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Winter 2008 - University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine

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Pr<strong>of</strong>iles<strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong><strong>Winter</strong> <strong>2008</strong>Contents■ VDL Tools Up For Fish Testing .. . . . 3■ CVM Provides Leadership inInternational Avian InfluenzaSurveillance.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5■ <strong>College</strong> Granted FullAccreditation. ................ 6■ <strong>College</strong> Announces AffiliationWith Davis Family Dairies. ....... 7■ Research News................ 8■ Summer Scholars Gain ResearchExperience.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10■ State-<strong>of</strong>-the-Art MRI NowAvailable at VMC. ............ 12■ Linear Accelerator Offers NewOptions for Animals With Cancer.... 13■ Leatherdale EquineCenter Opens................ 14■ The Raptor Center:Committed to the Eagle. ....... 16■ Faculty and Staff News .. . . . . . . . 17■ Mark Your Calendar............ 21■ Alumni News. ............... 22■ Biosafety Level 3Ribbon-Cutting .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23On the CoverSheryl Ferguson demonstrates the high-speedtreadmill at the grand opening <strong>of</strong> the LeatherdaleEquine Center on Oct. 15.Photo by Patrick O'LearyFrom the DeanDear Friends,The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> plays a critical role in the lives <strong>of</strong> theanimals and people <strong>of</strong> the state, nation, and world.The significant impact is made possible through ourdedicated students, staff, and faculty who contributeto the <strong>College</strong>’s mission <strong>of</strong> teaching, research,and service. The year 2007 saw many changes andtransitions. I have stepped into the role <strong>of</strong> interimdean with a national search currently underway.The opportunities are limitless, and I am thrilled that you have chosen topartner with our <strong>College</strong>. The great support we have received from the<strong>University</strong>, the Academic Health Center, our congressional and legislativemembers, and our generous donors, corporations, and industry partners,as well as the collaborations we have with state, federal, and internationalagencies are all vital to our success in education and interdisciplinaryresearch initiatives.Significant investments were made in new building and renovation projects,such as the Ben Pomeroy Student-Alumni Learning Center, the EquineCenter, the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center laboratories and MRI projects, and the<strong>Veterinary</strong> Diagnostic Laboratory Biosafety Level 3 necropsy facility, as wellas various individual research laboratories. These investments in our buildingsand infrastructure will attract great faculty, staff, and students to our <strong>College</strong>and foster the innovative teaching, research, and service, which will continueto enhance our reputation. It is the strength <strong>of</strong> our faculty, programs, and facilitiesthat recently gained us full accreditation status for the next seven years.Last year brought about changes in leadership with new hires: JaimeModiano as the Al and June Perlmann Endowed Oncology Chair, SriramaRao as associate dean <strong>of</strong> research, and Sharon Staton as director <strong>of</strong> advancement.This year, we will be working very closely with the <strong>University</strong>, theAcademic Health Center, and our many partners to chart our strategicendeavors with a permanent dean at the helm.Thank you for your investment and support <strong>of</strong> this great institution! Formore than 60 years, we have been training veterinarians and biomedicalscientists who influence the health and well-being <strong>of</strong> animals and people.We are driven to continue the discovery <strong>of</strong> knowledge that benefits allhuman (and animal) kind. From all <strong>of</strong> us at the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> we wish you much success and we look forward to our continuedpartnerships this year and into the future. Our excellence is only achievedby your support, and we thank you for this privilege to serve you.Warm regards,Trevor Ames, D.V.M., M.S., Diplomate ACVIMInterim Dean, <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>


science science science science science scienceVDL tools up for fish testingThe <strong>Veterinary</strong> Diagnostic Laboratory is helping to stop the spread <strong>of</strong> viral hemorrhagic septicemia by <strong>of</strong>fering testing services. Photo by Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>f.Adevastating nonnative fish diseaseis heading our way, andthe <strong>Veterinary</strong> DiagnosticLaboratory (VDL) is doing its partto stop this spread by <strong>of</strong>fering testingservices to commercial fish farms andothers who need it.Known as viral hemorrhagic septicemia,or VHS, the disease is known to infectmore than two dozen species <strong>of</strong> freshwaterfish found in the Upper Midwest,including walleye, muskies, northernpike, smallmouth bass, and bluegills.Signs include bloating, hemorrhaging,and bulging eyes, and the disease canbe fatal.VHS was first found in the Great Lakesarea in 2005 in Lake St. Clair. Sinceviral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (noun): An extremelyserious pathogen <strong>of</strong> fresh and saltwater fish causingan emerging disease in the Great Lakes region <strong>of</strong> theUnited States and Canadathen it has been found in fish fromother bodies <strong>of</strong> water, including LakesHuron, Ontario, Michigan, and Erie;Lake Winnebago in Wisconsin; andinland lakes in New York and Michigan.Because <strong>of</strong> VHS’s huge threat to commercialand sport fisheries, the U.S.Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture issued a federalorder in October 2006 prohibitingthe movement <strong>of</strong> susceptible fish amongthe eight states bordering the Great—U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> AgricultureLakes as well as Ontario and Quebecunder most conditions.The VDL is setting up facilities to testcommercial fish for the disease, so theycan be transported between states.“With the regulations coming down,there is a huge surge in the number <strong>of</strong>tests being done,” says Nicholas Phelps,aquaculture specialist with the VDL’snew fish lab. Phelps anticipates additionalcontinued on page 43


