HealthExtra

Please note: Items for Healthextra must be submitted to Doris Cortes-Delgado, cortesdo@umdnj.edu or fax 973-972-7261 by noon on Thursday for inclusion the following week. We reserve the right to edit for space.

University-wide

UMDNJ WEB STORE NOW OPEN.
Shop on line at http://webmedbooks.com/umdnj/default.aspx
Gifts and Apparel with School Logos, Books and Medical Supplies, and Faculty Bookshelf Introductory Discounts

POLICY UPATES: Please refer to the "Policy Update" section of the Office of Policy and Project Management's Web site (http://www.umdnj.edu/oppmweb/Update/updates.html) to view the most recent policy updates.

The following policy changes have occurred:

Solicitation of Bids/Awards of Contracts: 00-01-55-20:00, Revised 1/28/05 (minor)

There were two minor changes to this policy: 1) The dollar amount up to which user departments may place orders directly has been changed from $1,000 to $5,000 (Section IV.A.l.a); and 2) The signatory has been changed from the "Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance" to the "Vice President for Operations."

ORIENTATION TO PUBLIC HEALTH: School of Public Health-Office of Public Health Practice, in collaboration with the New York New Jersey-Public Health Training Center, invites you to participate in a, free, Web-based interactive learning experience: Orientation to Public Health. This course is designed for staff new to public health practice, or anyone seeking a review. The course can be incorporated into routine orientation programs. Using e-mail messaging, assignment of tasks, simulated interviews and tests, this course teaches:

• What is public health and what are its obligations;
• How public health differs from health care;
• How a local health agency carries out the essential services of public health.

For more information go to the Web site: http://www.nynj-phtc.org/orientation/ or call Robyn Shumer, MPH, School of Public Health-Office of Public Health Practice at 732-235-9451 (shumerrb@umdnj.edu).

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERIES: The Spring 2005 Developmental Disabilities Lecture Series is a continuing education activity of The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities at UMDNJ-RWJMS, Department of Pediatrics. There is no registration fee, but advanced registration is required. Sessions are held at The Woodbridge Hilton, Iselin and Doubletree, Mt. Laurel and run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To obtain a registration brochure, please call 732-235-9325 or register on our Web site at http://rwjms.umdnj.edu/boggscenter/.

Friday, April 8: Dual Diagnosis: The Crisis Service Crisis, Michael Mayer, PhD, executive director, The Institute on Complex Disabilities, Hillsborough, NC.

Friday, April 22: Family Support and Self Direction: How to Make the Mix Work, John Agosta, PhD, vice president, Human Services Research Institute, Portland, OR.

Friday, May 6: Understanding and Treating Problem Behavior in the Community: A Positive Behavior Support Approach, Edward Carr, PhD, leading professor, Department of Psychology, State University of New York at Stony Brook, NY.

Tuesday, May 17: Aging and Family Caregiving for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Marsha Mailick Seltzer, PhD, director, Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI.

UMDNJ CULTURAL COMPETENCY WEBSITE: UMDNJ received a grant from the Bildner Foundation's New Jersey Campus Diversity Initiative to foster diversity on our campuses. The initiative, titled "Developing Cultural Competency at UMDNJ," is being coordinated by a University Project Team.

The UMDNJ/Bildner Project Team has focused on activities to infuse cultural competency throughout the University. To this end, we are pleased to announce the launch of "The UMDNJ Cultural Competency Web site."

The Web site presents the cultural competency activities at UMDNJ and is designed for internal and external users. The Web site serves as a resource and will foster the development of the institution's overall policies, standards and initiatives.

The UMDNJ cultural competency Web site can be found at http://www.umdnj.edu/. Click on UMDNJ resources and than click on Cultural Competence. We invite your comments and participation in this exciting project. Please contact Desiree Barber, special projects coordinator, at 973-972-4855.

INTERNAL MANAGEMENT CONSULTING: The Office of Policy and Project Management offers to meet with you to understand your problem-solving and decision-making needs. We work with the department or divisional management of UMDNJ schools, units, centers and institutes on a project basis to assist in enhancing performance/efficiency in the existing operations or in developing or implementing new programs, services or initiatives. Visit us at http://www.umdnj.edu/oppmweb/Consulting/Intcons.html or call 732-235-9375 or additional information.

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS/BIOSAFETY TRAINING is required annually for faculty, staff, students and volunteers who work in labs where human materials (including human cell lines) or BL2 and higher pathogens are handled. A 1 hour bloodborne pathogens/biosafety training session follows each initial laboratory safety training. Please check for the next scheduled initial laboratory safety training at http://www2.umdnj.edu/eohssweb/pisc/training.htm#INITIAL. Faculty, staff, students and volunteers can also satisfy the yearly training requirement by completing the online BBP/BS refresher training model at http://www2.umdnj.edu/eohssweb/publications/2004Bio.htm.

TOBACCO DEPENDENCE TREATMENT SPECIALIST (TDTS) TRAINING: UMDNJ-School of Public Health, Tobacco Dependence Program offers an intensive five-day core TDTS training for health professionals who want to provide effective tobacco dependence treatment for their patients. This training is based on the U.S. Public Health Service guidelines for treatment of tobacco use and dependence. Health professionals will gain a basic understanding of tobacco dependence as well as the latest evidence-based treatment methods. Participants will learn how to assess nicotine dependence, conduct treatment planning and deliver face-to-face treatment, including counseling and the use of medications. Participants will leave the training feeling competent to address their patients' tobacco use and competently aid them in quitting. This training meets all the educational requirements (42 hours) of The Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey, Inc., to become a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist (CTTS).

Upcoming 2005- Five-Day TDTS training dates: June 13-17 and October 17-21.

For more information and to register, please go to our Web site at: http://www.tobaccoprogram.org/. Registration is limited, so please register early. For general questions regarding this training, please contact Joan Maurer at 732-235-8220 or joan.maurer@umdnj.edu. If you would like our program to tailor a training to meet your specific needs, please contact Patricia Repetto, program administrator at patricia.repetto@umdnj.edu.

THE UMDNJ-SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH'S NEW JERSEY CENTER FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PREPAREDNESS (NJCPHP) at UMDNJ is proud to present the premier issue of New Jersey Prepared Together, a quarterly newsletter.

The NJCPHP, part of the national network of forty-two CDC-funded centers for public health preparedness, focuses upon improving the capabilities of the New Jersey public health and health care workforce, to ensure their preparedness in response to any type of public health emergency.

New Jersey Prepared Together will serve as an informational resource containing UMDNJ, state, and national preparedness updates, information, and activities. The newsletter accompanies a series of preparedness publications being developed by the NJCPHP, including a preparedness e-bulletin, weekly newstream, and our web site. Our goal is to make New Jersey Prepared Together a voice for our state's entire preparedness community; we welcome your suggestions and contributions. Please email news items to our Managing Editor, Oksana Hucul, huculon@umdnj.edu.

The view the newsletter, visit: http://www.njcphp.org/nl/preparedtogether_winter04.pdf

We hope you find New Jersey Prepared Together informative and useful!

FREE WEB COURSE ON CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION: School of Public Health-Office of Public Health Practice, in collaboration with the New York New Jersey-Public Health Training Center, invites you to participate in a, free, Web-based interactive learning experience: Communicate to Make a Difference: Exploring Cross-Cultural Communication. This course, in three modules, introduces many facets of culture and communication in a real-world public health scenario. Learners must make decisions while discovering communication strategies they can employ in their daily work.The course is designed for public health professionals and may be completed at one's own pace within a 30-day period. Completion requires approximately six hours. For more information go to the Web site: http://www.nynj-phtc.org/cc/ or call Robyn Shumer at the School of Public Health-Office of Public Health Practice at 732-235-9451 shumerrb@umdnj.edu

Learning Objectives:

• Increase the participant's awareness of his/her own cultural
  framework, including core assumptions in public health.
• Give examples of discriminating and non-discriminating practices
  in providing public health services.
• Recognize and choose effective methods/strategies/techniques for unbiased
  communication.
• Identify specific factors that influence an individual's or group's acceptance of public health information and services.
• Develop increased awareness of diversity.
• Understand how and why stereotypes/generalizations are created.

