American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress Press Kit 1. Media Contacts 2. Annual Meeting Fact Sheet 3. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Fact Sheet 4. American College of Endocrinology Fact Sheet 5. AACE Media Briefing Schedule 6. AACE Media Briefing Press Releases 7. AACE/ACE Awards Press Releases 8. AACE Officer Press Releases AACE PUBLIC & MEDIA RELATIONS CONTACTS Glenn Sebold Director, Public and Media Relations and Creative Services Office: 904-353-7878, extension 122 Cell: 904-703-2020 Email: [email protected] Mary Green Assistant Director, Public and Media Relations, Staff Writer Office: 904-353-7878, extension 163 Cell: 407-506-2960 Email: [email protected] Amy Johnson Public and Media Relations Project Coordinator Office: 904-353-7878, extension 150 Cell: 904-400-0884 Email: [email protected] Joy Batteh-Freiha Public and Media Relations Project Coordinator Office: 904-353-7878, extension 160 Cell: 904-422-7645 Email: [email protected] American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress Fact Sheet The AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress, an international gathering of accomplished clinical endocrinologists presenting the latest and most expert scientific, clinical practice and patient management information, is slated for May13 – 17, 2015 in Nashville, Tennessee at the Music City Center. This year’s Annual Meeting offers more than 35 educational hours, an exhibit hall, poster and oral presentations, product theaters, meet-the-experts, plenary and workshop sessions, and peer-to-peer networking. Also, there’s something for all endocrinologists-in-training as well, including comprehensive programming, cutting-edge education, a venue to present research, plus an array of options to keep families entertained. Furthermore, the Annual Meeting is the occasion when the association’s scientific, educational and charitable arm – the American College of Endocrinology (ACE), inducts qualified candidates as Fellows (F.A.C.E.), demonstrating AACE’s long standing commitment to provide recognition in the advances and achievements related to clinical endocrinology. During Annual Meeting, AACE formally introduces its new slate of officers and bestows awards to those who have demonstrated exemplary achievements within the field of endocrine practice. Below is a list of new officers and this year’s award winners who will be recognized during proceedings this week: AACE Incoming Officers • • • • • • President- George Grunberger, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E. (Bloomfield Hills, MI) President Elect- Pauline M. Camacho), M.D., F.A.C.E (Maywood, IL) Vice President- Jonathan D. Leffert, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E., E.C.N.U. (Dallas, TX) Treasurer- Daniel L. Hurley, M.D., F.A.C.E. (Rochester, MN) Secretary- Sandra L. Weber, MD, FACP, FACE (Greenville, SC) Immediate Past President - R. Mack Harrell, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E., E.C.N.U. (Hollywood, FL) AACE Awards The AACE Frontiers in Science Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary contributions to their individual profession or area of expertise. (2014) Valentin Fuster, M.D., Ph.D. and (2015) Ronald M. Evans, Ph.D. The AACE H. Jack Baskin, MD, Endocrine Teaching Award is given to an AACE Member who has made a profound impact in teaching and is actively involved in teaching in academic centers or otherwise. Laurence Katznelson, M.D. The AACE Excellence in Medical Ethics Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary and continuing dedication to upholding the highest principles of medical ethics and standards for the betterment of the public’s health. Sheldon Rubenfeld, M.D., F.A.C.P, F.A.C.E . The AACE Outstanding Service Award for the Promotion of Endocrine Health of an Underserved Population is presented to an individual for outstanding contributions to the endocrine care, health, and service to an underserved population in the United States or abroad via: leadership, long-term commitment, vision, innovation, and impact/outcomes. Larissa Avilés-Santa, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E. and Robert B. Mims, M.D., F.A.C.E. The AACE Outstanding Clinical Endocrinologist Award is given to an AACE Member in recognition of dedicated and compassionate care provided to patients with endocrine diseases, exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of clinical endocrinology, and active advocacy of AACE’s mission in both professional and public environments. Karel Pacak, M.D., Ph.D., DS.c. The AACE International Clinician Award is given to an AACE member who is a clinical endocrinologist practicing outside of the U.S. in recognition of dedicated and compassionate care provided to patients with endocrine diseases, exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of clinical endocrinology, and active advocacy of AACE’s mission in both professional and public environments. Gerry H. Tan, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E., F.P.C.P., F.P.S.E.D.M. The AACE Outstanding Corporate Partner Award is presented to an industry partner who is a member of the Corporate AACE Partnership (CAP) and has demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication to AACE through significant contributions that allow AACE to conduct various programs and initiatives to promote the future of endocrinology. Novo Nordisk ACE Awards The ACE International Endocrinology Award is presented to an endocrinologist living outside of the U.S. in recognition of delivering outstanding care to endocrine patients; delivering care to a population of patients with endocrine problems; developing a system of care for an endocrine problem; organizing clinical endocrinologist; and affecting social changes that lead to improved care for the endocrine problem. Zvi Laron, M.D., Ph.D. The ACE Distinction in Clinical Endocrinology Award is presented to an AACE Member in recognition of advancing the understanding of endocrinology through research and education. Paul C. Davidson, M.D. and George E. Shambaugh III, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E. The ACE Yank D. Coble, Jr., MD, Distinguished Service Award is presented to an AACE member and clinical endocrinologist who is recognized by his/her peers as a leader in American medicine and whose personal and professional conduct reflect the values and vision of AACE. Steven M. Petak, M.D., J.D., M.A.C.E., F.A.C.P., F.C.L.M. The ACE Master of the American College of Endocrinology (MACE) Award is presented to an AACE member(s) who has received FACE distinction and is recognized as a distinguished endocrinologist; role model for developing endocrinologist; and contributor to AACE and to the art of science of endocrinology. Michael A. Levine, M.D., F.A.C.E and Gerald I. Shulman, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.E. ACEF Awards John A. Seibel, M.D., Award is presented to an individual in recognition of their support of the ACE Foundation mission. Carlos R. Hamilton, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.P., M.A.C.P. The ACEF Philanthropy Award is presented to an industry partner who is a member of the Corporate AACE Partnership (CAP), in grateful recognition for their generous contribution in support of ACE/ACEF programs. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly and Company About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) was founded in 1991 by a visionary group of leaders to serve as the active voice for those in the practice of clinical endocrinology. At the time, clinical endocrinologists had no input into the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), nor were they represented in the health policymaking bodies of most influential physician societies (e.g. American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians and the American Society of Internal Medicine). To address this need, a steering committee of 26 clinical endocrinologists from across the U.S. assumed responsibility and dedicated substantial time and effort to creating AACE. The organization’s name was chosen to reflect AACE’s emphasis on providing practicing clinical endocrinologists an avenue for the study of the scientific, social, political and economic aspects of endocrinology consistent with maintaining the highest levels of patient care and standards of medical practice. All members of AACE are physicians (M.D. or D.O.) who devote a significant portion of their career to the evaluation and management of patients with endocrine disease, and a majority is certified by Boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. The impetus behind AACE's efforts has always been quality and cost-effective patient care for those with endocrine diseases and disorders. The need for AACE was evidenced by the phenomenal growth in membership in the first year, with the receipt of 1,162 membership applications. In one of its most ambitious undertakings, the founding Board of Directors announced plans for the first AACE Annual Meeting and Clinical Congress to be held in Orlando at the end of April 1992. The Board planned and executed, in less than four months, a high-quality academic program, including clinical and socioeconomic sessions, workshops and presentations by national lecturers. AACE was granted delegate status in the American Medical Association House of Delegates in 1996 and in June 2000 formed the Endocrine Section Council with the American Society of Reproductive Medicine and The Endocrine Society in order to collectively represent the interest of endocrinology in the largest and most influential medical policymaking body in the world. Today, AACE has more than 7,000 members in the United States and 95 foreign countries and has 11 state, 12 regional and 8 international chapters. From its headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, AACE serves clinical endocrinologists throughout the nation and abroad and enlists their participation in an association dedicated to the principles of patient care, education and clinical research which have made American medicine the world leader. AACE's continued growth and expanding sphere of influence is a testament to the importance of its mission and the need for such an organization now and in the future. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was established in 1993 as the scientific, educational and charitable arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is dedicated to promoting the art and science of clinical endocrinology, diabetes and metabolic disorders for the improvement of patient care and public health. To help fulfill its mission, ACE offers various Continuing Medical Education (CME) accredited educational activities. These educational activities include the ACE Self-Assessment Program (ASA) and Consensus Conferences. ACE also develops and executes a number of endocrine disease educational, prevention and awareness programs and activities. Through the years, the programs have evolved beyond AACE member-focused programs and initiatives to include important patient-based awareness campaigns. Today, ACE provides endocrinologists and other healthcare professionals a number and variety of tools to better educate the patient population and the general public about endocrine health, primarily through the organization’s EmPower® Program. EmPower® is the cornerstone for all patient-focused education initiatives. In 2014, the American College of Endocrinology Foundation (ACEF) was created to provide independent financial support for the American College of Endocrinology’s (ACE) patient education, physician/allied health professional education and advancing science programs. Among the many EmPower® programs are: • Blood Sugar Basics provides useful information for people living with diabetes, including helpful tips on how to control blood sugar levels to better manage their disease. A dedicated website, www.bloodsugarbasics.com, helps those with diabetes – and their loved ones –learn more about the role blood sugar plays in the condition and how they can work with their diabetes healthcare team to set attainable blood sugar goals. • EmPower® Website The EmPower® website (EmPowerYourHealth.org) serves as the online consumer portal for endocrine-related information and features links to a variety of resources, including EmPower® Magazine. • EmPower® Magazine is a free, quarterly patient-facing periodical published and distributed by ACE. Each issue addresses a variety of endocrine-related conditions such as diabetes, hormonal disorders, obesity, osteoporosis and thyroid dysfunction. Articles in the magazine are written in a patient-friendly fashion by physician experts who have years of experience in treating patients with endocrine-related disorders. The inaugural issue of the magazine was published in January 2009. • My Diabetes Emergency Plan was created in 2006 following Hurricane Katrina to help diabetes patients prepare in advance for disasters and emergency situations. The plan’s comprehensive, 17-point checklist and supporting video stress the importance of advance planning and help those with diabetes prepare for and manage their health to avoid a potentially life-threatening disruption in their care. The plan is available free of charge to endocrinologists, public safety officials and patients worldwide and is available in English and Spanish. • Thyroid Awareness Commemorated every January since 1995, ACE’s Thyroid Awareness educational campaign efforts were expanded in 2013 to encompass activities throughout the entire year. The campaign theme for 2015 is “Ten Questions To Ask About Your Thyroid Health” and emphasizes the importance of thyroid patients engaging in an open dialogue with their healthcare professions to ensure they have the information needed to optimize their health and treatment. Key to education efforts is ACE’s robust website, www.thyroidawareness.com, which provides extensive detail regarding the constellation of thyroid diseases, symptomology and treatment options. Other ACEF programs include: • ACEF Focus on Obesity Campaign • Physician/Allied Health Professional Education o Continuing Medical Education o Hossein Gharib (MD) Educational Fund o American College of Endocrinology Self-Assesment Program (ASAP) • Diabetes Mellitus Intensive Management • AACE/ACE Online Diabetes Resource Center • AACE/ACE Learning Management System/AACE Online Enduring Material • AACE/ACE Consensus Conferences - Consensus-driven best practice conferences attended by experts and thought leaders from around the world • Guideline and Algorithm Development • White Papers and Position Papers For more information on ACEF programs, visit https://www.aace.com/acef/program. AACE 24th Annual Scientific Clinical Congress | Media Briefing Schedule Music City Center | Room 107AB Media Briefing Time Presentation Time Speakers 11:00 AM Wednesday 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM W. Timothy Garvey, MD Bionic Pancreas 12:30 PM Thursday 8:15 AM - 9:00 AM Edward Damiano, MD Diabetes Detection in the Dental Office 12:30 PM Friday 10:00 AM Saleh Aldasouqi, MD 12:30 PM Friday 10:00 AM Paresh Dandona,MD,PhD Session ID Topic Wednesday, May 13 W12 The AACE Module and Tool Kit for Obesity Medicine Thursday, May 14 TGS1 POSTER #727T The CDE Ambassador: A Novel Approach to Control Diabetes at the Primary Care Level Leads to Significant ABSTRACT Improvement in Glycemic Control and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Friday, May 15 F41 Assessing the Benefits and Risks of Testosterone Therapy in Men and Women 12:30 PM Friday 2:15 PM - 5:00 PM Sandeep Dhindsa, MD Susan Davis, PhD FGS3 Transcultural Endocrinology Symposium 12:30 PM Friday 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Jeffrey Mechanick, MD 12:30 PM Carolina Solis-Herrera, MD Friday Shashank Joshi, MD Enrico 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Papini, MD ABSTRACT Late Breaking Clinical Trials Oral Presenters Saturday, May 16 Meet the Leaders 3:00 PM Updated on 5/5/20159:20 AM N/A George Grunberger, MD R. Mack Harrell, MD Pauline Camacho, MD Contact: Embargoed Until Wednesday, May 13, 2015 1:00 P.M. CT Amy Johnson 904.400.0884 [email protected] AACE Pioneers Obesity Medicine Treatment Across All Specialties NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (BUSINESSWIRE) – The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), the leader in development of clinical care guidelines and physician training for the treatment of metabolic diseases, today introduced a module and toolkit for obesity medicine that will enable all healthcare professionals to initiate obesity care in their practices. The AACE module and accompanying toolkit was introduced during a special session at the AACE 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress. AACE declared obesity to be a disease in 2012, citing abundant clinical evidence that identifies obesity as a hormonebased disease state, producing signs, symptoms, and morbidity which satisfies the AMA’s established definition of a disease. Components of the obesity module, which is based on the Obesity Algorithm that is part of the AACE/ACE Comprehensive Diabetes Management Algorithm and the Advanced Framework for a New Diagnosis of Obesity, include preparing the clinicians’ offices for obesity medicine, approaches for discussing obesity as a disease with patients, the anthropometric and clinical component of the diagnosis using body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference, strategies and tools for efficient high-quality care, and assistance with decisions on the proper therapy, as well as logistics, finances and coding for a successful obesity medicine practice. “The AACE module and toolkit for obesity medicine emphasizes an efficient process of data gathering, evaluation and therapeutic decision making for establishing a financially viable model for obesity care in medical practices while significantly improving patient outcomes,” said W. Timothy Garvey, MD, FACE, and Chair of the AACE Obesity Scientific Committee. This initiative is a result of the AACE/ACE Consensus Conference on Obesity: Building an Evidence Base for Comprehensive Action that convened in Washington, D.C. , in March 2014, and included physicians , public health experts, government policy makers, health care companies, medical research and educational communities, related medical societies and associations, pharmaceutical companies and others, to identify the myriad of issues surrounding the obesity epidemic. AACE is continuing to educate its members and other allied health professionals about obesity medicine by developing evidence-based guidelines, which are expected to be complete in early 2016. In addition, an Obesity White Paper, continuing medical education programs, and a second consensus conference on obesity are being planned. To read additional press releases about the AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville, please visit media.aace.com or use the Twitter hashtag #AM15. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. Embargoed Until Thursday, May 14, 2015 Contact: 9:00 A.M. CT Mary Green 407.506.2960 [email protected] Principal Investigator of Bionic Artificial Pancreas Provides Updates On Latest Clinical Studies Goal Is To Bring Device To Market in 2017 NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(BUSINESSWIRE)—Edward Damiano, PhD, the Boston University Professor of Biomedical Engineering leading the team of researchers behind the “bionic” pancreas, today presented details of his team’s progress at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress. Recently tested in real-world outpatient clinical trials at multiple locations throughout the country, Damiano’s technology – a “closed-loop,” dual-hormone system – mimics the normal function of the pancreas by automatically regulating glycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes through as-needed administration of insulin to lower blood glucose and glucagon to raise blood glucose. The bionic pancreas system consists of a Dexcom® continuous glucose monitor (CGM), two Tandem t:slim® infusion pumps that pump insulin and recombinant glucagon through the skin, and mathematical algorithms that receive updated CGM readings and make completely automated decisions about insulin and glucagon dosing every five minutes. The mathematical algorithms that his group have developed run in an app on an iPhone®. The iPhone reads the blood glucose values from the CGM and then uses wireless Bluetooth technology to communicate the insulin and glucagon doses computed by the algorithms to the t:slim pumps. The insulin and glucagon delivery rates are thus adjusted every five minutes to keep blood glucose levels within a target range. Damiano’s ultimate system design, currently under development, is a single, compact integrated unit that houses a dualchamber infusion pump, the CGM, and their algorithms and operates completely independently of a smartphone. During his presentation, Damiano shared the results from four recently completed outpatient trials testing their system, which took place between 2013 and 2015 in adults, adolescents and pre-adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Subjects ranged in age between 6 and 76 years old. In the first three