science science science science science scienceViral hemorrhagic septicemia FAQsFish testing continued from page 3What is viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS)?VHS is a deadly infectious fish disease caused by the viral hemorrhagic septicemiavirus. VHS was historically a very serious disease <strong>of</strong> freshwater-rearedrainbow trout <strong>of</strong> Europe. It was first discovered in the United States in 1988among salmon returning to Washington from the Pacific and in wild herring andcod from the U.S. Pacific Coast.What is its impact on fish populations?Thirty-seven species <strong>of</strong> freshwater and marine fish in several parts <strong>of</strong> the northernhemisphere are considered susceptible to VHS. Mortalities may appear to be largeas VHS first runs its course through fish populations, but biologists believe mostfish can survive this infection if they are not otherwise stressed or weak. Fish thatsurvive VHS develop antibodies to the virus and can become lifelong carriers <strong>of</strong> thevirus, contaminating water and thus transmitting the virus to other fish.What is its impact on <strong>Minnesota</strong> fish populations?In the past three years, a new strain <strong>of</strong> VHS was identified as the cause <strong>of</strong> fishkills in Lake Huron, Lake St. Clair, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario and the St. LawrenceRiver in the Great Lakes. It has also spread to Lake Michigan and inland lakesin New York, Michigan, and Wisconsin. It is unclear how the virus travels fromone body <strong>of</strong> water to another, though the use <strong>of</strong> infected baitfish is suspected.In the Great Lakes, VHS has been found in smallmouth bass, yellow perch, crappie,muskellunge, northern pike, bluegill, walleye, round gobies, sheepshead,and some sucker species. VHS has not yet been found in <strong>Minnesota</strong>.What’s being done to minimize VHS?Many things are being done to prevent and minimize VHS in fish populations.Efforts such as not moving fish from areas where the virus is known to exist toareas outside the Great Lakes are being put into practice. The U.S. Department<strong>of</strong> Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has issued a federalorder severely restricting movement <strong>of</strong> fish from the eight states bordering theGreat Lakes. Movement <strong>of</strong> water from lakes with fish that have tested positiveis also restricted. Actions to reduce the spread <strong>of</strong> this virus include cleaningboats before moving them from one body <strong>of</strong> water to another, draining and dryinglive wells, and not moving bait minnows or other live bait from an infectedarea to a non-infected area.How is the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> assisting in this effort?The <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>’s <strong>Veterinary</strong> Diagnostic Laboratory is establishinga program for testing fish for VHS. The laboratory’s aquaculture specialist,Nicholas Phelps, expects fish growers in the state will use the test toprovide evidence that their fish are free <strong>of</strong> VHS so they can ship them to otherstates. The VDL will also <strong>of</strong>fer its services to the <strong>Minnesota</strong> Department <strong>of</strong>Natural Resources for use with its surveillance programs.demand for VHS testing as the <strong>Minnesota</strong>Department <strong>of</strong> Natural Resources andother public agencies ramp up surveillancefor the disease in Lake Superior andother major fishing lakes.<strong>Minnesota</strong> has close to 80 aquaculturefacilities. According to the DNR,<strong>Minnesota</strong>ns and visitors spend morethan $1 billion per year on sport fishing.In addition to keeping an eye out forVHS, the new fish laboratory will also<strong>of</strong>fer testing for other viruses that affectproducers’ ability to ship fish. Theseinclude spring viremia <strong>of</strong> carp andinfectious pancreatic necrosis, whichaffects a wide range <strong>of</strong> species.Fish Health Certificatefield training <strong>of</strong>fered■ MARY HOFFThe <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> Diagnostic Laboratoryteamed up with the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong>Wisconsin to <strong>of</strong>fer a half day <strong>of</strong>field training for the Fish HealthCertificate program on March6. Veterinarians completed fiveonline modules prior to fieldtraining. For more information,visit www.cvm.umn.edu/outreachor contact Nicholas Phelps atphelp083@umn.edu or 612-7450.4


science science science science science scienceCVM provides leadershipin international avianinfluenza surveillancePr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> veterinary populationmedicine Sagar Goyaland molecular virology technicianMichele Leiferman traveled toBandung, Indonesia, in November tohelp strengthen testing capabilities forhighly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenzathere.The two assisted staff at Medion,an Indonesian vaccine manufacturer,as they set up a program forusing molecular genetic analysis toidentify the presence <strong>of</strong> the virus innasal and cloacal swabs from domesticfowl. Last July, four members <strong>of</strong>the Indonesian team attended a shortcourse in molecular biology taught byPamela Skinner, assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor<strong>of</strong> veterinary biosciences. They thentraveled to the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong>Agriculture National Animal DiseaseCenter in Ames, Iowa, for furthertraining in applying molecular geneticsto avian influenza diagnostics.Goyal and Leiferman advised them asthey applied what they learned hereto get their own facilities up and running.Pr<strong>of</strong>essor Goyal has done similarwork in other countries, including thePhilippines and Tanzania.Indonesia has been in the internationalspotlight for highly pathogenicavian influenza since the diseasebegan spreading widely through Asiain 2003. As <strong>of</strong> this writing, the countryhas reported 85 human deaths fromH5N1, which is readily transmittedfrom birds and is fatal to humans inmost cases.The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> hastaken on a growing role in helpingmonitor for and prevent the spread<strong>of</strong> avian influenza worldwide. Lastspring, under the leadership <strong>of</strong> School<strong>of</strong> Public Health pr<strong>of</strong>essor MargueritePappaioanou, the <strong>University</strong> establishedan International Center <strong>of</strong>Excellence for Influenza Research andSurveillance with a $22.5 million grantfrom the National Institute <strong>of</strong> Allergyand Infectious Disease. The CVMis a key player in the center’s efforts,which includes providing strategies formonitoring the presence <strong>of</strong> the diseaseand technical assistance in eight countriesand the United States.■ Mary H<strong>of</strong>fSagar GoyalSagar Goyalis foundingfellow withInstitute on theEnvironmentSagar Goyal, pr<strong>of</strong>essor in the<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong>Department, is a founding fellowwith the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>’sInstitute on the Environment,which partners with colleges andcenters at the <strong>University</strong> to pursueresearch, education, and outreachinitiatives related to the environment.The Institute’s primaryobjective is to identify, organize,and support collaborative, interdisciplinaryresearch teams todevelop and disseminate innovativeand practical solutions to the mostpressing environmental problems.It sponsors a variety <strong>of</strong> events andseminars. For more information,visit www.environment.umn.edu.5


esearch research research research researchRapid Response projects takeon emerging disease issuesSeveral <strong>College</strong> faculty membersreceived funding from the<strong>Minnesota</strong> Agricultural ExperimentStation’s Rapid Agricultural ResponseFund to address emerging disease issuesin <strong>2008</strong> and 2009:The <strong>Minnesota</strong> Partnership forBiotechnology and MedicalGenomics has awardeda $709,852 grant to Sheila Torres,assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> dermatology, andDoug Plager, Ph.D., a research associatein dermatology in the AllergicDiseases Research Laboratory at theMayo Clinic <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>. Thesubject <strong>of</strong> their research: therapeutictargets for atopic dermatitis, a form <strong>of</strong>eczema that affects animals and people.The <strong>Minnesota</strong> Partnership forBiotechnology and Medical Genomicswas established in 2003 by the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>, the MayoClinic, and the state <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> toposition <strong>Minnesota</strong> in the forefront<strong>of</strong> biomedical research. The collaborationbrought together <strong>Minnesota</strong>’s two■ Scott Dee, a pr<strong>of</strong>essor in the <strong>Veterinary</strong>Population <strong>Medicine</strong> departmentand direc tor <strong>of</strong> the Swine DiseaseEradication Center, was awarded$206,000 to improve pork producers’ability to minimize the impact on production<strong>of</strong> co-infections with multiplepathogens. With the help <strong>of</strong> the RapidResponse funds, Dee and colleagueswill use the Swine Disease EradicationCenter, which mimics the conditions <strong>of</strong>modern swine produc tion facilities, toexplore strategies for keeping the diseasesfrom spreading, improve understandingand diagnosis <strong>of</strong> co-infections,and develop educational materials forfarm workers.■ Sagar Goyal, pr<strong>of</strong>essor, <strong>Veterinary</strong>Population <strong>Medicine</strong>, received $82,000for research aimed at learning the identity<strong>of</strong> the pathogen responsible forpoult enteritis syndrome, which causeslethargy and diarrhea, stunts growth,and can be fatal to young turkey poults.Goyal hopes to identify the pathogenand develop diagnostic tools as a firststep toward preventing and treating it.■ Kakambi Nagaraja, a pr<strong>of</strong>essor inthe <strong>Veterinary</strong> and Biomedical Sciencesdepartment, was awarded $68,458 forresearch on cellulitis in turkeys, includingpathogenesis and its control usingrenowned researchinstitutions, whichcollectively managedmajor research projectsamounting to$700 million in funding,a figure that hasbeen substantiallyrising during the lastfew years.an inactivated vaccine.■ Simone Oliveira, assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor,<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong>,received $138,000 for surveillance <strong>of</strong>highly virulent strains affecting NorthAmerican swine herds using multilocussequence typing.■ Scott Wells, associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor,<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong>, wasawarded $100,000 for bovine tuberculosisresearch aimed at reducing interactionsbetween cattle and white-taileddeer in northern <strong>Minnesota</strong>.The Rapid Agricultural ResponseFund was established by the <strong>Minnesota</strong>Legislature in 1998. It provides a mechanismfor quickly addressing emergingagricultural needs.Sheila Torres, Mayo researcher awarded grantThe partnershiprepresents a commitmentfrom bothinstitutions to uniteon biotechnologyand medical genomicsresearch projects,leveraging their scientific and researchstrengths. The second part <strong>of</strong> the venturewas securing the involvement <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> dermatologist SheilaTorres examines a golden retriever.Photo by Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>fthe state <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>.The partnership initiallyis aiming foradvances in biotechnologyand medicalgenomics that havethe potential to createbreakthroughs in scientificunderstandingand patient treatmentsfor cancer, heart disease,and neurologicaldiseases. Over the longterm, the partnership isexpected to contributeto <strong>Minnesota</strong>’s economyby stimulating newbusinesses, creating quality jobs, andexpanding the tax base.9


