPERD Executive Director, referenced her respect for BWI Executive Director Shawna Dosser’s “dedication and enthusiasm for health education and the promotion of wellness communitywide” when speaking of BWI programs. “The primary goal of NYS AHPERD is to provide the opportunity for our members to access quality professional development,” Corsi said. “Through our partnership with BWI, we expand those opportunities with a company that has a proven track record.”

BWI served as an education sponsor by providing each award recipient with a voucher redeemable for any one of BWI’s three certification courses at the Jay B. Nash awards dinner for the 2011 NYS AHPERD Annual Conference this month.  To learn more about partner opportunities with BWI, including private label, co-branding and up-selling opportunities, contact Dosser at bwihealth@verizon.net or 1-800-606-7422.

The BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute is a subsidiary of BWI Health Promotions, which provides comprehensive wellness management services and health education training programs for corporations, schools and communities. The BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute was developed to offer web-based certificate programs for individuals and/or professionals looking to enhance their personal knowledge in the field of health promotion. As a New York state regional health promotion leader, BWI’s presence is expanding into the national business market with program delivery throughout the United States.

Since its inception in 1924, the mission of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD) has been to promote, encourage, and advocate physically active and healthy lifestyles through school and community programs in health education, physical education, recreation and dance. Teachers are provided with the knowledge and skills to instill in their students the understanding necessary to examine alternatives and make responsible health-related decisions; such decisions include physical activity as a foundation for a healthy, productive and rewarding life.

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program - Walk-Ins Welcome! Join Anytime!

The ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM is a nationally certified, gentle exercise program designed for people with arthritis. Exercises for range-of-motion, strength building and flexibility are taught by a certified instructor and set in a fun format! Sitting or standing, participants learn how to exercise within their own abilities. Arthritis management tips, relaxation techniques for pain management, breathing exercises included.

FREE! The ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM will be offered to the community at Absolut Care Aurora Park, in East Aurora, 292 Main Street, in the Hamlin Residence Activity Room. Classes meet every Monday until the end of the year, 9:30 to 10:30. Call 652-1560 to register.

FREE! The ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM will be offered to the community at Absolut Care Orchard Park, 6060 Armor Rd, in Orchard Park. Classes meet every Tuesday until the end of the year, Noon to 1:00. Please call 662-4433 to register.

VERY LOW COST! The ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM will be offered to the community at Ken-Ton Presbyterian Village Apartments Community Room, 3735 Delaware Ave, in Kenmore. Classes meet every Tuesday until the end of the year, 3:30 to 4:30. Please call 874-6070 to register.

VERY LOW COST! The ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM will be offered to the community at First Presbyterian Church, 2085 Union Rd, in West Seneca. Classes meet every Wednesday until the end of the year, 1:00 to 2:00. Please call 491-6470 to register.

VERY LOW COST! The ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION WALK WITH EASE PROGRAM will be offered to the community at First Presbyterian Church, 2085 Union Rd, in West Seneca. Classes meet every Monday through December 19, 1:30 to 2:30. Please call 491-6470 to register. Strengthening and warm-up exercises are followed by walking at your pace in the Great Hall. In mild and comfortable weather, walking is in neighboring Burchfield Park.

Contact Cynthia Pegado, Program Manager, Arthritis Foundation, 507-4543.
Visit fightarthritispain.org to learn more.

People Still Love Print vs. Digital!

According to a recent survey, by GfK MRI, adults who read magazines on digital platforms (including desktop/laptop computers, tablets, e-readers and smartphones) make up 11 percent of gross magazine audience impressions.

Interviews with 26,000 American adults on their media habits revealed that out of 1.6 billion magazine impressions, digital-only consumers contribute 166 million. It turns out that the print-only audience still supplies the largest sector of magazine reader exposures, at 1.278 billion.

The survey reveals that although publishers include digital and print products in subscriptions, readers who read virtually represent the smallest division of the overall magazine audience.

The magazine digital audience is heavily male (63 percent are men), with 42 percent of digital readers holding at least a Bachelor’s degree. Millenials (born 1977-1994 and aged 17-34 years) make up the largest slice of digital readers, generation-wise, representing 54 percent.