BEST PRACTICES IN COLLABORATIONS AND INTERDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION - Stuart D. Cook, MD, Master Educators' Guild Spring Symposium will be held on Thursday, April 7, 8 a.m., in the West Lecture Hall, RWJMS, Piscataway. The keynote speaker will be Edward O'Neil, PhD, Professor of Family and Community Medicine and Dental Public Health, and Director of the Center for the Health Professions at the University of California, San Francisco. The conference is free to UMDNJ faculty, residents, fellows, and students and includes breakfast and lunch. For more information, please contact Tristan Nelsen, CCOE, at 973-972-1661 or nelsentr@umdnj.edu.

BIODEFENSE VIDEO CONFERENCE: UMDNJ has been selected to receive the Trans-RCE Biodefense Lecture Series for the Northeast Biodefense Center (NBC). This series consists of weekly videoconferenced lectures by experts on NIAID Category A Priority pathogens. Dr. Nancy Connell (UMDNJ Center for BioDefense and member of the NBC) is the local host. For more information, contact Julie Chapman-Greene at 973-972-3759 or chapmaje@umdnj.edu.

All times are 12 to 1 p.m.

March 7, 2005
Plague: a research perspective
Robert D. Perry, PhD (University of Kentucky - Lexington)

March 14, 2005
Hantaviruses: a clinical perspective
C.J. Peters, MD (University of Texas Medical Branch)

March 21, 2005
Hantaviruses: a research perspective
Erich R. Mackow, PhD (SUNY Stonybrook)

March 28, 2005
Lassa fever: a clinical perspective
Joseph B. McCormick, MD (University of Texas Houston Health Science Center)

April 4, 2005
Lassa fever: a research perspective
Maria S. Salvato, PhD (University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute)

THE UMDNJ CENTER FOR CONTINUING AND OUTREACH EDUCATION (CCOE) is pleased to announce the Spring 2005 schedule of CME activities. The sessions are as follows:

RWJMS:

For additional information or to register online for the following programs, please visit the RWJMS-CCOE Web site at http://ccoe.umdnj.edu/rwjms. To register by phone, please call the registration hotline at 973-972-4267 or, for additional information, call the RWJMS Center for Continuing and Outreach Education at 732-235-7430.

April 2005

Growth and Nutrition in Pediatric Chronic Lung Disease, Friday, April 15, New Jersey Hospital Association, Princeton. Activity Director: Lourdes Cuasay, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Pediatrics. Brochure available Winter 2005.

3rd Annual Conference - Peri and Post-Menopausal Medicine: Treatment Strategies for the 21st Century will be held at RWJMS, New Brunswick, Saturday, April 16. Activity Director: Arachana Pradhan, MD, MPH, RWJMS. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences. Brochure available Winter 2004-2005.

May 2005

3rd Annual Rheumatology Conference: Update in Rheumatic Diseases will be held at the Somerset Marriott, Somerset, NJ, Thursday, May 12. Activity Director: Naomi Schlesinger, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Medicine (Rheumatology). Brochure available Winter 2004-2005.

Issues and Controversies in Women with Bleeding Disorders, Monday, May 16, Hyatt Regency, New Brunswick, NJ. Activity Director: Claire Philipp, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Medicine. Brochure available Winter 2005.

June 2005

The South Asian American Conference: Developing an Agenda for Action to Address Health Disparities will be held in central NJ, location TBA, Friday, June 3. Activity Director: Celia Abalos, Esq. Sponsor: UMDNJ-Office of Multicultural Affairs. Program Web site: http://ccoe.umdnj.edu/rwjms/southasianamerican/. Brochure available Winter 2004-2005.

Ophthalmology for the Non-Ophthalmologist, Sunday, June 12, RWJMS, New Brunswick, NJ. Activity Director: Daniel Roth, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS, Department of Ophthalmology. Brochure available Winter 2005.

International Symposium in Hot Topics and Controversies in OB/GYN will be held at the Hilton Rhodes Resort, Ixia, Greece, Thursday-Monday, June 16-20. Activity Director: Anthony M. Vintzileos, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences. Brochure available Spring 2005.

September 2005

New Perspectives in Neuropsychiatry: Update for the Primary Care Provider, Saturday, September 24, Hyatt Regency, Jersey City, NJ. Activity Director: Peter Aupperle, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Geriatric Psychiatry. Brochure available Spring 2005.

October 2005

4th Annual Conference - Update in Internal Medicine will be held at the Sheraton Convention Center Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ, Friday-Saturday, October 28-29. Activity Director: David S. Kountz, MD. Sponsor: RWJMS Department of Medicine (Primary Care). Brochure available Spring 2005.

November 2005

20th Annual Issues and Controversies in OB/GYN will be held at the Disney Boardwalk Inn Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL, Thursday-Saturday, November 10-12. Activity Director: Anthony M. Vintzileos, MD. Brochure available Spring 2005.

NJMS

To register by phone, please call the registration hotline at 973-972-4267 or, for additional information, call the Center for Continuing and Outreach Education at 973-972-4267.

June 2005

Post AUA Update 2005 on Saturday, June 18 from 7:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Hilton at Short Hills, NJ. Sponsored by the NJMS Division of Urology, Hossein Sadeghi-Nejad, MD, program director. More information to follow.

ATTENTION ALL EMPLOYEES WHO DRIVE UMDNJ VEHICLES: Want to receive up to 5% rate reduction on your personal car insurance and a two point reduction on your drivers license? Instruction provided by UMDNJ Logistical Services, course content provided by the National Safety Council/New Jersey State Safety Council. It is mandatory that all UMDNJ drivers attend the Defensive Driver Course once every three years.

Defensive Driver Course Schedule (class course) - 6 hours completion time. The class is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Newark Campus

April 21, 2005, BHSB, Room 1461
June 9, 2005, BHSB, Room 1461

New Brunswick Campus

March 17, 2005, New Brunswick, Liberty Plaza, Room 2115
May 17, 2005, New Brunswick, Room 2115

Please log onto our Web site for the Defensive Driver Course registration form by clicking here. Computer based on-line course - 4 hours completion time, can be taken from any computer with Internet access. There is no point reduction or insurance discount applied with the on-line course. Click here to complete the on-line course. The team key is "umdnj3."

Family members of UMDNJ employees who are not "designated drivers" of UMDNJ vehicles are still eligible to attend this course for a $40 fee. Please contact Alan G. Binstein, director, Logistical Services, at 973-972-4573 with questions or to obtain a registration form.

Newark

EXPRESS PO: Get in the Express Lane. You asked for it, you got it! Due to overwhelming demand, the dollar limit for the Express PO program has been increased to $5,000. University customers now have the ability to directly create a document at their desktop to facilitate a wide variety of routine purchases. Using the Express PO process can result in a real time savings in the ordering process. Purchasing Services has established a large number of contracts covering items commonly purchased by the University community. Customers are encouraged to access these contracts first whenever using an Express PO. A list of University contracts can be found on the Purchasing Services' Web site: http://www.umdnj.edu/purchweb/

Approval of certain purchases, such as radioactive isotopes, computer hardware, professional services and maintenance agreements, must still be obtained for purchases under the Express PO program. For additional information, please call the Purchasing Services Customer Care Line at 732-235-9521, or email expresspo@umdnj.edu.

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM: The Department of Human Resources is currently preparing for the summer of 2005 Youth Employment and Training Program (YETP) on the Newark campus. The program is sponsored by the City of Newark Mayor's Office of Employment and Training (MOET). The participating students are from the Newark school system, ages 14 through 21. The goals of the program are to promote proper work ethics; prepare them to make the transition from school to work; encourage them to stay in school and further their education; and help develop self-esteem.