esearch research research research researchexperience2007 Summer ScholarsLaura LancieriMentor: SrinandSreevatsanProject: Discovery and application<strong>of</strong> surrogate markerdiagnostics <strong>of</strong> transmissiblespongiform encephalogpathies(ovine and murine scrapie)Laura worked with Srinand Sreevatsan,associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor in the <strong>Veterinary</strong>Population <strong>Medicine</strong> Departmentto conduct research on transmissiblespongiform encephalogpathies (alsoknown as prion diseases), a group <strong>of</strong>degenerative brain disorders <strong>of</strong> humansand animals.<strong>Veterinary</strong> student Laura Lancieri worked withSrinand Sreevatsan, associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor in the<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong> Department, toconduct research on transmissible spongiformencephalopathies (also known as prion diseases),a group <strong>of</strong> degenerative brain disorders <strong>of</strong>humans and animals.Kathleen Bolender-NeumannMentor: Catherine St. HillProject: The role <strong>of</strong> C2-O-sLeX in thebinding <strong>of</strong> carcinoma cells to theendothelium in early metastasisAric FrantzMentor: Tim O’BrienProject: Characterization <strong>of</strong> caninemulti-potent adult progenitor cellsKaren GjevreMentors: Leslie Sharkey andRebecca DaviesProject: Determining breed-specificparameters for alkaline phosphatase,alanine aminotransferase,and blood urea nitrogen in theSiberian huskyBrad GoupilMentor: Micky TrentProject: Como Zoo salmonellascreening studyMaria HuhMentor: Alvin BeitzProject: Electro-acupuncture effectson osteosarcoma: implications onthe potential effective treatment inreducing the pathogenesis <strong>of</strong> cancergrowth, mass, and metastasis usinga mouse modelSara B. Jacobsen BergmannMentor: Larissa MinicucciProject: Rapid Lyme disease testing:estimating the prevalence <strong>of</strong>canine Lyme disease in <strong>Minnesota</strong>and evaluating current managementstrategies for the test-positive dogDee KoskiMentor: Alvin BeitzProject: Electroacupuncture treatment<strong>of</strong> pain associated with experimentallyinduced osteosarcoma inBalb-C mice as a model for alleviatingsmall animal bone cancer painLaura LancieriMentor: Srinand SreevatsanProject: Discovery and application<strong>of</strong> surrogate marker diagnostics <strong>of</strong>transmissible spongiform encephalopathies(ovine and murine scrapie)Shannon MesenbourgMentor: John FetrowProject: Modifying antimicrobial druguse practices through veterinaryprotocol s<strong>of</strong>twareDaniel PesekMentor: Micky TrentProject: The prevalence <strong>of</strong> Leptospirainterrogans and intestinal parasitesin wild raccoons (Procion lotor) onthe grounds <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Minnesota</strong> ZooJennifer PetersonMentor: Sandra GoddenProject: Relationship between bacterialevels in colostrum and efficiency<strong>of</strong> absorption <strong>of</strong> immunoglobulinG in newborn dairy calvesIan Rubin<strong>of</strong>fMentor: Joni ScheftelProject: Avian influenza transmissionto backyard poultry flock handlersin <strong>Minnesota</strong>Nancy RundquistMentors: Russell Bey, Paul Rapnicki,and Steven StewartProject: Determining the presenceand level <strong>of</strong> bacterial pathogens indigested manure solids before andafter an anerobic digestion processAndrea WiddelMentor: Srinand SreevatsanProject: A step forward for Johne’sdisease testingCorey WoodcockMentor: Cathy CarlsonProject: Technique validation forbone densitometry in small animals11


veterinary medical center veterinary medical centerState-<strong>of</strong>-the-art MRInow available at VMCThe <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center(VMC) now has a valuable newtool for veterinarians who want to providethe best possible diagnostic services:a 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)machine, the most powerful MR systemin a veterinary hospital in the world.What is MRI?As the name implies, MRI uses a strongmagnetic field to image parts <strong>of</strong> the body.It takes advantage <strong>of</strong> the natural magneticproperties <strong>of</strong> hydrogen atoms in thebody to create a detailed image that candifferentiate between myriad s<strong>of</strong>t tissues,bone structures, and body fluids.Aren’t all MRI systemsthe same?No! There are “high-field” and “lowfield”MR systems, and high-field magnets(systems with field strengths <strong>of</strong> 1.0T,1.5T, and 3.0T) are far superior to lowfieldmagnets in all aspects <strong>of</strong> image qualityand speed <strong>of</strong> acquisition. The VMC’snew 3T MRI unit allows radiologists toperform imaging exams that are not possiblewith lower field scanners.Why is MRI important?MRI can give information that cannotbe obtained by other imaging modalities.Its image clarity and detail areunparalleled. Compared to radiographyand CT, it also has the advantage <strong>of</strong>not using potentially harmful ionizingradiation. MRI allows doctors to makediagnoses that were previously difficultor impossible to confirm, enhancingtheir ability to recommend appropriatetreatment options for patients.What kinds <strong>of</strong> cases maybenefit from MRI?There are many kinds <strong>of</strong> cases for whichMRI is an excellent diagnostic tool. MRIis the best modality for imaging <strong>of</strong> neurologicdisease, musculoskeletal disease, andoncologic disease. For musculoskeletaldisease in dogs and horses, MRI is invaluablefor evaluating injuries to joint structures,tendons, and ligaments. Chroniclameness that has been localized to ageneral area, but for which an underlyingcause cannot be determined using traditionalmethods, can <strong>of</strong>ten be diagnosedusing MRI. MRI is also very versatilefor imaging <strong>of</strong> the structures <strong>of</strong> the headoutside <strong>of</strong> the brain, abdominal diseases,vascular diseases, certain thoracic diseases,and some cardiovascular disorders.How long does an MRIexam take?It depends on the body part beingexamined. The total procedure, includingpreparation, imaging, and recovery,generally lasts one to two hours. Equinepatients and some small animal patientsare hospitalized overnight so they canbe monitored closely for several hoursafter recovering from anesthesia.Who reviews the MR images?The exams are monitored by the<strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center’s board-certifiedradiologists. The images are interpretedon-site within hours. If a lesionis found, board-certified surgeons andother specialists are available to providethe necessary treatment.<strong>Veterinary</strong> radiologist Travis Saveraid and frienddisplay the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center’s new 3TMRI machine, the most powerful MR system ina veterinary hospital in the world. Photo by SueKirch<strong>of</strong>fAre there any risks in performingan MR exam?There are no known side effects <strong>of</strong> MRI,but patients are placed under generalanesthesia for the procedure. As withanything requiring general anesthesia,there are risks associated with the drugsand the recovery period. But the VMC'sboard-certified anesthesiologists workclosely with the imaging group to minimizethose risks.When will MRI exams be availableat the VMC?MRI exams are available now for VMCpatients. Starting this spring, veterinariansin the region will be able torefer cases directly to a new outpatientimaging service. Advanced <strong>Veterinary</strong>Imaging Direct (AVID) will provideimaging services, including MR, CT,fluoroscopy, and ultrasound (includingbiopsies) on an outpatient basis.“We want to make these tremendousresources accessible to all veterinarians inthe area,” says VMC director David Lee.12


