58th Annual TBAALAS Conference
22
58 th Annual TBAALAS Conference February 18-21, 2020 Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos, TX www.tbaalas.net
Transcript of 58th Annual TBAALAS Conference
58th Annual TBAALAS Conference
February 18-21, 2020
Embassy Suites by Hilton
San Marcos, TX
www.tbaalas.net
1 | P a g e
Texas Branch AALAS Board & Committee Members
President Adrienne Duran, B.A.S, LVT, RLATG, CMAR
Past President Karen Guerra, MBA, CMAR, RLATG
President Elect Julie Roller, BS, MS, RLATG, CMAR
Secretary Sheri Brodie, BS, CMAR, RLATG
Treasurer Leticia McGuffey, RALAT, HTG
Historian Pat Sikes, MS
Board Member Jennifer Volkmann, MLAS, CMAR, RLATG
Board Member Mike Dvorak, BA
Board Member Keely McGrew, BS, CVT, RLATG, CMAR
Board Member VelvetLee Finckbone, MS, RLAT
District 7 Trustee Lindsay Holmes, BS, RLAT
Alt District 7 Trustee Christopher Southern, CMAR, RLATG
Commerical Liaison Paulina Michaud, Tecniplast
Parliamentarian Lane Watkins, CMAR, RLATG
Membership Chair Keisha Roberts, LATG
Membership Co-chair Tocarra Reynolds, RALAT
Nominations/Elections Kelly Gale, BS, RLATG & Jackie Bludworth
Publications Chair Matthew Schmit, BS, RLATG
Technician Branch Rep Brittany Fransaw, B.S., RLATG & Jamieson L. Greaver, BS, RLATG
Long Range Planning Karen Guerra, MBA, CMAR, RLATG
Education & Training Chair Arturo Barrera
Education & T. Co-chair Ryan Byrd, RLATG
ALL Coordinator Eli Rodriguez, BA, RLATG
Webmaster Chair Cordelia Rasa, MS, CMAR, RLATG, SRS
Webmaster Co-chair John Donaho, BS, CMAR
Metro Coordinator Michelle Smith, BS, LVT, RLAT Houston / Galveston
Metro Coordinator Joel Ortiz Houston / Galveston
Metro Coordinator Kim Hildreth San Antonio
Metro Coordinator Kathryn Cavanaugh & Christine Safieddine Dallas / Fort Worth
Metro Coordinator Oscar Sanchez, BS, CMAR, RLATG West Texas
Metro Coordinator Michael Chandler Panhandle
2020 Meeting Planner Paula Rigling, CMP
2020 Program Chair Becky Blackwood, DVM, DACLAM
2020 Program Co-chair Mona Jaffari, RLAT, MBA
2020 Program Co-chair Eli Rodriguez, BA, RLATG
2020 Local Arrangements Chris Rogers, BA
2020 Awards Chair Michelle Yacovone, BS, RLATG
2020 Awards Co-chair Katy Torres
2020 Sponsorships Monica Torres, MA, RLATG, SRT, CMAR & Michelle Sager, RLATG
2020 Silent Auction Jennifer Volkmann, MLAS, CMAR & Keely McGrew BS, CVT, CMAR
2020 Tech Olympics Brittany Fransaw, B.S., RLATG
2020 Meeting Logo Angelica Gomez
2 | P a g e
Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
In 2016, the Texas Branch AALAS Board approved naming our vendor hall, ‘Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall.’
Who was Helen Jordan? She was a beloved member of TBAALAS for many years. She worked for TIMCO (Texas
Inbred Mouse Company) which was purchased by Harlan in 1980. She worked for 31 years and on March 28, 1998, she
‘took her place in Heaven to be with her beloved Lord.’
In 2001, Dr. Chuck Montgomery offered to sponsor a new TBAALAS Award, Helen Jordan Vendor Award. This award
recognizes vendors for outstanding service and dedication to TBAALAS by ‘advancing the goals and purposes of
continuing education, training and knowledge exchange.’ Helen was always the ‘go to’ person in the vendor hall of
any TBAALAS meeting. Even when she was not officially in charge, everyone went to her for help and advice. She was
always happy to see everyone and made everyone feel welcome! She was a tireless advocate for AALAS and
technician certification. Texas Branch AALAS has continued sponsorship of this award following Dr. Montgomery’s
death in 2017.
Since 2001, 8 individuals have been honored with this award. We would like for more people to know about Helen
and this award. You can read more about Helen, her life and activities, in the Summer 2019 newsletter and on our
website.
Award Winners:
2001 Christina Leland Pharmacal Research Labs, Inc.
2002 Tom Darby Lab Products, Inc.
2004 Dale Bush LGL Animal Care Products, Inc.
2006 Brian Gillman Pharmacal Research Labs, Inc.
2007 Valeri Lansford Edstrom Industries
2008 Pat Sikes Charles River Labs
2014 John Park Animal Care Systems
2018 John Zapata Ancare Corp.
Helen Marie Thompson Jordan
In 1967, Helen went to work at the Texas Inbred Mouse Company
(TIMCO) in Houston, which later became Harlan Sprague Dawley.
