2020 Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE UPDATE - JANUARY 10, 2021

LSU Health Shreveport is delaying the start date of administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to those age 70 years and above until Tuesday, January 12 due to weather forecast.

Due to the number of individuals who have pre-registered to receive the vaccine, a date and time will be emailed instructing individuals when to arrive for their vaccine.  This will ensure minimal wait times.  Anyone who does not receive an email by 6pm tonight providing their vaccine appointment time has provided an incorrect email.  Those individuals will be notified by text before 6pm on Monday of their appointment time on January 13-15.  

January 8, 2021- Shreveport - LSU Health Shreveport will begin offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to those age 70 years and above starting on Monday, January 11. With Monday predicted to have potentially dangerous driving weather, individuals are encouraged to wait and come another day if the weather is dangerous. There will be access to the vaccine to those 70 and over at the Fairgrounds site throughout the week.

Individuals under 70 will be advised when the next tier of vaccine is authorized for distribution.

Anyone interested in getting the vaccine is highly encouraged to pre-register at https://redcap.link/LSU-PUBLIC-VACCINE-SURVEY or at www.lsuhs.edu. Pre-registration is required and essential to minimizing wait time. Once registered, do not expect to receive an appointment time as individuals may come at the time of their choosing during designated vaccine administration hours. Those pre-registered will be directed to a designated area to get the vaccine.

Individuals that do not have access to the internet or a computer, may still receive the vaccine as staff will secure needed information upon arrival.

Everyone seeking to get the vaccine should 1) bring their ID and insurance information even though they are pre-registered, 2) wear a mask and 3) wear clothing with easy access to upper arm where vaccine will be administered.

Individuals will remain in their vehicle to receive vaccine, allowing for safest interaction between those receiving and giving vaccine.

Where: Fairground Field located at 3701 Hudson. Go to the parking area of the Fairground that runs alongside Interstate 20.

When: Monday-Friday starting at 8 am. Anyone arriving before 3:30 pm will receive the vaccine that day.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

PRESS RELEASE – October 30, 2020                
 
AT&T Foundation Serves as Presenting Sponsor for the Second Annual
LSU Health Shreveport HBCU Educational Conference

In a year when few things have gone as planned, the AT&T Foundation made sure that the second annual (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) HBCU Educational Conference hosted by LSU Health Shreveport would be possible. They did so through awarding a $25,000 AT&T Aspire grant to the LSU Health Shreveport Foundation.  The AT&T Aspire Grant is directed to student investment and will be used to support students attending historically black colleges and universities in Louisiana who are exploring career paths in medicine, research and allied health professions through attendance of the 2020 LSU Health Shreveport Virtual HBCU Educational Conference. 
As a component of a comprehensive strategy to recruit more students from priority populations, the LSUHS Office of Diversity Affairs instituted HBCU Day in 2019. The inaugural event, held over two days, garnered over fifty attendees who were interested in learning more about the School of Medicine, School of Allied Health Professions or School of Graduate Studies at LSU Health Shreveport. 

This year’s event is scheduled for November 13 and 14 and will provide insight on curriculum, learning environment, admissions process, financial aid, summer research opportunities, mentoring programs, campus culture, and the student experience. Sixty-eight students from Grambling, Southern University (Baton Rouge, and New Orleans), Xavier and Dillard will be participating in this virtual event. 

“We are proud to support the work being done at LSU Health Shreveport through their HBCU Day to engage with students who are underrepresented in medical fields and encourage them to pursue careers as health professionals,” said Robert F. Vinet, Regional Director, AT&T Louisiana. “LSU Health Shreveport is a leader across the region, and their work to cultivate diversity in the medical field is important to success across all communities.”
Check presentation photo attached.  Standing L to R are:
ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

Contacts:  Lisa S. Babin
        Executive Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Development
         675-8769 /   Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu     
 

MEDIA BRIEF: October 16, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions To honor the late Ike Muslow MD with dedication of commemorative bench

Dr. Ike Muslow is a name synonymous with LSU Health Shreveport based on his outstanding and lengthy service as a Vice-Chancellor and  three time dean of the School of Medicine.  His efforts led to then LSU Medical School Hospital being recognized as the most profitable public hospital in the United States in 1991.  Additional achievements include the establishment of the burn and transplant units and construction of the Feist Weiller Cancer Center, Women and Children’s Outpatient Clinic and the Radiation Therapy Center.  He also oversaw the establishment of three centers of excellence – cancer research, arthritis and rheumatology and clinical and forensic toxicology.  As a revered internist, he is fondly remembered by the hundreds of medical students who benefitted from his extraordinary ability to accurately diagnose a patient without ever running a test.   One of his most impactful leadership roles was as the founder of the LSU Health Shreveport Foundation which now manages over $200 million in assets for the benefit of LSU Health Shreveport. 

“Dr. Ike Muslow was a giant among those who have advocated for and loved LSU Health Shreveport. He was still teaching during his last hospital stay and never ceased promoting every aspect of our health sciences center to include the School of Allied Health Professions where he received his physical therapy.  He deserves every recognition he receives for his incalculable impact to medical education, healthcare and research in our region,” stated LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS (Ed) 

The School of Allied Health Professions is honoring Dr. Muslow’s long term support today at 2pm by providing new landscaping and installing an engraved bench for patients to rest as they are arriving and leaving the clinic.  Many patients accessing rehabilitation at the Outpatient Faculty Clinic have significant mobility issues resulting in the idea for creating a peaceful resting place just outside the clinic entry.  Leadership and faculty who worked with Dr. Muslow, both as a leader and patient, found him to be a resting place for friendship and guidance leading to the dedication of a bench in his  honor.     

Dr. Muslow died on January 18, 2020 at the age of 93 in his home.  
   
Dr. Muslow’s wife (Berte) and other members of his immediate family will attend the physically distanced, mask wearing dedication ceremony today, October 16 at 2pm the School of Allied Health Professions located at 1450 Claiborne Avenue.  LSU Health Shreveport faculty and employees along with the media are invited to attend the dedication ceremony.

Contact:
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication Public Affairs and Development
318-675-8769  office /  318-458-0166 cell
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

PRESS RELEASE 
October 15, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport Leads Louisiana
in COVID-19 VIRAL GENOME SEQUENCING

The Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at LSU Health Shreveport has now sequenced a total 651 Louisiana SARS-CoV-2 virus genomes making them the largest contributor to date of genetic data on SARS-CoV-2 in the state.  SARS-CoV-2, which is short for ‘Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2,’ is the virus that causes COVID-19, and viral genome sequencing is contributing to a worldwide effort to fight the ongoing pandemic.

LSU Health Shreveport is working closely with GISAID which after years of experience with influenza epidemics, has now also emerged as the world’s go-to data resource, exclusively enabling real-time data analyses that drive crucial results for targeted responses to the SARS-CoV-2.  Responses to date include but are not limited to identification of potential drug and vaccine targets, evidence that the virus has not drifted to a significant strain difference, and development of diagnostic kits for future mutations of COVID-19.  Scientists can rapidly and openly access data through GISAID’s extensive network of researchers providing the timely generation of curated genomic data through a collaborative effort. “Dr. Jeremy Kamil and his colleagues at LSU Health Shreveport are much respected for their quality work in genome sequencing and their interactions with GISAID’s data curation teams placed across the globe”, says GISAID’s Cheryl Bennett.

GISAID is currently reporting 1,361 total virus genomes from Louisiana, of which 651 (48 %) are from LSU Health Shreveport.  Others submitting genome sequencing data for Louisiana are Tulane, Scripps, BioInfo Experts, LSU Baton Rouge, Gingko Bioworks, the CDC, and University of Washington.

There are numerous reasons why genomic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is important.  These include being able to tell how many times the virus has been introduced into a nursing home, school, or workplace, helping public health officials determine if control measures such as social/physical distancing are working, or whether an outbreak is due to a so-called “super-spreader” event. Sequencing also provides critical surveillance for whether any mutations are emerging that could allow the virus to escape antibodies or vaccines.  “We have found only one mutant so far, a spike mutation called F490L, that might help the virus resist the protective effects of antibodies.  But the fact we’ve only seen it once suggests it is either detrimental to the virus or at least does not provide any real-world advantage for the virus,” shared Jeremy Kamil PhD, a virologist and lead in genomic sequencing at LSUHS.  As the virus replicates, new mutations occur.  “Most of the mutations detected during sequencing are harmless to the virus and do not impact the clinical course of the disease it causes.  However, these mutations provide a unique “bar code” to allow scientists to trace SARS-CoV-2 outbreak clusters,” Dr. Kamil likens a unique “bar code” to a misspelled word in a book chapter, which can be identified by that mistake every time the book is photocopied.  Specific combinations of mutations in a given genome are passed along every time the virus infects a new person, and can be used to trace transmission chains. On a larger scale, keeping track of the “sub-strains” or “variants” and their mutations, by sequencing the virus from patient samples, is essential for understanding how it is spreading in the region and around the world.  For instance, this type of genetic data allowed scientists to discern that SARS-CoV-2 mostly came to the United States via Europe and not from China directly.  With the EVT Lab processing more than 8,000 COVID-19 test samples per week, sequencing of the virus from COVID-19 positive samples is helping scientists understand how SARS-CoV-2 is spreading within our community.  

The nursing home COVID testing program is being led by LSUHS physician scientist John Vanchiere MD PhD.  This testing has been instrumental to genomic sequencing in north Louisiana and has resulted in one of the lowest nursing home positivity rates in the nation at an average of 2%.  

THE LSUHS COVID-19 sequencing has been a collaborative effort with MiGS, the Microbial Genome Sequencing Center of Pittsburgh, PA, which sequences viral genomes directly from patient RNA samples purified by Dr. Rona Scott, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology. 

To visualize sequences, go to https://nextstrain.org/community/emmahodcroft/south-usa-sarscov2/south-central?f_division=Louisiana

ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

Contact:  
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Development
675-8769 
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu     
 

PRESS RELEASE
OCTOBER 8, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport and Grambling State University (GSU) sign
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
establishing Guaranteed Interview Program in School of Medicine

A Memorandum of Understanding (“Agreement”) establishing a Guaranteed Interview (“GI”) Program between Louisiana State University Health Shreveport School of Medicine (“LSU Health Shreveport-SOM”) and Grambling State University (“GSU”) will be signed in the Black and Gold Room in the Favrot Student Union at Grambling State University at 11 am on October 8.

The MOU represents the desire of both parties to increase the number of African American and Hispanic students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) in Louisiana who apply to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The goal is for these students to subsequently be accepted for admission and graduate from medical school.
The mission of Grambling State University has always been to create opportunities that facilitate scholarly advancement,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, Jr. “The MOU with LSU Health Shreveport creates a seamless pathway for our students to pursue advanced degrees in the medical sciences.”

The Guaranteed Interview Program attests that GSU students who meet specified criteria included in the MOU will be invited to interview with the Admissions Committee of the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The MOU is effective July 1, 2021 and shall remain in effect until terminated by either Party. “This landmark agreement provides LSU Health Shreveport an opportunity to propel our message that every student belongs to our learning communities, and it further helps us increase the percentage of African American and Hispanic students who apply, matriculate, and ultimately graduate from our institution”, says Dr. G.E. Ghali.