outpatient studies, patients received therapy with the bionic pancreas for five days and therapy with their own insulin pump for five days. The fourth outpatient study was a home-use study in which subjects received therapy with the bionic pancreas for 11 days and therapy with their own insulin pump for 11 days at home and in the workplace. The studies, Damiano noted, minimally constrained patients' behavior but allowed close observation for risk mitigation and high-density data collection. There were no restrictions placed on their activity level, exercise or diets. The system was initialized only with the patient's weight; no information about the patient's usual insulin regimen was provided to the algorithm, which automatically adapted insulin and glucagon dosing online. In the four studies, the bionic pancreas simultaneously reduced mean CGM glucose levels and hypoglycemia, as compared with the patients’ own insulin-pump therapy. The mean CGM glucose level across the entire cohort of the first adult study, the adolescent study, the pre-adolescent study and the adult multi-center home-use study was 133, 142, 137, and 141 mg/dl, respectively, and the percentage of CGM glucose values below 60 mg/dl was 1.5, 1.3, 1.2, and 0.6 percent, respectively. Based on these results, Damiano explained that the bionic pancreas would deliver mean HbA1c levels of around 6.5 percent in children and adults with type 1 diabetes while significantly and simultaneously reducing hypoglycemia relative to the current standard of care. (Full details of the outcomes from the first two outpatient studies have been published and are available at http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1314474#t=articleBackground). Damiano and his team plan to start the final clinical trial in 2016 with the more portable, fully integrated unit, with the goal of bringing the device to market by late 2017—when Damiano’s son, David, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2000, is set to begin college. For more information about the AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress, please visit media.aace.com or follow us on our official Twitter account at #AM15. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 6,500 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our website at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. Embargoed Until Thursday, May 14, 2015 9:45 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Diabetes Detection in the Dental Office NASHVILLE – (BUSINESSWIRE) – Most people wouldn’t equate a dentist office visit with a diabetes diagnosis, but according to research presented today at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress, that’s one of the most logical places to be screened for the chronic disease. Taking advantage of the fact that most Americans regularly schedule visits with their dentist, more so than with their medical doctors, dental offices emerged as an innovative and effective means for diabetes screening – particularly prediabetes – through a survey with questions about a patient’s body weight, family history of diabetes, ethnicity and waist circumference. Also included, are facts about diabetes. “The main emphasis of our study is prevention,” said Saleh Aldasouqi, MD, FACE, ECNU, chief of endocrinology at Michigan State University and one of the lead investigators. “Faced with the fact that there are 29 million Americans with diabetes, of whom 8.1 million people (27.8 percent) are undiagnosed, we saw an opportunity to alleviate the health and financial burdens of undiagnosed diabetes by way of the dental office.” The study consisted of 500 patients who completed the 14-question survey and subsequently agreed to a finger stick for A1C measurement. The results showed that 19.2 percent were diagnosed with pre-diabetes and 1.2 percent with diabetes mellitus.” “Our study confirmed that engaging a dental office in the detection of diabetes is an important and proactive means of screening for undiagnosed pre-diabetes and diabetes,” added Dr. Aldasouqi. Dr. Aldasouqi will review his finding at a media briefing on Thursday, May 14, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Music City Center, Media Room. To read additional press releases about the AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville, please visit media.aace.com or use the Twitter hashtag #AM15. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. Embargoed Until Thursday, May 14 at 9:45 a.m. CT Contact: Mary Green 407-506-2960 [email protected] Physicians Say Patient Care Guided By Certified Diabetes Educator-Ambassadors Reaps Substantial Rewards NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (BUSINESSWIRE) – Certified diabetes educator “ambassadors” (CDE-A) – professionals trained by endocrinologists and practicing in primary care settings –can help patients with diabetes achieve significant patient improvements while easing the shortage of endocrine specialists available to treat the increasingly prevalent illness, says a medical team from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo. The Buffalo SUNY group, composed of internal medicine specialists, endocrinologists, internal medicine and RN/CDEs, shared its findings today at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress. The team conducted a retrospective review of 100 type 2 diabetes patients whose care was being managed by a CDE-A in a primary care setting and compared medical test results of those receiving CDE-A intervention with those who were not. The CDE-As continued to consult with the endocrinologist trainer on an as-needed basis, and any changes suggested by the CDE-A to the patient’s diabetes regimen had to be authorized first by the PCP. The differences between the two groups were substantial: in the CDE-A intervention group, during the study’s four-and-a-half month period, patients’ A1c levels, weight, BMI, blood pressure measurements, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels showed a marked improvement. In contrast, another group of patients with diabetes from the same practice who were not referred to a CDE-A showed no significant change in any of the measures. “The improvements that occurred in ambassador-guided patients’ glycemia, blood pressure, lipids and body weight could potentially lead to significant reductions in macro- and microvascular complications as well as an improvement in the quality of life for these patients,” said Paresh Dandona, MD, PhD, FRCP, FACP, Director of the Diabetes and Endocrinology Center of Western New York at the State University of New York at Buffalo. “Further, this treatment approach can help reduce the magnitude of expenditures which currently occurs in the management of these complications.” ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. Embargoed Until Friday, May 15, 2015 2:15 P.M. CT Contact: Amy Johnson 904.400.0884 [email protected] Testosterone Replacement Therapy Benefits Outweigh Risks Say Researchers NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (BUSINESSWIRE) – The benefits of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to treat low testosterone in both men and women substantially outweigh any risks, according to a panel of researchers presenting today at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress. Low testosterone – also known as low T– is characterized by lack of sex drive, diminishing energy, and hair, bone and muscle mass loss. The panel’s comments were in response to the FDA’s March 2015 safety alert cautioning that the benefits and safety of testosterone medications prescribed for age-related low testosterone levels have not been established. In that statement, the FDA also called for manufacturers to include labeling about a possible increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Endocrinologist Sandeep Dhindsa, MD, asserted that the FDA provided no meaningful definition of aging, leaving it unclear whether or not age restrictions for testosterone therapy also apply to middle-aged individuals. Dr. Dhindsa added that the safety alert does not address the role that testosterone decline itself plays in common co-morbidities such as obesity and type 2 diabetes at all ages, including adolescents and young men. “Any patient being considered for testosterone replacement therapy should undergo a thorough diagnostic work-up,” Dr. Dhindsa said. “The decision to replace testosterone therapy should be guided by the signs, symptoms and testosterone concentrations rather than the underlying cause,” he said. Susan Davis, MBBS, FRACP, PhD and Director of the Women’s Health Research Program in the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, also touted the safety and efficacy of TRT in women experiencing hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), a condition that persistently affects female sexual function, profoundly impairing quality of life. “Testosterone has been used to treat women with HSDD for decades with no evidence of emergent adverse events and should be seen as an effective and safe management option not just for sexual function, but also for effects on muscle and bone,” Dr. Davis said. Their comments aligned with the soon-to-be-published AACE Reproductive Endocrinology position statement on the association of testosterone and cardiovascular risks, which notes that there is no compelling evidence that TRT either increases or decreases cardiovascular risks and concludes that testosterone therapy favorably changes many cardiovascular risk factors by decreasing fat mass, increasing muscle mass and decreasing insulin resistance. To read additional press releases about the AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville, please visit media.aace.com or use the Twitter hashtag #AM15. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. Embargoed Until Thursday, May 15, 2015 9:45 a.m. CT Contact: Mary Green 407.506.2960 [email protected] Clinical Trial Outcomes Spotlighted at Scientific and Clinical Congress Show Favorable Results NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(BUSINESSWIRE)—A international trio of distinguished researchers presenting clinical trial outcomes today at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress shared favorable results for: · The world’s first commercially available non-statin drug to reduce elevated triglycerides in type 2 diabetes patients · An insulin-independent, blood glucose-lowering drug’s effects on pancreatic beta cells, and · Laser ablation for thyroid nodules Indian Academy of Diabetes President Dr. Shashank Joshi highlighted a nine-month study conducted in India that examined the safety and efficacy of saroglitazar, a novel drug that offers both lipid and glucose-lowering effects targeted at treating type 2 diabetes patients whose diabetic dyslipidemia or hypertriglyceridemia were not controlled by statins alone. Diabetic dyslipidemia is a condition featuring elevated levels of total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides and a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol; hypertriglyceridemia denotes higher-than-normal levels of fat in a person’s blood. The study showed significant improvements in triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density cholesterol and HbA1c levels in 787 patients with diabetic dyslipidemia who were prescribed saroglitazar once daily, without an accompanying increase in body weight or serious adverse events. An examination of the effects of glycemic control medication Dapagliflozin on beta-cell function and insulin resistance in adults with type 2 diabetes showed substantial improvement in both functions, providing strong clinical support that hyperglycemia, per se, contributes to both of these core defects in type 2 diabetes. The findings were presented by Dr. Carolina Solis-Herrera of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio A once-a-day oral treatment taken as an adjunct to diet and exercise, Dapagliflozin helps lower blood glucose levels by filtering excess glucose out of the blood and preventing its reabsorption in to the body by the kidneys. The excess glucose is then eliminated through urine. Dr. Enrico Papini, Director, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ospedale Regina Apostolorum, Albano, Rome, revealed the results of a retrospective, multicenter study of 1,531 patients who underwent 1,837 image-guided laser ablation therapy (LAT) treatments in Italy for benign thyroid nodules, which demonstrated both favorable clinical results and a well-tolerated procedure. For more information about the AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress, please visit media.aace.com or follow us on our official Twitter account at #AM15. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 6,500 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our website at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. Embargoed Until Friday, May 15, 2015 Contact: 11:00 AM CT Mary Green 407.506.2960 [email protected] Multicultural Physicians Panel Presents Rationale For Global “Transculturalization” of Preeminent Association’s Standards of Care NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (BUSINESS WIRE) – A gathering of expert endocrinologists representing the U.S., Egypt, India, Nigeria and Costa Rica advanced the cause for “transculturization” of patient care today at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress. A term coined by AACE, transculturalization calls for adapting clinical guidelines and treatment algorithms into medical practice that is more culturally specific and locally relevant, with the end goal of optimally improve the quality of patient care for conditions ranging from diabetes to thyroid disease, both domestically and globally. The group’s panel presentation highlighted the opportunities – and nuanced challenges – in achieving a maximized quality of endocrine care for patients across and within all borders. An important part of the process is the mandate for a single level of high-quality care, said panel moderator Jeffrey I. Mechanick, MD, FACN, FACP, FACE, ECNU, who is the impetus behind AACE’s transculturalization initiative. “While we acknowledge that variables from country to country and region to region will need to be addressed, such as patient socieoeconomic status, lack of availability of medications, and government and regulatory policies and more, in order to maximize patient care, a uniform standard of care must be the goal,” Dr. Mechanick said. Joining Dr. Mechanick as presenters were: Samuel Dagogo-Jack, MD, DM, FRCP, FACE, American Diabetes Association Board of Directors President, Medicine & Science; noted diabetes researcher and The Journal of Diabetes editorial board member Jaime Davidson, MD, FACP, MACE; Osama Hamdy, MBBCh, PhD, FACE, Medical Director of Joslin Diabetes Center’s Obesity Clinical Program; and Shashank R. Joshi, MD, FACP, FRCP,FACE, President of the Indian Academy of Diabetes. To read additional press releases about the AACE 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville, please visit media.aace.com or use the Twitter hashtag #AM15. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 12, 2015 at 5:15 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly and Company Share Philanthropy Award NASHVILLE—(May 12, 2015)— Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly and Company are the recipients of this year’s American College of Endocrinology Foundation’s (ACEF) Philanthropy Award, presented during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Philanthropy Award is presented by ACEF to an industry partner(s) who is a member of the Corporate AACE Partnership (CAP), which has made a charitable contribution to the American College of Endocrinology. “Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly formed an alliance devoted to developing new treatments for diabetes that help make life better for people with the condition,” said Karen Iannella, executive director, external affairs, Boehringer Ingelheim. “AACE supports the needs of the diabetes community through information and programs and we are proud to be a part of their efforts,” added Jackie Giovanoni, global director, advocacy and professional relations, Lilly Diabetes. The two pharmaceutical companies joined forces in support the work of ACE in providing patient-centered and professional development/education programs for physicians and allied health professionals for the advancement of science. Founded in 1885 by Albert Boehringer, in Ingelheim am Rhein, the company today known as Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceutical Company is one of the world's leading research-driven pharmaceutical companies. Eli Lilly and Company was founded in 1876 by Colonel Eli Lilly, a man committed to creating high-quality medicines that meet real needs. More than a century later, the pharmaceutical company continues in their pursuit to make life better for individuals, communities, and the world. ### About the American College of Endocrinology Foundation (ACEF) The American College of Endocrinology Foundation (ACEF) was created to provide independent financial support for the American College of Endocrinology’s (ACE) patient education programs, physician/allied health professional education and advancing science. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 12, 2015 at 5:15 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Novo Nordisk Receives the Outstanding Corporate Partner Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 12, 2015)— Novo Nordisk has been named the Outstanding Corporate Partner at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in this week in Nashville. The AACE Outstanding Corporate Partner Award is presented to an industry partner who is a member of the Corporate AACE Partnership (CAP) and has demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication as a partner with AACE to improve the health of patients through various programs and initiatives promoting the future of endocrinology. “We are proud to be named Outstanding Corporate Partner by AACE leadership. At Novo Nordisk, our mission is to improve the care of those people living with diabetes, and to put their needs at the center of everything we do,” said Todd Hobbs, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Novo Nordisk North America. “We look forward to continuing our work with the CAP and partnering with AACE to bring meaningful, positive change to the field of endocrinology and most importantly to the lives of patients.” Headquartered in Denmark, Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company with 90 years of innovation and leadership in diabetes care. The company also has leading positions within haemophilia care, growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy. Further information about Novo Nordisk is available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 14, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Philippine Physician Presented International Clinician Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 14, 2015) Gerry H. Tan, MD, FACP, FACE, FPCP, FPSEDM, received the International Clinician Award during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The International Clinician Award is given to an AACE member who is a clinical endocrinologist practicing outside of the United States in recognition of dedicated and compassionate care provided to patients with endocrine diseases. Recipients possess an exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of clinical endocrinology and active advocacy AACE’s mission in both professional and public environments. “Success is not measured by how many accolades one receives, but how complete one feels as a recognized endocrinologist being selected as this year’s recipient of the most prestigious International Clinician Award by the AACE,” said Dr. Tan. “I owe this recognition not only to my colleagues – especially my AACE-Philippines family, but most importantly to my patients who have taught me not only to become an astute compassionate clinician, but by being instrumental in molding me to be a better person, too.” Dr. Tan practices in Cebu City, Philippines. In addition to his busy clinical practice, he finds time to teach medical students, endocrinology fellows and internal medicine residents at two major tertiary teaching institutions. He speaks at various public venues about wellness, diabetes and endocrine disorders and writes a monthly column for the Philippines’ FOOD Magazine. After his internal medicine residency at New York Medical College, he performed his fellowship training in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism at the Mayo Clinic Medical School in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Tan’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 14, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Innovative National Institutes of Health Endocrinologist Presented Outstanding Clinical Endocrinologist Award NASHVILLE, Tenn. —(May 14, 2015)— Karel Pacak, MD, PhD, DSc, received the Outstanding Clinical Endocrinologist Award at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The AACE Outstanding Clinical Endocrinologist Award is given in recognition of dedicated and compassionate care provided to patients with endocrine