The baby boomer generation (nee 1946-1964, and ages 47-64) is the lowest percentage of age groups represented in GfK MRI’s data (which included millenials, boomers and GenXers, those born from 1965-1976). Only 20 percent of boomers surveyed consume digital mag content.

The data was gathered in two six-month periods, with the digital-only data gathered from March to October 2011.

TOUCHING HEARTS AT HOME EXPANDS SENIOR CARE OPTIONS IN BUFFALO, NY

Buffalo, NY- In an effort to help seniors, cancer patients and people with disabilities live independently, Touching Hearts at Home has expanded into Erie County. Suzanne Desfosses-Gilliam, Touching Hearts at Home Franchise Owner, is pleased to announce the opening of her Touching Hearts at Home office. Touching Hearts at Home will serve Buffalo, NY and the surrounding areas.

Touching Hearts at Home of Buffalo provides those in need with the opportunity to live dignified lives in their own home, satisfying the area’s need for affordable and accessible home care. From as little as one hour per week to as many as 24-hours a day, including weekends and holidays, Touching Hearts offers a variety of personalized and flexible home care services. Services offered include transportation, companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders, laundry, and more. To ensure the highest quality standards of care, all caregivers are screened, trained, bonded and insured.

Renae Olafson, Touching Hearts, Inc. Founder and CEO, says “Suzanne has set the foundation for her business’s success by completing our Touching Hearts Training Academy. She is committed to providing the finest non-medical homecare in Western NY using our proven and successful operating system, along with her business acumen and passion for helping others.”

With over 25 years experience in the service industry, Suzanne believes strongly in the value of helping others. Suzanne states, “I look forward to helping those in need experience happy and gratified lives, while experiencing the personal rewards this business brings.”

For information with regard to Touching Hearts at Home services or employment opportunities, call 1-716-898-8566 email our office at buffalo@touchinghearts.com or visit our website at www.touchingheartswny.com. Touching Hearts, Inc. is a national corporation with franchise offices throughout the United States. Corporate headquarters are located in St. Paul, MN.

Potential Risk Factors for Painful Jaw Disorders are Identified In the First Large-Scale Clinical Study of Pain

-- UB study finds that people who develop jaw pain disorders exhibit specific characteristics, including more trauma to the jaw, more limitations and noises in the jaw, more headaches
medical status.

-- The findings are being published by UB School of Dental Medicine researchers who are international authorities on aspects of jaw pain disorders and who have developed through international collaborations many of the most commonly used diagnostic tools

Millions of Americans are affected by painful jaw problems known as TMD, temporomandibular disorders, but predicting who is at risk has been extremely difficult.

Now, for the first time, researchers in the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine are publishing a comprehensive set of clinical characteristics that they say will lead to the ability to identify individuals at risk for developing the painful conditions.

Their new clinical assessments will help researchers and clinicians better understand TMD and other pain conditions, so as to find ways to better manage and treat them.

Published in the November issue of the Journal of Pain, the UB research results are part of the Orofacial Pain Prospective Evaluation and Risk Assessment (OPPERA) study, available at
http://www.jpain.org/issues?issue_key=S1526-5900(11)X0013-5
(http://www.jpain.org/issues?issue_key=S1526-5900(11)X0013-5), which followed 3,200 initially pain-free individuals for three to five years.

It is the largest clinical study of pain conditions and how they develop that has ever been done.

The UB researchers, led by Richard Ohrbach, DDS, PhD, associate professor of oral diagnostic sciences in the UB School of Dental Medicine, have been studying pain and TMD for several decades. Ohrbach
is the lead author on the paper.

"The UB role in the project was to develop well-designed examination procedures to help dentists and other health care providers identify risk factors for TMD," says Ohrbach.

Ohrbach and his co-authors studied 71 different clinical variables in 1,633 controls -- individuals who never had TMD -- and in 185 people with chronic painful TMD.

They assessed the individuals through lengthy questionnaires about health histories and current symptoms and through clinical exams. Participants were from Western New York, Maryland, North Carolina and Florida.