Those signing the agreement are: LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, JD, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, David Lewis, MD, and Chair of Admission for the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, Shane Barton, MD.  Additional university representatives in attendance include: Associate Dean for Student and Diversity Affairs, Debbie Chandler, MD, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Diversity Affairs, Toni Thibeaux, PhD, Assistant Dean of Admissions, Wanda Thomas, MD, and Consultant to LSU Health Shreveport, Markey Pierre, DBA. Representing Grambling State University are Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Connie Walton, PhD and Head of Biology, Dagne Hill, PhD.

University Contacts:

Lisa S. Babin 
LSU Health Shreveport                                                                   
Executive Director of Communication and Public Affairs                                                             
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu                                                         
318-675-8769 office                                                        
318-458-0166 cell

Tisha Arnold
Grambling University
Director of University Communication and Strategic Management Services
arnoldt@gram.edu
318-274-0000 office

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: October 5, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport gains approval for Clinical Informatics Fellowship

The Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education recently approved the addition of the 23rd fellowship training program at LSU Health Shreveport.  The new Clinical Informatics Fellowship represents the subspecialist of all medical specialties transforming healthcare by analyzing, designing, implementing, and evaluating information and communication systems to improve patient care, enhance access to care, advance individual and population health outcomes, and strengthen the clinician-patient relationship.

The Clinical Informatics fellowship is a 2 year fellowship that is a combination of inpatient rotations with the above participating sites and online courses that are offered through the supporting universities. The fellowship has a complement of 4, with 2 fellows each PGY year. Through the courses made available, fellows have the opportunity to obtain a professional Master of Health Informatics (MHI) degree from Louisiana Tech University. Once fellowship is completed, fellows are eligible for ABMS board certification.

Stephen Conrad MD, PhD, MS, MSE, MBA,  MSST,  MSc, Professor of Professor of Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, and Anesthesiology and holder of the Ike Muslow  MD  Endowed Chair in Healthcare Informatics will serve as the Program Director for this fellowship.

LSU Health Shreveport is the only location in Louisiana offering a Clinical Informatics Fellowship. Graduate medical education at LSU Health Shreveport currently offers 41 ACGME accredited programs and 3 CODA approved programs with a total of 571 residents and fellows.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

Contact:
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication, Public Affairs and Development Office: 318—675-8769 / lbabi@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
October 1, 2020
 
LSU Health Shreveport Announces Dr. Steven Bailey, Chair of Internal Medicine As 2020-2021 Mastership Recipient by the American College of Physicians

Steven Roderick Bailey MD, MSCAI, MACP, FACC, FAHA, Chairman of Internal Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, has been named by the American College of Physicians (ACP) Awards Committee as a 2021 Mastership recipient. Dr. Bailey is only the fourth member of the LSU Health Shreveport faculty and one of only fifteen Louisiana physicians to have received this prestigious designation. He was informed of the award by Dr. Angela C. Johnson Governor of the Louisiana Chapter of the American College of Physicians. The award will be formally presented in 2021 at the ACP Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida.

ACP bylaws state that Masters shall be Fellows who have been selected because of "integrity, positions of honor, impact in practice or in medical research, or other attainments in science or in the art of medicine. Masters must be highly accomplished persons demonstrating impact in practice, leadership, or in medical research. Evidence of their achievements can come from many types of endeavors such as renown within their field and/or ACP chapter, research, education, health care initiatives, volunteerism, administrative positions, care of patients, and service to their community. The first Mastership in the College was presented in 1923 to Dr. James M. Anders, for his extraordinary service to the College and for being one of the most outstanding internists and medical teachers of that time. Masters may designate their achievement by use of MACAP as part of their title to publicly acknowledge this achievement.

Dr. Bailey was recruited to LSU Health Shreveport in 2018 from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio where he was a tenured professor of Medicine and Radiology and Chief of the Janey and Dolph Briscoe Jr. Division of Cardiology. He specializes in Interventional Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease and currently holds the Malcolm Feist Chair in Interventional Cardiology.

Dr. Bailey is a Master Fellow of the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography (SCAI), a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, as well as the Association of University Cardiologists, the Association of Cardiology Professors and the International Andreas Greuntzing Society. He has been extremely active with the American Heart Association as an advocate, educator and fundraiser. Dr. Bailey is a prolific researcher and has published multiple scientific and peer reviewed articles. He is currently the Editor-in-Chief for the journal Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions, which is the official publication of SCAI.

“I congratulate Dr. Bailey on this meaningful recognition of his contributions to medicine at the national, regional and local level. We are fortunate to have recruited Dr. Bailey to LSU Health Shreveport as he is doing an excellent job in leading the largest clinical department in our health sciences center” stated LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor, G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD.

Contact: Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication and Public Affairs
Office: 318-675-8769
Cell: 318-458-0166
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: September 29, 2020

EMERGING VIRAL THREAT (EVT) LAB AT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT 
SHARES IMPACT DURING ITS FIRST SIX MONTHS OF OPERATION

The Emerging Viral Threat Lab at LSU Health Shreveport has processed over 110,000 COVID-19 test samples from multiple public health regions of the state and created over 170,000 test kits which were distributed throughout the state during its first six months of operation. Based on today’s CDC report of 11,348,492 tests having been processed nationally, LSU Health Shreveport has processed almost 0.1% of all COVID tests in the US during its’ first six months of operation.  The EVT Lab is currently processing 0.13% of all daily testing in the US based on an average of 1,300 tests per day compared to the US average of a 1,000,000 tests being processed each day.  

Strategic sample collection in north Louisiana nursing homes by the Emerging Viral Threat Lab Strike Team has utilized the EVT Lab’s strong diagnostic potential to result in one of the lowest nursing home positivity rates in the nation at 2%, as there are currently over 33 states with nursing home positivity rates above 5% with some as high as 20%.  This favorable positivity rate is due to the ongoing testing of residents and staff using an efficient and rapid qPCR testing, which is over 99.7% reliable.    

Data from the Emerging Viral Threat Lab is also contributing to understanding the COVID-19 mutation in Louisiana, how it arrived as well as sharing key data with the national genome databank. LSUHS researchers working with sequencing partner, MiGS Center in Pittsburgh, PA, have completed viral genome sequencing of 159 SARS-CoV-2 genomes of which 158 are from Louisiana and 1 from Texas.   These genomes are shared on the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISIAD) which is the central repository for SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus genome sequencing data.   Mirroring the global and U.S. trends, virtually all of the LSUHS sequences have the D614G mutation in the viral Spike protein, which is hypothesized by some scientists to increase transmission, although there is no evidence that the mutation affects disease severity.  Interestingly, out of a total of 817 completed genomes from Louisiana, the EVT Lab found the only recorded instance in Louisiana of an ancestral D614 virus.  As of today (29 September), the GISAID database shows 27,263 SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences from the United States, and 107,014 worldwide.  LSU Health Shreveport is continuing to sequence the viral genomic RNA from COVID-19 test samples and has an additional 138 sequences in process.  The EVT Lab is collaborating with expert genomic epidemiologists to determine the estimated date the SARS-CoV-2 virus entered Louisiana as well as the most likely routes by which the virus came into the state.   

The LSUHS Emerging Viral Threat Lab is also impacting clinical care as the serology testing has made it possible for patients at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center as well as other community hospitals to have access to convalescent plasma.  Serology testing is required to match donated plasma from recovered COVID patients with current COVID-19 patients in need of antibodies from plasma.  

The EVT Lab continues to bring new technologies to LSUHS and to grow its automated capabilities to increase diagnostic testing capacity.  The lab is also developing new testing capabilities that will allow the lab to be prepared for the expected combined increase in Influenza and Coronavirus infections this fall.  The EVT Lab functions as a reference lab serving communities through outreach and public surveillance while simultaneously working closely with public health officials and scientists to provide the most effective and timely diagnostic tools.  

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu. 

Contact:
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication, Public Affairs and Development
Office: (318) 675-8769
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Interviews available upon request with EVT Lab leadership

PRESS RELEASE - Date: September 23, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions receives approval for establishment of the first Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD) in Louisiana

The Louisiana Board of Regents voted unanimously today to approve the creation of the first Doctorate of Occupational Therapy in Louisiana. This vote follows unanimous approval by the LSU Board of Supervisors at their April board meeting.

The first class will be admitted in May of 2022 with the last admission to the current Master’s of Occupational Therapy occurring in May of 2021. The first graduates of the doctoral OTD will occur in May of 2025. At that time, graduates will be eligible to sit for the national licensure examination, the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Our Occupational Therapy program has had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT for the past ten years.

The creation of this doctoral program will eliminate the need for Louisiana students to pursue this advanced degree out of state and allows pursuit of specialized practice areas and expanded faculty and research opportunities. “We are proud to be trailblazers in the state of Louisiana for excellence in academic opportunities that are meaningful and relevant to our citizens. The leadership and commitment of our OT faculty to develop and implement this advanced OTD program will produce an enduring impact on the future students and our communities,” said Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions.

Occupational therapy is a high demand field as reflected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projection of a 17.9% employment growth for occupational therapists between 2018 and 2028. In that period, an estimated 23,700 new jobs are predicted to become available. According to US News, these positions are not only in demand but provide a meaningful career as occupational therapy is #28 in the top 100 most desirable jobs in the US.

Currently occupational therapists are playing a key role in the COVID-19 pandemic as OT’s are instrumental in helping patients regain the ability to perform the daily activities necessary for self- sufficiency and independence. Occupational therapists also address barriers that occur due to the social and emotional issues resulting from being quarantined.

To learn more about the occupational therapy program at LSU Health Shreveport, visit www.lsuhs.edu/sahp.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Over 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 5 50 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. For more information, go to www.lsuhs.edu.

CONTACT:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development
Office:  (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166    
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: September 21, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport Expands Enrollment Ages in Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 Vaccine Study
LSU Health Shreveport is expanding enrollment in the Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 vaccine study for the next two weeks to include individuals ages 16-18 and those older than 85 years of age. Those interested in participating in this important vaccine trial should sign up as quickly as possible.

LSU Health Shreveport began the Pfizer sponsored vaccine trial on September 3 and has been very successful in enrolling participants. The trial will further expand in October allowing individuals ages 12-15 to participate.

The trial remains a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an mRNA vaccine to prevent illness due to the SARS-CoV2 virus. The vaccine will be administered by injection.  Further details  of the study can be found at https://clinicaltrials.gov.

LSU Health Shreveport discoveries were licensed earlier this year by global biopharma firm BioNTech and serve as a key building block of Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine currently in Phase 2/3 safety and efficacy clinical study.

Criteria for this vaccine study requires that participants be in good general health, not pregnant and have not been previously diagnosed with COVID-19. An assessment by the principal investigator  of this study will determine individuals risk for contracting the COVID-19 by understanding one’s type of work, lifestyle and all medical conditions. All those interested in being a part of this vaccine trial should promptly complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey. The survey can be found  on the LSU Health Shreveport website at lsuhs.edu/coronavirus.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Over 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 550 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. For more information, go to www.lsuhsc.edu

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development Office: (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE

LSU Health Shreveport & LSU Shreveport
Join together to collect supplies for Hurricane Laura victims

September 11/Shreveport – LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS)  and LSU Shreveport  (LSUS)  are joining forces to collect needed items for Hurricane Laura victims as community service is a hallmark for both campuses as well as for Southfield School and Loyola Prep which kicked off the effort.

A shipping container to house donated items will be available at LSU Health Shreveport from Friday, September 11 at 3pm until 7pm on Tuesday, September 15 at the BRI Curb. LSU Shreveport will accept items at the Pioneer Heritage Center from 8am on Wednesday,  September 16 through 5pm on Friday, September 18. Both schools encourage their students and staff to contribute along  with their local alumni. The general public is also invited to contribute to this Hurricane Laura supply drive.