diseases, exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of clinical endocrinology, and active advocacy of AACE’s mission in both professional and public environments. Since 2000, Dr. Pacak established one of the most productive, nationally and internationally recognized, and patientoriented pheochromocytoma–tumors of the adrenal gland, and paraganglioma--tumors that arise in chromaffin cells outside the adrenal gland, research programs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). “I’ve devoted my work for exceptional commitment to the scientific advancements of the genetics, diagnosis, imaging, treatment and care of patients with pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. Dr. Pacak is the current and tenured Chief of the Section on Medical Neuroendocrinology of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. He has received numerous awards for his work and has published more than 219 articles in the field of pheochromocytoma. Dr. Pacak’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 14, 2015 at 11:05 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Stanford University School of Medicine Professor Receives Endocrine Teaching Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 14, 2015) Laurence Katznelson, MD, received the H. Jack Baskin, MD, Endocrine Teaching Award during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The H. Jack Baskin, MD, Endocrine Teaching Award is given to an AACE member who has made a profound impact in teaching fellows-in-training and is actively involved in educating in a university setting. Dr. Katznelson is a Professor of Neurosurgery and Medicine at Stanford, and served as the Endocrinology Fellowship Program Director for 10 years. He is credited for building a model teaching program involving multidisciplinary education and approaches to teaching endocrine sub-specialties and endocrine pathology. An effective mentor to endocrinology trainees, Dr. Katznelson has served as council member of the Association of Program Directors in Endocrinology and Metabolism (APDEM) – a source for information on training in Endocrinology and Metabolism for directors of training programs. Currently, Dr. Katznelson serves as Chair of the Pituitary and Neuroendocrine Research Committee for AACE. Also, Dr. Katznelson serves as the Associate Dean of Graduate Medical Education, Stanford University School of Medicine. “Educating the next generation of endocrinologists is a critical mission of mine, and I am deeply honored to receive this award for my work,” said Dr. Katznelson. Dr. Katznelson’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7, 000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 15, 2015 at 8:10 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator Receives Frontiers in Science Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 15, 2015)— Ronald M. Evans, PhD, a professor in the Gene Expression Laboratory at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, California, is the recipient of the 2015 Frontiers in Science Award presented during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Frontiers in Science Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary contributions to their individual profession or area of expertise. They are recommended by the Program Committee. “Hormone signaling pathways provide a molecular portal to understanding body physiology and treatment of disease. It’s an honor to be among the select group of physicians and scientists who have previously received this award.” Dr. Evans is a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator. He is known for his work on nuclear receptors and the mechanism of hormone signaling. His work on isolation of the genes encoding hormone-receptors revealed how they help control sugar, salt, calcium and fat metabolism as well as reproductive physiology. Dr. Evan’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 15, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Medical Officer at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute at the National Institutes of Health Presented Prestigious Service Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 15, 2015)— Larissa Avilés-Santa, MD, MPH, FACP, FACE, received the Outstanding Service Award for Promotion of Endocrine Health of an Underserved Population at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Outstanding Service Award is presented to an individual for outstanding contributions to the endocrine care, health and service to an underserved population in the United States or abroad via leadership, long-term commitment, vision, innovation and impact. Dr. Avilés-Santa earned her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine and performed her residency at the University Hospital in San Juan. She furthered her training in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, where she eventually joined the faculty. Her main clinical research focused on understanding the relationship between improved glycemic control and traditional/non-traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors in young Hispanics/Latinos with type 2 diabetes. “What an immense honor,” said Dr. Avilés-Santa. “I am very humbled by this recognition, which I truly owe to my family and friends for their support and inspiration to work with passion and perseverance; to my mentors, mentees and colleagues for encouraging me to continue working toward the improvement of the health of Hispanics; and to my patients for teaching me great lessons on health and healing.” Furthermore, Dr. Avilés-Santa is the Project Director of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL), the largest study on Hispanic/Latino health to date, with more than 16,000 Hispanic/Latino adults participating from San Diego, Chicago, Miami and the Bronx. She has worked as a volunteer physician at the Mission Arlington-Mission Metroplex Outpatient Clinic, and joined colleagues on medical missions to Honduras and Guatemala. Dr. Avilés-Santa’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 15, 2015 at 9:05 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] California Endocrinologist Receives Prestigious Service Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 15, 2015)— Robert B. Mims, MD, FACE, received the Outstanding Service Award for Promotion of Endocrine Health of an Underserved Population at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Outstanding Service Award is presented to an individual for outstanding contributions to the endocrine care, health and service to an underserved population in the United States or abroad via leadership, long-term commitment, vision, innovation and impact. “I had wanted to be a physician since age 10, to help people who had no easy access to medical care,” said Dr. Mims. “Practicing in North coastal, rural California fulfilled my dream, which was also my life's mission, and not just a job. For this I am thankful.” A retired Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Mims relocated to rural Santa Rosa, California in 1977, and opened the only endocrinology practice in the area at the time. Eventually, he recruited other endocrinologists, set up telemedicine sites, and opened endocrine clinics in three other counties. Dr. Mims served this area until his retirement in 2006, however, he still makes a few pro-bono calls to elderly patients, and helps others find active endocrinologists in the area. Dr. Mims biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 15, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Former Atlanta Hawks Star Player Receives the Eugene T. Davidson, MD, Award for Public Service NASHVILLE, Tenn. —(May 15, 2015)— Former University of Georgia Basketball player and NBA Hall of Famer, Mr. Dominique Wilkins, received the Eugene T. Davidson, MD, Award for Public Service during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Eugene T. Davidson, MD, Award is given to a health professional, organization, or individual lay person for outstanding contributions to advancing the mission of AACE, in providing quality health care for patients with endocrine diseases and for the betterment of public health. The most celebrated player to ever put on an Atlanta Hawks uniform, Mr. Wilkins is now the Hawks’ Vice President of Basketball, a position he has held for nine seasons. In this role, he advises senior management on basketball-related issues and serves as a strong voice in the community. Active in local and national charities, Mr. Wilkins has worked with many organizations such as a the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Special Olympics, Muscular Dystrophy Association and the American Lung Association. In 2007, he launched “Nique and Newt’s Full-Court Press on Diabetes,” with former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich. In 2010, Mr. Wilkins was honored by the Georgia State Legislature as they presented a State Resolution naming him the Diabetes Ambassador for the state of Georgia. Also, he serves as the Diabetes Ambassador for Novo Nordisk. Mr. Wilkins biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 15, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] University of Texas Medical School Professor and Patients’ Right Activist Presented John A. Seibel, MD, Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 15, 2015)— Carlos R. Hamilton, Jr., MD, FACP, MACE, received the John A. Seibel, MD, Award given by the American College of Endocrinology Foundation (ACEF), during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The John A. Seibel, MD, Award is presented to an individual that has promoted the continued excellence of ACE through charitable contributions. Selection is based on three levels of philanthropic giving to the American College of Endocrinology. Dr. Hamilton has practiced clinical endocrinology and internal medicine for 43 years. Since 2000, he has served as Special Advisor to the President of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and Professor of Internal Medicine at the UT Medical School. He is a past president of the AACE (2004-2005) as well as a past president of the American College of Endocrinology (2007-2008). Dr. Hamilton’s full biography and high resolution photo is available here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology Foundation (ACEF) The American College of Endocrinology Foundation (ACEF) was created to provide independent financial support for the American College of Endocrinology’s (ACE) patient education programs, physician/allied health professional education and advancing science. For more information, please visit https://www.aace.com/acef/about. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 8:10 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Mount Sinai Cardiologist Recognized for Exemplary Contributions to Endocrinology NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Valentín Fuster, MD, PhD, will officially receive the 2014 Frontiers in Science Award at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. Due to a last minute conflict, Dr. Fuster was unable to attend the 2014 Congress held in Las Vegas. The Frontiers in Science Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary contributions to their individual profession or area of expertise. “Cardiologists and endocrinologists working together have advanced research and clinical care of patients living with both diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Fuster. “I am proud to accept this distinguished award from AACE on behalf of all cardiologists and endocrinologists fighting the two-front war against diabetes and heart disease.” Throughout his career, Dr. Fuster has received many awards from organizations around the world, including the Lefoulon Delalande Grand Prix from the Institute of France – one of the most prestigious awards given in cardiovascular research and the 2012 Research Achievement Award – the highest honor given by the American Heart Association. Dr. Fuster has been granted 33 honorary doctorate degrees from distinguished universities around the world. Dr. Fuster is currently the Physician-In-Chief at The Mount Sinai Hospital and Director of Mount Sinai Heart, the Zena and Michael A Weiner Cardiovascular Institute and the Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Cardiovascular Health at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai where he serves asthe Richard Gorlin, MD/Heart Research Foundation Professor. In addition, Dr. Fuster is the General Director of the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC) in Madrid, Spain and Chairman of the Science for Health and Education (SHE) Foundation. Dr. Fuster’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Baylor College Clinical Professor of Medicine Receives Excellence in Medical Ethics Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Sheldon Rubenfeld, MD, FACP, FACE, received the Excellence in Medical Ethics Award at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Excellence in Medical Ethics Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary and continuing dedication to upholding the highest principles of medical ethics and standards for the betterment of the public’s health. Dr. Rubenfeld has taught “Jewish Medical Ethics” and “Healing by Killing: Medicine in the Third Reich” at Baylor and the University of Texas Medical School of Houston for seven years. He’s the founding chair of the Center for Medicine after the Holocaust, whose mission is to challenge the medical community to confront the medical ethics of the Holocaust and apply it to their work. “I am deeply honored to receive the Excellence in Medical Ethics Award, and I thank the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists for recognizing the integral role that medical professionals played in the design and the implementation of the Holocaust, and the value of studying, researching, and teaching this history,” said Dr. Rubenfeld. Dr. Rubenfeld’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 9:05 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Israeli Endocrinologist Receives International Endocrinology Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Zvi Laron, MD, PhD, received the International Endocrinology Award at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The International Endocrinology Award is presented to an endocrinologist outside of the United States in recognition of delivering outstanding care to endocrine patients, delivering care to a population of patients with endocrine problems, developing a system of care for an endocrine problem, organizing clinical endocrinologists, affecting social changes that lead to improved care for the endocrine patient and educating the public about endocrine problems. Dr. Laron is Director of Endocrinology and Diabetes Research Unit, Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel in Petah Tikva, and Professor Emeritus of Pediatric Endocrinology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University. Most notably, his research in the discovery and description of a new disease – the Laron Syndrome – caused by deletions or mutations of the Growth Hormone Receptor, causing Growth Hormone (GH)-insensitivity, resulted in opening new doors in endocrinology research as well as the treatment of childhood diabetes. “I’m greatly honored to receive this award by the American College of Endocrinology – a country where I received my postgraduate training, witnessing the development of endocrinology,” said Dr. Laron. “I wish to mention my mentors, Jack Crawford and Nathan Talbot from the Massachusetts General Hospital and Robert Klein of the Pittsburgh Children, who inspired my future work.” Dr. Laron’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 11:05 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Longtime Atlanta Diabetes Specialist Presented Distinction in Endocrinology Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Paul Davidson, MD, received the Distinction in Endocrinology Award at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Distinction in Endocrinology Award is given to an AACE member in recognition of advancing the understanding of endocrinology through research and education. Dr. Davidson has worked in the field of diabetes care for 57 years, contributing to bench research, medical editing and writing, academic and professional teaching, treatment protocols, computerized instruments and more throughout his career. Initially trained in research and medical journalism, Dr. Davidson moved to Emory University, where he worked with others to develop the Glucocommander – the original computerized insulin titration instrument – available now under the name Glytec. Along with two of his protégés, Dr. Davidson founded the Atlanta Diabetes Associates in 1984 – of which he still practices today – and which became known as the largest private practice of insulin pump therapy in the world. Also that year, he was named medical director of the Diabetes Treatment Centers of America. “As Galileo said, ‘If I were beginning my studies I would follow the advice of Plato and start with mathematics,’” said Dr. Davidson. “I finished my undergraduate years by studying and loving calculus and physical chemistry. When my draft board would not defer me for graduate school in physics, they suggested they would reconsider if I were in medical school. Since then I’ve been fascinated with the quantitative analytical nature of clinical diabetes. The simultaneous birth of the portable BG meter, the insulin pump, and the A1C launched me on to the path of developing algorithms for managing diabetes. Two engineers and mathematicians, now diabetologists, Dennis Steed and Harry Hebblewhite, supported my remedial education and collaborated with me in the development of Glucommander and PumpMaster. These resulted in systems to achieve excellent diabetes control without hypoglycemia for in-patients and out-patients.” Dr. Davidson’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7, 000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Longtime Medical Educator Presented Distinction in Endocrinology Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— George E. Shambaugh III, MD, FACP, FACE, received the American College of Endocrinology’s (ACE) Distinction in Endocrinology Award during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Distinction in Endocrinology Award is given to an AACE member in recognition of advancing the understanding of endocrinology through research and education. From the establishment of a cyclic training program in preventive medicine in the Army of The Republic of China, to teaching practical clinical endocrinology to medical residents at Northwestern University and endocrine fellows at Emory University, Dr. Shambaugh considers teaching his passion. At Northwestern, Dr. Shambaugh was active in the formation of the fellowship training program, served as co-director of the nutrition elective, established the diabetes teaching program at the VA Lakeside Medical Center in Chicago and the Adam P. Benjamin Clinic in Crown Point, Indiana. Today, he continues to actively participate in ongoing teaching activities at Emory University and in the Grady Health System. “I am deeply honored to receive this award from ACE,” said Dr. Shambaugh. “One of the most fundamental parts of ourselves that we can give to others is knowledge – teaching. “Broadened and seasoned with life’s experiences, teaching is an important gift that’s part of you and that you can share with the world, your patients, students, preceptors and your colleagues.” Dr. Shambaugh’s biography and high resolution photo are found here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7, 000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] CHOP Physician Receives Master of the American College of Endocrinology Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015) Michael A. Levine, MD, FACE, received the Master of the American College of Endocrinology (MACE) Award during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The MACE Award is given to an AACE member who has received the Fellow of the American College of Endocrinology (FACE) distinction, is recognized as a distinguished practicing endocrinologist as well as a role model for developing endocrinologists, and is a contributor to AACE and to the art and science of endocrinology. “I am honored to have been selected by the College for this recognition, and grateful for their continued advocacy and promotion of our specialty,” said Dr. Levine. “I am also humbled by the accomplishments and expertise of those whom I join as a MACE, and whose careers have greatly inspired me.” Dr. Levine is Chief of Endocrinology and Diabetes and Director of the Center for Bone Health at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). He holds the Lester Baker Endowed Chair and is Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Perlman School of Medicine. His research focuses on the genetic basis of disorders of bone and mineral metabolism and complements his clinical expertise in endocrine diseases that affect bone and mineral metabolism. Dr. Levine’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Yale University Professor Receives Master of the American College of Endocrinology Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Gerald