veterinary medical center veterinary medical centerLinear accelerator <strong>of</strong>fers newoptions for animals with cancerIn August 2007, the <strong>Veterinary</strong>Medical Center unveiled a new linearaccelerator facility, becoming one<strong>of</strong> the only veterinary hospitals in theUpper Midwest to <strong>of</strong>fer state-<strong>of</strong>-the-artradiation therapy to animals with cancer.“Each year, thousands <strong>of</strong> dogs and cats in<strong>Minnesota</strong> and our neighboring states arediagnosed with cancer, and their ownersare faced with very difficult decisions,”says David Lee, <strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalCenter director. “With the linear accelerator,our veterinarians are able to provideleading-edge cancer treatment.”The linear accelerator replaced cobaltradiation equipment used to treat cancerpatients for nearly 25 years. Identical tothe linear accelerators used in humanradiation treatment, it allows veterinarycancer specialists to map tumors inthree dimensions and focus radiationon cancerous lesions, minimizing theimpact to surrounding healthy tissue.The linear accelerator is also a key elementin the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>’scomparative cancer research program.“Comparative cancer research involvesthe study <strong>of</strong> cancer in one species withthe goal <strong>of</strong> applying the lessons learnedto other species,” says Robert Washabau,chair <strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong>’s <strong>Veterinary</strong> ClinicalSciences Department. “Cancer in animalsis very similar to cancer in humans,both in cause and in response to therapy.Our research will benefit both animalsand humans.”Key features <strong>of</strong> the linear acceleratorinclude:■ Ability to adjust the strength <strong>of</strong> theproton beam to customize the treatment<strong>of</strong> deep masses<strong>Veterinary</strong> technician Kim Janisch, veterinary radiologist Dan Feeney, and Mason, an oncology patient,display the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center’s new linear accelerator. Photo by Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>f.■ A computerized tool called a multileafcollimator, which uses informationfrom treatment planning s<strong>of</strong>tware toautomatically shield normal adjacenttissue from radiation, thereby lesseningthe treatment impact to surroundinghealthy tissues■ Electron capability, which will allowtreatment <strong>of</strong> skin masses while protectingdeeper tissues from exposureA fund-raising campaign, “AcceleratingHope,” is underway to <strong>of</strong>fset the cost<strong>of</strong> this new technology so it can benefitas many animals as possible. Corporateand private donations are being acceptedby the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>and the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>Foundation. For more information, contactKatharine Anderson, development<strong>of</strong>ficer, at 612-626-2343 or ksander@umn.edu.13


equine center equine center equine centerLeatherdale Equine Center opensThe Leatherdale Equine Centerwelcomed nearly 1,000 horselovers into the new $14 millionfacility on the St. Paul campus for aribbon-cutting and grand opening eventon Oct. 15, 2007.Stephanie Valberg conducts a demonstration <strong>of</strong> the high-speed treadmill.The event began with a procession ledby the Ames Farm six-percheron horsehitch, which broke a ribbon to enter theEquine Center’s indoor arena. Speakersincluded Governor Tim Pawlenty and<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> PresidentRobert Bruininks. Equine clinic staffdemonstrated the new high-tech systemsin the 60,000-square-foot facility.“The comprehensive Equine Centerhas been designated as a program <strong>of</strong>excellence at the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> and is squarely aligned withthe <strong>University</strong>’s goal to become one <strong>of</strong>the top three public research universitiesin the world,”says Bruininks. “Butmore than that, itmeets a growingneed <strong>of</strong> our state:<strong>Minnesota</strong> ranksamong the top10 states in horsepopulation, andthe equine industrycontributes almost$1 billion annuallyto the state economy—sparkedby thepassion and support<strong>of</strong> horse lovers likeus.”The facility was named in honor <strong>of</strong>Louise and Doug Leatherdale <strong>of</strong> Medina,who made a generous lead gift to the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>. Tad and CindyPiper <strong>of</strong> Long Lake made the lead gift forthe Piper Performance Clinic, a performancemedicine and reproductive clinicin the facility.Horse Owner Education Days <strong>of</strong>feredThe Leatherdale Equine Center hosted Horse Owner Education Days inFebruary and March. Presented by the <strong>College</strong> in partnership with the<strong>Minnesota</strong> Extension Service, the February 2 program featured discussionsand demonstrations on a wide range <strong>of</strong> topics, from pastures and plants todentistry and disasters. On March 15, a more advanced program providedopportunities to interact with experts during roundtable discussions. Bothsessions included a tour <strong>of</strong> the Equine Center’s new, state-<strong>of</strong>-the-art facilitiesand equipment. Horse owner programs were also conducted in NorthMankato and Bemidji.A Percheron team from Ames Farm trot towardthe Equine Center, breaking a ribbon to enter theindoor arena for the grand opening ceremony.The Equine Center’s new technologyincludes computerized gait analysis andhigh-speed cameras to test for lameness,an aqua treadmill used in rehabilitation, astate-<strong>of</strong>-the-art reproduction wing, and ahigh-speed treadmill that allows a horse’severy breath and heartbeat to be monitoredwhile galloping up to 30 mph.Throughout the event, members <strong>of</strong> theWe Can Ride therapeutic riding groupwere on hand to demonstrate their program,which teaches riding and carriagedriving to children and adults living withcognitive and physical disabilities. Thenew facility is home to the first metro site<strong>of</strong> this popular program.The <strong>University</strong> Police Department’smounted patrol unit is also housed in thefacility, which <strong>of</strong>fers a conference centerand a 100-by-200-ft. indoor arena as wellas an outdoor arena for demonstrations,meetings, and programs by communityhorse organizations.14


