Michigan Video Abstracts highlights faculty behind cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research

Michigan Video Abstracts — or MVA — is a new online forum that showcases the work of senior and emeritus U-M biomedical sciences faculty who, in video podcasts, reflect on their substantial contributions to medical knowledge and discoveries made during the course of their careers.

Through short videos on a variety of topics, MVA aims to inspire scientists, researchers, and the public by introducing the experts behind the innovations.

“The information isn’t bound by time. The scientists’ wisdom is everlasting and relevant for today’s up-and-coming researchers, as well as the general public,” said Chris Chapman, manager of the Education Design Team and MVA project director. His team is part of the education and training division within Health Information Technology & Services (HITS).

Chapman credits Edward Domino, M.D., professor emeritus of pharmacology, with the idea of documenting emeritus faculty stories and archiving them at the Bentley Historical Library. This idea later became the “Contributions to Knowledge” section of the MVA.

“Let us not forget the senior and emeritus faculty. Let us harness the power of those who have blazed trails before us with the hope of inspiring current and future biomedical scientists,” said Domino. “I’m pleased that Chris was able to take the concept a step further and create this forum. I look forward to future releases.”

“Ultimately, we want anyone and everyone to learn something that helps them better their lives,” said Chapman. He gave particular acclaim to Marc Stephens, MAED, an instructional designer, whose videography and editing skills were instrumental to this project. “His expertise helped us create these very special, high-quality videos.”

Collections

This first collection gives viewers a chance to “meet” the emeritus and senior faculty members and view their innovations in a more personal, conversational way.

MVA features the work of Robert Bartlett, M.D.; Melvin McInnis, M.D.; and Michael Sabel, M.D. In each video, the faculty member shared insights, experience, and wisdom with current and future generations.

In “It’s All About the Patient,” revered cardiothoracic surgeon and professor emeritus Robert Bartlett, M.D., is interviewed by medical student Rana Kaber about his distinguished career as a surgeon and innovator. Bartlett is known for his warmth, tireless work ethic, innovative mind and for his significant contributions to the field of intensive care.

In the video, Bartlett discussed the development of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO, a groundbreaking technique used to save children and adults around the world who are experiencing cardiac and respiratory failure. He also shared some of the peaks of his career, his approach to overcoming the hurdles he faced as an innovator, and what motivates him to develop new approaches to patient care.

In “The Study of Bipolar Disorder Is the Study of Humanity,” Melvin McInnis, M.D., discussed his life’s work: pursuing the understanding of what makes patients well, what causes problems and, most importantly, how to help people live healthy, productive lives. He explored ways to engage the collaborative energy of the university. Specifically, he focused on gathering together experts from a variety of fields to focus on the illness and understand how and what can be done to help patients moving forward.

In “Cancer Ally: Improving Patient Care with Mobile Apps,” Michael Sabel, M.D., discussed his work of helping patients navigate the complexities of multidisciplinary cancer care. While mobile applications are plentiful, there are not many high-quality, credible technologies available for use in patient care.

Sabel led a team of U-M experts in developing a suite of mobile applications called “Cancer Ally.” The apps allow patients to track and record their medical condition. This information is then used by physicians to help manage the care they provide for their patients. The apps also suggest exercises and other forms of self-care based on the patient’s treatment protocol and condition.

Tell your story

Would you like to feature your biomedical research in MVA? You are invited to share your work and expertise with the public and other scientists through a four- to seven-minute video podcast that will be featured in the forum. MVA staff will record and edit each production.

Contact hits-et-eddesign@med.umich.edu to share your story.

For more information, visit the MVA website or email sdascola@med.umich.edu.

Bartlett is professor emeritus, in the Section of General Surgery, Division of Acute Care Surgery, where he continues to be active in the lab and clinical research.

McInnis is the principal investigator and scientific director—Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Fund; the Thomas B. and Nancy Upjohn Woodworth Professor of Bipolar Disorder and Depression; professor of Psychiatry; and associate director—University of Michigan Depression Center.

Sabel is the William W. Coon Collegiate Professor of Surgical Oncology; chief—Division of Surgical Oncology; and associate professor of surgery.

Website: http://www.med.umich.edu/mva/about.html