The program will commence on Tuesday, July 5, and end on Friday, August 26. Participant hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We are aware that many departments wish to be involved in YETP by offering meaningful work experience to the participants and in return receive an alternate means of staff support at no cost to the department. If you are interested in having a student work in your department, please contact Helen Margulski, Department of Human Resources, 973-972-6772 or email margulha@umdnj.edu. The deadline for requests is March 16. Requests will be taken on a "first come" basis. Job slots are limited.

50TH ANNIVERSARY LECTURE SERIES: Celebrating Our Graduates. Diverging Path? Modern Science and International Health, by Arthur J. Ammann, MD (Class of '62), president, Global Strategies for HIV Prevention, on March 18 from 2 to 3 p.m., MSB, B-610. Lunch with Dr. Ammann from 1 to 1:45 p.m., MSB, B-Level Grand Foyer. RSVP: Shelly Gelbman at gelbmash@umdnj.edu.

THE CHRISTIAN MEDICAL AND DENTAL ASSOCIATION AT UMDNJ presents "Can We Trust God With Our Patients?" by Randall Owen, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Department of ENT Surgery, Albert Einstein Medical College, NY, and an elder at Redeemer Presbyterian Church, NYC, on Monday, March 7. Dinner at 5:30 p.m., worship at 6:15 p.m., and at 6:45 p.m., message/dance praise. RSVP to Justin D'Antuono at dantuojm@umdnj.edu. All are welcome. 2nd year Lecture Hall, MSB, Room B552.

HIV SERVICES AT UH: In New Jersey, the epidemic of HIV disease is concentrated in the city of Newark, where the reported prevalence rate is 2.05%, compared to Essex County, where 1.1% of the population is reported to be infected. New Jersey's total reported prevalence rate is 0.36%.

A study by the CDC identified University Hospital as having one of the highest rates of HIV among patients. This program will offer HIV counseling and testing, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day to patients in the emergency department, inpatient units and the ambulatory care units. The HIV test, which is called Oraquik, will be done by pricking the patient's finger and taking a drop of blood. The results will be available in 20-40 minutes and are very accurate. For more information call 973-972-9826, beeper: 973-972-0734, 973-972-0736.

LUNCH CONCERT: On Monday, March 14 from 12 to 1 p.m., refreshments at 11:45 a.m. Free. New York Philharmonic members joins Dr. Amiram Sheffet to perform String Quartets of Mendelssohn and Schubert at the Gellene Alumni Center, MSB, Room B-515. Sponsored by NJMS Faculty Organization and the UMDNJ Newark Chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP). Contact person is Dr. Amiram Sheffet at 973-972-5441.

MAGAZINES NEEDED AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL: The University Hospital's Department of Volunteer Services is in desperate need of magazines for our Ambulatory Clinics and Patient Care Units. All donations should be brought to the volunteer department located in the main hospital lobby, room C-437 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

TUBERCULOSIS PREVENTION: All UMDNJ-University Hospital of Newark staff,
housestaff and medical staff must be skin tested for tuberculosis at least annually. Persons who work in intermediate risk areas must be tested twice a year. Persons who have been identified as being exposed to a confirmed or suspected tuberculosis patient are at high risk and must be tested at the time of exposure and retested 3 months later. Employees are exempt from periodic testing if they have a documented latent tuberculosis infection, i.e., a positive tuberculin skin test, and completed their evaluation at the National uberculosis Center. An employee with latent tuberculosis infection who develops symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis disease, such as persistent cough of at least 3 weeks' duration, cough with chest pain, bloody sputum, fever, loss of appetite or night sweats, should contact the NJMS Occupational Medicine Service (OMS) as soon as possible to be evaluated for tuberculosis disease. Any employee with these symptoms should seek medical care from their personal health care provider. The NJMS OMS provides tuberculin skin testing and any necessary follow-up service, at no cost to employees, in the Stanley S. Bergen Building, Suite GA 167, Monday to Wednesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition, managers or supervisors can arrange for an OMS nurse to come to a work area to provide TB skin tests and then come back 2-3 days later to read the tests. For more information, please call Renee Graves, RN, or Monica Ferguson, RN, at 973-972-2900 or fax 973-972-2904.

BODY FLUID EXPOSURE / BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS INFECTION PREVENTION: Managers, supervisors, employees, housestaff and attendings must report all percutaneous and permucosal exposures to blood or body fluids, including needlesticks, scalpel and sharp exposures. After an incident that results in an exposure, an incident report must be filed, and the affected person should report immediately for evaluation, counseling and possible medical treatment to the NJMS Occupational Medicine Service (OMS) or the Emergency Department (if the OMS is closed). Necessary treatment should be started promptly and care for injured workers is a top priority. Antiretroviral therapy may prevent HIV transmission, immunizations for hepatitis B and tetanus may be indicated and follow-up evaluation for hepatitis C exposure may be needed. All employees who have potential exposure to patients and/or blood and body fluids should protect themselves and make certain that they are immune to hepatitis B. The OMS can test you and provide hepatitis B vaccine if needed at no cost to you. The OMS is located in the Stanley S. Bergen Building, Suite GA 167, and is open Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have any questions, please contact Lawrence D. Budnick, MD, at 973-972-2900.

NEW JERSEY PREPAREDNESS TRAINING CONSORTIUM UPCOMING EVENTS: For more information on the events below, as well as for preparedness news, publications and other resources, visit the Web site at http://www.nj-ptc.org/ or call 973-972-7479.

March 3: Weapons of Mass Destruction for the Radiology Technologist.

March 5: Bioterrorism and Preparedness for NJ Veterinarians at the 2005 NJVMA Annual Meeting - Animal/Human Decontamination and Personal Protection: Bioterrorism and Zoonotic Diseases: Incident Command System and the National Response Plan; and Service Animals and Disaster Response.

March 23: Behavioral Health Awareness Training for Terrorism and Disasters.

March 30 - April 1: Quantitative Fit-Testing for NJ Nurses at the 2005 NJSNA Conference.

March 30: Bioterrorism and Preparedness for NJ Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine at the 2005 NJAOPS Convention - Preparing Your Office for Bioterrorism; Biological Agents of Terror; Managing Exposure to Chemical Agents; and a panel discussion.

April 11, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21: Terrorism Preparedness - Protecting Yourself, Your Patients and Your Loved Ones.

SAVE THE DATE - RELAY FOR LIFE: The Planning Committee of Relay for Life (RFL)-Newark is looking for teams to participate in the RFL-Newark event to be held July 8-9. RFL is the American Cancer Society's signature activity. It offers everyone in a community a chance to participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. For more detail on RFL, click here. To participate in RFL-Newark, contact Betty Patterson-Pearson at 973-972-4965 or patterbe@umdnj.edu or Nadine Herran at 973-972-5702 or herrannr@umdnj.edu.

LABORATORY SAFETY TRAINING: Laboratory employees must attend laboratory safety training every two years as required by the NJ PEOSH/OSHA Laboratory Standard and the UMDNJ Laboratory Safety Program. The Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Services will be offering its next laboratory safety training sessions on March 22 from 9:30 to 11:30 am. To register, please call Carolyn Cooper at 973-972-4812.

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS TRAINING FOR LABORATORY EMPLOYEES: The PEOSH Bloodborne Pathogens Standard and the UMDNJ Bloodborne Pathogens Policy require annual training for employees potentially exposed to bloodborne pathogens. The Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Services (EOHSS) will be offering training for laboratory employees potentially exposed to bloodborne pathogens on March 10 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. To register, please contact Carolyn Cooper at 973-972-4812.

New Brunswick/Piscataway

SHIPPING DANGEROUS GOODS (dry ice, diagnostic/infectious specimens, genetically modified microorganisms) IATA training:

EOHSS offers IATA-dangerous goods shipping training for staff, students or volunteers who package, label, or do any other tasks related to shipping dangerous goods. A schedule of classes is posted on the EOHSS Web site at: http://www2.umdnj.edu/eohssweb/pisc/training.htm#IATA

Please note: staff, students or volunteers who package, label, or do any other tasks related to shipping dangerous goods are only authorized to ship these materials if they are up-to-date with training under applicable national and international regulations. Training is required initially and then every two years.

