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After a short break for some pretty major life changes (more details in the episode), Josh and Michael return to tackle the best and brightest of ESMO 2025. With support from MSD, our dynamic duo play host to the inaugural Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind Awards. Today, they look at studies in pre-clinical science, supportive care and rare cancers to find their favourite studies amidst the goldmine that was this year's European Oncology Extravaganza.For more episodes, resources and blog posts, visit www.inquisitiveonc.comPlease find us on Twitter @InquisitiveOnc!If you want us to look at a specific trial or subject, email us at inquisitiveonc@gmail.comArt courtesy of Taryn SilverMusic courtesy of AlisiaBeats: https://pixabay.com/users/alisiabeats-39461785/Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. If you are unwell, seek medical advice.Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind is recorded with the support of education grants from our foundation partners Pfizer, Gilead Pharmaceuticals and Merck Pharmaceuticals. Virtual participation with ESMO was provided by MSD. Our partners have access to the episode at the same time you do and have no editorial control over the content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Biochemist Lingyin Li survived breast cancer at just 30 and now works to harness the human immune system to fight cancers that have long evaded treatment. T cells, she says, are powerful cancer killers, but they can be oblivious. She and her lab colleagues have discovered a masking enzyme that squelches the immune system's “danger signals” and are now developing drugs to block that enzyme. She likens her work to an arms race between cancer and immunotherapy. “The cancers are not getting smarter, but we are,” Li tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Lingyin LiConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Lingyin Li, a professor of biochemistry at Stanford University.(00:03:38) Research MotivationLingyin explains how her breast cancer diagnosis inspired her research.(00:04:31) How T-Cells WorkT-cell mechanisms and why they struggle to reach solid tumors.(00:05:38) Immune System OverviewInnate and adaptive immunity and how mutations make cancer recognizable.(00:07:28) Awakening the Immune SystemEfforts to stimulate innate immune cells to detect and expose tumors.(00:10:54) The Cancer SignalDiscovery of cancer-derived DNA signals that alert the immune system.(00:13:01) Cancer's Evasion MechanismHow tumors destroy immune signals to hide from detection.(00:14:26) ENPP1 EnzymeIdentification of ENPP1 as the enzyme enabling immune evasion.(00:15:22) Balancing Immunity and SafetyRole of ENPP1 in autoimmunity and the challenge of targeting it safely.(00:19:30) ENPP1 InhibitorsDevelopment of molecules to block ENPP1 and enhance immune signaling.(00:24:55) Preclinical FindingsThe promising results against aggressive solid tumors in animal studies(00:28:05) From Lab to ClinicThe progress toward FDA approval and preparation for human testing.(00:31:04) Future In a MinuteRapid-fire Q&A: innovation, collaboration, and the outlook for cancer treatment.(00:33:14) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Last week saw more than 5,900 people from 3,200 companies gather in Vienna, Austria, for the continent's largest biopharma partnering conference, BIO-Europe. Over three days the world's top pharma companies, most innovative biotechs, and life science professionals from 60 countries took more than 32,000 one-on-one meetings, made the connections, and sealed deals that will drive the industry forward into 2026 and beyond.Among the highlights of BIO-Europe this year was the Startup Spotlight contest. This exciting competition offers biotech entrepreneurs an affordable opportunity to engage with top-tier investors and other important players in the biotech industry and to take their business to the next level. Eight finalists made their pitches at BIO Europe and one, Fusix Biotech from Germany, came out on top.This week on Beyond Biotech I'm joined by Fusix Biotech's Managing Director and co-founder, Jennifer Altomonte, who tells me about her journey through the industry, Fusix's InFUSE platform, and what it's like to pitch – and win – one of the most important biopharma startup competitions of the year.01:34 Meet Jennifer Altomonte05:12 Co-founding Fusix Biotech10:37 Fusix Biotech and the InFUSE platform18:50 Intellectual property for a young company20:04 The BIO-Europe Startup Spotlight23:47 The impact of the competition win29:05 The milestones ahead30:33 What does a successful 2026 look like for Fusix Biotech?31:56 Learn more about Fusix BiotechThis episode is supported by EBD Group.Interested in being a sponsor of an episode of our podcast? Discover how you can get involved here! Stay updated by subscribing to our newsletterTo dive deeper into the topic: BIO-Europe partnering: Australian biotech companies share their experiencesFour New Technologies That Will Change Cancer TreatmentWhy is the immunology and inflammation market suddenly attracting a wave of investment?