Starting in the production area, Helen worked her way up through the
ranks to the position of office manager. After 31 years of dutiful
service, Helen retired. Within the laboratory animal science
community, Helen’s ever cheerful demeanor and ‘can-do’ attitude
made her a much-loved friend to many of us. In addition to her church
and family activities, Helen was a dedicated, hardworking member of
AALAS and especially Texas Branch AALAS.
Dr. Chuck Montgomery, Pat Sikes, Valeri Lansford. 2008.
3 | P a g e
Schedule of Events Tuesday: February 18th, 2020 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. AR Prep Course: Session I Placido Boardroom
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch Break
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. AR Prep Course: Session II Placido Boardroom _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday: February 19th, 2020 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Registration Registration Booth
8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m Breakfast Conference Center Foyer
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall Setup Veramendi Salons A-E
8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rodent Aseptic Surgery Workshop - Lecture Spring Lake Salon B
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Platform Session Spring Lake Salon A
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Awards Committee Meeting Chautauqua Salon B
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Vendor Hall Open/Silent Auction Opens Veramendi Salons A-E
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch Break
1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Rodent Aseptic Surgery Workshop - Wet Lab Spring Lake Salon B
1:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Platform Session Spring Lake Salon A
2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
1:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Silent Auction Bidding Veramendi Salons A-E
1:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall Open Veramendi Salons A-E
1:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Poster Session Veramendi Salons A-E
(3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Authors present at poster display for judging)
5:00 p.m. Transportation to Aqua Brew House Outside Conference Center Foyer
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Welcome Reception Aqua Brew House
7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Technician Olympics Aqua Brew House
7:30 p.m. Transportation back to hotel Aqua Brew House ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday: February 20th, 2020 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Registration Registration Booth
7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m Breakfast Conference Center Foyer
8:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Platform Session Spring Lake Salon AB
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall Open Veramendi Salons A-E
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Silent Auction Bidding Veramendi Salons A-E
8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Awards Committee Meeting Placido Boardroom
10:30 a.m. -11:00 a.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. KEYNOTE SPEAKER Spring Lake Salon AB
11:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Break
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Awards Banquet & Luncheon Veramendi Salon F
2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
2:00 p.m. - 2:20 p.m. Silent Auction Final Bidding Window! Veramendi Salons A-E
2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Silent Auction Item Payment & Pickup Veramendi Salons A-E
2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall Open Veramendi Salons A-E
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall Teardown Veramendi Salons A-E
2:30 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Platform Session Spring Lake Salon AB ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Friday: February 21st, 2020 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Registration Registration Booth
9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Breakfast Conference Center Foyer
9:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Leadership Academy Chautauqua Salon A
10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. A. E. Wood Fish Hatchery Tour Conference Center Foyer (Shuttle leaves at 10:00 am from Embassy Suites and will pick up at 11:15am)
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. TBAALAS Board Meeting Chautauqua Salon B
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours Conference Center Foyer (Shuttle leaves at 12:30 pm from Embassy Suites and will pick up at 2:30 pm)
4 | P a g e
CMAR Animal Resources Course (Sign-up available online)
Tuesday, February 18th, 2020 Location: Placido Boardroom
Instructor: Diana Baumann
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. AR Prep Course: Session I
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch provided
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. AR Prep Course: Session II
Rodent Aseptic Surgery Workshop (attending lecture is recommended prior to lab)
Wednesday, February 19th, 2020 Location: Spring Lake Salon B│Instructors: Marcel Perret-Gentil, Miguel Torres, Laurie Long
8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Lecture - Making the Process of Rodent Aseptic Surgery & Peri-Operative Care
Practical and Attainable for Our Investigators
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lab - Want to Improve Your Suturing Skills and Rodent Surgery Aseptic Technique?
Platform Session
Wednesday: February 19th, 2020 Location: Spring Lake Salon A │A.M. Moderator: Becky Blackwood P.M. Moderator: Keely McGrew
denotes award eligible denotes first time presenter
9:00 a.m. Adrienne Duran President’s Welcome Address
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. UTPD Research Facility Security
10:00 a.m - 10:30 a.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Keely McGrew Synergy! The benefit of Collaboration in the Lab Animal Environment
1:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m Lara Sims Building a Team From the Ground Up
2:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. Pat Sikes Celebrate the Pig! What’s Happening in Transplant Research
2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Karena Thek A Clear Path to Wellness with Innovative Gel Products
2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
3:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Christine Giammaruti Importance of Monitoring Genetic Background on Genetically
Modified Mouse Colonies
3:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Bryan Guider Integrated Data Management for Animal Facilities
3:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. Michelle Adams Adoption: An Alternative Endpoint
3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Jennifer Weniger Compassion Fatigue
Platform Session Thursday Morning: February 20th, 2020 Location: Spring Lake Salon A│Moderator: Tammy Humbird
denotes award eligible denotes first time presenter
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Stefanie DeLuca Progression and Use of PCR Testing in Lab Animal Facilities and
& Richard Cluck IVCs to Reduce Sentinel Testing
9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Tracy Parker Careers in Lab Animal - Pathways to Your Future
9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Ann Turner Positive Impact of Animals on the Lab Animal Science Workplace
10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Diana Baumann Employee Engagement
10:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Chris Southern What’s in Your Hood?
10:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall
5 | P a g e
11:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Break
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Awards Banquet & Luncheon Veramendi Salon F
2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Snack/Refreshment Break in Helen Jordan Memorial Vendor Hall Break
Platform Session
Thursday Afternoon: February 20th, 2020 Location: Spring Lake Salon AB│Moderator: Eli Rodriguez
2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Vanessa Jensen The Connection with the Microbiome and Cancer
3:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Pat Sikes To Breed or Not to Breed
3:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Becky Blackwood Adoption and Retirement at Baylor College of Medicine 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Julie Roller Outreach: It’s not Just About the Animals, it’s About People Too!
4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Elizabeth Clemmons In Pursuit of Resiliency: Exploring Compassion Fatigue, Compassion
Satisfaction, and Wellbeing in Laboratory Animal Professionals
Leadership Academy Friday: February 21st, 2020 Location: Chautauqua Salon A│Moderator: Mona Jaffari
9:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Stacy LeBlanc 2020 TBAALAS Leadership Academy
11:45 a.m. - 11:55 a.m. Julie Roller Closing Remarks, 2021 TBAALAS President
2020 KEYNOTE SPEAKER SPONSORED BY:
Dr. Terry Blasdel Retirement of Lab
Animals: Where Do We Go From Here?
February 20th
, 2020 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Spring Lake Salon AB
Technical details of Dr. Blasdel’s life include a B.A. in biology from Earlham
College, a M.Ag. from West Texas State University (currently named West Texas
A&M) and a B.S. and D.V.M. from Texas A & M University. She started her
professional career as a veterinarian at the Houston Zoological Gardens where
she headed the zoo’s research program. Her areas of research included the
study of peculiar, little known parasites for which pill bugs and cockroaches
were the intermediate hosts. The other focus was basic reproductive research
and artificial reproduction techniques in everything from garter snakes to
rhinoceroses. This job resulted in many memorable experiences and marketable
stories. In 1986, she accepted a sabbatical opportunity at the UT Medical School
and came to the realization that laboratory animal medicine might well have
more opportunities for professional development. In addition, research studies
in an academic setting could be done with a animal numbers large enough to
achieve statistical significance instead of an “N” of 2-3. Within two years, the
path to laboratory animal medicine became the clear choice as other
opportunities appeared in her path. In 2005, she moved from UT Health to the
University of Houston to “follow the monkeys”, leaving the University of
Houston in 2017 to devote more time to the NASA job duties. She now devotes
her professional time to train the International Space station crew members
how to handle mice and serves on the NASA Flight IACUC. The other part of her
time is devoted to following her main passion: the support of animal sanctuaries
that accept nonhuman primates that are retired from research facilities.
In 1988, she became a member of both Texas Branch and National AALAS. She
served as a board member to Texas Branch 1997-1999 and the started the
President cycle in 2004, exiting as Past President in 2007. Other professional
associations include the Association of Primate Veterinarians, American Society
of Laboratory Animal Practitioners, American Association of Zoo Veterinarians,
Wildlife Disease Association, American Zoological Association and the AVMA.
6 | P a g e
Friday Activities & Meetings: February 21st, 2020 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. A.E. Wood Fish Hatchery Tour (Shuttle leaves at 10:00 a.m.)
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Texas Branch Board Meeting
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours (Shuttle leaves at 12:30 p.m.)
TBAALAS Silent Auction We Need YOU!
Help one lucky technician scholarship recipient receive a trip to National AALAS by reaching our $3,000 goal this year!
BID HIGH!
BID OFTEN!
CMAR-Preparatory Class for the Animal Resources (AR) Exam We are heroes to millions of people and animals, and our work makes a profound difference in this world. As leaders, we have a responsibility to support and drive our employees and operations effectively, efficiently, and compassionately. CMAR certification provides us with a unique set of knowledge and tools to accomplish this.
Please join us for a preparatory workshop for the Animal Resource exam. Topics covered include IACUC, occupational health and safety, regulations and compliance, veterinary care, and fiscal management.
This prep course alone will NOT prepare you for the AR exam, but can be used to kick start your preparation, help you along the way, or as final revision to refresh your existing studies. Instructor: Diana Baumann, B.Sc. (Hons), PGCE, LATG, CMAR
When: February 18th, 2020 8:00AM-5:00PM (Lunch provided) Where: Placido Boardroom Registration Fee: $75.00 (online registration)
Bidding is from:
10:00am - 4:45pm on Wednesday &
8:00am - 2:20pm on Thursday
7 | P a g e
8 | P a g e
Thank you to the 2020 Program Committee! Dr. Becky Blackwood, Eli Rodriguez & Mona Jaffari
9 | P a g e
2020 Vendor Booths
Abbott Medical Services Lab Products, Inc.
Allentown, LLC Lab Supply Inc.
Art's Way Scientific Life Science Products, Inc.
a-tune software Inc. Lighthouse Life Sciences
Avidity Science LSP Inc.
Beta Star Life Science Equipment Masimo
BetterBuilt Medline Industries, Inc.
Bio Medic Data Systems, Inc. NEPCO
Biomedical Solutions, Inc. P.J. Murphy Forest Products Corp.
Bio-Serv Pharmacal Research Laboratories, Inc.