If you would like to register for one of the IATA training classes, send an email to Scott Finkernagel at finkersw@umdnj.edu. Please specify the class date preferred. You may also contact Scott with any shipping questions you may have at 732-235-9370.

LECTURE ON SCIENTIST-JOURNALIST DIALOGUES: The UMDNJ-School of Public Health and Rutgers University School of Communication, Information and Library Studies invite you to attend the second lecture of the "Scientist-Journalist Dialogues" lecture series to be given by Sharon Begley, science editor of the Wall Street Journal and former senior editor at Newsweek magazine, on Tuesday, March 8 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in Classrooms 3A & 3B of the UMDNJ-School of Public Health. Food and refreshments will be provided.

Due to limited seating capacity in the atrium of the new building you must RSVP to Christine Scott, research assistant in the office of Research and Sponsored Programs (by phone at 732-235-9705 or by email at scott2@umdnj.edu).

FREE VIDEO ON CHILDREN AND STRESS: The NJ Center for Public Health Preparedness AT UMDNJ is offering a free video: "You Can Ask! Helping You Help Children Cope With Stress."

"You Can Ask!" is a program designed for children ages 3 - 8 in building the necessary coping skills for stressful situations and living in a post-9/11 world. Developed by the Sesame Workshop with the NY State Office of Mental Health, FEMA, and the Federal Center for Mental Health Services, the kit includes: a video featuring familiar Sesame Street characters in a series of vignettes; a guide for parents and caregivers; tips for communicating with children; and online resources and activities. The kit includes materials in English, Spanish, and Chinese. For more information on "You Can Ask!" visit http://www.sesameworkshop.org/youcanask/. Currently, The New Jersey Center for Public Health Preparedness at UMDNJ is offering complimentary copies of the kit -- please contact Barbara Newsome at 732-235-9704 or newsomba@umdnj.edu, to obtain your FREE copy.

ANNOUNCING THE T2B2 LENDING LIBRARY: The UMDNJ School of Public Health-Office of Public Health Practice (OPHP) is pleased to announce its T2B2 Lending Library. T2B2 (Third Thursday Breakfast Broadcast) is a monthly one hour video broadcast designed to provide continuing education opportunities for public health and human services professionals. This initiative comes from the School of Public Health at the University of Albany and their partners. New titles are added monthly. OPHP will loan videos for free, for one month. For more information contact Robyn Shumer: shumerrb@umdnj.edu (732-235-9451).

PUBLIC HEALTH SEMINAR SERIES: The UMDNJ School of Public Health-Office of Public Health Practice invites you to attend our monthly Public Health Seminar Series. All seminars are from 10:15 a.m. to 12 p.m. at: 683 Hoes Lane West, first floor, Room 110, Piscataway. You must register by clicking here.

March 16, 2005: Food Law, by Joe Rosen, PhD, Rutgers

April 20, 2005: Organic Food: Is It Really Healthier? by Joe Rosen, PhD, Rutgers

May 18, 2005: Asthma Management, by Patricia Nelson-Johnson, Trenton Childhood Asthma Project

June 15, 2005: Public Health Outreach in the Dominican Republic, by Bernadette West, PhD, UMDNJ and UMDNJ SPH V.O.I.C.E.S. students

Seminars are free. Space is limited to 25 participants. CHES credits and CE credits are available. Contact Robyn Shumer with any questions: shumerrb@umdnj.edu

NEW CME ACCREDITED CANCER CENTER GRAND ROUNDS: The Wednesday noon seminar series at CINJ has recently received AMA category 1 credit. The seminars are held every Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m., CINJ ROOM 4512 (new building). Participants will be awarded 1 category 1 credit for each session. For more information contact 732-235-9869 or 732-235-6785

Stratford/Camden

BEST PRACTICE SYMPOSIUM: The New Jersey CARES Institute is pleased to announce the First Annual Best Practice Symposium being held on March 11 at the Stratford campus. "Identifying Treatment and Healing Child Sexual Abuse" will feature plenary lectures by Barbara Bonner, PhD from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and John E.B. Myers, JD from the McGeorge School of Law. In addition, four workshops will be offered, focusing on medical, mental health, social work or legal issues with child sexual abuse. The symposium is free, but space is limited. The brochure and registration form can be found at the following link: http://som.umdnj.edu/ctr_excellence/ctr_4_children.htm. For questions, contact Meredith Schalick at 856-566-6215 or schaliml@umdnj.edu.

SAVE THE DATE:

March 22. The University Doctors Women's Health Fair from 12 to 2 p.m., in the Academic Center.

April 23. National Boricua-Latino Health Organization (NBLHO) Health Conference. In association with SOM, the NBLHO presents "Planting the Seed in Future Physicians Servicing Latino Communities" on Saturday, April 23 on the Stratford campus. Registration is open to high school, college and medical school students as well as physicians, social workers, nurses and educators. The NBLHO is a Latino student group representing health profession students from the northeast region of the United States. For more information, contact Raquel S. Murphy, NBLHO national conference coordinator at murphyra@umdnj.edu.

Clinical Studies

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO PARTICIPATE IN A VITILIGO STUDY: Pilot, Investigator-Initiated, Proof-of-Concept Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Etanercept (Embrel®) in Adults with Vitiligo (Loss of Your Normal Skin Color). Qualified participants must be 18 years or older. Must have vitiligo. The study length is approximately 7 months. Principal investigator of this study is Alice Gottlieb, MD, PhD, director, Clinical Research Center, RWJMS. For additional information or to see if you qualify for this study, call Nancy at 732-418-8484.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR AN ATOPIC DERMATITIS (ECZEMA) STUDY: Investigator-Initiated Trial of Efalizumab for Atopic Dermatitis: A Proof of Concept Study in Adults. Qualified participants must be 18 years or older. Study length is approximately 9 months, total of 11 visits. Must be willing to self administer Efalizumab (Raptiva). Principal investigator is Melissa Magliocco, MD, Clinical Research Center. For additional information or to see if you qualify for this study, call Nancy at 732-418-8484 from Monday-Friday.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR "JUPITER": A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter, Phase III Study of Rosuvastatin (Crestor) 20 mg in the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events Among Subjects with Low Levels of LDL Cholesterol and Elevated Levels of C-Reactive Protein. Even if you have a normal cholesterol level you may still be at risk for heart attack or stroke. The Preventive Cardiology Program is conducting a research trial, called JUPITER, to evaluate whether statin medication will lower the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with normal levels of cholesterol BUT with high levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP), a measure of inflammation. Qualifications for study participation: men must be 55 or older, women must be 65 or older, and have no prior history of heart attack, stroke, diabetes or chronic arthritis. Also, you may not be taking hormone replacement therapy or any medications to lower cholesterol. Qualified participants will receive study related medical exams, blood work (including CRP), and study medication. All study visits will be conducted at the Doctors Office Center, 90 Bergen Street, Suite 4200, Newark. Norman L. Lasser, MD, PhD, is the principal investigator of the JUPITER study and director of the Preventive Cardiology Program at New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Lasser can be reached at 973-972-4001, For more information, call Roberta Silverberg at 973-972-6107.