equine center equine center equine center“This state-<strong>of</strong>-the-art facility is a homefor the <strong>Minnesota</strong> equine community,”says Dr. Stephanie Valberg, D.V.M.,Ph.D., director <strong>of</strong> the Equine Center.“No other facility has been designed togive such compassionate, comprehensivecare and to give so much back tohorse owners. The Equine Center representsour dedication to an expandedequine program, including undergraduateequine education for the next generation<strong>of</strong> equine veterinarians and a focuson equine research that will change thelives <strong>of</strong> horses worldwide. Horses thatcome here benefit from some <strong>of</strong> the bestin equine care, research, and veterinaryeducation anywhere in the world.”Doug and Louise Leatherdale, Susan Hagstrom,and <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> President RobertBruininks prepare to cut the ribbon.The Leatherdale Equine Center <strong>of</strong>ficially opened on Oct. 15.New equine facultyNicolas Ernst joined the equine surgery team inNovember 2007. Previously a faculty member in equinesurgery, emergency, and critical care at The OhioState <strong>University</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>, he isboard certified by the American <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong>Surgeons. Dr. Ernst received his veterinary degree fromthe <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Chile and his master’s degree in clinicalepidemiology from the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Florida, where hecompleted a large animal surgery residency.Nicole Scotty, assistant clinical pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> ophthalmology,joined the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinical SciencesDepartment in July 2007. She was previously with the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Florida <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center, whereshe completed a residency in ophthalmology with astrong emphasis in equine ophthalmology. Her specialinterests include equine corneal disease and cornealtransplantation. She received her D.V.M. with honorsfrom the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Florida and is a diplomate <strong>of</strong> theAmerican <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Ophthalmologists.Nicolas ErnstNicole ScottyStephanie Valberg, director <strong>of</strong> the Equine Center,delighted the crowd by beginning her remarkswith one word: “Woohoo!” In the backgroundat right are <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> PresidentRobert Bruininks and <strong>Minnesota</strong> Governor TimPawlenty, who also spoke at the event.Troy Trumble, an internationally recognized expertin equine lameness, joined the Equine Center inSeptember 2007. Previously with the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong>Florida, Dr. Trumble brings 12 years <strong>of</strong> clinical experiencein the diagnosis and treatment <strong>of</strong> lameness andperforms surgery for conditions ranging from colic tocomplex fractures. He received his D.V.M. with honorsfrom Michigan State <strong>University</strong> in 1995 and completeda residency in equine surgery, a master’s degree, anda Ph.D. at Colorado State <strong>University</strong>. He is board certifiedby the American <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Surgeons.Troy Trumble15


The Raptor Center The Raptor Center The Raptor CenterThe Raptor Center committed tothe eagle’s continued successIn June 2007, the U.S. Fish andWildlife Service removed the baldeagle from the endangered specieslist. The bald eagle continues tobe protected by federal law, and thepublic continues to have a critical rolein keeping the population healthy bymaintaining habitats and protecting thewater and environment from contaminantssuch as lead and mercury.The <strong>College</strong>'s Raptor Center has madesignificant contributions to the preservation<strong>of</strong> the bald eagle. It has playeda key role in restoration programs,investigated the effects <strong>of</strong> lead poisoning,studied the incidence <strong>of</strong> chemicalcontamination in nestling eagles, andcontributed to habitat preservation.The Raptor Center has treated morethan 1,600 eagles during its 30-yearhistory, and its work has been criticalin providing disease surveillancein the raptor population. Each year,more than 250,000 people are educatedabout how their decisions affect raptorhealth and well-being through overdevelopment<strong>of</strong> land, use <strong>of</strong> lead in fishingand hunting activities, and contaminationthrough misuse <strong>of</strong> chemicals.The bald eagle is one <strong>of</strong> The RaptorCenter’s most common patients, saysJuli Ponder, executive director <strong>of</strong> TheRaptor Center. “Our current focus is toensure the ongoing safety and health <strong>of</strong>this bird. We will make every effort toensure that bald eagles continue to thriveand have a healthy environment in whichto live.”The Raptor Center specializes in thecare, rehabilitation, and conservation <strong>of</strong>eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons, operatingmostly with private funds andThe bald eagle was removed from the endangered species list in June. The Raptor Center is committedto the eagle’s continued success.through the efforts <strong>of</strong> more than 200volunteers. Established in 1974, TheRaptor Center treats approximately 800birds a year and reaches thousands <strong>of</strong>people through public education andevents. It provides training in surgeryand avian medicine to veterinarians andidentifies emerging issues related to raptorhealth and populations.“The Raptor Center has done a remarkablejob <strong>of</strong> educating and training pr<strong>of</strong>essionalsfrom around the world in raptormedicine and surgery,” says TrevorAmes, interim dean <strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>. “Through its work,The Raptor Center has enhanced thehealth <strong>of</strong> raptors and the bond betweenraptors and humans.”Pat Redig, c<strong>of</strong>ounder <strong>of</strong> The RaptorCenter, led the <strong>University</strong>’s efforts torestore the bald eagle. “I feel that wehave certainly accomplished our objective,and we are pleased that the baldeagle has been taken <strong>of</strong>f the endangeredspecies list. Our promise is to continueto protect and preserve the eagle in everyway we can.”16


faculty and staff newsfaculty and staff newsJaime Modiano joins <strong>College</strong>as Al and June PerlmanEndowed Oncology ChairJaime Modiano, V.M.D., Ph.D., joined the <strong>College</strong> in July as the Al and June PerlmanEndowed Oncology Chair and director <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center’s AnimalCancer Center. Modiano leads the <strong>College</strong>’s comparative cancer research program,which ultimately seeks to develop effective strategies for cancer prevention and treatmentby integrating knowledge gained from studies <strong>of</strong> cancer in people and animals.“Comparative medicine is an important part <strong>of</strong> researchefforts at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>,” says RobertWashabau, chair <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinical SciencesDepartment. “The research directed by Dr. Modianowill support that program by benefiting both animals andhumans.”“I am extremely pleased that Dr. Modiano has joined ourfaculty,” says Trevor Ames, interim dean. “He has the experience,commitment, and know-how to help the <strong>College</strong>become a world leader in comparative cancer research.”Jaime Modiano Cancer accounts for almost half <strong>of</strong> the deaths <strong>of</strong> pets over10 years <strong>of</strong> age, and each case requires individual treatment.“Dr. Modiano’s research will expand the types <strong>of</strong> treatments available to effectivelytreat cancer through his discoveries <strong>of</strong> new knowledge,” Ames adds.Modiano was previously associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> immunology and full member <strong>of</strong> theCancer Center at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Colorado Health Sciences Center and seniorscientist at the AMC Cancer Center in Denver, Colorado. His research focuses oncontrol <strong>of</strong> activation and signaling in cells <strong>of</strong> the immune system, the genetic basis<strong>of</strong> cancer, and cancer gene therapy and immunotherapy.Modiano completed his veterinary and Ph.D. training in immunology at the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Pennsylvania, followed by a residency in veterinary clinical pathologyat Colorado State <strong>University</strong> and a post-doctoral fellowship at the National JewishCenter for Immunology and Respiratory <strong>Medicine</strong> in Denver, Colo. He was assistantpr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Pathobiology at Texas A&M <strong>University</strong> from 1995 to1999 and joined the AMC Cancer Center in 1999. He has co-authored more than150 scientific manuscripts, presentations, and book chapters on various aspects <strong>of</strong>immunology, cancer cell biology, the genetic basis <strong>of</strong> cancer, and applications <strong>of</strong>gene therapy.“Recruitment <strong>of</strong> Dr. Modiano to the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> builds a bridge betweenthe Medical School’s Cancer Center and the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>, providingthe critical link needed in the area <strong>of</strong> comparative cancer research that willbenefit both animals and humans,” says Tucker LeBien, associate director <strong>of</strong> basicresearch at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> Cancer Center.New advancementmodel mergesdevelopment, alumniaffairs, continuingeducation, andcommunicationsTo build and strengthen relationshipswith the diverse constituenciesthat provide support, the <strong>College</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> has adoptedan advancement model combiningdevelopment, alumni affairs, continuingeducation, and communicationsstaff. Sharon Staton has joined the<strong>College</strong> as director <strong>of</strong> advancement,a new position that provides strategicleadership for the integrated team.Staton works with the <strong>University</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> Foundation to engagethe resources <strong>of</strong> the private sectorto build and sustain excellence at the<strong>College</strong>.“I am very excited to be workingfor the <strong>College</strong> to enhance relationshipswith alumni, friends, corporations,and foundations and increasephilanthropic support to sustainour research, teaching, and serviceefforts,” she says.Brian T. Graves joined the advancementteam in January as communicationsmanager. His backgroundincludes the development and execution<strong>of</strong> integrated communications,sales, and marketing plans and strategicpartnerships in support <strong>of</strong> publicrelations, marketing, and fund-raisinginitiatives. He earned his master’sdegree in journalism from the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Iowa and his bachelor’sdegree in public relations from the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Northern Iowa.17