BMT USA, LLC Purina LabDiet
Britz & Co. Rochester Midland Corporation
Carter 2 Systems, Inc. Shepherd Specialty Papers
Charles River Laboratories Somark Innovations
Eastern Virginia Medical School Suburban Surgical
Envigo Superior Laboratory Services, Inc.
Getinge Systems Engineering (SE Lab Group)
IDEXX BioAnalytics Tecniplast
Innovive The Andersons Bedding Products
InterMetro Industries Corp. The Jackson Laboratory
Kent Scientific Corporation Transnetyx, Inc.
Abbott Medical Services Veterinary Anesthesia Systems, Inc.
10 | P a g e
Thank you to our 2020 Meeting Sponsors!
Audio Visual
Meeting Bags
Keynote Speaker
Session Breaks
Awards Banquet
Program Printing
Lanyards
Poster Session
11 | P a g e
2019 POSTER PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Denotes award eligible Denotes first time presenter
Benefits of Cold Compress Application Prior to Intravenous Injection in Rabbits Diane Stevenson, RLAT
Alcon Labs
Intravenous (IV) administration of injectable medications into the marginal ear vein of rabbits can cause
temporary pain or discomfort. It is not uncommon for rabbits to make erratic movements that result in loss of
needle placement in the vein and require subsequent repeat venipuncture. In an effort to reduce stress and
discomfort for rabbits during IV injections, the application of an ice pack or other form of cold compress is
proposed. A 2013 study has shown that cold compress prior to injection in children has been beneficial in
reducing discomfort (Kiran 2013). The desired outcome of this technique is to numb the area that will be
punctured for IV administration. A small bowl with ice and water is utilized to soak gauze pads (alternatively ice
may be wrapped with gauze). The hair may be clipped surrounding the marginal ear vein. The gauze is then
applied to the ear at the intended area of injection and the compress is held in place for 10-30 seconds. After
removal of the gauze, the ear may be wiped with an alcohol swab and drug administration via injection may
immediately begin. The application of a cold compress appears to reduce/minimize discomfort of IV injection, as
a physical response to the injection was not observed. An added benefit is that cold induced vasodilation enhances
visualization of the vein to increase accuracy and reduce the need for multiple punctures.
This is an example of Refinement in the 3 R’s principle. Additionally, there is minimal cost and the need for
topical or local anesthetic agents is unnecessary. Further investigations are being made to objectively measure
perceived pain, assess changes to vessel diameter, and to compare the cold compress method to traditional
injection techniques.
Socializing Research Animals for Welfare and Preparation for Adoption
Kate Bruner, BS, CMAR; Michelle Adams, RLATg, CMAR
Colorado State University
The biggest obstacle in an animal care technician's day is time. Staff would love to spend the bulk of their time
socializing and training the animals, but unfortunately there is other husbandry work to be done. Colorado State
University has a unique approach to this problem, Laboratory Animal Resources (LAR) utilizes the undergraduate
student population to socialize and train research animals in exchange for class credit. LAR partners with the
Professional Science Masters Program to train graduate students on how the established socialization program
works in order to get management experience. These graduate students then manage small teams of undergraduate
students who learn animal behavior and training skills through an independent study course. LAR has had
students work with a variety of species, including rats, guinea pigs, cats, dogs, ferrets, pigs (both conventional
and in containment), sheep and goats. This program has greatly improved animal welfare in the department while
providing experiential learning for students on campus and given employees and researchers piece of mind that
they are doing the best for the animals.
Strategies for Reducing Water Valve Failure in a Rodent Animal Facility Chetna Patel; Andrew Pesek Jr.
MD Anderson Cancer Center - Houston
Every rodent facility utilizing an automated watering system will encounter instances of cage flooding due to
water valve failure. The impact can be significant, as resulting animal fatalities can impact both animal welfare
and research outcomes. To date, the specific mechanism of water valve failure is understood; however,
12 | P a g e
information regarding other factors that may contribute to the failure process, such as duration of valve use and
water pressure, have not been examined. To gather this data, we performed a valve aging study. At two week
intervals, valves were removed from 126 cage capacity racks and artificially aged by repeated washing and
autoclaving to simulate the process of rack and valve decontamination. Additionally, we assessed water pressure
at the pressure reducing station which provides water to these racks. Animal health was monitored throughout
the study as were any incidents of leaks from the water valves. We found that water valve failure rates increased
with valve age, and were also affected by water pressure at the valve. Data demonstrated that valve failure is
expected to occur at 10 years of age. Moreover, we determined that water pressure at the rack level had a
significant impact on valve performance. From this information, we established that the best strategies to
minimize animal losses include replacement of valves at 9 years of use, and maintenance of water pressure at the
rack level within an optimum pressure range of 3 to 5 psi Our facility has significantly reduced instances of water
valve failure by about 40 percent annually.