The UB researchers found that a very high rate of the variables they assessed, 59 out of 71, were significantly associated with painful TMD.

"Our results indicate that individuals with TMD differ substantially from the controls across almost all of the variables we assessed," says Ohrbach.

TMD sufferers tended to have significantly higher levels of the following variables: trauma to the jaw, non-pain symptoms in the facial area, jaw locking and noises, and pain during such jaw movements as
chewing, smiling or talking. Ohrbach notes that while the last two findings were clearly expected, very little has been known about the first two findings.

In particular, the UB researchers found that TMD sufferers reported a much higher rate of neural and sensory medical conditions, such as earaches, tinnitus or hearing loss, fainting and dizziness, as well as
seizures due to epilepsy and other conditions.

Ohrbach said that the study also confirmed many findings that long have been associated with TMD but which have not, until now, been proven in a comprehensive, large-scale study.

Among these is the finding that any pain disorder, such as headache, backache and abdominal pain, is more likely to occur in TMD patients than in people who do not have TMD.

"Why are other pain disorders more common in people with TMD?" asks Ohrbach. "Is it because those pain conditions predispose them to develop TMD or do they develop TMD first and does TMD lead them to then develop other pain disorders?"

To answer these and other related questions, Ohrbach says he and his colleagues will next look at comorbidity.

"We'll be tracking these multiple pain disorders over time with particular variables," he says.

Ultimately, the findings of the UB researchers and their colleagues on the OPPERA study will be geared toward a better understanding of pain conditions in general.

"How do we understand the pain? How do we establish a reliable and clinically useful marker of pain so that significant pain can be more readily diagnosed?" asks Ohrbach. "To answer these questions, we need to have a model that puts all of the pieces together, that takes the findings from a clinical exam, puts it into a rigorous framework using the right assessment and diagnosis tools in order to chart the nature
of multiple physical disorders so that we can ultimately understand how the pain is affecting the individual."

The OPPERA study was funded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Co-authors with Ohrbach on the paper are: Yoly Gonzalez of the UB Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences; Roger B. Fillingim, University of Florida, College of Dentistry, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System; Sharon Gordon, Department of Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery and Brotman Facial Pain Center, University of Maryland-Baltimore, Dental School; Henry Gremillion, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry; Margarete Ribeiro-Dasilva, Department of Community Dentistry and Behavioral Science, University of Florida, College of Dentistry; Joel D. Greenspan, Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, and Brotman Facial Pain Center; Charles Knott,
Battelle Memorial Institute; and Pei-Feng Lim, William Maixner, Flora Mulkey and Gary Slade, all of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

The University at Buffalo is a premier research-intensive public university, a flagship institution in the State University of New York system and its largest and most comprehensive campus. UB's more than
28,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 300 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities.

Related story: "UB to Study Causes of Facial, Jaw Pain,"
http://www.buffalo.edu/news/7724 (http://www.buffalo.edu/news/7724)

See this article online at: http://www.buffalo.edu/news/13021

Three New Technologies Help Pain - And FREE 15-Minute Hydro-Massage

Technology seems to be providing answers for almost everything these days. But have you ever heard about technology that can help increase bone density or alleviate pain? Well, here’s good news for anyone in the Buffalo area who suffers from chronic pain, neuropathy, osteoporosis or other debilitating conditions. Three new FDA approved technologies have arrived and you can find them at the office of Dr. Anthony Bianchi in Cheektowaga.

One of the newest innovations for pain is Disc Rehydration Therapy which is the primary non surgical safe and effective treatment for patients with herniated disc, degenerative joint disease, facet arthritis, sciatica, disc bulge and spinal stenosis.

Another exciting new technology is Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Pain Relief

which was initially used by the Russian aerospace industry. Now it is being used to reduce arthritic pain, increase muscle strength, flexibility, blood circulation, improve walk balance, and increase bone density.

Finally LLLT or Cold Laser Therapy brings the best parts of acupuncture together into an automated and digitized needle-free system. In addition to pain relief,

patients also experience amazing results with allergies, food sensitivities, digestive disorders, eczema, psoriasis and other chronic skin conditions. LLLT is also being used for Smoking Cessation, and Weight Management with significant results.