Requested items include:
•    Diapers, Wipes
•    Children’s Socks & Underwear
•    Snack Crackers
•    Paper Towels, Trash Bags, Work Gloves
•    Bar Soap, Dish Soap, Shampoo, Sponges
•    Toothbrushes, Toothpaste
•    Toilet Paper
•    Batteries, Razors, Insect Repellant
•    Tarps, box fans, and flashlights

“LSU Health Shreveport is pleased to be working with our fellow LSU university to help those in south Louisiana who were hit hard by Hurricane Laura,” shared LSUHS Chancellor G. E. Ghali MD.
Dr. Larry Clark stated, “Hurricane Laura has had a devastating impact on our state, leaving many communities without basic necessities. This effort is just one way we can help our neighbors to the south regain some semblance of normalcy in their daily lives.”
 

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development LSU Health Shreveport
Office: (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Wendell Riley, Director of Media and External Relations Louisiana State University Shreveport
Office: 318-797-5108
Cell: 540-239-0046
wendell.riley@lsus.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: September 3, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport begins enrollment
in Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 Vaccine Study 

LSU Health Shreveport has begun enrollment in the Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 vaccine study.  This is a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an mRNA vaccine to prevent illness due to the SARS-CoV2 virus. The vaccine will be administered by injection. Further details of the study can be found at https://clinicaltrials.gov. 

LSU Health Shreveport discoveries were licensed earlier this year by global biopharma firm BioNTech and serve as a key building block of Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine currently in Phase 2/3 safety and efficacy clinical study.

Adults 18-85 years old who are not pregnant, in good general health and have not been previously diagnosed with COVID-19 can participate in the study once approved by the principal investigator. An assessment on each individuals risk for contracting the COVID-19 includes understanding one’s type of work, lifestyle and all medical conditions.  All those interested in being a part of this vaccine trial should promptly complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey. The survey can be found on the LSU Health Shreveport website at lsuhs.edu/coronavirus.

Currently, there are no approved vaccines available to prevent COVID-19. This disease has spread across the world. This COVID-19 vaccine study will enroll up to 30,000 adults, and each person involved plays a powerful role. Joining a clinical trial is an important and personal decision. 

“LSU Health Shreveport is excited to continue our impact on the COVID-19 pandemic by serving as a site for this Pfizer-sponsored vaccine trial. Having our discoveries play a key role in the availability of this worldwide vaccine trial is another example of the strength of our basic science faculty”, stated Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport.  

The principal investigator for this vaccine trial is John Vanchiere MD PhD, Professor of Infectious Disease and Pediatrics and a NIH funded researcher.  He is currently serving as the leader of the COVID -19 Strike Team providing testing in 98% of Region 7 nursing homes and in other strategic communities.   
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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu. 

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development
Office: (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu 
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BUSINESS BRIEF
DATE:  September 2, 2020

Dr. Hugo Cuellar named Chairman of the Department of Radiology

Hugo Cuellar, MD, PhD, MBA, DABR has been named Chairman of the Department of Radiology at LSU Health Shreveport effective September 1, 2020. 

Dr. Cuellar is a Professor of Radiology, Neurosurgery and Neurology and serves as Director of Neuroendovascular Surgery and Neuroimaging and Co-Director of the Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Thrombectomy Capable Stroke Center, which is 1 of only 10 American Heart Association Stroke Certified Thrombectomy Centers in the US.

He completed his internship and residency at the University of Neuvo Leon in Mexico followed by fellowships at LSU Health New Orleans and Hospital Nuestra Senora del Rosario in Spain and an observership at John Hopkins Hospital in interventional neuroradiology. His advanced studies include receiving a Master’s in Neuroscience from the University of Madrid, a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain and his MBA with a healthcare concentration from the University of Texas in Dallas. 

Dr. Cuellar has presented nationally and internationally and is a member of numerous national and international societies including the Radiological Society of North America, the European Society of Neuroradiology, and the World Federation of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology. 

LSU Health Shreveport Appoints New PR Coordinator

Shreveport, LA –Jazmin Jernigan, MBA has been named as the Public Relations Coordinator for LSU Health Shreveport. Jernigan is a Shreveport native with deep community ties and years of volunteer service.  She brings in-depth marketing, design, content creation, and business communication experience to the position. She was a 2014 “40 Under 40” honoree, a 2016 Athena Leadership Award honoree,  serves as the treasurer for the LSUS Alumni Board of Directors, and on the board of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra.

Jernigan holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a master’s degree in Business Administration from LSUS.
 

PRESS RELEASE

Shreveport, LA (September 1, 2020) – LSU Health Shreveport announces the creation of three new endowed scholarships and two new endowed professorships. Private donations of $360,000 will be combined with $140,000 in matching funds from the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund to create these endowments.

Leveraging donor dollars through the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund matching program provides more impact for each dollar invested. Endowed gifts serve as a reliable source of income for institutions and in many ways are crucial to funding their continual success. Endowed scholarships provide funds to supplement the cost of a student’s education and make medical education accessible to talented and deserving students. Recipients of endowed scholarships are among a select group of the best and brightest students, who will join the ranks of our most distinguished medical alumni. Likewise, endowed professorships allow LSUHS to recruit and retain superior faculty. These endowments provide crucial support for faculty-led research, departmental enhancement, and educational development.

“Supporting our students and faculty remains a top priority at LSUHS” said Chancellor Dr. G.E. Ghali. “We thank our visionary donors for their commitment to the future success of our health sciences center and positively impacting higher education in Louisiana. Gifts such as these allow LSUHS to continue to lead the region in providing exemplary medical care, conducting ground-breaking research, and educating the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

Superior Graduate Student Scholarships

Lester Wayne Johnson Family Scholarship for Medical Students - Dr. Lester Wayne Johnson has served on the faculty of LSU Health Shreveport in Monroe for 24 years and assumed the position of Vice Chancellor for Monroe Clinical Affairs on July 1, 2016. A well-respected surgeon both locally and nationally, Dr. Johnson has made his home and practice in Northeast Louisiana his entire life. This scholarship will be used to attract exceptional candidates from Louisiana to enroll in LSUHS School of Medicine and offset a portion of the financial barrier facing students wishing to enter medical school.

Tommy Brown, MD Memorial Scholarship for Medical Students - On December 29, 2017, the Shreveport medical community and LSU Health Shreveport lost favorite son and brilliant cardiologist Tommy Brown to a brief but courageous battle with heart disease. Soon after his death, two of his closest friends, Dr. Paul “Corky” Davis and Mike Echols, sprang to action to honor their fallen friend. Corky and Mike engaged the LSUHS Foundation in a fundraising effort that raised over $98,000 for an endowed scholarship in Tommy’s memory. This scholarship will help defray the cost of tuition for a medical student hailing from a rural community in Louisiana.

Sandra and Jerry Martin Endowed Scholarship for Medical Students - Dr. Cindy Martin, an alumna of the Shreveport School of Medicine (who now resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota), has graciously donated to the Health Sciences Foundation to endow a second scholarship for medical students at LSU Health Shreveport. Her first endowed scholarship was created in 2018 for the same purpose. This scholarship continues to honor the legacy of her parents, Sandra and Jerry Martin. Sandra and Jerry are educators in Ashland, Louisiana, and Cindy credits them for inspiring her to achieve academic and professional excellence. This scholarship will help defray the cost of tuition for a medical student hailing from a rural community in North Louisiana.

These scholarships are critical to help meet the current and future shortage of physicians practicing in rural communities.

Professorships

David N. Cole Endowed Professorship for Community Health Initiatives in the School of Allied Health Professions - Margaret M. Shehee and David N. Cole have a long history of providing philanthropic support to areas of critical need in Northwest Louisiana. The Cole Professorship will build a competitive health and wellness research program by investing in talented faculty educators in the School of Allied Health Professions. The recipient will pursue initiatives that support health and wellness in underserved communities, including academic research into the nutritional concerns plaguing these parishes.

Max M. Morelock Professorship in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery - Jasmine Morelock-Field was an accomplished artist and educator who enjoyed engaging children in creative painting. Married for 50 years to Max M. Morelock, she had two children, Maurice and Valerie. Both Max and Jasmine were grateful for the care they received at LSU Health Shreveport from Dr. Cherie-Ann Nathan in the Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. As a result, Jasmine and her son Maurice have supported medical research in the Department for the past six years and at LSU Health Sciences Center as a whole for over sixteen years. With this endowed professorship, the Morelocks hope to recruit faculty interested in bioinformatics or genomics, memorialize Max and Jasmine in perpetuity, and provide a consistent source of funding to Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. Sadly, Jasmine passed away in late December 2019 before she could see this endowed professorship become a reality.

BUSINESS BRIEFS
DATE: August 26, 2020

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Assistant Dean for Admissions announced for 
LSUHS School of Medicine

Chancellor Ghali shares, "I am pleased to announce that Dr. Wanda Thomas has been selected as the new Assistant Dean for Admissions for the School of Medicine replacing Dr. Scott Kennedy who recently retired." 

Dr. Thomas received an undergraduate degree in biology from Yale University in New Haven, CT and medical degree from the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans followed by a pediatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport. She joined the LSUHS faculty in 2003 and is currently serving as Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and as a Pediatric Hospitalist at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center.  She has served as the AHEC Program Director for LSU Health Shreveport since July 2013. 

Dr. Thomas is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Association of Academic Minority Physicians, Northwest Louisiana Pediatric Society, National Association of Minority Educators and a Gold Humanism Society Member.  She is actively serving our health sciences center as a Pediatric Interest Group Faculty Mentor, on the Pediatric Junior Clerkship Curriculum Committee, Internal Medicine/Pediatric Resident Promotion Committee and the LSU Health Shreveport Professionalism Committee. Dr. Thomas is very active in our community speaking at dozens of community events and serving on numerous community boards.

Congratulations to Dr. Thomas on her appointment.

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BUSINESS BRIEF

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT MOBIL COVID-19 TESTING LOCATIONS

No pre-registration required for this free COVID-19 testing which occurs inside vehicle.  Results provided electronically by the LSUHS Emerging Viral Testing Lab within 48-72 hours.

Shreveport Testing – Valid ID required.
Thursday, September 3                 8am – 3pm
Thursday, September 10               8am – 3pm
Galilee Baptist church, 1500 Pierre Avenue, Shreveport, LA  

Springhill Testing – ID and insurance card required.
Those without insurance will be tested by providing a valid ID. 
Wednesday, September 9, 8 am-noon
Former STAGE department store parking lot, 571 South Main

PRESS RELEASE

Living Well Foundation Sponsors Mobile COVID Testing 
August 23, 2020- Shreveport & Monroe - In collaboration with Living Well Foundation and the City of Monroe, the LSU Health Shreveport Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab has scheduled a Mobile COVID-19 Testing Event in Monroe.  Free mobile testing will be available at Monroe City Hall on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Since late April, mobile testing vans from LSU Health Shreveport have been traveling back and forth across Caddo Parish and North Louisiana, offering free COVID-19 testing in underserved areas. These efforts have reached over 5400 citizens.  Recognizing the need to expand this life-saving testing to our campus in Monroe, LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) leadership reached out to Living Well Foundation for help.  Living Well Foundation responded with a $20,000 grant to provide mobile testing in Monroe.  A check presentation will occur at 10 am with Jesse Gilmore, Vice President of Development with the LSUHS Foundation, Dr. Lester Wayne Johnson, Vice-Chancellor for Clinical Affairs for LSU Health in Monroe, Dr. Jennifer Singh, Medical Director for LSU Health Shreveport mobile COVID-19 testing, and Alice Prophit, President/CEO of Living Well Foundation in attendance.