Measuring Energy Expenditure in NHP
Austin James, RALAT
Texas Biomedical Research Institute
To develop the procedure to use the Breezing indirect calorimeter and determine the feasibility of the application
of a Personalized Indirect Calorimeter for the determination of energy expenditure (EE) measurement in the
baboon. The purpose of this study is the initial stage in researching if Papio anubis can lose weight by intaking
only the body’s necessary calorie intake. Within this trial 11 Papio anubis (5 males and 6 females) had their
resting calorie intake measured via a “Breezing unit”, ages ranging from 12 to 15 years. The number of calories
exhaled within five-minute intervals. Various other measurements were documented, such as the circumference
of the abdominal cavity and length of subject from tip of snout to tip of tail. Daily diet and food enrichment were
monitored to ensure 1600 calories per day was consumed. Subjects sedated with 5-7mg Telazol and intubed with
an endotracheal tube for EE measurement. This phase of the study was a preliminary trial to observe the medium
calorie intake and exhaustion of Papio anubis daily requirements to sustain maintenance requirements.
Low-Cost Alternatives for Group Housing Rabbits on the Floor
Tammy Humbird, LVT, CMAR, RLATG; Kyna Byrd
Baylor College of Medicine
Designing and delivering engaging and creative annual refresher training to a large department can be a
challenge. To prevent the audience from having to endure the stale slideshow presentation or the ‘same old’
discussion, we have devised some unique and creative ways to deliver training topics to engage the staff while
encouraging collaboration. Refresher training topics include tumor identification and tracking, cage density and
overcrowded policies and procedures, safety training, sentinel exposure training, and animal health checks. Prior
to training on a designated topic, the training team kicks off a design phase with a brainstorm. Six Sigma
brainstorming rules are followed to gain as many ideas as possible. Effort is made to incorporate multiple learning
styles into the training. We discuss and present examples of various trainings which involve games, food, case
studies, prizes, and more. Active learning, which encourages participation and increases retention, is now a staple
in our trainings. Training knowledge is measured through post training surveys, assessments, and feedback. In
addition to receiving positive feedback and seeing more consistent and efficient task performance across all staff,
we deem the training a success when previously unengaged, unreachable staff request more training and
encourage others to attend.
13 | P a g e
Operational Procedures for Receiving Animals of Different Health Status
Damonica Evans BS; Jennifer Teague
University of Texas Southwestern
Managing the receiving and housing processes for a 30,000 cage barrier rodent facility at UT Southwestern
Medical Center is complex. This facility receives approximately 100 vendor and intercampus shipments per week.
These shipments contain immune competent and immune deficient animals such as athymic nude, NOD-SCID,
NSG, and RAG-2. A strategic approach must be used when housing in the animal receiving area prior to the
animals’ entering the facility to help minimize contamination. Since preventing contamination of barrier research
animals is the priority, various techniques have been implemented to protect immune compromised rodents from
infectious agents that can adversely affect ongoing research projects. Opportunistic infections such as C. bovis
can be introduced from the environment and improper handling of the animals. Challenges include space
limitations, number of users, and the number of orders received. Development of a novel approach using a
strategic labeling system has helped animal technicians easily identify the cages that need to be handled first.
Procedures were put in place to prevent opportunistic infections and safely house incoming animals in the facility
to reduce errors and cross contamination.
2019 PLATFORM PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Denotes award eligible Denotes first time presenter
Making the Process of Rodent Aseptic Surgery & Peri-Operative Care Practical and Attainable for Our
Investigators
Marcel Perret-Gentil, DVM, MS; Laurie Long; LATG, Miguel Torres
University of Texas San Antonio
Veterinarians are the worst at making the process of rodent surgery burdensome and almost unattainable. They
impose standards so high that many of our investigators end up ‘throwing in the towel.’ There is no such thing
as real ‘sterile’ surgery, however, simple procedures can be followed to maintain contamination at acceptable
levels in a way that makes sense. Thus, by somewhat lowering our expectations while giving our researchers
practical surgical care tools, we can help our investigators greatly improve the care of their surgical animals.
Don’t miss this 3-hr discussion, which will present many practical tips to give our investigators the necessary
tools to greatly improve the peri-operative care of their rodents, including aseptic technique.
Want to Improve Your Suturing Skills and Rodent Surgery Aseptic Technique?
Marcel Perret-Gentil, DVM, MS; Laurie Long; Miguel Torres
University of Texas San Antonio
You may feel proficient, even confident in performing rodent surgery; however, you may be surprised how small
improvements can have a huge impact to your animal’s recovery and data. During this workshop, participants
will learn and refine commonly used suture, knot-tying and rodent surgical draping techniques. The workshop
will focus on appropriate hand-eye coordination to improve suturing skills and provide updates from recent
scientific studies on the benefits of using Press’n Seal® and Reynold Wrap® aluminum foil wrap in routine rodent
surgical aseptic procedures. A state-of-the-art inanimate model will be introduced and utilized during the suture
practice. Easy to apply hands-on exercises will be put into practice that have been shown to significantly improve
aseptic technique. This workshop is designed for individuals who have minimal or no suturing skills but is also a
great opportunity for those with considerable experience wanting to upgrade their skills and teach others enhanced
technique.
14 | P a g e
Research Animal Facility Security
University of Texas Police Department
Security has always been a hot topic in research animal facility design and management. Threat assessment and
awareness are key elements of an overall security plan and should include knowledge of animal extremist
activities, physical security and access control, employee background checks, active shooter response, cyber
security, and more. In this presentation, we will share information and best practices based on The University of
Texas Police at Houston's extensive program focused on protection of our animal facilities and our science.