faculty and staff newsfaculty and staff newsAwards and AccoladesMike Pullen, pr<strong>of</strong>essor emeritus,received the American <strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalAssociation’s Public Service Award, whichrecognizes outstanding contributions topublic health and regulatory veterinarymedicine. Pullen is recognized as one<strong>of</strong> the founders <strong>of</strong> the veterinary publichealth program at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Minnesota</strong>.Shaun Kennedy,director <strong>of</strong> theNational Center forFood Protection andDefense and director<strong>of</strong> partnerships andexternal relationsfor the <strong>College</strong>,received an FDAShaun KennedyC o m m i s s i o n e r ’sSpecial Citation forhis work in promoting and defending thesafety <strong>of</strong> the food supply. The award was presentedin Washington, D.C., in May 2007.Paul Rapnicki, associateclinical pr<strong>of</strong>essorin the <strong>Veterinary</strong>Population <strong>Medicine</strong>Department, wasgiven the Gordon L.Starr Award by U <strong>of</strong>M President RobertBruininks at thePaul RapnickiPresident’s AwardsBanquet in May.This award is given annually to a facultyor staff member by the <strong>Minnesota</strong> StudentAssociation to recognize the importance<strong>of</strong> faculty and staff participation in students’educational experience.Jody Lulich was the 2007recipient <strong>of</strong> the WSAVA(World Small Animal<strong>Veterinary</strong> Association)Excellence in <strong>Veterinary</strong>Health Care Award. Theaward was specifically developedby the world organizationto recognize “theoutstanding work <strong>of</strong> veterinariansin promoting companionanimal health careand the family pet/veterinarybond through a specialJody Lulich and patient. Photo by Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>fsensitivity to both clients and patients using leading edge clinical nutritionand advanced medical and surgical techniques.” The award was presented toLulich during the 2007 WSAVA Congress in Sydney, Australia, in August.Several faculty members were honored with awards at the annual meeting <strong>of</strong>the <strong>Minnesota</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Association in February 2007:■ John Arnold, Bee Hanlon, and Walter Mackeyreceived the Veterinarian <strong>of</strong> the Year Award. Thethree retired pr<strong>of</strong>essors were honored for theirinvolvement in forming the <strong>Minnesota</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong>Historical Museum.■ Julie Wilson received the Distinguished ServiceAward, which recognizes a member who has givenspecial service to the pr<strong>of</strong>ession <strong>of</strong> veterinarymedicine, improving the pr<strong>of</strong>ession as a result <strong>of</strong>that service.Larry WallaceJulie Wilson■ Larry Wallace received the Outstanding Faculty<strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> award for outstandingservice to <strong>Minnesota</strong> veterinarians, giving<strong>of</strong> his time and talent to the veterinary pr<strong>of</strong>ession,being a leader who makes a difference to the pr<strong>of</strong>ession,and being a dedicated contributor to organizedveterinary medicine.In recognition <strong>of</strong> his dedicated service and duty tothe poultry industry, K.V. Nagaraja <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong>Biomedical Sciences Department was presented with theMeritorious Service Award at the North Central AvianDisease Conference in St. Paul in March.K.V. Nagaraja18


faculty and staff newsfaculty and staff newsAwards and AccoladesKristin Hohnadel, senior veterinary technician, won the TechnicianAward for Best Presentation for a clinical case description <strong>of</strong> a per-catheterocclusion <strong>of</strong> a PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) in an 8-year-old goldenretriever at the 2007 American <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Internal <strong>Medicine</strong>Forum in Seattle in June.Larissa Minnicucci, director <strong>of</strong> the D.V.M./M.P.H. dual-degree program,and Katherine Waters, a postdoctoral fellow in veterinary public health,recently passed the American <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Preventive <strong>Medicine</strong>boards and are now diplomates.Jane Armstrong <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinical Sciences Department tooka one-year sabbatical leave in 2007, joining the clinical research program<strong>of</strong> Dr. Jacqueline Rand at the <strong>University</strong><strong>of</strong> Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. Armstrongworked on characterizing metabolic syndrome inthe cat as a potential animal model <strong>of</strong> obesity andperipheral insulin resistance.Julia Ponder, executive director <strong>of</strong> The RaptorCenter, was a Scientist on the Spot on the ScienceMuseum <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>’s Web site in August andSeptember 2007. Visitors to the site could post questionsfor Dr. Ponder and read her answers online.Julia PonderResearchers honored atPoints <strong>of</strong> Pride Research DaysThe <strong>College</strong>’s annual Points <strong>of</strong> Pride Research Days event celebratedthe <strong>College</strong>’s research program, honoring its researchers and researchpartners. On March 21, a standing-room-only crowd packed 125 AnimalScience/<strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> as Distnguished Research Alumnus ThomasBesser presented the seminar “Pre-Harvest Food Safety and E. coli O157:H7: New Answers Raise New Questions.” The following awards werepresented:■ Distinguished Research Partner Award: Pfizer Animal Health■ Distinguished Research Alumnus Award: Thomas Besser,class <strong>of</strong> 1981■ Pfizer Research Excellence Award: Scott Dee■ Poster competition winners> Summer Scholars: Katie Byrne> Graduate Students: Molly McCue, Cholawat Pacharinsak,and Jun Han> Resident/post-doc: Tirumurugaan Krishnaswamy GopalanTeaching and serviceawards presentedat annual springawards ceremonyTeaching and service awards were presentedat the <strong>College</strong>’s annual spring awardsceremony in April. Honorees included:Carl J. Norden Distinguished TeacherAward: Roberto NovoJames O. Hanson Continuing EducationAward: Tsuyoshi MurakamiJames O. Hanson Continuing EducationAward: Jennifer GranickMark <strong>of</strong> Excellence Award: Al BietzOutstanding Contributions toPostbaccalaureate, Graduate, andPr<strong>of</strong>essional Education: Tom MolitorOutstanding Service Award:Kevin ElferingSmall Animal Clinical Sciences ClinicalTeaching Award: Karin ChristopherSmall Animal Clinical Sciences ClinicalTeaching Resident Award:Domenico BiancoSmall Animal Clinical Sciences TeachingAward: Peggy Root<strong>Veterinary</strong> and Biomedical SciencesTeaching Award: Vic Cox<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong> TeachingAward: Sandra Godden<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong> ClinicalTeaching Award: Christie Ward<strong>Veterinary</strong> Population <strong>Medicine</strong> ClinicalTeaching Resident Award: Mary Boyce19