I. Shulman, MD, PhD, FACE, received the Master of the American College of Endocrinology (MACE) Award during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The MACE Award is given to an AACE member who has received the Fellow of the American College of Endocrinology (FACE) distinction, is recognized as a distinguished practicing endocrinologist as well as a role model for developing endocrinologists, and is a contributor to AACE and to the art and science of endocrinology. Dr. Shulman is an Investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the George R. Cowgill Professor of Physiological Chemistry, Medicine and Cellular & Molecular Physiology at Yale University. And, he is co-director of the Yale Diabetes Research Center. Dr. Shulman pioneered the use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy to non-invasively examine intracellular glucose and fat metabolism in humans, leading to several paradigm shifts in understanding Type 2 diabetes. “I am delighted and honored to receive this award from AACE,” said Dr. Shulman. Dr. Shulman’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. CT Contact: Joy Batteh-Freiha (904) 422-7645 [email protected] Houston Physician Receives Prestigious Distinguished Service Award NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Steven M. Petak, MD, JD, MACE, FACP, FCLM, received the Yank D. Coble, Jr., M.D., Distinguished Service Award during the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress in Nashville this week. The Yank D. Coble, Jr., M.D., Distinguished Service Award is given to an AACE member who is recognized by his peers as a leader in American medicine and whose personal and professional conduct reflect the values and vision of AACE. Dr. Petak is a past president of both AACE and ACE, as well as the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). He is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Weill-Cornell Medical College and practices clinical endocrinology at the Methodist Academic Medicine Associates at Houston Methodist Hospital. Also, he serves as a bone and endocrine consultant to NASA at the Johnson Space Center. He has authored and co-authored numerous articles, editorials and guidelines in endocrinology and reproductive medicine. “It is a great honor to receive this prestigious award and I dedicate it to the young endocrinologists that are the future of our profession,” said Dr. Petak. “Serving our patients is paramount. Ensuring that what we have learned is passed along to the next generation is essential to connect our own mentors’ teachings with what will be taught across future generations. This is our legacy and I am proud to have made some small contribution.” Dr. Petak received his medical degree from the University of Illinois in Chicago and his juris doctorate from the University of Houston (Magna Cum Laude). Prior to joining Methodist Academic Medicine Associates, Dr. Petak was at the Texas Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Endocrinology in Houston for nearly 26 years. Dr. Petak’s biography and high-resolution photo are available here. ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). ACE is the leader in advancing the care and prevention of endocrine and metabolic disorders by: providing professional education and reliable public health information; recognizing excellence in education, research and service; promoting clinical research and defining the future of Clinical Endocrinology. For more information, please visit www.aace.com/college. About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. A majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 AT 2:15 PM CT Contact: Glenn Sebold 904.373.7878 [email protected] Michigan Based Physician Installed as President of Major Physician Organization NASHVILLE, Tn.—(May 16, 2015)—George Grunberger, MD, FACP, FACE was announced as President of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) today at its 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville. Dr. Grunberger will lead the world’s largest clinical endocrinologist association with more than 7,000 members from more than 90 different countries. He will lead the Association’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors and serve as the principal spokesperson for AACE. “I will apply my leadership experience to fulfill the AACE mission statement by ensuring that AACE members are equipped with optimal knowledge and expertise to provide unequaled clinical care,” said Grunberger. “AACE needs to apply its muscle to assure our members can function in a successful practice environment, whether as private or employed practitioners or academic clinical endocrinologists.” Dr. Grunberger established Grunberger Diabetes Institute in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, in 2002. In addition to his practice, he also serves as Clinical Professor of Internal Medicine and Molecular Medicine & Genetics at Wayne State University School of Medicine and Professor of Internal Medicine at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. As tenured Full Professor at Wayne in 1986, he established and directed the Diabetes Program at the Detroit Medical Center and the University’s Comprehensive Diabetes Center until 2002. He also served as Director of Center for Molecular Medicine & Genetics from 1997 to 2001 and Interim Chairman of Internal Medicine at Wayne and Physicianin-Chief of the Detroit Medical Center in 1995 - 1996. Dr. Grunberger completed an endocrinology & metabolism fellowship at the Diabetes Branch of NIDDK/NIH where he then became Senior Investigator until 1986. He completed his internal medicine residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland and received his medical degree in 1977 at New York University School of Medicine and his Bachelor of Arts at Columbia College in New York City in 1973. In 2015, Dr. Grunberger was appointed as Visiting Professor in the First Faculty of Medicine at Charles University in Prague. His AACE activities include six years as a national Board member, an officer of the organization since 2012, and membership on multiple committees and councils. Dr. Grunberger served as chair of the Finance, Chapters, 2012 Annual Meeting Program, and AES committees. He currently chairs the FDA Subcommittee, Primary Care Physician Education Committee and the Task Force for Insulin Pump Management. He chaired the Consensus Conference on Glucose Monitoring in September 2014 and serves as co-chair for the Corporate AACE Partnership Steering Committee and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Developing a Diabetes Mellitus Comprehensive Care Plan. He served locally as the Michigan AACE Chapter President for six years and has been active in other professional organizations. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 AT 2:15 PM CT Contact: Glenn Sebold 904.353.78878 [email protected] Illinois-Based Physician Installed as President Elect of Major Physician Organization NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Pauline Camacho, MD, FACE, was elected President Elect of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) at its 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville on Saturday, May 16. “Since its inception two decades ago, AACE has changed the practice of endocrinology. However, our work at AACE is just beginning,” said Dr. Camacho. “We are reaching out to domestic and international endocrinologists through our educational programs and publications, and I look forward to assisting the President in running the organization and addressing the needs of our membership.” As President Elect, Dr. Camacho will support the President in all matters of the association, and will assume the duties of the AACE President in the event that the President is unable to act. She will also serve on the Association’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Dr. Camacho is an endocrinologist at Loyola University Medical Center in Illinois. She is a Professor of Medicine, Director of the Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Disease Center, and the Program Director for the Endocrinology Fellowship Program at Loyola University. Dr. Camacho has been actively involved with AACE since her fellowship. She served as the Fellow-in-Training (FIT) representative to the Board of Directors from 1999-2000 and was then elected to the AACE Board of Directors in 2003. During her terms as a Board member, she has chaired the Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee, Publications Committee, and AACE Finance Committee, among others. Dr. Camacho has also served as a member of the Membership, International, Education Services, and Legislative and Regulatory Committees. She has been a member of the AACE Annual Meeting Clinical Congress Program Committee for a total of nine years. Dr. Camacho is currently the Chair of the AACE Education Services Committee, Bone and Parathyroid Committee and Maintenance of Certification (MOC) Re-Certification Committee, and is the Vice-Chair of the International Endocrine Education Committee. She served as the Treasurer for AACE and Secretary and Treasurer for the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) in 2013-2014. Her work for the College currently includes membership in the College Foundation Task Force, Chairing the FACE Application Committee in 2010-2011, and serving two terms on the ACE Board of Trustees. Dr. Camacho spearheaded the ABIM SEP session in 2009, which will be in its seventh year in 2015, and is now actively representing AACE in the National Bone Health Alliance, National Osteoporosis Foundation, and ASBMR. Dr. Camacho has published three books: “Evidence Based Endocrinology”, “Osteoporosis: A Guide for Clinicians” (Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins, PA), and “A Color Handbook of Endocrinology and Metabolism” (Manson, UK). ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 AT 2:15 PM CT Contact: Glenn Sebold 904.373.7878 [email protected] Dallas Based Endocrinologist Installed as Vice President of Major Physician Organization NASHVILLE, Tenn.