Synergy! The Benefit of Collaboration in the Lab Animal Environment
Keely McGrew, BS, CVT, CMAR
Charles River Laboratories
Collaborative synergy has defined as “an interactive process that engages two or more participants who work
together to achieve outcomes they could not accomplish independently, in an open, integrated process
(operational, procedural and cultural) that fosters knowledge collaboration, influenced by a transformational
leadership that encourages participants to expand connections beyond typical boundaries and achieve required…
outcomes” (IGI Global). This past year, an opportunity for collaboration presented itself between Charles River
and University of Houston, with benefits obtained and lessons learned. Our collaboration began with collegial
discussions about primate behavior and staff development between the head of the behavior department at CRL
and a veterinarian at UH and spread from there to other employees within both facilities. Goals for providing joint
education opportunities were developed, and this resulted in five joint educational events for employees that gave
new perspective, increased knowledge, refreshed enthusiasm, and encouraged development. In addition, there
were personal benefits, including prevention of burnout, increased job satisfaction, increased positive affect due
to intellectual stimulation, and gaining of a deeper understanding of behavior concepts and tools. Finding time
and continuing commitment to the collaboration despite changing workloads were challenges experienced in the
collaboration. The purpose of this talk is to explore the potential and real benefits of collaborations, review some
pitfalls, and encourage others to consider collaborations of their own, within their department, facility, or with
other facilities.
Building A Team from the Ground Up
Lara Sims, BS, CVT, LATg
University of Texas Southwestern
The combination of a renovated animal facility, new Facility Supervisor, and new staff provided unique
challenges and opportunities for growth. This presentation will cover how the new facility and team grew together
this past year. The NB facility at UT Southwestern Medical Center was renovated from a conventional facility
to a barrier. The staff was redistributed during the renovation and only a few returned when it reopened. The
majority of the employees for NB were new hires to the university and new to the animal care industry. Some
challenges faced by the new Supervisor included how to help new employees build team camaraderie, educating
them on the importance of the work that they are doing and helping them to achieve success in their job and
beyond. This presentation will look at some of the tools that were employed with the team, processes of building
the team and reviewing factors that were considered when looking at team development. Specific activities that
were incorporated into the culture will be shared, as well as the reasons why they were chosen. Some of these
activities included: team building challenges, periodic evaluations and training opportunities (formal and
informal). Lastly, successes will be shared as well as what was learned from some missteps.
Celebrate the Pig! What's happening in Transplant Research
Pat Sikes, MS
Charles River Laboratories
15 | P a g e
The “Celebrate the Mouse” program is a public outreach effort, developed by the AALAS Foundation, to help
educate the public about the important role mice and other animals, play in discovering treatment options and
cures for catastrophic diseases. The goal of the program is to serve as a tool to help members of the laboratory
animal science community reach out to their local communities – persuading survivors of catastrophic diseases,
and the public, to embrace and become advocates of biomedical research. In 2019, we added “Celebrate the Pig.”
We focused on Transplant research. This talk will help showcase tools that are available from the AALAS
Foundation to help us educate the public on the importance of biomedical research.
A Clear Path to Wellness with Innovative Gel Products
Karena Thek, MBA CMAR
Bio Serv
Certain animal and protocol conditions create a requirement for “special needs” products to ensure animals’
survival and to encourage reliable research outcomes. With the first gel product created in 2003 to meet these
special needs, we recently expanded our gel line to include a water Gel and electrolyte Gel. We will review
common health conditions that arise and how to select what gelled products would be most suitable to use to
enhance recovery or promote well-being.
Importance of Monitoring Genetic Background on Genetically Modified Mouse Colonies
Christine Giammaruti
Transnetyx
Genetic background matters. Genetic monitoring helps ensure reproducible results and fully congenic strains.
This improves breeding practices and helps produce reproducible research. When you’re trying to make a
breakthrough, you want to be certain your results are reproducible. Consider the unknowns when it comes to
managing your colonies. Did your breeding go off course? If so, how would you know? What best practices do
you have in place in your lab to control unknown variables related to genetic background? Standardization of
methods creates repeatable, controllable and reliable data. Just as high-impact journals are tasked with improving
their transparency in what they publish, researchers, likewise, need to be aware of the growing need to verify their
strain and substrain backgrounds.
Integrated Data Management for Animal Facilities
Bryan Guider
a-tune software Inc.
As the demands of an organization’s data management continue to grow, whether for compliance or actual health
and history of subjects, it becomes increasingly necessary to gravitate towards a concise software program that
will help the institution meet the rigors of OLAW, USDA and AALAC standards, as well as giving researchers
the time to focus on what they do best…research. This presentation will focus on areas of your operation that can
benefit from the transition to a data management software program, as well as highlight what are important
qualities of a complete data management software program.
Adoption: An Alternative Endpoint
Michelle Adams, RLATg, CMAR
Colorado State University
As both a biomedical research institution and a veterinary teaching hospital, Colorado State University (CSU)
uses a wide variety of species in its lab animal programs. The studies conducted are aimed at human as well as
animal health. In addition, training new veterinarians requires use of live animals. CSU has a robust adoption
program to find retirement homes for healthy animals once their protocol is complete. In addition to dogs and
16 | P a g e
cats, CSU has placed rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, ferrets, mini swine, and even fish with happy new guardians. By
sharing how CSU’s adoptions work, we hope to inspire other institutions to consider retirement and rehoming as
viable study endpoints.