STUDY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: A 3-week, Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-group, Placebo-controlled, Phase III Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Quetiapine Fumarte (SEROQUEL) Immediate Release Tablets in Daily Doses of 400 mg and 600 mg Compared with Placebo in the Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Biopolar 1 Mania. Has your child been diagnosed with bipolar disorder (manic depressive illness)? Dr. Theodore Petti at RWJMS is conducting a research study of an investigational medication for children and adolescents (ages 10-17 years). Your child may qualify if he/she experiences some or all of these symptoms: Extreme shifts in energy, mood, or behavior (mood swings), difficulty functioning in school, with friends or at home, sleep changes, impulsivity, excessive irritability, inability or reduced ability to concentrate. Qualified participants will receive medical and psychological evaluations, treatment, investigational medication and close medical supervision at no cost. For more information, contact Kurt Bopp at 732-235-5690

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A CHRONIC PLAQUE PSORIASIS STUDY: Open-label, Single-arm Pilot Study to Evaluate the Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, Safety and Preliminary Efficacy of CC- 10004 in Subjects with Severe Plaque Type Psoriasis. Qualified participants must be 18 to 65 years old. Must have had moderate to severe psoriasis for least 6 months. Study length is 85 days, about 10 weekly visits and an optional overnight stay. Study drug to be taken orally, once daily for 30 days. Study participants will receive payment. Principal investigator is Alice B. Gottlieb, MD, PhD, director, Clinical Research Center, New Brunswick. For additional information, or to see if you qualify, call Nancy at 732-418-8484.

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: New Jersey Clinical Drug Trials for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia Disorders. COPSA (Comprehensive Services on Aging) Institute for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders is New Jersey's designated resource center and dementia diagnostic clinic. The following is information about clinical drug trials available through the COPSA Institute:

1. We are seeking patients, age 50 years and older, with generally good health and a diagnosis of severe Alzheimer's disease to participate in a research study that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of a drug that may improve your memory for treating severe Alzheimer's disease. The medication has already been approved by the FDA for treating mild/moderate Alzheimer's disease. This is a two-part study totaling 36 weeks in length. The first 24 weeks of the study the patients will either receive the FDA approved medication or a sugar pill. For the remaining 12 weeks all patients will receive the FDA approved medication.

2. We are seeking patients 50 years and older with generally good health and diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease to participate in a research study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of memantine (Namenda®) augmented with galantamine (Reminyl®) in the treatment of patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. Both these medications have been approved by the FDA. This study will also look at what effect the combination of these two medications has on memory and day to day function. Eligible subjects must be taking Reminyl® 16 or 24mg per day, be at a stable dose for at least 6 weeks prior to entering the study, and must continue at that dose for the entire study in order to participate. All study medications, which include both Reminyl ® and Namenda®, will be provided at no cost.

3. We are seeking patients 55 years and older with generally good health and diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease to participate in a research study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of huperzine A (an herb from China) in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. This study will also look at what effects this medication has on memory and day to day activities. The study will last approximately 6 months. For the first 16 weeks of the study patients will receive either huperzine or a sugar pill; for the remainder of the study all patients will be receiving huperzine.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Attach Evaluation of the Efficacy "amp; Tolerability of Trexima (sumatriptan 85mg/naproxen sodium 500mg) Tablets vs. Placebo When Administered During the Mild Pain Phase of a Migraine. Sponsor ID#101998. If you suffer from moderate or severe migraines, you may be eligible to participate in this clinical research study of an investigational oral drug for the treatment of migraines. We are looking for males or females between the ages of 18 to 65, generally healthy, who have had 2 or 6 migraines per month for the past 3 months and typically have moderate or severe migraines that begin with mild pain. This study requires 2 office visits. All study-related office visits, medical evaluations, and study medication will be provided to qualified study participants at no cost.

SCHIZOPHRENIA RESEARCH STUDY FOR ADOLESCENTS: Do you know an adolescent, aged 13-17, who is experiencing any of the following symptoms?

• Disorganized speech that is incoherent at times.
• Seeing things that are not there.
• Often appears distracted.
• Appearing to hear voices when no one is there.
• An inability to focus on tasks.
• Disorganized thoughts and behaviors.
• Social withdrawal.
• Feeling like people are out to get them.

Dr. Theodore Petti at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, is conducting a medical study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an atypical antipsychotic medication involving adolescents who have symptoms of schizophrenia. Qualified participants will receive study related medication and study related evaluations all funded by a major pharmaceutical company. Health insurance is not needed to participate. For more information on this medical research study, contact Kurt Bopp, clinical research coordinator, at 732-235-5690.

CHILDREN NEEDED FOR CHILDHOOD AUTISM: Children aged 5 through 17 are needed to participate in a 12 week clinical study on autism at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Piscataway. The purpose of the study is to explore treatment options for children with autism. To be eligible, participants must have a diagnosis of autism and must be willing to undergo an interview. The interview and questionnaires may take up to four hours to complete. The interview can be completed at the second visit if necessary. Those who qualify will be closely monitored by the study doctor. Medication will be provided at no cost. Sherie Novotny, MD, is the principal investigator. For more information call Kurt Bopp, clinical research coordinator, at 732-235-5690.

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS: Adult volunteers ages 18-65 are needed to participate in a 16 week clinical drug study on schizophrenia and anxiety at UMDNJ-University Behavioral HealthCare, Extended Treatment, New Brunswick. The purpose of the study is to explore treatment options for patients with schizophrenia and social anxiety symptoms. To be eligible, participants must have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and must be willing to undergo an interview. Those who qualify may receive up to $280 for their participation plus an additional $20 for each visit if travel is involved. Theodore Petti, MD, MPH, is the principal investigator. For more information call Kurt Bopp, clinical research coordinator, at 732-235-5690.

WOMEN NEEDED FOR RESEARCH STUDY for "Vulvodynia Prevalence and Efficacy of 4 Interventions Phase ll-A Randomized Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Dietary Intervention on Symptomatology in Women with Vulvodynia." If, for the past six months, you have experienced vaginal itching, burning, tenderness, or painful intercourse, you may be eligible to participate in a research study. Volunteers must be 18 to 80 years old. You will receive a pelvic exam, Pap smear, blood studies and urine exam. For more information, call 732-235-7799 or 732-235-7965, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All calls held in confidence. Gloria Bachmann, MD, associate dean of Women's Health and director, Women's Health Institute, is principal investigator.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A CHRONIC PLAQUE PSORIASIS STUDY: An Open-Label Phase 2 Biomaker Companion Study to protocol 5326-04 in Patients with Moderate to Severe Chronic Placque Psoriasis. Participants must be 18 -70 years old and diagnosed with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis for at least 6 months. Must not have been treated within the last 3 months for any chronic or current infections. Study length is approximately 5 months, requiring 9 visits (screen, treatment visits and follow-up visit). Participants will receive study drug (either 21mg or 35mg taken by mouth twice a day). Will receive physical examinations, blood tests, skin test for tuberculosis (TB) and electrocardiogram (ECG). Study participants will receive monetary compensation upon completion of the study. Alice Gottlieb, MD, PhD, director, Clinical Research Center, is the principal investigator. For additional information, or to see if you qualify for this study, please call Nancy at 732-418-8484 Monday through Friday.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A PSORIASIS STUDY: Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Bilateral Comparison of Topical Tacrolimus 0.1% vs, Placebo Ointment as Adjunctive Therapy for Patients with Moderate to Severe Psoriasis Who are Candidates for or Poor Responders to Entanercept Therapy. Qualified participants must be 18 years or older. Study length is approximately 3 months, total of 8 visits every 2 weeks. Must be approved for Enbrel treatment by your insurance carrier. Must be willing to self administer Enbrel and apply Tacrolimus/placebo. Melissa Magliocco, MD, Clinical Research Center, principal investigator. For additional information, or to see if you qualify for this study, please call Nancy at 732-418-8484.