All three therapies are suited for people of all ages. For more information, call Dr. Bianchi at 685-3871, and mention this article for a free consultation and free 15-minute hydro-massage.

Exenatide (Byetta) Has Rapid, Powerful Anti-inflammatory Effect, UB Study Shows

Anti-inflammatory effect occurs independently of weight loss UB's Dandona and colleagues now plan to study how exenatide might be used in the ICU and other settings where a rapid anti-inflammatory effect is needed. Contact Ellen Goldbaum goldbaum@buffalo.edu 716-645-4605  twitter @egoldbaum Release Date: November 2, 2011 BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Exenatide, a drug commonly prescribed to help patients with type 2 diabetes improve blood sugar control, also has a powerful and rapid anti-inflammatory effect, a University at Buffalo study has shown. The study of the drug, marketed under the trade name Byetta, was published recently in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. "Our most important finding was this rapid, anti-inflammatory effect, which may lead to the inhibition of atherosclerosis, the major cause of heart attacks, strokes and gangrene in diabetics," says Paresh Dandona, MD, UB Distinguished Professor in the Department of Medicine, UB School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, and senior author. It was especially noteworthy that this anti-inflammatory effect occurred independently of weight loss over the 12-week study period, he adds. "The fact that the drug caused this dramatic and comprehensive anti-inflammatory effect independent of weight loss shows that it is a primary action of the drug and is not dependent upon weight loss," says Ajay Chaudhuri, MD, associate professor of medicine at UB and lead author. He explains that, since obesity is an inflammatory state and adipose tissue contributes to inflammation, weight loss on its own can lead to an anti-inflammatory effect. "Even more importantly, a short-lived anti-inflammatory effect was observed within two hours following a single injection of 5 micrograms of the drug," Chaudhuri continues. "This coincides with the peak concentration of the drug after the injection. Such a rapid and dramatic effect is rare." "Apart from corticosteroids, which are known anti-inflammatory drugs, and insulin, no other drug demonstrates such a powerful and rapid anti-inflammatory effect," adds Dandona. As a result, he and his colleagues at UB plan to study how exenatide might be used in acute inflammatory settings in the intensive care unit or following heart attacks and strokes, where a rapid anti-inflammatory effect is required and such drugs may be of potential use. In addition to the anti-inflammatory effect, participants also exhibited a drop in the measurement of average blood sugar levels over three months, called hemoglobin A1C, from 8.6 percent to 7.4 percent. The study involved 24 obese type 2 diabetics who were already on insulin to control their glucose levels. The current study was undertaken based on previous observations published in 2007 by the UB researchers that exenatide indicated an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing plasma C-reactive protein levels, triglycerides and systolic blood pressure. Co-authors with Chaudhuri and Dandona are Mehul Vora, MD, clinical assistant instructor of medicine; Husam Ghanim, PhD, research assistant professor of medicine; Sandeep Dhindsa, MD, and Antoine Makdissi, MD, both assistant professors of medicine; and Chang Ling Sia and Kelly Korzeniewski, research assistants in the UB Department of Medicine, all of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism of UB and Kaleida Health. The study was supported by a grant from the Amylin Corporation and Eli-Lilly. The University at Buffalo is a premier research-intensive public university, a flagship institution in the State University of New York system and its largest and most comprehensive campus. UB's more than 28,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 300 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities.

National Expert To Headline RPCI Seminar On Role Of Research In Nursing

BUFFALO, NY — Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) welcomes the region’s nurses to a free half-day program featuring a keynote address from a national expert. Linda Burnes Bolton, DrPH, RN, FAAN, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer of Cedars-Sinai Health System and Research Institute, will keynote “Nursing Research: Producing Evidence to Advance Health” Wednesday, November 16 from 8 a.m. to noon in the Hohn Auditorium, Research Studies Center, RPCI.

