Surya Bhatt, MD (Associate Professor, Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine) has for the first time demonstrated the validity of the specific spirometry criteria for diagnosing clinically significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, settling a long-standing controversy among pulmonologists. His findings were reported in the June issue of JAMA. We celebrate your success, Dr. Bhatt!
More Good News for July 10, 2019
Dana Rizk, MD (Associate Professor, Nephrology) and colleagues published findings from the Membranous Nephropathy Trial of Rituximab (MENTOR) study in the NEJM demonstrating that Rituximab bested Cyclosporine at inducing complete or partial remission of proteinuria over two years in membranous nephropathy patients at high risk for disease progression. Kudos, Dr. Rizk!
The UAB Center for AIDS Research has received a $7.5 million grant renewal that will help UAB CFAR reach its ambitious goal to eradicate HIV. Congrats to CFAR Director Mike Saag, MD, and all who worked hard on securing this continued funding!
Sushant Bhatnagar, PhD (Assistant Professor, Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism) has received an R01 grant to study the molecular mechanism by which the tomosyn-2 gene regulates insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells and glucose tolerance. Congratulations, Dr. Bhatnagar!
Stephen Russell, MD (Associate Professor, General Internal Medicine) co-authored a letter to the editor of JAMA in response to the February article “Strategies to Avoid the Hemolyzed Physical Examination.” As a member of the Society of Bedside Medicine, Russell encourages five strategies to reinvigorate the bedside clinical encounter and avoid the “hemolyzed” physical examination. Excellent perspective, Dr. Russell!
Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care Associate Professors Thomas Buford, PhD, and Christy Carter, PhD, have received two NIH supplements to their R01 investigating new ways to prevent age-related functional decline. We look forward to seeing your results soon!
Massoud Leesar, MD (Professor, Cardiovascular Disease) has been elected as an editorial consultant for the Journal of American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Interventions for another two-year term. Each year, the journal reviews several thousands of submitted manuscripts, and it’s an honor to be named editorial consultant for this publication. Congrats, Dr. Leesar!
Olivia Van Gerwen, MD, MPH (Fellow, Infectious Diseases) has been selected as a DOM postdoctoral scholar for the next 12 months. During this time, she will participate in a multidisciplinary health services research training program focused on outcomes and effectiveness. Hats off to you, Dr. Van Gerwen!
Bonnie Zarzaur (CFAR Program Administrator, Infectious Diseases) was selected as the Department of Medicine Employee of the Month for June. Bonnie always has a positive attitude and greets everyone with a smile, exhibiting courtesy and tact to all who interact with her. She is an intelligent and thoughtful employee who demonstrates a keen interest in and enthusiasm for the mission of the DOM and UAB. Think of others you know and nominate them for this recognition!