Compassion Fatigue
Jennifer Weniger, Ph.D.
Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center
Entering our third year of outreach activities at UT Southwestern Medical Center, it is time to loo reflect on the
growth of our program and share our newest progress. Through our NAF (National Academy Foundation)
partnership with two high schools in the Dallas Independent School District, we were able to take an exciting step
forward to expand our outreach efforts. The Animal Resource Center was able to host four area high school
students for paid internships over the summer of 2018. This presentation will share the process of getting involved
with NAF, what activities we are participating in with this strong partnership, and share some insight on setting
up and executing our summer internships. For our outreach group the intern experience was extremely rewarding
and the students were enlightened about laboratory animal research and had a positive summer experience. We
are hopeful to inspire others to get involved through sharing our journey.
Progression and use of PCR Testing in Lab Animal Facilities and IVCs to Reduce Sentinel Testing
Stefanie L. DeLuca, BS RLAT; Richard S. Cluck, BS LATg
Charles River Laboratories, Tecniplast USA Inc.
For decades animal facilities have utilized sentinel animals in soiled bedding to monitor the health status of their
overall program. However, recent studies have shown this method to have limitations in detecting certain rodent
infectious agents. One alternative method that has been proven by many institutions to overcome the known
limitations of soiled-bedding sentinels is Exhaust Air Dust (EAD®) PCR testing. This method has been found to
be more sensitive and has allowed many institutions to not only reduce or eliminate the need for sentinel animals
(3Rs), but to also reduce animal care and maintenance costs. Along with discussing recent studies that prove the
effectiveness of PCR, participants will be offered a hands-on experience to learn how to use exhaust air dust
(EAD®) utilizing PCR testing, properly sampling, and the best practices for testing EAD®.
Careers in Lab Animal-Pathways to Your Future
Tracy Parker, MBA, BS, CMAR, RLATG, CPIA
Intuitive Surgical
Success is a subjective term; for some, getting promoted or obtaining a degree might be a definition of success.
Others may define success as having ample time to engage in hobbies outside of work. In this presentation, several
pathways to “success” will be discussed, but the ultimate outcome will be the development of a toolkit for each
individual to use to create their individual plan. While directed towards success in the laboratory animal science
field, the tools can be easily be applied in aspects of life beyond career.
Positive Impact of Animals on the Laboratory Animal Science Workplace
Ann Turner, PhD, FASAE, CAE
AALAS Foundation
People who work in the field of laboratory animal science tend to love animals. They care for the animals as part
of their job duties, but the caring goes beyond the job description. There are many examples of laboratory animal
care staff coming in or staying beyond regular hours to care for the animals during emergencies such as hurricanes,
floods, and other events. Many staff adopt or rehome research animals when possible and most of the people In
this field have pets. Many staff came from agricultural or animal science backgrounds and have developed strong
17 | P a g e
human-animal bonds from early childhood. This presentation will use research on job satisfaction to explore how
animals have a positive impact on the workplace. Examples of how laboratory animal science professional view
animals and the human-animal bond will be presented.
Employee Engagement
Diana Baumann, BS, CMAR
Stowers Institute for Medical Research
Employee engagement determines stress levels, productivity, and enjoyment in the work environment. David
Macleod articulates “This is about how we create the conditions in which employees offer more of their capability
and potential” Drivers of engagement can include clarity of job expectations, opportunities for self-improvement,
effective communications, regular feedback, understanding of the job value, career advancement prospects, and
quality of relationships with peers and managers. This talk will look at activities we use to increase employee
engagement and appreciation, including examples that enhance learning, recognition, and fun.
What’s in Your Hood?
Chris Southern, CMAR, RLATG
Baylor College of Medicine
Animal transfer stations and biosafety cabinets (BSCs) are typically only superficially cleaned by husbandry
staff. Standard cleaning includes vacuuming and wiping the unit down daily or weekly. The lack of cleaning
can pose a health risk to your staff and potentially to your animals. Additionally, when transfer stations or BSCs
are not cleaned and maintained properly, there is a cost associated with the lack of care of the units. Cost
savings and microbiological data will be presented with regard to properly maintaining transfer stations and
BSCs.
Keynote Speaker: Retirement of Lab Animals. Where do we go From Here?
Terry Blasdel, MAg, DVM
NASA-JSC, UHCL
The plan for a South Texas retirement sanctuary was conceived over 30 years ago at the University of Texas
Health Science Center-Houston (now known as UT Health) over the necropsy of a retired research primate for
which post mortem tissues were not needed. Subsequent to that Lou Griffin, the manager of another South Texas
primate sanctuary, visited UT for a presentation and planted the idea firmly in our minds that such a scheme was
not only possible, but was the best path forward for our nonhuman primate friends that were eligible for
retirement. The plan was to provide a safe and enriched habitat for lab animals to live out their lives after their
research careers were completed. The Retirement Sanctuary for Laboratory Animals was officially opened to the
retirement of nonhuman primates in October, 2011. This particular sanctuary has gained so much affirmation
from the research community that it currently houses 50 retired nonhuman primates. This presentation will review
the basic principles needed for setting up a sanctuary and making it successful. The presentation will also cover
the lessons learned for the first eight years of providing sanctuary for retiring nonhuman primates as well as
options for planning the retirement, improving overall care and effective communicating amongst sanctuaries to
establish best practices. Last but not least, this presentation will explore methods for certifying the care of
nonhuman primates and other animals placed in retirement sanctuaries.