MEN NEEDED: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study of Leuprolide Acetate Depot in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease in Men. UMDNJ-SOM is conducting clinical trials that researchers hope could alter the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), lead to enhanced treatment of the disease, or reduce the risk of dementia. One such study is the ALADDIN Clinical Trial. The ALADDIN study is a one-year study that will evaluate the effectiveness of leuprolide, an FDA-approved drug for treating hormone related conditions, in improving cognitive function and slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Study participants can remain on their current medications. Eligible participants for the trial must be men 65 or older with a prior diagnosis of probable AD (mild to moderate stages). Participants will receive study medication every three months and meet with specially trained staff approximately nine times during the year for testing and evaluation. Please call 856-566-6003 to volunteer or learn more about the ALADDIN Alzheimer's disease study.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A PEDIATRIC PLAQUE PSORIASIS STUDY: Placebo-Controlled Multicenter Study with Etanercept to Determine Safety and Efficacy in Pediatric Subjects with Plaque Psoriasis (PEDS) Protocol 20030211. Qualified participants must be 4-17 years old and have a parent or legally acceptable representative to assist with administration of an injectable medication; must have severe chronic plaque psoriasis. The study length is approximately 12 months. Blinded treatment phase (study drug/placebo): 2 visits, every 2 weeks then 2 visits monthly. Open label (guaranteed study drug): 9 visits, monthly. Follow up phase: 1 month after the last dose. Must have an updated immunization record. Must not have any chronic or current infection within the last 6 months. Study participants will receive monetary compensation. Principal investigator, Alice B. Gottlieb, MD, PhD, director, Clinical Research Center. For additional information, or to see if your child qualifies for this study, please call Nancy at 732-418-8484.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for a "Phase II Trial To Assess the Effects of Green Tea in Oral Leukoplakia." In this study, green tea is being considered as a potential agent in the treatment of leukoplakia, a pre-malignant lesion of the mouth that often precedes oral cancer. Lozenges containing green tea will be taken by participants eight times per day for twelve weeks to see if the leukoplakia lesions get smaller. If you have oral leukoplakia lesions you may be eligible to participate in this study. Contact The Cancer Institute of New Jersey at 866-654-9898 and select option #3 for more information.

MALE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: The Cancer Institute of New Jersey is conducting a study of new treatments for men who have a genetic and morphologic precursor to prostate cancer called high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, or simply PIN. Currently, there is no prevention regimen against PIN. However, recent clinical data demonstrates that Calcitriol, a vitamin derivative, can be effective in protecting against prostate cancer. This study will look at the effects of Calcitriol on PIN, and track the prostate specific antigen (PSA) during the course of treatment. The study lasts approximately 32 weeks and eligible participants cannot have been previously diagnosed with prostate cancer. The principal investigator is Dr. Robert DiPaola. For more information about the study, contact Cesar Faigal, RN, at 732-235-9466 or 1-866-654-9898, then select option 3.

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: A phase IV, randomized study, comparing betaseron with copaxone in patients with relapsing-remitting or clinically isolated forms of multiple sclerosis. Patients must be between the ages of 18 and 55 and never have been on any type of multiple sclerosis treatment in the past. Any questions, call Kim Tulloch, RN, study coordinator at 973-972-6177.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON GHRELIN, AN APPETITE CONTROL HORMONE: Seeking slim African-American and Caucasian women between the ages of 18 to 59 to volunteer as controls for a study investigating ghrelin levels after weight loss surgery. Involves a one-time blood draw. Volunteers will not receive any payment for participating. Volunteers can learn their ghrelin and cholesterol levels. For more information or to see if you qualify, call Dr. Bale, Obesity Treatment Center, Newark, at 973-972-2540.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Straitened is conducting a research study investigating the potential for the development of cataracts in patients with schizophrenia. To participate you must be between the ages of 18 and 65 and diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. During the study you will be receiving seroquel or risperdal. This study will be conducted over a two year time frame and require 28 visits. Monetary compensation is provided for time and travel. For more information, or to see if you qualify, call Louise at 1-888-602-9900.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER STUDY: Do you have symptoms of feeling abandoned, anxiety, anger, feeling bad about yourself and difficulty in relationships with others? Eli Lilly is conducting a research study assessing whether the antipsychotic drug Zyprexa (olanzapine) will be effective in controlling symtoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD). The study is looking for men or women 18 to 65 years of age, with this diagnosis. The study will last-up to 24 weeks. Subjects who qualify will be closely monitored by a faculty psychiatrist and receive study medication at no charge. They will be compensated up to $600 for participation in the study. For more information, or to see if you qualify, call Louise at 1-888-602-9900.

FEMALES WANTED FOR AN OSTEOPOROSIS RESEARCH STUDY: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, MultiCenter Four Week Study to Assess The Effect Of Alendronate 70 MG and vitamin D3 IU Once Weekly On Fractional Calcium Absorption in Postmenopausal Osteoporotic Women. Participants must be generally healthy postmenopausal women and not taking other drugs for osteoporosis. Volunteers will receive bone density tests, visits and evaluations, investigational drugs, calcium supplements and travel compensation. For more information call Shelly Greenhaus, RN, at 732-235-7751, Stephen H. Schneider, MD, principal investigator.

IMPROVED DIABETES CONTROL MAY BE JUST A BREATH AWAY: A One-Year, Open, Randomized, Parallel Three-Arm Study, Comparing Exubera (Insulin Dry Powder Pulmonary Inhaler) vs. Avandia (Rosiglitazone Maleate) as Add-on Therapy vs. Exubera Substitution of Sulfonylurea in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes, Poorly Controlled on Combination Sulfonylurea and Metformin Treatment. If you have had type 2 diabetes for a least 6 months and are between 18 and 80 years old, taking 2 oral medications to treat your type 2 diabetes ( not Actos or Avandia), not taking insulin shots and a nonsmoker, you may qualify to participate in a new one-year research study using an investigational form of inhaled insulin. Approximately 600 people will participate at 60 study centers. Participants will receive study-related checkups, nutritional counseling and medication at no charge. This may help others by contributing to medical research. For more information, please contact Shelly Greenhaus, RN, BSN, MPH, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition, at 732-235-7751.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED WITH DIABETES: A Multicenter, Double Blind, Randomized, Parallel Group Study to Compare the Effect of 24 Weeks Treatment With LAF237 (50mg qd or bid) to Placebo as Add-on Therapy to Pioglitzaone 45 mg qd in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled With Thazolidinedione Monotherapy. Participants must be between the ages of 18 through 80 for investigational drug study of a new diabetes pill for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. No charge for physical exam, study medications and relevant laboratory tests. Monetary compensation provided. To see if you qualify, call Shelly Greenhaus, RN, at 732-235-7751. Stephen H. Schneider, MD, is principal investigator.

PARTICIPANTS NEED FOR TYPE 2 STUDY: A Comparison of Prandial Insulin Lispro Mixtures Therapy to Glargine Basal-Bolus Therapy With Insulin Lispro on the Overall Glycemic Control of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Previously Treated With Oral Agents Combined With Insulin Glargine. Are you between the ages of 30 and 75, have type 2 diabetes and currently being treated with Lantus (Insulin Glargine) in combination with one or two oral diabetic medications? If the answer is yes, call Shelly Greenhaus, RN, at 732-235-7751. We are studying a new diabetes treatment to determine if it controls your diabetes more effectively than your current treatment plan. All study-related care is provided at no cost to qualified participants, including physical examinations, glucose meters and supplies, study medication, and laboratory tests. Stephen Schneider, MD, is principal investigator.

SCHIZOPHRENIA RESEARCH STUDY FOR ADOLESCENTS: Do you know an adolescent, aged 13-17, who is experiencing any of the following symptoms? " Disorganized speech that is incoherent at times " Seeing things that are not there " Often appears distracted " Appearing to hear voices when no one is there " An inability to focus on tasks " Disorganized thoughts and behaviors " Social withdrawal " Feeling like people are out to get them Dr. Theodore Petti at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, is conducting a medical research study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an atypical antipsychotic medication involving adolescents who have symptoms of schizophrenia. Qualified participants will receive study related medication and study related evaluations all funded by a major pharmaceutical company. Health insurance is not needed to participate. For more information on this medical research study, please contact Kurt Bopp, Clinical Research Coordinator, at 732-235-5690.