faculty and staff newsfaculty and staff newsElections and AppointmentsConferences and PresentationsMarie Gramer hasbeen elected president<strong>of</strong> the WesternConference <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> DiagnosticPathologists, a group<strong>of</strong> diagnosticians,pathologists, and residentsfrom aroundMarie GramerCanada and theUnited States. Thegroup meets annually for pathology continuingeducation and resident training.Richard Isaacson,chair <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong>and BiomedicalSciences Department,was named president<strong>of</strong> the organizationConference<strong>of</strong> ResearchWorkers in AnimalDiseases (CRWAD). Richard IsaacsonEstablished in 1920,CRWAD is a nonpr<strong>of</strong>it organization thatdiscusses and disseminates the most currentresearch advances in animal diseases.Research scientists from around the worldpresent their recent research in oral orposter presentation formats at an annualmeeting.Cindy Wolf, <strong>Veterinary</strong> Population<strong>Medicine</strong>, was elected to the board <strong>of</strong>directors <strong>of</strong> the National Institute forAnimal Agriculture (NIAA) at the association’sannual meeting in Sacramento,California, in April.Will Hueston, director, Stephan Singleton, postdoctoral fellow, and LindaValeri, associate director <strong>of</strong> the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety,traveled to Austria in September 2007 for the Salzburg Global Seminar,“The New Century, New Challenges, New Dilemmas: The Global Nexus<strong>of</strong> Animal and Public Health.” The conference, which drew more than 50attendees from 15 countries, addressed the increased mixing <strong>of</strong> human andanimal species, along with the social and environmental conditions that contributeto the proliferation <strong>of</strong> diseases affecting both humans and animals.The conference was the result <strong>of</strong> cooperation between the W.K. KelloggFoundation, the National Food Safety and Toxicology Center at MichiganState <strong>University</strong>, the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, and theInstitute <strong>of</strong> the Future in Palo Alto, California.Several CVM faculty members lectured at the European <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> Internal <strong>Medicine</strong> (ECVIM) Congress in Budapest, Hungary, inSeptember:■ Jane Armstrong presented lectures on feline inflammatory liver diseaseand feline diabetes mellitus.■ Jaime Modiano presented the lectures“Hematopoetic Cancer: An Inevitable Inheritance<strong>of</strong> Mammalian Evolution” and “Heritable andSporadic Factors in the Pathogenesis <strong>of</strong> CanineLymphoma and Leukemia.”■ Robert Washabau presented the State-<strong>of</strong>the-ArtAddress, “Gastrointestinal MotilityDisorders,” the lecture “Standardization Report:G.I. Histopathology,” and the research abstract,“Sensitivity <strong>of</strong> Endoscopic Biopsy Sampling.”Will Hueston (frontleft), StephanSingleton (secondrow, third from left),and Linda Valeri (secondrow, fourth fromleft) were among 50people from 15 countrieswho attendedthe Salzburg GlobalSeminar in Austria inSeptember.Robert Washabau20


faculty and staff newsfaculty and staff newsConferences and PresentationsPat Redig, pr<strong>of</strong>essorand c<strong>of</strong>ounder<strong>of</strong> The RaptorCenter, was aninvited speakerat the internationalmeeting<strong>of</strong> the EagleC o n s e r v a t i o nA l l i a n c e i nPat RedigPuebla, Mexico, inSeptember 2007.He presented a paper on the infectiousdiseases <strong>of</strong> captive and free-rangingeagles and participated on a panel discussingresearch needs for eagles.Post-doctoral fellow Barbara Knustpresented “Drug Residue Avoidance inCattle: Practioner and Producer SurveyResponses” at the annual convention<strong>of</strong> the American Association <strong>of</strong> BovinePractitioners in Vancouver, BritishColumbia, in September 2007.Four CVM radiologistswereinvolved in theAmerican <strong>College</strong>o f Ve t e r i n a r yR a d i o l o g i s t sAnnual ScientificM e e t i n g i nC h i c a g o i nNovember 2007.Kari AndersonKari Andersonw a s p r o g r a mchair, and Dan Feeney was the coordinator<strong>of</strong> the ACVR resident reviewsession, where he presented a lectureon acute abdomen and collapse.Laura Crews presented the abstract,“Ultrasonographic Evaluation <strong>of</strong> GallBladder Disease,” and Travis Saveraidpresented “Magnetic ResonanceImaging <strong>of</strong> the Stifle in AnesthetizedHorses.”Mark your calendarOpen HouseSunday, April 6, <strong>2008</strong>11 a.m.-4 p.m.<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong><strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> St. PaulCampus■ Visit the <strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalCenter, where thousands <strong>of</strong> dogs,cats, llamas, and other animals aretreated each year.■ Learn about educational opportunities<strong>of</strong>fered by the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>.■ Visit The Raptor Center to seeand learn about eagles, hawks, owls,and falcons.■ Visit the Leatherdale EquineCenter, a new state-<strong>of</strong>-the-artfacility dedicated to the health,well-being, and performance <strong>of</strong>horses.Continuing educationopportunitiesFor more information about any <strong>of</strong> thefollowing continuing education opportunities,visit www.cvm.umn.edu/outreach,call 612-624-3434 or 800-380-8636, ore-mail vop@umn.edu.DairyCOMP305 OnlineTrainingApril 14, <strong>2008</strong>Mather Lecture Series■ April 3, <strong>2008</strong>: Film InterpretationSession: Watch the Experts atWork, presented by Dr. KariAnderson and Dr. Laura Ziegler■ May 1, <strong>2008</strong>: Cytology, presentedby Dr. Leslie Sharkey<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> St. PaulCampusEcosystem HealthPresented by Dr. David EversApril 24-25, <strong>2008</strong><strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> St. PaulCampus<strong>Minnesota</strong> Dairy HealthConferenceMay 20-22, <strong>2008</strong><strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> St. PaulCampusInternationalSymposium onRehabilitation andPhysical Therapy in<strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>August 13-16, <strong>2008</strong>Hyatt Regency Hotel, MinneapolisAllen D. Leman SwineConferenceSeptember 20-23, <strong>2008</strong>RiverCentre, St. Paul21