“During the challenges experienced by our communities from the COVID-19 crisis, the Living Well 
Foundation initiated a special grant cycle to support disaster and crisis recovery as much as 
possible.  With this grant, we know the need for testing and ongoing attention to the COVID-19 
impact in our region is important.  The LSU Health Sciences Foundation, with the Monroe campus of the Ochsner LSU Health System, have both partnered with us to ensure these services are provided with ongoing viability.  We are pleased to assist LSU Health Sciences Foundation in a valuable service for the communities and people served.”  Alice M. Prophit, President/CEO of Living Well Foundation.

Jennifer Singh, MD, associate professor of medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, and medical director of Partners in Wellness is pleased to bring mobile COVID-19 testing to underserved citizens of the Monroe area.  Dr. Singh comments, “testing in the community is more important than ever, as we continue to open businesses and schools across Louisiana. It’s very encouraging to see that most people who arrive for testing are wearing masks and taking precautions. We’re thankful that Living Well shares our commitment to making testing easy and 
accessible.”

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University 
System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSUHS is home to the School of Medicine, School of 
Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 
900 students are enrolled in the degree programs along with over 500 residents and fellows. The 
primary mission of the LSU Health Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance 
the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong 
faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and 
scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide 
primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region.
LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion 
that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

ABOUT LIVING WELL FOUNDATION
The Living Well Foundation is a public non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health, 
wellness, and quality of life in northeast Louisiana. Founded in 2006, the Living Well Foundation 
serves the residents of Caldwell, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland and 
Union Parishes. For more information about the Foundation, visit
www.livingwellfoundation.net
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: August 18, 2020

School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport
Welcomes First Students in New PhD in Rehab Science Program

The first students in the newest degree program at the School of Allied Health Professions (SAHP), a PhD in Rehabilitation Science, started their coursework virtually on August 17. This inaugural class is comprised of four students - Stephanie Currie, Jillian Danzy, Damian Duhon and Erin McAllister.

The PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences was approved earlier this year by the Louisiana Board of Regents and the LSU Board of Supervisors in response to the rising need for allied health faculty and providers in clinical, research and academic settings.  The need for doctoral level Rehabilitation Sciences faculty is increasing as demands across the disciplines of Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), Physician Assistant (PA), Respiratory Therapy (RT), and Medical Laboratory Scientist escalates.

“This semester marks a special beginning for our School of Allied Health Professions as the inaugural class of PhD students in Rehabilitation Sciences are beginning their academic and scientific journey.  We are proud of the core faculty of this program for bringing this advanced degree from concept to reality, and we look forward to collaborative opportunities, innovation, and the enhanced research capacity this program will help to establish.  Graduates of this program will fill a critical need for doctorally prepared faculty in the Rehabilitation Sciences (Communication Disorders, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy) and they will contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting these professions.  This addition proves that the School of Allied Health Professions is not only surviving COVID-19, but we are growing and thriving in spite of the pandemic.  I am confident the expansion of educational opportunities at the SAHP will continue,” stated Dr. Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions. 

Survey data revealed that the greater Southern region which includes Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee currently do not have such a program.  While there are regional programs that exist for PhD’s in physical therapy, biomechanics, and exercise science, a PhD in rehabilitation sciences prepares researchers, educators, and leaders to contribute to the development of rehabilitation practice, research, and policy. 

About LSU Health Shreveport 

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu

Contact at LSU Health Shreveport:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs & Communication

Office: 318-675-8769, Cell: 318-458-0166, Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

MEDIA ALERT:

SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS VIRTUAL SUMMER GRADUATION

WHEN: Saturday, August 8 at 10 a.m.

Allied Health Students Scheduled for Virtual Graduation from
LSU Health Shreveport this Saturday 

This Saturday, August 8, 2020, 71 LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions students will graduate from their respective programs with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.   

• Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science: 4 graduates
• Master of Occupational Therapy: 27 graduates
• Master of Physician Assistant Studies: 34 graduates
• Master of Public Health: 6 graduates

The School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport is comprised of seven academic programs, three post-professional residency programs for physical therapists who already hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and three specialized clinics. “It is an honor to lead the dedicated faculty and students in the School of Allied Health Professions.  I applaud their resilience and innovation in order to meet their academic and professional goals during these unprecedented times.  These graduates will immediately impact our health system’s response, not only to the pandemic but across the spectrum of health needs of the citizens of Louisiana. I also want to thank Chancellor Ghali for his unwavering leadership to meet the needs wrought by the pandemic, and his ongoing support of these academic programs,” stated Sharon Dunn Ph.D, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions.

Allied health professionals currently make up over 60% of all health care professionals and are involved with the delivery of health pertaining to the identification, evaluation and prevention of diseases and disorders, dietary and nutrition services, and rehabilitation among others.   “Our School of Allied Health Professions has an excellent reputation for training productive and high quality healthcare employees.   It is indeed fortunate these graduates are choosing to stay in Louisiana to help meet the ever increasing demands for healthcare services,” stated G. E. Ghali MD, DDS, FACS, FRCS (Ed), Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport 

According to U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, Allied health professionals (AHP’s) comprise roughly half of the 20 fastest professions in our economy.

• Occupational Therapists: predicted to experience 43% job growth in the next four years
• Physical Therapists – predicted job growth of 40% in the next 8 years
• Physician Assistants – predicted job growth of 31% in the next 8 years
• Speech Language Pathologists- predicted growth of 21% in next 6 years

Healthcare remains a key sector that drives the economy in our community. LSU Health Shreveport has an economic impact of nearly $6 million in the Shreveport region. Combined with the economic impact of its practicing alumni, LSUHS has a total economic impact of over $3 billion on North Louisiana. More than 18 percent of this graduating class are staying in Shreveport/Bossier to practice.  As of today, all graduates will be practicing in Louisiana.  Over 70% of the physicians and allied health professionals in our community received a portion or all of their training at LSU Health Shreveport.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise.  900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

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CONTACT:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Communication and Public Relations
Office: 318-6758769   Cell: 318-458-0166   Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Valorie Lurry, Director of Student Life and Alumni Affairs
Cell: 318-751-0677 | Email: vlurry@lsuhsc.edu

PRESS RELEASE- photos https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1fLmG943Pw6w5lWAW6I7JoOrFZO8kUp37?usp=sharing

New Drills Donated by Stryker Offer Realistic Training for Medical Students

Shreveport, La. August 19, 2020 – Today, LSU Health Shreveport accepted a donation from Stryker of new drilling equipment for the temporal bone lab, a modern training facility within the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. In the lab, students will work at four operative stations to learn the complex anatomy of the temporal bone and the ear at the base of the skull.

“Otologic and skull base neuro-otologic surgery requires repetitive drilling of temporal bones to understand and gain expertise in operating in one of the most difficult areas in the body,” said Cherie-Ann Nathan, MD, FACS, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department Chair. “Developing a state-of-the-art temporal bone lab positions LSU Health Shreveport to invigorate residency training for our residents and fellows to hone their skills prior to operating on patients. I am grateful to Stryker for their commitment to resident education.”

Gale Gardner, MD, Professor and Clinical Specialist of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Director of Neurotology at LSU Health Shreveport, is one of the premier otologic surgeons in the country and can be credited for his tireless efforts to upgrade the training environment for residents. Dr. Gardner leads the residency program at LSUHS that will utilize the new lab. Each surgical station will feature operating room-grade equipment to make training exercises as realistic as possible. Dr. Gardner has trained nearly 40 residents over the past few years alone, and many current residents have shown interest in going into otology/neuro-otology fellowships.

This new equipment was received through a donation by Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies. Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the company offers innovative products and services in Orthopaedics, Medical and Surgical, and Neurotechnology and Spine that help improve patient and hospital outcomes. 

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

Contacts: 
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Development
318-675-8769;  Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu         

Jesse Gilmore
Vice President of Development at LSU Health Sciences Foundation
318-861-0855; jgilmore@lsuhsfoundation.org

The Shreveport Bossier Committee of One Hundred, Inc. presented LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor, G. E. Ghali MD with $7,500 in support of the community testing being provided by Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at LSU Health Shreveport.  The designated use of this financial support is to assist in expanding and enhancing LSU Health Shreveport’s COVID-19 response efforts.

“The Committee of One Hundred recognizes the enormous impact LSU Health Shreveport is making on community testing and by conducting life-saving research on the coronavirus.  We are honored to support their work, which in turn supports our community and beyond” stated Mark Evans, Chair of the Committee of 100 Healthcare subcommittee.

Dr. G. E. Ghali shared, “Financial support by our community is incredibly meaningful to our outstanding faculty who have been working tirelessly to address numerous aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The funding provided by the Committee of One Hundred is essential for the Emerging Viral Threat Lab to be able to continue the costly endeavor of conducting antibody/serology testing, making testing kits, and processing of COVID-19 tests.”

The Emerging Viral Threat Lab at LSU Health Shreveport has processed more than 11,000 tests, of which over 6,000 have been from Caddo Parish.

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About the Shreveport & Bossier Committee of One Hundred, Inc.

The Committee of One Hundred Inc. is a nonpolitical, nonprofit membership group organized as an educational, civic and charitable organization whose members are the highest-ranking local executives of businesses and professional enterprises in Northwest Louisiana. The Committee works to mobilize the business community to improve Shreveport, Bossier City and the surrounding areas maintaining active interests in regional economic development, education and community relations.

About LSU Health Shreveport

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSUHS is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs along with over 500 residents and fellows. The primary mission of the LSU Health Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

District 8L Lions Club, comprised of 21 clubs located throughout north Louisiana, recently received a grant from the Lions Club International Foundation to assist with emergency services for medical supplies needed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. When the Lions Club learned about the COVID-19 research and community testing efforts being led by the Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at LSU Health Shreveport, they did not hesitate to offer their support.

In addition to donating 300 medical grade masks, the Lions Club facilitated acquiring three pieces of equipment needed by the EVT Lab at LSUHS: an INTEGRA 12 Channel VIAFLO (a pipette that will be used for serology testing), a Thermo Scientific™ Heratherm™ General Protocol Microbiological Incubator (incubators provides optimal conditions for the growth of microbiology cultures), and a LulzBOT TAZ Workhorse 3D Printer (used for 3D printing needed items like nasal swabs). The masks and two pieces of the lab equipment were delivered to LSUHS on Friday, May 15. 

Video can be found here. Photos can be found here.

“The Lions Club is honored to be able to provide the Emerging Viral Threat Lab with critical protective gear and equipment needed to continue their COVID-19 testing endeavors. We are proud to support the work that LSU Health Shreveport is doing in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which is so important in our community and beyond, and synonymous with important values of the Lions Club International,” said Terry Harkey, District Governor District of Lions Clubs International District 8L.

“The Lions Club support of the EVT Lab at LSU Health Shreveport could not have come at a better time as we are ramping up our testing in the community. As noted by the CDC and WHO, expanded testing is a critical aspect of combating COVID-19 as it provides researchers with critical information about the virus so that it can be traced and better treated,” said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research at LSU Health Shreveport.

More information about the Emerging Viral Threat Lab at LSU Health Shreveport can be found at www.lsuhs.edu/research/evt-lab.