Synopsis: Nimbus Therapeutics CEO Abbas Kazimi walks Alok Tayi through the company's evolving pipeline and playbook for choosing the right risks in a noisy biotech environment. From Werner helicase for MSI-high cancers to a highly selective SIK2 program and GLP-1–adjacent strategies focused on body composition, Abbas details how Nimbus balances rigor, speed, and capital efficiency. He shares candid lessons from pausing and later resurrecting AMPK beta in partnership with Eli Lilly, the decision to remain modality-agnostic but small-molecule-centric, and the importance of knowing when not to chase the latest fad. Throughout, Abbas returns to a consistent theme: success at Nimbus comes from disciplined target selection, deep collaboration, and a culture that empowers teams to make hard calls in service of patients rather than headlines. Biography: Abbas Kazimi is the Chief Executive Officer of Nimbus Therapeutics. Previously, he served as Chief Business Officer, leading the company's strategic and corporate development efforts while overseeing business operations. Since joining Nimbus in 2014, he has helped raise over $630 million in equity financing and led transactions totaling more than $8 billion. Notably, Mr. Kazimi spearheaded the $6 billion sale of Nimbus's TYK2 program to Takeda, the $1.2 billion sale of its NASH (ACC) program to Gilead, and multiple licensing deals exceeding $1.5 billion with partners such as Genentech, Celgene/Roche, and Eli Lilly. Under his leadership, Nimbus has advanced four programs into the clinic, returned over $4 billion to investors, and continues to expand its computational drug discovery and clinical development capabilities. In 2025, Mr. Kazimi joined the board of Unnatural Products (UNP), a biotech company pioneering orally delivered macrocyclic peptides to tackle previously undruggable targets. He also serves on the Editorial Advisory Board for In Vivo magazine, a leading publication offering strategic insights and analysis of the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medtech, and consumer health industries. Along with his family, he established the Kazimi Family Endowment for Data Science in Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center. This endowment reflects their personal commitment to philanthropy and their vision for revolutionizing cancer treatment through data-driven innovation. At the core of Mr. Kazimi's leadership is a deep sense of purpose—one that seeks to change the trajectory of medical diagnoses where options are limited. The ability to give patients, prescribers, and families a new outlook on life is a powerful responsibility—and one he knows the biopharmaceutical sector has the ability to fulfill. Before Nimbus, he was at Extera Partners, LLC (formerly PureTech Development, LLC), where he provided strategic advisory, supported fundraising, and executed numerous business development transactions. Earlier in his career, he was with JSB-Partners, LP, a specialized investment banking and advisory firm serving biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Mr. Kazimi holds a B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and an M.S. from Harvard University.
In today's episode, filmed live at the 43rd Annual Chemotherapy Foundation Symposium, lung cancer expert Benjamin P. Levy, MD, hosted a cross-specialty discussion with genitourinary (GU) cancer expert Scott T. Tagawa, MD, MS, FACP, FASCO, about the rapidly evolving treatment paradigms for prostate and kidney cancer. Dr Levy is the clinical director of medical oncology at the Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Sibley Memorial Hospital and an associate professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Washington, DC. Dr Tagawa is a professor of medicine and urology at Weill Cornell Medicine, as well as an attending physician at NewYork-Presbyterian – Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York, New York. Their conversation began with a focus on prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)–positive prostate cancer. Dr Tagawa explained that PSMA is a cell surface protein, and that PSMA imaging agents are commonly used to assess biochemical recurrence and perform initial disease staging. He noted that therapy-related adverse effects are often site-specific, including dry mouth/change in taste, and myelosuppression from the radiation payload. For monitoring long-term safety, Dr Tagawa emphasized that renal function must be tracked. Beyond PSMA, other prostate cancer targets include TROP-2, B7-H3, and markers specific to aggressive or neuroendocrine variants, such as DLL3, he reported. In advanced GU cancers, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing is increasingly important, Dr Tagawa highlighted. In prostate cancer, ctDNA testing is used to assess homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status and BRCA expression, he said, explaining that evidence for the use of ctDNA testing in GU cancers stems from findings with this type of assay to evaluate minimal residual disease levels in urothelial cancer. He noted that studies show that if patients with urothelial cancer become ctDNA positive within the first year of receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, they benefit from treatment with atezolizumab (Tecentriq). Similarly, he stated that patients with previously untreated HRD-positive metastatic prostate cancer also see a progression-free survival benefit when a PARP inhibitor is added to an androgen deprivation therapy/androgen receptor pathway inhibitor backbone. Shifting the conversation to the management of frontline advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the experts reviewed standard approaches, which involve an immune-oncology (IO) agent plus either a CTLA-4 inhibitor or a VEGF TKI. Tagawa noted that IO/VEGF TKI combinations may be preferred for symptomatic patients needing a rapid response, whereas IO/IO combinations may offer greater potential for treatment cessation. He brought up a key distinction in RCC, which is that re-instituting PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition upon progression in the metastatic setting has generally shown no benefit. Dr Levy brought a broad scope to the GU cancer discussion through his lung cancer expertise, introducing parallels between the treatment paradigms. The interview provided an opportunity to show the importance of creating connections across oncology specialties to bring nuanced perspectives to future advances in clinical research and patient care.