alumni news alumni news alumni news alumni newsIn memoryAlphonse Kunkel, class <strong>of</strong> 1952, died athis Cold Spring, Minn., home on Sept. 17,2007. Dr. Kunkel was a proponent <strong>of</strong> organicdairy farming before it was part <strong>of</strong> the modernagricultural landscape. A few years aftergraduating from the <strong>College</strong>, he establisheda practice in St. Michael, where he became alongtime resident and advocate <strong>of</strong> more exerciseand roughage and less corn for healthiercows. In 1976, he served as president <strong>of</strong> the<strong>Minnesota</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Association.In the early 1980s, Dr. Kunkel left veterinarypractice to serve as a nutritional consultant fordairy farmers. His work took him to Guyana,Poland, and Russia. Dr. Kunkel is survived byhis wife, Joyce, three daughters, a son, threesisters, three brothers, eight grandchildren,and three great-grandchildren.John L. Myhrom, owner <strong>of</strong> Animal HealthCare <strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinic in Rochester, Minn.,died March 17, 2007 in an auto accident north<strong>of</strong> Byron. Dr. Myhrom graduated from the<strong>College</strong> in 1984, worked in the Twin Cities,practiced with Dr. Larry Predmore for ashort period, and opened Animal Health Care<strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinic in 1987. A small animalspecialist, Dr. Myhrom ran his clinic muchlike a small-town doctor, taking phone callslate into the night and making house calls. Heleft behind his wife, Cindy, children, and twobrothers.Mary K. (Palm) Schlangen, class <strong>of</strong> 1998,died Aug. 10, 2007 in Brook Park, Minn., asa result <strong>of</strong> injuries sustained in a car accident.Mary was a resident <strong>of</strong> Two Harbors, Minn.,and had a husband and two small children.Memorials may be sent to the Mary SchlangenFamily Trust Fund, Wells Fargo Bank, 622 1stAvenue, Two Harbors, MN 55616.Alumni newsHeather Case anda therapy dog at a<strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalAssistance Team meetingin New Orleans in2006. Heather is nowassistant director andnational coordinator<strong>of</strong> disaster preparednessand response forthe Scientific Division<strong>of</strong> the American<strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalAssociation.Heather Case has joined theAmerican <strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalAssociation (AVMA) ScientificDivision as assistant director andnational coordinator <strong>of</strong> disasterpreparedness and response. Herresponsibilities include oversight<strong>of</strong> the AVMA <strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalAssistance Teams (VMAT),policy coordination, and educationand outreach. She willwork with AVMA volunteers,VMAT members, the American<strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Foundation,and various government agencies.Heather received her D.V.M. degree in 1998 and was a postdoctoralfellow, clinical instructor, and veterinary public health resident at the Centerfor Animal Health and Food Safety. Her experience also includes servingas a member <strong>of</strong> VMAT-5, where she gained firsthand emergency responseskills, and as an AVMA science and technology fellow in the <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong>Congressman Robert E. Andrews from 2006-2007.Christine N. Hoang has joined the AVMA as assistant director <strong>of</strong> theScientific Activities Division. Her responsibilities include working with severalAVMA councils and committees on issues relating to public health, zoonoses,and food safety. Christine received her doctor <strong>of</strong> veterinary medicinedegree in 2007 from the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>, where she is completingher master’s degree in public health.Kate Knutson, class <strong>of</strong> 1996, has been elected to serve a two-year term onthe American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) board <strong>of</strong> directors. Dr.Knutson is the co-owner and lead veterinarian at the Pet Crossing AnimalHospital and Dental Clinic in Bloomington, <strong>Minnesota</strong>.Barbara Ault, class <strong>of</strong> 1997, has joined Alta <strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinic, Minneapolis,Minn., as lead veterinarian.Michael Scott, class <strong>of</strong> 1986, was honored with the inaugural MerialInnovative Partnership in Teaching Award at the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> at Michigan State <strong>University</strong>. The award was given in recognition<strong>of</strong> resourceful teaching that is characterized by excellence in innovation,creativity, enthusiasm, and collaboration, with an emphasis on teachingcritical thinking skills. Dr. Scott is now an assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> pathobiologyand diagnostic investigation at MSU.22


news news news news newsContact UsRibbon cut for new BiosafetyLevel 3 labCutting the ribbonfor the <strong>Veterinary</strong>Diagnostic Laboratory’snew Biosafety Level 3facility on Jan. 10 areSheryl E-Marshall, anambassador from the St.Paul Area Chamber <strong>of</strong>Commerce, Trevor Ames, interim dean, Senator Steve Dille, GeneHugoson, commissioner <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Minnesota</strong> Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture,Bill Hartmann, state veterinarian and director <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Minnesota</strong> Board<strong>of</strong> Animal Health, Jim Collins, director <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong> DiagnosticLaboratory, Rep. Alice Hausman, and Blaise Norton, an ambassadorfrom the St. Paul Area Chamber <strong>of</strong> Commerce.The lab adds to an arsenal that has made <strong>Minnesota</strong> one <strong>of</strong> the mostprepared in the nation to respond to outbreaks <strong>of</strong> diseases that couldpotentially spread from animals to people—including the highly lethalform <strong>of</strong> bird flu.Founding fathers dedicateBen Pomeroy Student-AlumniLearning CenterThe <strong>College</strong> hosted a grand openingand dedication event for theBen Pomeroy Student-AlumniLearning Center in October.After a welcome by Trevor Ames,interim dean, Carl Osborne tookthe stage as master <strong>of</strong> ceremoniesand Walter Mackey, Glen Nelson,Dale Sorensen, and CharlesFour generations <strong>of</strong> the Pomeroy familyattended the dedication event. BenPomeroy is pictured in the photo inthe background.Paul Cox and Walter Mackey <strong>of</strong> theclass <strong>of</strong> 1951 were special guests atthe dedication event.Muscoplat reminisced about 60years <strong>of</strong> <strong>College</strong> history.Other speakers and special guestsincluded former dean JeffreyKlausner, <strong>Minnesota</strong> Senator andveterinarian Steve Dille, JohnArnold, Carl Jessen, and four generations<strong>of</strong> the Pomeroy family.Photos by Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>f<strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Center■ Comprehensive, innovative medical services■ Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week■ Fully staffed intensive care unitEmergency: 612-625-9711Small Animal: 612-626-VETSLarge Animal: 612-625-6700www.cvm.umn.edu/vmc<strong>Veterinary</strong> Diagnostic Laboratory612-625-8787 ■ 800-605-8787Fax 612-624-8707E-mail: vdl@umn.edu ■ www.vdl.umn.eduThe Raptor Center612-624-4745Fax 612-624-8740www.raptor.cvm.umn.edu<strong>Veterinary</strong> Continuing Education612-624-3434www.cvm.umn.edu/outreachStudent Affairs and Admissions612-624-4747www.cvm.umn.edu/admissionsPublic Relations612-624-6228E-mail: cvmpr@umn.eduDevelopment/Alumni612-624-1247E-mail: cvmdev@umn.eduPrinted on recycled paper with minimum 10% postconsumer waste.The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> is committed to the policy that all persons shallhave equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regardto race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability,public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual orientation.Pr<strong>of</strong>iles<strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>Volume 7 Number 1 <strong>Winter</strong> <strong>2008</strong>Interim Dean...............................................Trevor AmesDirector <strong>of</strong> Advancement...........................Sharon StatonEditor.........................................................Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>fWriters.................. Mary H<strong>of</strong>f, Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>f, Jan WilliamsDesigner................................................... Shawn WelchPhotographers....................... Sue Kirch<strong>of</strong>f, Jim McCabe,Patrick O’LearyDesigned and printed by <strong>University</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong> Printing Services.


Pr<strong>of</strong>iles<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong><strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Minnesota</strong>1365 Gortner AvenueSt. Paul, <strong>Minnesota</strong> 55108Nonpr<strong>of</strong>it Org.U.S. PostagePAIDMpls., MN.Permit No. 155Change Service Requested

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