FEMALE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: The National Institutes of Health, in conjunction with UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School-Newark campus and University Reproductive Associates, PC, are conducting a study of new treatments for infertility in women with irregular menstrual cycles. Women with 8 or fewer menstrual cycles per year are often suffering from anovulation (not ovulating or releasing an egg each month) due to a hormonal imbalance termed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO syndrome). This study will try to find out which medicine or combination of medicines is the most effective and safe way to restore ovulation and fertility in these women. Patients meeting eligibility criteria will receive free medicine and treatment for up to 30 weeks. They will also receive compensation for their time and travel. The principal investigator for the study is Dr. Peter McGovern. For more information about the study, contact Amy Solnica, RN at 973-972-3633, 973-972-2235 or 201-288-6330.

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR ACID REFLUX STUDY: Do you have chronic acid reflux, heartburn or indigestion? Acid reflux can, over time, cause damage to the white lining of the esophagus, replacing it with an abnormal red lining called Barrett's esophagus (BE). Over time, BE can develop into esophageal cancer. A study now being conducted at CINJ and RWJUH is designed to detect people who may develop BE, in the hopes of ultimately preventing the onset of esophageal cancer. Participants must have symptoms related to acid relux and it must be at least one year since their last upper endoscopy. Patients who show signs of being susceptible to BE may also be eligible for a prevention study upon completion of the acid reflux study. Dr. Kiron Das, MD, PhD, is the prinicpal investigator. For more information or to participate in this cancer prevention study, contact The Cancer Insitute of New Jersey at 1-866-654-9898 and select option 3.

HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS at risk for colorectal cancer are needed for a clinical trial at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey. The trial is looking to see if an aspirin-like drug or a substance found in curry and mustard can prevent the development of colorectal polyps. A colorectal screening colonoscopy is provided to volunteers at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital as part of this investigation. Compensation is offered to offset the costs of particpation. Dr. Steven J. Shiff, MD, is the prinicipal investigator. Contact The Cancer Institute of New Jersey at 1-866-654-9898 and select option #1 for more information.

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR AN ENDOMETRIAL (UTERINE) CANCER STUDY: The Cancer Institute of New Jersey is testing whether a medicated intrauterine device can prevent endometrial cancer and precancer. Women who are heavy are at increased risk of endometrial cancer. MIRENA® is an intrauterine system that contains the medication levonorgestrel. It is usually used to prevent pregnancy. MIRENA®has been used successfully in small studies to treat endometrial precancer (hyperplasia) and cancer. To be eligible for this study women must be between the ages of 40 and 50 and be very heavy (obese). For example, a women who is 5 feet 5 inches must weight at least 240 pounds. Women will have pelvic exams and endometrial biopsies during the study. Potential participants should be willing to have MIRENA® inserted and be able to keep a record of vaginal bleeding. Participants will be seen at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey approximately 7 times during the study. For more information, call CINJ at 1-866-654-9898.

CALL FOR CONTROLS: Would you like to participate in a research study? Would you like to help to further research in neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological disease? You can help out by being a control and earn $10! Investigators at RWJMS are inviting individuals meeting the following criteria to participate in a genetics research study: NO history in yourself of any of the following: ADHD, autism, biopolar disorder, birth defects, cerebral palsy, dyslexia/learning disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, spina Bifida and Tourette syndrome. NO history in your parents, siblings, or children of any of the mentioned. If you think you fit the criteria, and you are interested in participating, please contact us at 732-235-4508. Thank you for your interest.

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: Do you feel sad, irritable, tired and uninterested? Do you have concentration, appetite, and sleep problems? You may be suffering from Depression. Dr. Paul Lehrer at RWJMS is conducting a research study using a new non-drug technique to treat depression. Treatment does not involve medication. Participants must be ages 18-75 and medically stable. The investigational treatment is provided at no cost. If you or someone you know is interested, please call Dr. Karavidas at 732-235-4628.

SMOKERS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA NEEDED FOR RESEARCH STUDY: Treatment of Addiction to Nicotine in Schizophrenia (TANS) is a four-year, NIDA funded project designed to help smokers with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder quit smoking. We are offering a treatment protocol utilizing the nicotine patch and blending evidence-based tobacco dependence and mental health treatments. Treatment is free and participants are paid for completing research questionnaires. For further information, or to refer a patient, please contact Dr. Marc Steinberg at 732-235-8222 or at marc.steinberg@umdnj.edu

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Escitalopram Treatment of Depression and Irritability Due to Traumatic Brain Injury. Head injuries can cause poor concentration, low energy, mood swings, social withdrawal and irritability. Dr. Edward Kim is conducting a research trial that may help. Seeking men and women to participate in a research study evaluating LexaproT in the treatment of depression that develops after a head injury. LexaproT is approved by the FDA to treat depression, but has not received approval for the treatment of depression due to head trauma. To be eligible for the study, you must have had a head injury at least 3 months ago, be between the ages of 18 and 60 and medically stable. There are visits once a week for the study. Related medical care including the study medication, will be prescribed at no cost while you are enrolled in the study. Females of childbearing age must agree to use an effective form of birth control during the study. Please call Anjali Patel at 732-235-5840. to find out more details about the study.

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED to study Aripiprazole in patients with treatment-resistant generalized anxiety disorder. Nervous or anxious? Do you suffer from these symptoms, excessive worry, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, sleeping problems, are you unable to concentrate and medication treatments haven't helped? Dr. Matthew Menza at RWJMS is conducting a 6-week study of treatment-resistant generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) with investigational medications. All research care including an extensive psychiatric evaluation is provided at no cost to those who qualify. Participants are paid $30 for each study. If you or someone you care about is interested in participating, please call Regine Rousso, toll free at 1-877-RWJ-HOPE (1-877-795-4673.)

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for an NIH-funded study of sleep and function in persons who have heart failure. The purpose of the study is to learn about the sleep of people who have congestive heart failure (CHF) and understand how sleep contributes to daily symptoms and activity. Study participants will receive $50 at the completion of the study. For information on how you may qualify to participate, contact the study coordinator at 973-972-3780 or campbed1@umdnj.edu, or Dr. Nancy Redeker at 973-972-8541.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR A TYPE 2 DIABETES STUDY: Do you have type 2 diabetes? Are you between 18 and 80 years old? Are you taking more than one oral medication to treat your type 2 diabetes? Would you like to try a new delivery system for managing your type 2 diabetes? If you answer yes to all of the above questions, you may be eligible to receive investigational inhaled insulin in a clinical trial. The trial will compare the effects of a combination of oral diabetes medications with that of inhaled insulin taken with a combination of oral diabetes medications, or inhaled insulin taken with a single oral diabetes medication. Qualified participants will receive confidential, study-related exams from diabetes specialists, as well as nutritional counseling, laboratory tests, a home blood sugar testing machine and all study medication at no charge. If you currently smoke or have a severe medical condition, you will not be eligible to participate. For more information contact Shelley Greenhaus, RN, at 732-235-7751 between the hours of 2 to 4 p.m. Stephen H. Schneider, MD, is prinicpal investigator.

CHILDREN NEEDED FOR CHILDHOOD AUTISM: Children aged 5 through 17 are needed to participate in a 12 week clinical study on autism at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Piscataway. The purpose of the study is to explore treatment options for children with autism. To be eligible, participants must have a diagnosis of autism and must be willing to undergo an interview. The interview and questionnaires may take up to four hours to complete. The interview can be completed at the second visit if necessary. Those who qualify will be closely monitored by the study doctor. Medication will be provided at no cost. Sherie Novotny, MD, is the principal investigator. For more information call Kurt Bopp, clinical research coordinator, at 732-235-5690.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR BRAIN IMAGING FOR ACUPUNCTURE: Healthy subjects needed for acupuncture study. Participants must be between the ages of 18 to 70, male or female (not pregnant). The study is 1 hour per session, 4 sessions per study. Volunteers will receive a free copy of their IMR brain images. For more information call Dr. Wen-Ching Liu at 973-972-2281 ( wliu@umdnj.edu ) or Dr. Susan Feldman at 973-972-4797 ( sufeldma@umdnj.edu ).