In this week's episode, associate editor Dr. James Griffin interviews researchers Dr. John Semple and Dr. Othman Al-Sawaf on their groundbreaking studies on transfusion-related acute lung injury and chronic lymphocytic leukemia treatment. Dr. Semple explored how mitochondrial DNA could act as a first hit in lung injury, while Dr. Al-Sawaf revealed that patient fitness may not significantly impact the efficacy of targeted CLL treatments. Both studies challenge existing medical assumptions and suggest new approaches to understanding disease mechanisms and treatment responses.Featured ArticlesThe impact of fitness and dose intensity on clinical outcomes with venetoclax-obinutuzumab in CLLMitochondrial DNA via recipient TLR9 acts as a potent first-hit in murine transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI)
Send us a textGood morning from Pharma Daily: the podcast that brings you the most important developments in the pharmaceutical and biotech world. Today, we delve into a series of compelling updates that underscore the dynamic nature of our industry, marked by scientific breakthroughs, strategic shifts, regulatory advancements, and more.Starting with Pfizer's ambitious endeavors in oncology, the company has initiated Phase 3 trials for its bispecific antibody PF-08634404, targeting non-small cell lung cancer. This innovative approach aims to supersede Keytruda by simultaneously targeting the PD-1 and VEGF pathways, crucial in tumor growth and immune evasion. Pfizer is making substantial strides with its PD-1xVEGF bispecific antibodies by announcing seven near-term trials, including a pivotal phase 3 trial comparing this agent to Keytruda in non-small cell lung cancer. This underscores Pfizer's commitment to developing next-generation immunotherapies that could redefine cancer treatment paradigms by offering more targeted options. The implications are significant; by enhancing therapeutic efficacy through this dual-targeted strategy, Pfizer could set new standards in lung cancer treatment, potentially improving patient outcomes and redefining first-line therapies.Meanwhile, a strategic merger between Mallinckrodt and Endo has culminated in a $6.7 billion transaction, resulting in the rebranding of the combined entity as Keenova. This merger is particularly notable for its decision to spin off the Par Health generics business. Such a move indicates a focused shift towards specialty pharmaceuticals aimed at rare diseases—a trend increasingly seen across the industry as companies pivot towards niche markets with high unmet needs.In financing news, Vor Bio's successful $100 million public offering highlights growing investor confidence in companies addressing autoimmune diseases. This capital will likely accelerate Vor Bio's clinical-stage programs, potentially transforming patient care in this challenging therapeutic area through new and effective treatments.On the regulatory front, Glenmark's Ryaltris has secured approval from China's National Medical Products Administration for treating moderate to severe allergic rhinitis. This approval is pivotal as Glenmark expands its footprint in respiratory therapeutics with innovative small molecule therapies designed to alleviate allergy symptoms—a sign of their strategic growth within this domain.Recent clinical trial results also offer promising news. CeleCor Therapeutics' zalunfiban has shown Phase 3 success for segment elevation myocardial infarction, while UbiVac's DPV-001 has demonstrated improved survival rates in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Engene's Detalimogene voraplasmid exhibited a 63% response rate in bladder cancer patients unresponsive to BCG therapy. These findings reflect ongoing advances in targeted therapies and personalized medicine approaches that continue to reshape the oncology landscape.In policy changes, the UK government has unveiled a five-year roadmap aimed at replacing animal testing with AI and 3D tissue models. This initiative marks a pivotal shift towards more ethical and technologically advanced methods in drug development, potentially accelerating discovery processes while reducing reliance on animal models—a significant move that aligns with global trends towards more humane scientific practices.Meanwhile, Richard Pazdur's appointment as director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research signals strategic leadership changes amidst ongoing organizational investigations. His extensive experience in oncology is expected to guide regulatory oversight during this transformative period for the agency. Dr. Richard Pazdur's appointment as director of CDER representsSupport the show