DOWNLOAD PRESS RELEASE

May 7, 2020 - LSU Health Shreveport is now one of five sites in the world and the first in Louisiana involved in a clinical trial that assesses inhaled nitric oxide as a treatment for patients with mild to moderate cases of COVID-19.

To date, there are no targeted therapeutic treatments for COVID-19 and there are no proven interventions to prevent progression of the disease. This clinical trial in particular will monitor patients with mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 to see how they respond to inhaled nitric oxide as a treatment. Preventing disease progression in spontaneously breathing patients with mild to moderate disease could help to reduce the number of severe cases and deaths, which in turn lessens demand on healthcare resources such a critical care physicians and nurses.

“We are excited to be approved for this early intervention treatment aimed at stopping the progression of the virus which gives patients an improved chance of recovering quickly by preventing the virus from worsening. This treatment will be especially important should we see an increase in the number of COVID-19 positive patients,” said Keith Scott, MD, MSc, FCCM, Professor and the clinical trial’s Principal Investigator at LSU Health Shreveport.

Massachusetts General Hospital reports that preliminary data suggests that inhaled nitric oxide could have a virus-killing effect on COVID-19, due to the genomic similarities between this virus and those that caused the SARS and MERS outbreaks. Studies during the SARS outbreak in 2004-05 demonstrated that nitric oxide was effective in killing that virus.

Patients in the clinical trial will be assigned to a treatment group or a control group. Patients in the treatment group will receive nitric oxide gas along with the standard of care for 30 minutes two times per day for 14 consecutive days. Patients in the control group will not receive the nitric oxide gas. Researchers will be monitoring patients to see if those receiving the nitric oxide gas had a reduced incidence of needing intubation and mechanical ventilation, which is common in patients with severe cases of COVID-19.

Nitric oxide has already been a miracle drug for newborns starved of oxygen by a heart defect due to the gas’s ability to relax blood vessels and the journal Science named nitric oxide the "molecule of the year" in 1992. UCLA pharmacologist Dr. Louis J. Ignarro shared a Nobel Prize in medicine in 1998 for uncovering nitric oxide's role as a "signaling molecule in the cardiovascular system.”

“I can’t tell you how excited I am to see that inhaled Nitric Oxide is being tested for its effectiveness in patients with COVID-19. Having spent twelve years as a Professor in Louisiana, I am very proud that LSU Health Shreveport is conducting yet another clinical trial involving nitric oxide. I applaud these novel efforts to address this viral pandemic,” said Dr. Louis Ignarro, Nobel Prize Winning Scientist, Discoverer of Nitric Oxide, UCLA Emeritus, Ph.D. in Pharmacology.

In humans, nitric oxide is naturally generated by blood vessels and by some brain cells as well. It helps to regulate blood pressure, engulfs invading toxins, and prevents platelets in the blood from forming clots that may be significantly compromised during times of stress including infection thus warranting the need for a supplemental supply. When inflammation, emphysema or a disease like cystic fibrosis attacks the lungs, the large blood vessels and tiny capillaries that deliver oxygen constrict. Inhaled nitric oxide also relaxes those vessels, increasing the transfer of oxygen to the blood and easing the heart's workload.

The Nitric Oxide Gas Inhalation Therapy for Mild/Moderate COVID-19 Infection clinical trial was conceived and sponsored by the Department of Anesthesia and the Respiratory Care Services at the Massachusetts General Hospital, which serves as the coordinating center for this international multicenter trial. In addition to LSU Health Shreveport, other collaborators are the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and academic medical centers in Austria and Sweden. For more information about this clinical trial, visit clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04305457.

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SHREVEPORT, La. (May 1, 2020) – The LSU Health Shreveport Foundation has received a $10,000 gift from the U.L. Coleman Companies to support the effort to provide COVID-19 testing to first responders in north Louisiana.  

As U.L. Coleman Companies leadership evaluated options to meet needs in the community related to COVID-19, it determined that support of testing would not only impact the health of our community, but its ability to return to work based on testing data. 

“I am so grateful we have an institution like LSU Health Shreveport which is able to address this pandemic in numerous ways. As a property owner dealing with thousands of tenants, supporting testing for our first responders is an honor because of the services and sacrifices they make each day, but particularly during this pandemic,” stated Linc Coleman, President & CEO of U.L. Coleman Properties.

Researchers at LSU Health Shreveport established their own indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a lab-based test that can determine the amount of COVID-19 antibodies in a patient sample. Antibodies will be detected against the receptor binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. 

The LSUHS test is different from those that may become commercially available because it allows for the measuring of antibody titers, which shows the amount of antibodies in a person’s blood, and if linked to neutralization assays, could possibly determine whether somebody is immune.

“I deeply appreciate the support of U.L. Coleman Companies, as well as all who have contributed to this testing.  Every dollar contributed is critical to our expansion of COVID-19 testing, which is an expensive endeavor when delivered at the accuracy level provided by our Emerging Viral Threat and Serology lab,” shared LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS(Ed).   

Photograph details – featured L to R
Cole Guthrie, SVP of Development, U.L. Coleman Companies 
Linc Coleman, President/CEO, U.L. Coleman Companies
David Lester, CFO, U.L. Coleman Companies
Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor LSU Health Shreveport
Dan Charchian, VP of Property Management/Operations, U.L. Coleman Companies

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSUHS is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs along with over 500 residents and fellows. The primary mission of the LSU Health Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu. 

ABOUT U.L. COLEMAN COMPANIES
U. L. Coleman Companies, founded by Linc Coleman in 1973 has grown to become a leading full service real estate company providing diverse product expertise for commercial and multifamily residential products. In providing these services, we utilize a fully integrated approach; one that respects the environment and social and economic needs of inhabitants. The growth of the companies has created employment opportunities for more than 150 associates in various departments and locations.

CONTACTS: 
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications
Cell: 318-458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, PR Coordinator
Cell: 770-595-3052 
Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

Jay Bowen
U. L. Coleman Companies
Cell: 318-470-3553
Email: jbowen@ulcoleman.com

SHREVEPORT, La. (April 24, 2020) – LSU Health Shreveport has received a $125,000 gift from Inferno Mfg. Corp. to support its efforts to bring COVID-19 testing to medically underserved areas of northwest Louisiana. The gift will be used in combination with a Caddo Parish Commission grant to deploy mobile testing units to virus hot spot areas, as well as rural areas within Caddo Parish. With Inferno’s gift, LSU Health Shreveport will also expand its mobile testing to six other parishes in north Louisiana.  

Inferno Mfg. Corp. is a Shreveport-based manufacturing company employing 27 people. Inferno produces sight glass gages for the oil and gas industry. Mr. Allen Organick, Inferno’s owner, read a recent story about the Caddo Commission’s emergency mobile testing grant. He called Commissioner Stephen Jackson to praise the action taken by the Commission and asked him how he could personally support these efforts. Mr. Organick was immediately connected with LSU Health Shreveport’s Chancellor, Dr. G. E. Ghali, and Vice Chancellor of Research, Dr. Chris Kevil, who explained the need for increased COVID-19 testing in Caddo Parish and beyond.

“The health sciences center is very appreciative of this generous gift from Mr. Organick and Inferno Manufacturing Corp.  It will be put to invaluable use in expanding the access to both viral and antibody testing, particularly in underserved areas of north Louisiana,” stated LSU Health Chancellor G. E. Ghali, MD, DDS, FACS, FRCS, (Ed.)

In the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, LSU Health Shreveport created the Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab to address the need for faster detection and processing of COVID-19 tests. The EVT Lab has the capability to process up to 1,500 tests per day with results available in 24 to 48 hours. It can also track mutations in the virus, which will inform vaccine and research efforts. To expand the EVT Lab’s reach and conduct mobile testing, LSU Health Shreveport has temporarily repurposed its Partners in Wellness van that usually performs mobile cancer screening through its Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. The PIW van will now transport testing materials and staff to designated areas in north Louisiana. Inferno’s gift will ensure that the mobile testing program will quickly reach areas most affected by COVID-19.

Mr. Organick commented, “People who serve essential roles in our community such as grocery and retail service, nursing homes, and other healthcare services deserve our respect and gratitude. When I read that the Parish had committed to expanding testing, I knew it was going to help a lot of people. But I wanted to make sure we could help even more. My hope is that other business owners will support the research and outreach activities of LSU Health Shreveport. Local businesses have the power to act with speed for the public good.”  

For more information on how to support LSU Health Shreveport’s COVID-19 response efforts, contact Jesse Gilmore with the LSU Health Sciences Foundation at 861-0855 or visit www.lsuhsfoundation.org/covid19/.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications
Cell: 318-458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, PR Coordinator
Cell: 770-595-3052
Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

The following Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs at LSU Health Shreveport recently received their continued accreditation notices from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME):

• Allergy & Immunology – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 9, 2020
• Pathology – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 14, 2020
• Cytopathology – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 14, 2020
• Radiology – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 23, 2020
• Neurology – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 30, 2020
• Sleep Medicine – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 30, 2020
• Pediatrics – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 27. 2020
• Medicine/Pediatrics – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 27. 2020
• Anesthesiology – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 27, 2020
• Pain Medicine – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 27, 2020
• Family Medicine (Monroe) – Continued Accreditation effective Jan. 29, 2020
• Obstetrics & Gynecology – Continued Accreditation effective Feb. 12, 2020
• Colon & Rectal Surgery – Continued Accreditation effective April 23, 2020

The ACGME reviews residency and fellowship programs, and their sponsoring institutions, annually to ensure a rigorous set of requirements are being met. The ACGME is responsible for ensuring the quality of more than 9,600 accredited residency and fellowship programs that are collectively responsible for the education of more than 120,000 residents and fellows. The Office of Graduate Medical Education oversees all training programs at LSU Health Shreveport, which currently offers 43 fully accredited residency and fellowship programs.

Caddo Parish, La. (April 24, 2020) - A mobile COVID-19 testing lab for medically underserved citizens began visiting sites across Caddo Parish this week, thanks in part to a partnership with LSU Health Shreveport and the Caddo Parish Commission.

LSU Health Shreveport continued a longtime alliance with David Raines Community Health Center to bring Fast Track COVID-19 Screenings to the Martin Luther King neighborhood. People wishing to be *screened should call (318) 227-3354 as soon as possible. Individuals will be prescreened by phone for COVID-19 related symptoms and registered for on-site drive thru testing if they meet testing criteria. There is no out of pocket costs for testing (insurance will be billed if applicable). Individuals wishing to be screened will need a physician order either from their personal physician or from a physician assigned at David Raines which requires registration and a signed consent and testing waiver. Test processing will be provided by the Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at LSU Health Shreveport. Results will be sent to each individuals’ physician who will then relay results. 

The screenings will take place Saturday, April 25, and Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot outside of the David Raines Community Health Center located at 1625 David Raines Road. Those being tested will stay in their vehicles to receive nasal swab testing conducted by LSU Health Shreveport staff. 

*This is a screening only and not a medical evaluation. People with chronic health conditions or moderate to severe symptoms should be evaluated by a provider as soon as possible.  

Realizing the need for more testing in rural and other underserved locations in Caddo, the Caddo Parish Commission voted to provide up to $175,000 to LSU Health Shreveport for the Clinic’s mobile unit. The allocation will assist with operations and testing. Expanded testing is north Louisiana will occur thanks to a $125,000 gift by Inferno Manufacturing Corporation led by Allen Organick, President. 