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO PARTICIPATE IN A VITILIGO STUDY: "Pilot, Investigator-Initiated, Proof-of-Concept Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Etanercept (Enbrel®) in Adults with Vitiligo (Loss of Your Normal Skin Color). Qualified participants must be 18 years and older, must have vitiligo. The study length is approximately 7 months. Participants will receive monetary compensation upon completion. For more information or to see if you qualify, call Nancy at 732-418-8484. Alice Gottlieb, MD, PhD, director, Clinical Research Center, is the principal investigator of the study.

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS: Adult volunteers ages 18-65 are needed to participate in a 16 week clinical drug study on schizophrenia and anxiety at UMDNJ-University Behavioral HealthCare, Extended Treatment, New Brunswick. The purpose of the study is to explore treatment options for patients with schizophrenia and social anxiety symptoms. To be eligible, participants must have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and must be willing to undergo an interview. Those who qualify may receive up to $280 for their participation plus an additional $20 for each visit if travel is involved. Theodore Petti, MD, MPH, is the principal Investigator. For more information call Kurt Bopp, Clinical Research Coordinator, at 732-235-5690.

SEEKING WOMEN 18-50 YEARS OLD: Are you currently being treated with antidepressant medication and have low sexual desire? RWJMS Department of Psychiatry is conducting a medication research study for women who are feeling better on their antidepressant but are still having problems with low sexual desire. This study is using a medication approved for men for the treatment of sexual dysfunction but is now being tested in women. All study related procedures are provided at no cost. Your participation may last up to 6 months. The investigator for the study is Matthew Menza, MD. If you're interested please call Roseanne Dobkin, PhD, for more information at 1-877-795-4673.

WOMEN NEEDED FOR RESEARCH STUDY for "Vulvodynia Prevalence and Efficacy of 4 Interventions Phase II-A Randomized Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Dietary Intervention on Symptomatology in Women with Vulvodynia." If, for the past six months, you have experienced vaginal itching, burning, tenderness, or painful intercourse, you may be eligible to participate in a research study. Volunteers must be 18 to 80 years old. You will receive a pelvic exam, Pap smear, blood studies and urine exam. For more information, call 732-235-7799 or 732-235-7965, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All calls held in confidence. Gloria Bachmann, MD, associate dean of Women's Health and director, Women's Health Institute, is principal investigator.

Calendar

Newark

3/2/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Helping Populations Progress Through Stages of Behavior Change, by James Proschaska, PhD, director of Cancer Prevention Research Consortium, professor of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Rhode Island. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

3/16/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: What Can Mice Tell Us About The Biological Basis of Addiction, by Dorothy Grice, MD, director, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NJMS. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

4/6/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: ADHD Assessment and Treatment, by Josephine Elia, MD, associate medical director, Neuropsychiatry, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

4/20/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Multiple Faces of Depression in Late Life: Implications for Treatment and Prevention, by Barry Lebowitz, PhD, chief, Geriatric Treatment and Prevention, Interventions Research Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

5/4/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Neurobiological and Cognitive Development of Neglected Children, by Michael DeBellis, MD, PhD, professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

5/18/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Cultural Formulation and Treatment Planning, by Giovanni Caracci, MD, vice chair, Education and Training, Psychiatry, NJMS. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

6/1/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Assessment and Treatment of Psychotic Youth and Autistic Youth, by Linmarie Sikich, MD, associate professor, Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

6/15/05: Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds: Research Developments in Bipolar Disorder, by Joseph Goldberg, MD, director, Bipolar Disorders Research Program, Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital-LIJ, Glen Oaks, NY. Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., MSB, Room B-610. CME credit is 1.5 hours.

New Brunswick/Piscataway

2/28/05: Prostate Cancer Support Group Programs: Spirituality and the Healing Process, by Pastor Thor Foss, Hillside Lutheran Brethren Church, Succasunna, NJ, from 2 to 2:30 p.m., CINJ. Please RSVP to Chris Bellafonte at 732-235-9596 or by email (bellafce@umdnj.edu). Please enter through the old CINJ entrance.

3/2/05: Neurology Grand Rounds: RNA Interference and Its Potential Theraputic Use In Neurodegenerative Diseases, by Henry Paulson, MD, PhD, associate professor, Neurology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa. Lunch at 1 p.m., lecture at 1:30 p.m., Clinical Academic Building, Conference Room 1302, New Brunswick. This educational series is possible due to generous donations from: Allergan, Biogen Idec, Bristol-MyersSquibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Medtronics, Schwarz Pharma, Teva Neuroscience.

3/9/05: Neurology Grand Rounds: Error-Correcting Feedback and Associative Learning: Understanding the Cognitive Deficits in Parkinson's Disease, by Mark Gluck, PhD, associate professor, Neuroscience , Rutgers University. Lunch at 1 p.m., lecture at 1:30 p.m., Medical Education Building, Conference Room 102, New Brunwick. This educational series is possible due to generous donations from: Allergan, Biogen Idec, Bristol-MyersSquibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Medtronics, Schwarz Pharma, Teva Neuroscience.

3/14, 4/11, 5/9, and 6/13/05: Support Group for Lesbians with Cancer: Are you a lesbian with cancer? Are you a partner of a lesbian with cancer? The goal of the group is to improve education, promote mutual problem solving and facilitate sharing. These open discussion meetings take place on the second Monday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the 2nd floor waiting room of The Cancer Institute of New Jersey. For more information, contact Ellen Levine, LCSW, at 732-235-6781 or at levineel@umdnj.edu to register. Strict confidentiality will be repected.

3/14, 4/11, 5/9 and 6/13/05: Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Support Group: This group is for cancer patients, family and friends. The goal of the group is to improve education, promote mutual problem solving and facilitate sharing. These open discussion meetings take place on the second Monday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the Learning Room, 2nd floor of The Cancer Institute of New Jersey. For more information, call Rebecca Sanders, LCSW, at 732-235-7011.

3/15/05: The Yetta Appel Psychosocial Lecture Series: Medicine and Metophor - The Language of Cancer, by Terry Altilio, MSW, ACSW, social worker coordinator, Pain Medicine and Palliative Care, Beth Israel Medical Center, NY, and Lissa Parsonnet, PhD, psychotherapist, at 6 p.m., CINJ Auditorium. RSVP by March 11. The lecture is free. Seating is limited. For more information, contact Sara Weissblum, program assistant, 732-235-6792.

3/23/05: Neurology Grand Rounds: Prognosis Following a First Unprovoked Seizure, by Shlomo Shinnar, MD, PhD, professor, Neurology and Pediatrics, Hyman Climenko Professor of Neuroscience Research, director, Comprehensive Epilepsy Management Center, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Lunch at 1 p.m., lecture at 1:30 p.m., Clinical Academic Building, Conference Room 1302, New Brunswick. This educational series is possible due to generous donations from: Allergan, Biogen Idec, Bristol-MyersSquibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Medtronics, Schwarz Pharma, Teva Neuroscience.

3/28/05: Prostate Cancer Support Group Programs: The Benefits of Exercise After Prostate Cancer, by Rita Musanti, APRN-BC, AOCN, ACSM, exercise specialist, CINJ. Please RSVP to Chris Bellafonte at 732-235-9596 or by email bellafce@umdnj.edu. Please enter through the old CINJ entrance.

3/30/05: Neurology Grand Rounds: The AM and FM of Central Dopamine Neurotransmission, by David Sulzer, PhD, associate professor, Department of Psychiatry and Neurology, Columbia University. Lunch at 1 p.m., lecture at 1:30 p.m., Clinical Academic Building, Conference Room 1302, New Brunswick. This educational series is possible due to generous donations from: Allergan, Biogen Idec, Bristol-MyersSquibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Medtronics, Schwarz Pharma, Teva Neuroscience.

4/12/05: Talking With Children About Cancer, by Amanda Sutton, LCSW, senior program coordinator, End of Life, Palliative and Bereavement Services CancerCare, NJ, 6 p.m., CINJ Auditorium. RSVP by March 11. The lecture is free. Seating is limited. For more information, contact Sara Weissblum, program assistant, 732-235-6792.