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:Libby Amber Shayo didn't just survive the pandemic—she branded it. Armed with a bun, a New York accent, and enough generational trauma to sell out a two-drink-minimum crowd, she turned her Jewish mom impressions into the viral sensation known as Sheryl Cohen. What started as one-off TikToks became a career in full technicolor: stand-up, sketch, podcasting, and Jewish community building.We covered everything. Jew camp lore. COVID courtship. Hannah Montana. Holocaust comedy. Dating app postmortems. And the raw, relentless grief that comes with being Jewish online in 2025. Libby's alter ego lets her say the quiet parts out loud, but the real Libby? She's got receipts, range, and a righteous sense of purpose.If you're burnt out on algorithm-friendly “influencers,” meet a creator who actually stands for something. She doesn't flinch. She doesn't filter. And she damn well earned her platform.This is the most Jewish episode I've ever recorded. And yes, there will be guilt.RELATED LINKSLibby's Website: https://libbyambershayo.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbyambershayoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@libbyambershayoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libby-walkerSchmuckboys Podcast: https://jewishjournal.com/podcasts/schmuckboysForbes Feature: Modern Mrs. Maisel Vibes https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshweissMedium Profile: https://medium.com/@libbyambershayoFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform.For guest suggestions or sponsorship, email podcast@matthewzachary.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Listen to JCO's Art of Oncology article, "The Man at the Bow" by Dr. Alexis Drutchas, who is a palliative care physician at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. The article is followed by an interview with Drutchas and host Dr. Mikkael Sekeres. Dr. Drutchas shares the deep connection she had with a patient, a former barge captain, who often sailed the same route that her family's shipping container did when they moved overseas many times while she was growing up. She reflects on the nature of loss and dignity, and how oncologists might hold patients' humanity with more tenderness and care, especially at the end of life. TRANSCRIPT Narrator: The Man at the Bow, by Alexis Drutchas, MD It was the kind of day that almost seemed made up—a clear, cerulean sky with sunlight bouncing off the gold dome of the State House. The contrast between this view and the drab hospital walls as I walked into my patient's room was jarring. My patient, whom I will call Suresh, sat in a recliner by the window. His lymphoma had relapsed, and palliative care was consulted to help with symptom management. The first thing I remember is that despite the havoc cancer had wreaked—sunken temples and a hospital gown slipping off his chest—Suresh had a warm, peaceful quality about him. Our conversation began with a discussion about his pain. Suresh told me how his bones ached and how his fatigue left him feeling hollow—a fraction of his former self. The way this drastic change in his physicality affected his sense of identity was palpable. There was loss, even if it was unspoken. After establishing a plan to help with his symptoms, I pivoted and asked Suresh how he used to spend his days. His face immediately lit up. He had been a barge captain—a dangerous and thrilling profession that took him across international waters to transport goods. Suresh's eyes glistened as he described his joy at sea. I was completely enraptured. He shared stories about mornings when he stood alone on the bow, feeling the salted breeze as the barge moved through Atlantic waves. He spoke of calm nights on the deck, looking at the stars through stunning darkness. He traveled all over the globe and witnessed Earth's topography from a perspective most of us will never see. The freedom Suresh exuded was profound. He loved these voyages so much that one summer, despite the hazards, he brought his wife and son to experience the journey with him. Having spent many years of my childhood living in Japan and Hong Kong, my family's entire home—every bed, sheet, towel, and kitchen utensil—was packed up and crossed the Atlantic on cargo ships four times. Maybe Suresh had captained one, I thought. Every winter, we hosted US Navy sailors docked in Hong Kong for the holidays. I have such fond memories of everyone going around the table and sharing stories of their adventures—who saw or ate what and where. I loved those times: the wild abandon of travel, the freedom of being somewhere new, and the way identity can shift and expand as experiences grow. When Suresh shared stories of the ocean, I was back there too, holding the multitude of my identity alongside him. I asked Suresh to tell me more about his voyages: what was it like to be out in severe weather, to ride over enormous swells? Did he ever get seasick, and did his crew always get along? But Suresh did not want to swim into these perilous stories with me. Although he worked a difficult and physically taxing job, this is not what he wanted to focus on. Instead, he always came back to the beauty and vitality he felt at sea—what it was like to stare out at the vastness of the open ocean. He often closed his eyes and motioned with his hands as he spoke as if he was not confined to these hospital