“This opportunity allows the LSU Health Shreveport a great way to improve access to COVID-19 testing in our communities. More testing is needed to give us a better idea of where we stand and how quickly we can reopen," stated LSUHS Chancellor G. E. Ghali, MD, DDS, FACS, FRCS(Ed).

“The Caddo Parish Commission is proud to support the efforts of LSU Health Shreveport and to provide more testing for COVID-19 in our communities. Through this partnership, we hope to see greater access to medical resources, and ultimately, data that will move us closer to a vaccine and treatment of this disease,” said Caddo Commission President Mario Chavez.

Saturday’s testing site will be the first of multiple mobile locations across the Parish and northwest Louisiana.

The testing schedule is as follows, with more dates to be added in the future:

• MLK (1625 David Raines Rd.): Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Mooretown (Oak Park Elementary - 4331 Henry St.): RESCHEDULED FOR LATER DATE DUE TO WEATHER
• North Caddo (12763 Lay Street, Gilliam, LA): Friday, May 1, 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
• Cedar Grove/Sunset Acres (Woodlawn High School - 7340 Wyngate Blvd.): Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• MLK (1625 David Raines Rd.) - Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

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ABOUT CADDO PARISH COMMISSION
The Caddo Parish Commission is the governing authority for the Parish of Caddo and is a political subdivision of the State of Louisiana. The Commission consists of twelve members called commissioners who are elected to four-year terms from single member districts.

ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of only 154 Health Sciences Centers in the nation. LSUHS is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

ABOUT THE EMERGING VIRAL THREAT (EVT) LAB AT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
The Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at LSU Health Shreveport opened on March 25 with support of Governor John Bel Edwards and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). The EVT Lab is different from any other laboratory in the state because it will not only be testing to determine if a patient is COVID-19 positive, but will also be screening samples for other mutations of the virus. The lab provides the same offerings as the CDC testing locations and is working collaboratively with the World Health Organization and CDC testing labs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the Univ. of Washington in Seattle and Yale University.

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SHREVEPORT, La. (April 17, 2020) – The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has produced many medical challenges, which LSU Health Shreveport has risen to meet. Among the most important goals for clinicians and scientists has been to determine whether a patient is infected with COVID-19. While the LSUHS COVID-19 Response Team very rapidly created the Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at the health sciences center, there have been national shortages for testing supplies, which have threatened the ability of such testing labs to perform tests. A crucial part of COVID-19 test kits are the nasal swabs, which have been in short supply as the demand for COVID-19 testing has increased around the United States and internationally. These swabs need to be prepared from specific materials and must have particular shapes to ensure accuracy of for specimen collection.

Fortunately, scientists at LSU Health Shreveport were able to utilize existing research and design facilities at the institution to 3D print resin polymer nasal swabs which can be used by the EVT Lab. As part of a national cooperative with the University of South Florida (USF) Health, Northwell Health, New York’s largest healthcare provider, and Formlabs, LSU Health Shreveport has obtained the printing files for a patented swab design, becoming the first in Louisiana to produce these patented 3D-printed swabs. Steven Alexander, PhD, Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, is leading the effort and started to produce these 3D-printed nasal swabs in large numbers using a technique called photopolymer laser printing. This light activated printing technique can produce medical devices which are chemically inert, sterile and compatible with accurate testing procedures. Dr. Alexander’s lab has started swab production with photoprinting occurring throughout the day and night. His lab has the capability to produce 324 of the swabs in one day and is planning to ramp up production significantly over the next couple of weeks. The printing of additional batches of swabs is already underway, and Dr. Alexander is working with LSU Health Shreveport’s EVT Lab to get the swabs into their COVID-19 test kits.

“This type of printing enables us to make even the most sophisticated testing tools available anywhere and the workflow is increasing so that hopefully soon we may not only meet our own needs, but perhaps other hospitals in the area,” said Dr. Alexander. “The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally challenged how we work, but 3D printing can really help overcome problems with the availability of medical supplies, shipping and delivery which help to ensure continuity of medical testing and care.”

“I want to commend Dr. Steven Alexander, an extremely bright and humble physiologist, for thinking outside the box and finding a solution to address the local and national rate-limiting factor for COVID-19 testing, which is lack of nasal swabs. This newest 3D printing development will revolutionize access to swabs, and our intent is to help increase testing capabilities, not only regionally, but throughout the United States,” stated LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS(Ed).

PHOTOS & VIDEO

Photos and video courtesy of Dr. Steven Alexander, LSU Health Shreveport

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

CONTACTS:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications
Cell: 318-458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, PR Coordinator
Cell: 770-595-3052
Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

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DATE: April 15, 2020 

Scientists at LSU Health Shreveport continue to have a significant impact on the fight against COVID-19 in Louisiana with their latest achievement being able to offer serology testing. Serology testing is in high demand to be able to better determine the number of COVID-19 cases that include those of people who have already recovered and were asymptomatic. LSUHS will be using serology testing to support the Convalescent Plasma Therapy clinical trial and help identify ideal plasma donors.

Researchers have established their own Indirect Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a lab-based test that can determine the amount of COVID-19 antibodies in a patient sample. Antibodies will be detected against the receptor binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. This domain of the major glycoprotein mediates attachment to the host cell, is most diverse among different coronavirus strains and induces virus-neutralizing antibodies. Florian Krammer, Professor of Microbiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, was instrumental in providing the necessary reagents to the lab at LSUHS and allowing researchers to get their own tests up and running quickly. These reagents are necessary to produce the protein used as antigen (receptor binding domain) for the ELISA.

The team is also aiming to validate the ELISA by a neutralization assay, which measures the neutralization of ‘pseudotyped’ VSV virions. These are viruses that mimic SARS-CoV-2 on the outside by expressing the SARS-CoV-2 Spike receptor protein in the viral envelope but harbor harmless (not disease causing) genetic information that allow easy measurement of infection in the lab.

The LSUHS test is different from those that may become commercially available because it allows for the measuring of antibody titers, which shows the amount of antibodies in a person’s blood, and if linked to neutralization assays, could possibly determine whether somebody is immune.

"The serology lab will aid the Convalescent Plasma Therapy that is ongoing at LSU Health Shreveport. By identifying the amount of antibody in donated plasma, we can select of the most effective plasma to be used in patients," said Matthew Woolard, PhD, O'Callaghan Family Endowed Professor in Microbiology and Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. "In the future, we hope to use this serology assay to better determine who has been infected and understand the scope of the COVID-19 pandemic in Northwest Louisiana."

The Emerging Viral Threat Lab at LSU Health Shreveport is already working with LifeShare Blood Center to identify blood plasma for suitability for Convalescent Plasma Therapy for COVID-19 patients. This investigative therapy uses convalescent plasma from individuals who have recovered from the virus, which could possibly contain COVID-19 antibodies and might be effective in treating those who are currently fighting the infection.  

Serology testing is one of several important components that can help better determine who would be an ideal plasma donor for the potentially life-saving convalescent plasma therapy. Convalescent plasma donors must meet several criteria: they must have tested positive for COVID-19 on the RT-PCR test, they must be symptom free for a minimum of 14 days, and then they must receive a negative RT-PCR test result. After re-testing negative for COVID-19, they can donate plasma for the therapy. The serology lab, which is part of the Emerging Viral Threat Lab, tests the plasma and determines effective antibody titers to see if the plasma has the potential to be effectively neutralizing and improve disease outcome.  

At this time, the serology testing is only available to be performed on possible Convalescent Plasma Therapy donor samples.

PHOTOS & B-ROLL

WATCH RESEARCH UPDATE

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

CONTACTS:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications
Cell: 318-458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, PR Coordinator
Cell: 770-595-3052
Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

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DATE: April 5, 2020

Critical care and emergency medicine faculty at the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine join the Department of Anesthesia at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the Division of Cardiology in the Department of Medicine at University of Alabama- Birmingham (UAB) as being among the first centers in the US to enroll patients in an international study testing using inhaled nitric oxide to improve outcomes for COVID-19 patients with severely damaged lungs; using gas to effectively “kill” corona virus in the lungs and improve delivery of oxygen to injured tissues. “Inhaled nitric oxide had previously been suggested to decrease original SARS-CoV infectivity over a decade ago but its effect on SARS-CoV2 remains unknown.  Moreover, research from LSU Health Shreveport has shown that nitric oxide is a strong protector against tissue hypoxia, which occurs during severe Covid-1 infection”, said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research at LSU Health Shreveport.

“This is a wonderful collaboration with two highly regarded institutions in the US as well as the sites in Europe.  We have tremendous confidence this therapy will alter the devastating effects of CoVID-19 but we must test it. If results show promise, and since this gas is already FDA approved, wide spread use could begin immediately,” shared Keith Scott MD, MSc, FCCM, Principal Investigator for the nitric oxide clinical trial.  “I am fortunate to have my esteemed colleague Steven Conrad MD, PhD, MS, ME, MBA, MSST, MSC working alongside me on this trial as he brings immense research experience and knowledge in working with critically ill patients.”   

Nitric oxide has already been a miracle drug for newborns starved of oxygen by a heart defect due to the gas’s ability to relax blood vessels, which ultimately led to the resolution of erectile dysfunction as targeted by the drug Viagra. In 1992, the journal Science named nitric oxide "molecule of the year." In addition, in 1998, UCLA pharmacologist Louis J. Ignarro shared a Nobel Prize in medicine for uncovering nitric oxide's role as a "signaling molecule in the cardiovascular system.”

Unlike nitrous oxide (known as laughing gas), nitric oxide has an even brighter future as the colorless, odorless gas, inhaled through a mask or potentially through a small "flute," is now being tested as an experimental treatment for COVID-19. It may also prove helpful in protecting healthcare workers on the front line of the pandemic from getting sick.

In Italy during the COVID-19 outbreak the gas was used under less controlled study conditions; however the treatment appeared to dramatically boost oxygen levels in the blood of COVID-19 patients, said Dr. Lorenzo Berra, the critical-care specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital who is leading the new trial. However, it will take more rigorous testing to clarify how much nitric oxide helps, he said.

A proposed second trial, still under review by a research panel at Massachusetts General Hospital, would enroll healthcare workers who are routinely exposed to patients with COVID-19 and are themselves at high risk of infection. For 10 to 15 minutes at the start and end of every shift, doctors and nurses would tug on a handheld device and inhale a high dose of nitric oxide.

In humans, nitric oxide is naturally generated by blood vessels and by some brain cells as well. It helps to regulate blood pressure, engulfs invading toxins, and prevents platelets in the blood from forming clots that may be significantly compromised during times of stress including infection thus warranting the need for a supplemental supply.

When inflammation, emphysema or a disease like cystic fibrosis attacks the lungs, the large blood vessels and tiny capillaries that deliver oxygen constrict. Inhaled nitric oxide also relaxes those vessels, increasing the transfer of oxygen to the blood and easing the heart's workload.

Physicians who are interested in a patient accessing this clinical trial should send an email to ino_trial@lsuhsc.edu with pertinent patient details. 

Additional COVID-19 clinical trials will be announced soon.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

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DATE: April 4, 2020

Health care professionals with LSU Health Shreveport, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport and LifeShare Blood Center provide first COVID-19 convalescent plasma therapy in Louisiana

At approximately 2:30 p.m., the first convalescent plasma therapy in Louisiana was provided to a critically ill COVID-19 patient at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center. The transfused plasma was donated hours earlier by two people at LifeShare Blood Center in Shreveport. Both individuals who donated plasma at LifeShare are fully recovered from COVID-19.

