NUTORC-a transdisciplinary health services and outcomes research team in transplantation

The field of solid organ transplantation has historically concentrated research efforts on basic science and translational studies. However, there has been increasing interest in health services and outcomes research. The aim was to build an effective and sustainable, inter- and transdisciplinary health services and outcomes research team (NUTORC), that leveraged institutional strengths in social science, engineering, and management disciplines, coupled with an international recognized transplant program. In 2008, leading methodological experts across the university were identified and intramural funding was obtained for the NUTORC initiative. Inter- and transdisciplinary collaborative teams were created across departments and schools within the university. Within 3 years, NUTORC became fiscally sustainable, yielding more than tenfold return of the initial investment. Academic productivity included funding for 39 grants, publication of 60 manuscripts, and 166 national presentations. Sustainable educational opportunities for students were created. Inter- and transdisciplinary health services and outcomes research in transplant can be innovative and sustainable.

Necrotizing vasculitis--a 2009 update

Necrotizing vasculitis continues to be a condition where difficult diagnostic and treatment decisions need to be made, with only a few well-done studies as clinical reference and support. New data suggest that both methotrexate and azathioprine may be effective agents for maintaining remission in antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis after remission is achieved with cyclophosphamide-based therapies. In addition, Behcet's syndrome appears to be more common than previously assumed and is likely more common than a combination of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) syndromes.