The Connection with the Microbiome and Cancer
Vanessa Jensen, DVM, DACLAM
MD Anderson Cancer Center – Houston
The microbiota consists of a wide variety of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other single-celled animals that live in
18 | P a g e
the body whereas the microbiome is the genetic material of all these microbes that live on and inside the human
body. Research has shown the microbiome may be manipulated through the use of antibiotics, probiotics,
exercise, diet or fecal transplantation to provide anti-tumor immunity. The establishment and colonization of this
microbiome are linked to the early and future health status of the individual. Emerging interest in the role of the
host microbiome in health and cancer is sparking research initiatives utilizing mice to explore the role of the
microbiome and its influence across a spectrum of health and human diseases including carcinogenesis. Emerging
data is also suggesting that the microbiome plays a role in response to therapy. Bacteria that live in the human
digestive tract can influence how cancer responds to therapy, creating new opportunities to improve treatments
through research. Modulating the gut microbiome may have an effect on responses to cancer therapy or the
potential to cause cancer itself. Murine models have been widely used in biomedical research due to similarities
in anatomy and physiology that provide interpretation regarding information to be drawn from experimentation
utilizing the mouse. Experimental model systems using mice provide important insight into how the host and
microbiota relationship is established and maintained. Preclinical mouse models suggest the gut microbiome
modulates tumor response to checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. Distinct bacterial taxa is represented in
responder patients versus non-responder patients thus affecting the response of therapy to cancer treatment. Here
we will discuss general concepts of the microbiota as it pertains to humans and mice to provide an increased
understanding of the microbiome.
To Breed or Not to Breed
Pat Sikes, MS
Charles River Laboratories
Have you quantified the actual costs associated with maintaining rodent colonies in your vivarium? How much
labor is really involved in maintaining breeding colonies including record keeping? Are these lines actively being
used or taking up valuable space? Are you maintaining commercially available lines and if yes are you really
saving money? Are you closely monitoring the health status and genetics of your in-house colonies to prevent the
introduction of an unwanted variable (pathogen or genetic drift) into your research?
To simplify the process of finding answers to these questions, we’ve developed a customizable ‘cost calculator’
tool. We will use published per diem rates in examples shown and can also customize input using your facility
specific data. Attend this seminar to find out if your internal processes are cost effective or if there are better
options.
Adoption and Retirement at Baylor College of Medicine
Becky Blackwood, DVM, DACLAM
Baylor College of Medicine
Baylor College of Medicine, Center for Comparative Medicine, is one of the largest animal programs in the
nation. As part of our ethical responsibility, we have incorporated a strong adoption program that has been
successfully rehoming laboratory animals for many years. This presentation will cover the documentation, the
legal paperwork, and the process for adoptions of laboratory animals at our institution. Adoption of various
species will be covered, including sheep, rodents, and pigs, with an emphasis on non-human primate
adoption/retirement.
Outreach: It’s Not Just About the Animals, it’s About People Too!
Julie Roller, BS, MS, CMAR
UT Southwestern
Putting together a public outreach program is a mutually beneficial endeavor that provides opportunities for
those in the laboratory animal science field to reach out to communities and educate them about the role that
animals play in scientific discovery. It also demonstrated the commitment that we all have to improving the
19 | P a g e
health of humans and animals. Performing public outreach allows us to share how much we love our animals
and how important humane care is. But having a public outreach program does not have to stop there, it can be
so much more! This presentation will discuss some strategies for setting up and starting an outreach program
and will also highlight some creative ways that laboratory animal professionals can impact the lives of those
outside of the industry. Assisting individuals with career pathway discovery, professional development, and
providing mentorship to the youth in the community, are just a few of the ways that we can contribute at a
higher level. Some strategies for success will be discussed, and lessons learned will be shared to assist others in
development of their outreach program.
In Pursuit of Resiliency: Exploring Compassion Fatigue, Compassion Satisfaction, and Wellbeing in
Laboratory Animal Professionals
Elizabeth Clemmons, DVM, DACLAM
Texas Biomedical Research Institute
The challenges naturally encountered in caregiving work, including the laboratory animal field, can lead to a state
of apathy, exhaustion, and anger known as compassion fatigue. With effective self-care strategies and support,
one can make it through these challenges to a state of emotional resiliency and job satisfaction. A culture of
wellbeing contributes to compassionate animal care and successful research programs. This talk will discuss the
concepts of compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction and provide tips for recognizing and managing
compassion fatigue at both the individual and institutional level.
Leadership Academy
Stacy LeBlanc, MS, MBA, CMAR
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
You're a supervisor. Now what? Even those of us who have been managing people for years still struggle with
difficult conversations, turnover rates, evaluating performance and more. In the 2020 TBAALAS Leadership
Academy, we'll be sharing ideas and processes to help managers stock their toolboxes with effective strategies. It
will also be a forum for you to share your successful strategies.
20 | P a g e
MEETING NOTES:
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
21 | P a g e