“LifeShare is among the first centers in the country to partner with regional hospitals to provide this type of therapy for COVID-19 patients”, says LifeShare Medical Director Dr. Tim Peterson.

“The FDA just released new guidelines allowing us to investigationally use convalescent plasma for patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 infections. The only source of this convalescent plasma is donations from people that have recovered for at least two weeks from COVID-19 and have produced antibodies. As cases are expected to peak in the coming week, LifeShare needs additional convalescent donors who are fully recovered from COVID-19. This is an important step in bridging a gap until a suitable vaccine is developed,” stated Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

This investigative therapy uses convalescent plasma from individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. It is possible convalescent plasma contains antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and might be effective against the infection. Use of convalescent plasma has been studied in outbreaks of other respiratory infections, including the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus pandemic, 2004 SRS-CoV-1 epidemic, and the 2012 MERS-CoV epidemic.

“With the new LSU Health Shreveport Emerging Viral Threat Lab and its upcoming serology testing platform, we are uniquely able to identify potential convalescent plasma donors in collaboration with LifeShare to produce this potentially life saving therapy,” said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research of LSU Health Shreveport.

Although promising, convalescent plasma has yet to be definitively shown to be effective in COVID-19. In addition to the establishment of clinical trials for convalescent plasma therapy, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is working with multiple federal partners and academia to open an expanded access protocol to facilitate access to COVID-19 convalescent plasma. For those not eligible to participate in a randomized clinical trial, access is being made available through participation of acute care facilities in an investigational expanded access protocol.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

ABOUT LIFESHARE BLOOD CENTER

LifeShare Blood Center regularly supplies blood components to approximately 100 medical facilities throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. Founded in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1942, it is a nonprofit community service provider governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. With collection sites in nine cities, LifeShare operates daily blood mobiles to collect lifesaving blood products for use in our communities. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers (ABC) and the American Rare Donor Program (ARDP), is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and accredited by AABB.

CONTACTS:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs & Communication – LSU Health Shreveport Office: 318-675-8769, Cell: 318-458-0166, lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, Public Relations Coordinator – LSU Health Shreveport Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 770-595-3052, mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

Benjamin Prijatel, Senior Director of Blood Operations – LifeShare Cell: 865-405-1938, benjamin.prijatel@lifeshare.org

PRESS RELEASE

You can find photos and b-roll of the EVT Lab as it was being set up this week and an audio and video recording of today’s press briefing here.

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT ESTABLISHES COVID-19 TESTING LABORATORY

Shreveport, LA (March 25, 2020) – With the support of Governor John Bel Edwards and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), scientists at LSU Health Shreveport have established the Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Laboratory to address the need for faster detection and processing of COVID-19 tests. The EVT Lab at LSUHS is the first in North Louisiana approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) to conduct and analyze tests to determine if an individual has COVID-19. The EVT Lab is currently in operation and fully staffed as of today, March 25.

The EVT Lab is different from any other laboratory in the state because it will not only be testing to determine if a patient is COVID-19 positive, but it will also be screening samples for other mutations of the virus. LSU Health Shreveport is also the only academic center in Louisiana with this capability. The lab provides the same offerings as CDC testing locations and is working collaboratively with the World Health Organization and CDC-sanctioned testing labs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the University of Washington in Seattle, and Yale University.

LSU Health Shreveport faculty and staff will be processing the tests and will be adhering to all personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines. Data obtained from testing samples will be used for further COVID-19 research to better determine how to combat the virus.

“LSU Health Shreveport is proud to have nationally and internationally renowned NIH funded virologists on our faculty. Creation of the Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) laboratory brings together numerous regional experts to provide urgently needed COVID-19 testing solutions while allowing our community and state to be prepared for future viral threats when they occur,” said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research.

“I am grateful to all those involved in securing and granting the approvals required to stand up this needed lab so quickly. Our research leadership, faculty and staff have worked tirelessly to reach the milestone of processing COVID-19 tests starting today. Their efforts will play a key role in addressing the impact of this virus on the citizens of Louisiana,” stated G. E. Ghali, MD, DDS, FACS, FRCS (Ed), LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor.

Details on submitting COVID-19 tests to the LSUHS EVT Lab will be forthcoming and will reflect CDC protocol.

Additional updates on the EVT Lab will be shared as they become available.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

CONTACTS:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications
Cell: 318-458-0166 Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, PR Coordinator
Cell: 770-595-3052 Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: March 20, 2020

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communication and Development
Cell: 318-458-0166 | Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Megan Strecker, Public Relations Coordinator
Cell: 770-595-3052 | Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

MATCH DAY 2020: LSU Health Shreveport Medical Students Learn Residency Training Placements

The National Resident Matching Program® released 2020 Main Residency Match® results via email to students 

SHREVEPORT, La. (March 20, 2020) – Today, all 124 LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine fourth-year students learned where they will be going for their residency training. On Monday, students received a notification from the National Resident Matching Program® (NRMP®), confirming if they matched with a residency program. Due to the COVID-19 disruptions of regularly scheduled Match Day events, the NRMP released the highly anticipated news to the students via email at 11 a.m. CST. LSU Health Shreveport will be virtually celebrating the students and their accomplishments via social media channels. The NRMP reported that the 2020 Main Residency Match is the largest on record.

Many students will be staying in the state of the Louisiana for their residencies. Twenty-seven percent of students will be pursuing residencies in Shreveport, an increase of five percent from 2019, and 46 percent of students will be staying in the state of Louisiana. Of the students pursuing a residency in Louisiana, 89.5 percent are entering a LSU Health residency program. Students matched to prestigious residencies around the country such as Columbia, University of Virginia, Mt. Sinai, Wake Forest, University of California - Davis, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Baylor Medical College, among others.

Match Day is also a strongly anticipated day for Graduate Medical Education at the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, which learned it successfully filled all 134 residency positions available across 43 programs. The new group of LSUHS residents will be welcomed to Shreveport in July, where they will train at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport hospitals in Shreveport and Monroe and other partner hospitals.

"Today is an extraordinary day for our institution, the state of Louisiana and most importantly for our students. It is my honor to share this year’s positive results. These results are a direct reflection on the caliber and commitment of our faculty who work tirelessly in delivering the best possible education and training to our students and residents.  I wish the very best to our students staying in Shreveport, as well as to those who matched in programs around the country.  I am confident each one of them will represent LSU Health Shreveport well and strengthen our legacy of successful medical education,” said LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor Dr. G.E. Ghali.

The announcement of Match Day results takes places same time on the third Friday in March at medical schools around the country. Throughout their final year of medical school, students apply and travel to residency programs around the country to complete interviews. Students then rank their preferred residency programs through National Resident Matching Program® (NRMP®), or the Match®. A computer algorithm then simultaneously takes the list of programs ranked by the student and the list of students ranked by the residency programs to fill available program positions.

LSUHS will share the Match Day celebrations of our students virtually with photos and videos that can be found on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LSUHealthShreveport. Photos and video will be posted throughout the day on Friday, March 20.

2020 Main Residency Match Press Release from the NRMP®: Thousands of Medical Students and Graduates Celebrate NRMP Match Results

American Society for Radiation Oncology Press Release: Drug used for breast, kidney cancers may also extend survival for patients with advanced head and neck cancer

SCOTTSDALE, Az., February 27, 2020

A targeted therapy drug used for breast and kidney cancers may also extend progression-free survival for patients with advanced head and neck cancer who are at high risk for recurrence after standard treatment. Patients enrolled in a randomized phase II trial who received the mTOR inhibitor everolimus were more likely to be cancer-free a year after therapy than those who took a placebo drug, and the benefit persisted for those with mutations in their TP53 gene. The findings may present a new treatment option for a group of patients whose survival rates have not improved in more than 30 years.

The study will be presented at the 2020 Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancers Symposium, taking place February 27-29 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

"While cure rates tend to be upwards of 85% for patients with head and neck cancers associated with HPV, they tend to be less than 40% for patients with disease related to smoking," said lead author Cherie-Ann O. Nathan, MD, professor and chair of otolaryngology/head and neck surgery at Louisiana State University (LSU) Health Shreveport and director of head and neck surgery at Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. "These patients are recurring most often, and their survival rates have not changed in decades, despite advances in surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy."

To address this disparity, the researchers focused on patients with advanced, HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), or HPV-positive disease and smoking history of more than 10 pack-years, and enrolled 52 patients to receive up to one year of either everolimus or a placebo drug. Eligible patients had to be free of disease after either definitive treatment with chemoradiation therapy or surgery followed by chemoradiation. Researchers then tracked how long they remained cancer-free with additional therapy.

After a year, 81% of patients on everolimus remained progression-free, compared to 57% of those in the placebo group (p=0.039). Dr. Nathan clarified that this timepoint was not stipulated a priori and is a post-hoc analysis. Two-year progression-free survival, which was the primary endpoint, continued to favor everolimus but was no longer significant. Subset analysis determined that for patients with TP53 mutations, the survival difference remained significant for an additional year after they stopped immunotherapy (two-year PFS of 70% vs 22.5%, p=0.036). The difference was not significant at two years for patients without the mutation.

While TP53 mutations occur in almost 80% of HPV-negative, smoking related cases of HNSCC, the potential link between TP53, the mTOR pathway and survival was a surprise to the researchers. "There's really no drug that targets TP53, and so we've never had a targeted therapy for it or considered it an actionable mutation," she said.

Sixteen of the 28 patients on everolimus and seven of the 24 patients on the placebo drug experienced Grade 3 or higher toxicities, including three and five serious adverse events, respectively. Dr. Nathan said the drug's tolerability indicates that it may have potential as longer-term maintenance therapy to delay recurrence for high-risk patients.

"Although the sample size is small, as it closed due to lack of accrual, these finding indicate that patients at high risk for tumor relapse could be given mTOR inhibitors to stall progression and keep any residual cancer cells from growing. Our hope is that head and neck cancer can be treated as chronic disease, similar to some breast cancers," she explained. "Everolimus is used for patients with breast cancer or renal cell cancer for extended periods without major side effects, and there is potential for patients with TP53-mutated head and neck disease to see a survival benefit, as well."

Additional trials are needed to confirm the link between TP53 and survival, as well as to determine the safety of keeping patients with HNSCC on the drug for multiple years.

Dr. Nathan, who is also the current President of the American Head and Neck Society, will present "Multi-Institutional Randomized Double-Blind Phase II Trial of Everolimus vs. Placebo as Adjuvant Therapy in Patients with Locally Advanced Squamous Cell Cancer of the Head and Neck" (Abstract 5) today during the symposium's Plenary Session. The investigator-initiated trial was sponsored by the University of Chicago and funded by Novartis. Email press@astro.org for a copy of the abstract or presentation slides from the meeting.

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Attribution to the 2020 Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancers Symposium requested in all coverage. This release includes updated information not available in the abstract.

2020 Head and Neck Cancers Symposium News Planning Team
Robert L. Ferris, MD, PhD; Maie St. John, MD, PhD; Francis P. Worden, MD; Charu Aggarwal, MD, MPH; Sue Yom, MD, PhD; Brian O'Sullivan, MD, FASTRO; disclosures available online.

ABOUT THE SYMPOSIUM
The 2020 Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancers Symposium is a two-and-a-half-day meeting that convenes radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, surgeons and all members of the treatment team for a practical and comprehensive examination of treatment advances for patients with head and neck cancers. Scientific, interactive and case-based educational sessions will cover the latest research on multidisciplinary therapies, clinical applications and new treatment strategies, supportive care and toxicity mitigation. The meeting is cosponsored by the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the American Head and Neck Society (AHNS) and the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC).