Burnes Bolton, who in April was named to Modern Healthcare Magazine’s Top 25 Women in Healthcare list, is also Vice Chair of the Institute of Medicine Committee on the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Initiative on the Future of Nursing. In her address, she will share her vision of a healthcare system that makes quality care accessible to diverse populations, promotes wellness and disease prevention, improves health outcomes and provides compassionate care across a person’s lifespan, detailing the Institute of Medicine’s recommendations on the future of nursing and addressing knowledge gaps in nursing research.

A panel discussion will follow, led by several regional and state nursing leaders:

• Maureen Kelly, RN, MS, OCN, NEA-BC CNO, Chief Nursing Officer at RPCI
• Barbara Zittel, RN, PhD, Nursing Consultant
• Mary Lou Rusin, RN, EdD, ANEF, Nursing Department Chairperson, Daemen College
• Frances Crosby, RN, EdD, MS, BS, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Nursing, Niagara University
• Mary Beth Campo, RN, MS, NEA-BC, Chief Nursing Executive, Kaleida Health
• Davina Porock, RN, PhD, Interim Dean, Professor and Associate Dean for Research and Scholarship, University at Buffalo School of Nursing

The seminar will begin with a poster session and continental breakfast from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Burnes Bolton’s keynote address will begin at 10 a.m., with the panel discussion following from 11 a.m. to noon. Attendees can earn one continuing nursing education credit through the Oncology Nursing Society.

Free parking is available at First Niagara Center, Washington Street at Perry Street. Free shuttle service will be provided for attendees from 7:30-9:30 a.m. and noon-1:00 pm. (The RPCI parking ramp is reserved for patients.)

To reserve a seat, call 716-845-3436 or send an e-mail to wendy.raber@roswellpark.org by November 9.

BiPolar Disorder and Teens: Local Research Study

DIG-FAST: Bipolar Disorder in Teens

       Participate in a Local Research Study
       

Recent events in our community and nationally remind us that adolescents can be especially vulnerable to effects of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders that can tragically result in suicide or suicide attempts. Parents can often struggle with where to even begin to look for answers to the changes they are seeing in their teens.

According to KidsHealth.org, the reasons behind a teen’s suicide or attempted suicide can be complex. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reports suicide ranks third behind accidents and homicides as a cause of death for 15-24-year-olds. Suicide rates also differ between boys and girls. While girls think about it twice as much, boys die by suicide four times as often, perhaps attributable to the use of more lethal methods.

One serious brain illness called bipolar disorder or manic depression has been known to cause young people to hurt themselves. Horacio Capote, M.D., a psychiatrist at the DENT Neurological Institute explains, “Children with bipolar disorder experience unusual mood changes. Sometimes they are very happy or appear more active than usual. This is called mania. Other times, they feel very sad and are much less active than usual. This can be termed depression.”

Dr. Capote tells the adults in children’s lives to be aware of behaviors he calls DIG-FAST, characterized by Distractibility, Insomnia or Irritability, Grandiosity, Flight of Ideas (racing thoughts), involvement in many Activities at once, Speech that is loud and rapid, and Thoughtlessness (i.e. an impulsive decision to take a road trip).

“Anyone can develop bipolar disorder – children or adults,” says Dr. Capote. “However, in the case of children, it is called early-onset bipolar disorder, and moods are usually more frequent and extreme. And while a definite cause hasn’t been identified, several factors may be responsible, including genetics, abnormal brain structure or function, and anxiety. What’s most important is that young people with bipolar disorder can receive the treatment they need to lead successful lives.”

If there is someone you know between the ages of 12 and 17 who is experiencing DIG-FAST symptoms, you may want to tell them about a clinical study in which they can participate. Lead DENT Institute researcher, Michelle Rainka, Pharm.D., CCRP says this is a wonderful opportunity because participants will:

·  Be able to choose times in their schedule that are most convenient for them.

·  Undergo in depth interviews and exams by two independent psychiatrists, who will be able to make a definitive diagnosis regarding the disorder.

·  Have the option of receiving free medication and medical supervision for 26 weeks following the first three weeks of the study.

·  Receive compensation for their time and travel.

Dr. Rainka anticipates many people will want to take advantage of this opportunity, and urges anyone who is interested to call her directly at 716-250-2038.