ACR Journals On Air

Dr. Ami A Shah from Johns Hopkins discusses the link between Scleroderma and cancer risk, highlighting specific antibody profiles as indicators. The podcast explores genetic alterations, biomarkers, and collaborations in examining this connection. Dr. Shah also shares her journey to becoming a physician-scientist, mentoring others in Scleroderma research through a K24 grant, and emphasizing leadership and collaboration in the Rheumatology Division at Johns Hopkins.

Explore the connection between gut nerves, intuition, and gut health through a study on Anti-Gephron Antibodies in systemic sclerosis. Discover how antibodies in the gastrointestinal tract impact gut function and potential biomarkers for lower GI disease. Hear about a rheumatologist's career journey and insights on transitioning to an independent investigator. Learn about the challenges and importance of a supportive network when moving institutions.

Dr. Steinmetz discusses B cell hyperactivity in Sjogren's Syndrome, ASC maturity, salivary gland infiltration, and new technologies in antibody cell analysis. The podcast also explores the challenges in studying IgG levels, international research experiences, and the evolving nature of scientific knowledge.

Exploring the global impact of COVID-19 on rheumatic disease patients and healthcare providers worldwide. Discussion on challenges faced, responses in Australia and New Zealand, lessons learned from unique COVID-19 responses, and the impact on rheumatology patients globally. Reflections on volunteering for board of directors and the Fulbright program and cultural exchange.

Dr. David R. Jayne discusses his study on an anti-CD40 antibody in lupus nephritis, highlighting the power of negative studies. They talk about challenges in conducting trials, measurement of anti-drug antibodies, embracing failures in science, and the importance of publishing negative results.

Dr. Giovanni Adami, a researcher studying bone loss in patients treated with low-dose glucocorticoids, discusses the potential benefits of low doses in inflammatory diseases and the limitations of measuring bone mineral density in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. The podcast also explores the findings of a study on osteoporosis therapy for rheumatic disease patients receiving lower glucocorticoid doses, suggesting a change in practice compared to current guidelines.

The podcast discusses the shift to virtual fellowship interviews and the importance of creating an inclusive and applicant-centered experience. It explores the findings that virtual interviews went smoothly and were preferred by fellows. The benefits and challenges of dual accreditation in rheumatology and allergy immunology are also discussed. The speaker's role as an associate editor for the Gold Foundation's Humanism in Research program is highlighted, along with the opportunity to write for the Rheumatologist Magazine and the impact of COVID-19 on rheumatology education.

Dr. Paul Monach discusses the application of the complement system in the clinical setting, including its role in autoimmune diseases. He also shares insights on his career in immunology and provides advice on mentoring in the field.

Dr. Brad H Rovin, the first author of a manuscript on Lupus Nephritis treatment, discusses a study on Obenituzumab and its effects on kidney function in Lupus Nephritis patients. The study revealed that Obenituzumab could help preserve kidney function and reduce lupus nephritis flares. The podcast also touches on challenges in conducting clinical trials for Lupus Nephritis and the potential of precision medicine. Additionally, the guest shares their goal of fishing in every country they speak in and their fishing experiences.

This week on ‘Journals’, we turn our attention to a rare but challenging and heart-breaking complication of rheumatic disease, Congenital Heart Block. Sir Deryck and Lady Va Maughan Professor of Rheumatology and Director of the Division of Rheumatology at New York University School of Medicine, Dr. Jill Buyon joins us today to present her latest research “Prospective Evaluation of Anti-SSA/Ro Pregnancies Supports the Utility of High Titer Antibodies and Fetal Home Monitoring for the Detection of Fetal Atrioventricular Block.”.