ABOUT ASTRO
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is the world's largest radiation oncology society, with more than 10,000 members who are physicians, nurses, biologists, physicists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists and other health care professionals who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. The Society is dedicated to improving patient care through professional education and training, support for clinical practice and health policy standards, advancement of science and research, and advocacy. ASTRO publishes three medical journals, International Journal of Radiation Oncology • Biology • Physics, Practical Radiation Oncology and Advances in Radiation Oncology; developed and maintains an extensive patient website, RT Answers; and created the nonprofit foundation Radiation Oncology Institute. To learn more about ASTRO, visit our website and follow us on our blog, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

ABOUT ASCO
Founded in 1964, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is committed to making a world of difference in cancer care. As the world's leading organization of its kind, ASCO represents more than 40,000 oncology professionals who care for people living with cancer. Through research, education, and promotion of the highest-quality patient care, ASCO works to conquer cancer and create a world where cancer is prevented or cured, and every survivor is healthy. ASCO is supported by its affiliate organization, the Conquer Cancer Foundation. Learn more at www.ASCO.org, explore patient education resources at www.Cancer.Net, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

ABOUT AHNS
The American Head & Neck Society (AHNS) is the single largest organization in North America for the advancement of research and education in head and neck oncology. The mission of the American Head and Neck Society is: to promote and advance the knowledge of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of neoplasms and other diseases of the head and neck; to promote and advance research in diseases of the head and neck, and; to promote and advance the highest professional and ethical standards. For more information, visit www.ahns.info.

ABOUT SITC
Established in 1984, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is a nonprofit organization of medical professionals dedicated to improving cancer patient outcomes by advancing the development, science and application of cancer immunotherapy and tumor immunology. SITC is comprised of influential basic and translational scientists, practitioners, health care professionals, government leaders and industry professionals around the globe. Through educational initiatives that foster scientific exchange and collaboration among leaders in the field, SITC aims to one day make the word “cure” a reality for cancer patients everywhere. Learn more about SITC, our educational offerings and other resources at sitcancer.org and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

Kevil brings global scientific expertise to advance JanOne’s drug development portfolio and advise on upcoming Phase 2b clinical trials for PAD               

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — JanOne Inc. (NASDAQ:JAN) appoints Christopher Kevil, Ph.D., a pioneer in nitrite based PAD treatment, to lead its scientific advisory board. In this role, Dr. Kevil will chair the Company’s scientific advisory board to advise on drug development and technology strategy, assist with clinical research, and help to advance its lead candidate TV1001SR, for the treatment of PAD. Dr. Kevil is considered a foremost expert in the development and analysis of various small molecules, biologics, disease indications, pharmaceutical, medical device, and drug delivery systems.

Most notable, is Dr. Kevil’s research that led to the development and formulation of TV1001SR, a nitrite based treatment for PAD which has shown positive results in phase 2a trials. Internationally recognized for his research on inflammatory vascular pathology, specifically on and the relationship between inflammation and vascular growth and function, he discovered detailed mechanistic relationships between angiogenesis and inflammation.

“We are thrilled to have Chris lead our Scientific Advisory board, and look forward to his contributions,” said Tony Isaac, CEO of JanOne. “Dr. Kevil’s passion, accomplishments and expertise in vascular inflammation, treatment for PAD, and translational and clinical research provides an unparalleled level of leadership that is necessary as we advance TV1001SR into phase 2b trials.”

Dr. Kevil earned his Ph.D. degree from LSU Health Shreveport in Molecular and Cellular Physiology followed by a fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) with an emphasis on redox pathophysiology. Returning to LSU Health Shreveport in the Department of Pathology, he established cutting edge research programs regarding redox biology regulation of peripheral vascular diseases. This led to groundbreaking insights on how glutathione, nitrite/nitric oxide, and hydrogen sulfide regulate vascular health during ischemia.

“The team at JanOne is committed to bringing potential treatments for PAD and associated pain into the clinic and I look forward to contributing my expertise to advance its clinical candidates,” said Dr. Kevil. “Their mission to treat diseases that cause severe pain and to reduce the need for pain-relieving prescription opioids is an important patient benefit and also critical outcome of my research on TV1001SR.”

Dr. Kevil is an Associate Editor for the American Journal of Pathology and Editor in Chief of the Redox Biology journal, as well as a member of numerous editorial boards including Cardiovascular Research, American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulation Physiology, Free Radical Biology and Medicine, and Frontiers in Oxidant Physiology. He has received numerous research grant awards and honors and has led research initiatives for the National Institutes of Health, the American Diabetes Association, and the American Heart Association, and other professional societies.

About JanOne
JanOne is a unique NASDAQ-listed company offering innovative, actionable solutions that it believes can help create an end to the opioid crisis. JanOne is dedicated to funding resources toward innovation, technology, and education to find a key resolution to the national opioid epidemic, which is one of the deadliest and widespread in the country’s history. The company continues to operate its legacy businesses – ARCA Recycling and GeoTraq – under their current brand names. JanOne’s subsidiary ARCA Recycling recycles household appliances by providing turnkey recycling and replacement services for utilities and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs. JanOne’s subsidiary GeoTraq engages in the development, design and, ultimately, expected sale of Mobile IoT modules. Please visit www.janone.com for additional information.

Media Contact:
Mark Rosenberg
mark@trueparallel.com
919-412-7378

SHREVEPORT, La. – LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) has received a $10,000 gift from the Committee of 100 Shreveport-Bossier as a public statement of support for the construction of the new Center for Medical Education. This new building is a transformational project on the LSU Health Shreveport campus that will further enhance the health sciences center’s ability to address the growing healthcare shortages in our state and country.   

“The Committee of 100 is committed to supporting LSU Health Shreveport’s continued growth and success. We recognize that this institution is a driving force in our local economy. It is the foundation on which our healthcare industry is built,” said Mark Evans, Secretary and Treasurer of the Committee of 100 Board. “The Center for Medical Education is a welcomed $60 million project for our region. The Committee of 100 is proud to invest in opportunities like this that will have a positive economic impact on our community for many years to come.”   

“The Committee of 100 has been an important partner of LSU Health Shreveport since our founding over 50 years ago,” said Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport. “I would like to personally thank the Committee members for this gift, as well as for their strong vocal support of this project and recognition of the Center for Medical Education’s importance for our institution and community.”

About the Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport: The Center for Medical Education will be 5-story, 187,000 square foot building. Included in its design will be a 500-person auditorium, lecture halls and teaching space, simulation centers, as well as a wellness center. A $60 million public-private partnership with the State of Louisiana, this new building will allow LSU Health Shreveport to accommodate growing class sizes of the medical school and select allied health professions programs, enhance education curriculum, faculty recruitment and wellness offerings, and support the develop new training programs. Construction is slated to begin in late 2020.

About the Committee of One Hundred, Inc.: The Committee of One Hundred, Inc., was founded on August 31, 1961. Its purpose is to study, confer, and act upon any matter, civic or economic in character, which may be deemed to affect the welfare of the Cities of Shreveport and Bossier, the Parishes of Caddo and Bossier, and the surrounding areas of Northwest Louisiana. The Committee supports any educational, charitable or civic enterprise deemed to promote the welfare of those entities. These activities must be absolutely nonpolitical in character and constitute a nonprofit corporation.    

Pictured L to R: Dr. G.E. Ghali, LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor; Mark Evans, Committee of 100 Secretary/ Treasurer and Market President – Regions Bank; Steve Roop, Market President – JPMorgan Chase; Kevin Flood, LSU Health Shreveport Foundation President & CEO

Media Inquiries:
Megan Strecker, Public Relations Coordinator
LSU Health Shreveport
Phone: 318-675-8789 (office), 770-595-3052 (cell)
Email: mstrec@lsuhsc.edu

Information on the Center for Medical Education giving opportunities: 
Kevin Flood, LSU Health Shreveport Foundation
Phone: 318-861-0855
Email: kflood@lsuhsfoundation.org

Lisa Babin, LSU Health Shreveport
Phone: 318-675-8769
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Three Fellows in the Department of Pathology and the Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences at LSU Health Shreveport have been awarded Postdoctoral Fellowships from the American Heart Association (AHA), funding their ongoing research into cardiovascular diseases.

Chowdhury Abdullah, Ph.D., in Dr. Md. Shenuarin Bhuiyan’s laboratory, received an AHA Postdoctoral Fellowship award to fund his project, “Sigma-1 receptor protects diabetic cardiomyopathy by activating adaptive endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway.” Diabetic patients suffer more heart failure-related deaths than patients without diabetes. Diabetes causes a defect in heart muscle structure and function known as ‘Diabetic Cardiomyopathy,’ which is an underlying cause of increased heart failure in diabetic patients. Currently, available therapies do not offer sufficient protection to diabetic patients’ hearts, which is why more research is required to understand the fundamental mechanisms of diabetic cardiomyopathy development to lay the ground for effective drug discovery. In the present grant, Dr. Abdullah aims to discover the novel cardioprotective roles of Sigma-1 receptor (Sigmar1) protein to protect the heart under diabetes to pave future drug development targeting Sigmar1.

Mabruka Alfaidi, Ph.D., in Dr. Wayne Orr’s laboratory, received an AHA Postdoctoral Fellowship award to fund her project, “Nck1 Regulates Atherogenic Endothelial Activation.” Despite our revolution in terms of technology and improvement in day-to-day clinical care, heart disease and heart attacks are the number one killer of people in the United States. Lifestyle modifications and some other secondary prevention prescribed drugs are the only way to intervene, but a curative therapy has not yet been discovered. Dr. Alfaidi’s research is investigating the molecular mechanism of heart attacks, particularly focusing on the endothelium (a single monolayer of cells coating the blood vessels), which is thought to be involved in the healing process of a heart attack. Her research, funded by American Heart Association, is studying a protein named Nck1 that plays a critical role in endothelial cell function. Dr. Alfaidi and others in Dr. Orr’s lab have developed a therapeutic approach to target this protein in cell culture and animal models. By understanding how the Nck1 protein causes build-up and vessel thickening, there is potential for new drug development to target this protein and help prevent heart attacks.

Matthew Scott, Ph.D., also in Dr. A. Wayne Orr’s laboratory, received an AHA Postdoctoral Fellowship to fund his project, “EphA2 signaling mechanisms in smooth muscle performance proliferation and migration in atherosclerosis.” Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the world, with more than 85 million Americans currently affected by this disease. Plaque build-up in blood vessels (atherosclerosis) accounts for 80 percent of all CVD-related deaths, which is why understanding this disease is so important. Dr. Scott’s project proposes a new and exciting idea: that the EphA2 protein plays an important role in atherosclerosis, and may become a potential target for cardiovascular disease medicine in the future. Despite widely available treatments to combat plaque build-up, like statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) and vessel stents, not all individuals respond favorably to these treatments, proving the need for alternatives to be available. By understanding how EphA2 causes plaque build-up and vessel thickening, there is the potential for new drug development to target this protein. This would benefit patients who cannot take statins, and potentially lower risk factors involved with stent placement.

“The American Heart Association is proud to be able to award grants to deserving recipients. More than 80% of the funds raised through our local events are returned back to our community to further research and studies. The research these doctors are performing holds the potential for global impact. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with all those at LSU Health Shreveport who are dedicated to impacting cardiovascular disease,” said Jill Lucero, Regional Director for Northwest Louisiana, American Heart Association.