—(May 16, 2015)— Jonathan D. Leffert, MD, FACP, FACE, ECNU was elected Vice President of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) at its 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville today. “I am proud and honored to be elected Vice President of AACE, the professional society which is on forefront of education, and practice management for our endocrinologist members and their patients,” said Dr. Leffert. As Vice President, Dr. Leffert will act on behalf of the AACE President and/or President Elect in the event that both are unable to fulfill their duties. Dr. Leffert will also serve on the Association’s Executive Committee and the Board of Directors. Dr. Leffert attended Brown University and graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor of Arts in biology. He received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1983 and completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Parkland Memorial Hospital and UT Southwestern in 1986. His clinical and research fellowship in Endocrinology was obtained at UT Southwestern under the mentorship of Dr. Roger Unger. He was awarded an NIH Physician- Scientist Award for his work on the cloning and characterization of rat amylin. Dr. Leffert entered solo private practice at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas in 1991 and then formed North Texas Endocrine Center with his partner, Peter Bressler, MD, in 2007. He currently serves as Managing Partner of this practice and is active in the teaching program at Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas. He holds an appointment in the Department of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern as an Assistant Clinical Professor. Since 2000, Dr. Leffert has been involved in local, state and national medical organization from serving on the Board of Directors of the Dallas County Medical Society to Alternate Delegate to the American Medical Association. His passion, however, has always been with AACE, serving as Chair of several committees and task forces over the last 10 years. He has been an Advisor or elected member of the AACE Board of Directors since 2005. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 AT 2:15 P.M. CT Contact: Glenn Sebold 904.373.7878 [email protected] Minnesota Based Physician Installed as Treasurer of Major Physician Organization NASHVILLE, Tenn. — (May 16, 2015)— Daniel Hurley, MD, FACE, was elected Treasurer of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) at its 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville today. Dr. Hurley commented, “I am extremely excited to be elected to my new position as Treasurer of AACE. I look forward to help face the challenges in the year ahead for fiscal stability at AACE. Through the concerted efforts of our executive committee, board of directors and AACE staff I know we will be able to act on innovative ideas for financial growth.” As Treasurer, Dr. Hurley will oversee the collection, retention and expenditure of all AACE funds. He will also serve as Chair of the Finance Committee, on the Executive Committee and on the Association’s Board of Directors. Dr. Hurley completed his Internal Medicine Residency and Endocrinology Fellowship at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, Rochester, MN. He received his Endocrine Research training in Bone and Mineral Metabolism. Dr. Hurley joined the Mayo Staff in 1986 and is a Consultant in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition. Dr. Hurley is Assistant Professor of Medicine at Mayo Medical School. He was Director of the Endocrine Fellowship Program from 1992-1997 and currently is Co-Chair of Mayo’s Effective Communication-in-Healthcare (ECIH) faculty, teaching workshops on professionalism, effective communication, cross cultural awareness, and teamwork. In this role, he is also an executive member of the Mayo Program on Professionalism and Ethics. Dr. Hurley’s primary clinical interests are metabolic bone disease, hospital nutrition, and obesity/bariatric nutrition. He was a member of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) Self-Assessment Committee and has served as a member and chair of the American Society of Bone and Mineral (ASBMR) Adult Bone and Mineral Working Group. In support of AACE Fellows, Dr. Hurley served on the Endocrine Training and Support Committee and is on the planning committee for Endocrine University® (EU) and presents annually at EU. At AACE, Dr. Hurley has served two prior consecutive three-year terms on the Board of Directors and as a Program Committee Co-Chair for the AACE Clinical Congress 2010 and 2014. He has served on multiple AACE/ACE committees to include (present) Chair of the Nutrition Scientific Committee, (past) Chair of the Academic Endocrinologists Committee, and (past) Chair of the Chapters Committee. Regionally, he has served AACE as past Vice President and President of the Minnesota/Midwest Chapter. Most recently, Dr. Hurley was appointed to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition Science Board for 2014-2016. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 AT 2:15 PM CT Contact: Glenn Sebold 904.373.7878 [email protected] South Carolina Based Physician Installed as Secretary of Major Physician Organization NASHVILLE, Tenn. — (May 16, 2015)—Sandra L. Weber, MD, FACP, FACE was elected Secretary of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) at its 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville today. “AACE is a dynamic organization with far reaching capabilities, and I am honored to serve as Secretary to help expand upon those opportunities,” said Dr. Weber. As secretary, Dr. Weber will serve on the Association’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors. She will also serve on committees and task forces as appointed by the AACE president. Dr. Weber grew up in the Chicago area, and in high school she was a finalist in the NASA Space Shuttle Student Involvement Program. She was admitted to the Honors Program in Medical Education at Northwestern University and received her medical degree in 1989. Internship, residency, chief residency, and fellowship were completed at the University of Miami with continued practice at the University of Miami. During her training, she attended multiple meetings where AACE founder, Dr. Yank Coble, spoke of a new organization for clinical endocrinologists and saw the foundations of AACE being formed. In 1996, Dr. Weber moved to Greenville, South Carolina, where she continues to practice endocrinology, is one of the founding faculty of the new medical school, USCSOM-Greenville, is involved in the residency teaching program, is active in clinical research, serves as Chief of the Division of Endocrinology, and Chairs Continuing Medical Education at Greenville Health System, University Medical Group. She is married to Dr. Charles Woody and has two children, Christopher and Stephanie. Dr. Weber is proud of the balance in her life between family, career, and volunteerism but could not accomplish it without the continued support of such a great family. ### About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) represents more than 7,000 endocrinologists in the United States and abroad. AACE is the largest association of clinical endocrinologists in the world. The majority of AACE members are certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism and concentrate on the treatment of patients with endocrine and metabolic disorders including diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, growth hormone deficiency, cholesterol disorders, hypertension and obesity. Visit our site at www.aace.com. American College of Endocrinology 245 Riverside Avenue · Suite 200 · Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Phone: (904) 353-7878 · Fax: (904) 353-8185 · http://www.aace.com EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 16, 2015 AT 2:15 PM CT Contact: Glenn Sebold 904.373.7878 [email protected] Las Vegas Physician Installed as President of the American College of Endocrinology NASHVILLE, Tenn. — (May 16, 2015) — Alan J. Garber, MD, PhD, FACE, was installed as President of the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ (AACE) 24th Annual Scientific and Clinical Congress in Nashville today. “AACE is the premier professional society for endocrinologists and ACE is its scientific and educational arm,” said Dr. Garber. “I shall endeavor to broaden the spectrum and increase the depth of educational offerings from the College to our members, and support their efforts toward maintaining skills and acquiring the new knowledge and training necessary to practice at the highest levels of competency in all aspects of our specialty.” A graduate of Temple University in Philadelphia in 1968, Dr. Garber completed his doctorate in Biochemistry in 1971, as well as a residency in Internal Medicine. Subsequently, he was a fellow in Metabolism and then a junior faculty member at Washington University Medical School and Barnes Hospital in St. Louis. In 1974, he transferred to Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where he was an Investigator for the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Presently, Dr. Garber is a Professor in the Department of Medicine, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Molecular and Cellular Biology at Baylor. A past president of AACE and chancellor, Dr. Garber has held several leadership positions and served on numerous boards within AACE, the American Diabetes Association, the Southern Section of the American Federation of Clinical Research and the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Also, he served as President of the Southern Society for Clinical Research, The Southern Society for Clinical Investigation, and the Texas Affiliate of the American Diabetes Association. Dr. Garber has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, as well as book chapters and monographs. He served as editor of Clinical Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolism Clinics of North America and Medical Clinics of North America. Presently, he is the current Editor of Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism and Endocrine Today. Some of his most recent collaborative authorships include: the AACE and ACE Protocol for Standardized Production of Clinical Practice Guidelines, Algorithms, and Checklists (2014); The AACE Obesity Scientific Committee, AACE and ACE Position Statement on the 2014 Advanced Framework for a New Diagnosis of Obesity as a Chronic Disease (2014); the AACE Obesity Scientific Committee; and the Consensus Conference on Obesity: Building an Evidence Basefor Comprehensive Action (2014). ### About the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) The American College of Endocrinology (ACE) is the educational and scientific arm of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). The American College of Endocrinology is a scientific, educational and charitable medical organization dedicated to promoting the art and science of clinical endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism for the improvement of patient care and public health. Visit our site at www.aace.com.
© Copyright 2024