walls. Instead, he was swaying on the water feeling the lightness of physical freedom, and the way a body can move with such ease that it is barely perceptible, like water flowing over sand. The resonances of Suresh's stories contained both the power and challenges laden in this work. Although I sat at his bedside, healthy, my body too contained memories of freedom that in all likelihood will one day dissipate with age or illness. The question of how I will be seen, compared to how I hoped to be seen, lingered in my mind. Years ago, before going to medical school, I moved to Vail, Colorado. I worked four different jobs just to make ends meet, but making it work meant that on my days off, I was only a chairlift ride away from Vail's backcountry. I have a picture of this vigor in my mind—my snowboard carving into fresh powder, the utter silence of the wilderness at that altitude, and the way it felt to graze the powdery snow against my glove. My face was windburned, and my body was sore, but my heart had never felt so buoyant. While talking with Suresh, I could so vividly picture him as the robust man he once was, standing tall on the bow of his ship. I could feel the freedom and joy he described—it echoed in my own body. In that moment, the full weight of what Suresh had lost hit me as forcefully as a cresting wave—not just the physical decline, but the profound shift in his identity. What is more, we all live, myself included, so precariously at this threshold. In this work, it is impossible not to wonder: what will it be like when it is me? Will I be seen as someone who has lived a full life, who explored and adventured, or will my personhood be whittled down to my illness? How can I hold these questions and not be swallowed by them? "I know who you are now is not the person you've been," I said to Suresh. With that, he reached out for my hand and started to cry. We looked at each other with a new understanding. I saw Suresh—not just as a frail patient but as someone who lived a full life. As someone strong enough to cross the Atlantic for decades. In that moment, I was reminded of the Polish poet, Wislawa Szymborska's words, "As far as you've come, can't be undone." This, I believe, is what it means to honor the dignity of our patients, to reflect back the person they are despite or alongside their illness…all of their parts that can't be undone. Sometimes, this occurs because we see our own personhood reflected in theirs and theirs in ours. Sometimes, to protect ourselves, we shield ourselves from this echo. Other times, this resonance becomes the most beautiful and meaningful part of our work. It has been years now since I took care of Suresh. When the weather is nice, my wife and I like to take our young son to the harbor in South Boston to watch the planes take off and the barges leave the shore, loaded with colorful metal containers. We usually pack a picnic and sit in the trunk as enormous planes fly overhead and tugboats work to bring large ships out to the open water. Once, as a container ship was leaving the port, we waved so furiously at those working on board that they all started to wave back, and the captain honked the ships booming horn. Every single time we are there, I think of Suresh, and I picture him sailing out on thewaves—as free as he will ever be. Mikkael Sekeres: Welcome back to JCO's Cancer Stories: The Art of Oncology. This ASCO podcast features intimate narratives and perspectives from authors exploring their experiences in oncology. I'm your host, Mikkael Sekeres. I'm Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Hematology at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami. What a treat we have today. We're joined by Dr. Alexis Drutchas, a Palliative Care Physician and the Director of the Core Communication Program at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School to discuss her article, "The Man at the Bow." Alexis, thank you so much for contributing to Journal of Clinical Oncology and for joining us to discuss your article. Dr. Alexis Drutchas: Thank you. I'm thrilled and excited to be here. Mikkael Sekeres: I wonder if we can start by asking you about yourself. Where are you from, and can you walk us a bit through your career? Dr. Alexis Drutchas: The easiest way to say it would be that I'm from the Detroit area. My dad worked in automotive car parts and so we moved around a lot when I was growing up. I was born in Michigan, then we moved to Japan, then back to Michigan, then to Hong Kong, then back to Michigan. Then I spent my undergrad years in Wisconsin and moved out to Colorado to teach snowboarding before medical school, and then ended up back in Michigan for that, and then on the east coast at Brown for my family medicine training, and then in Boston for work and training. So, I definitely have a more global experience in my background, but also very Midwestern at heart as well. In terms of my professional career trajectory, I trained in family medicine because I really loved taking care of the whole person. I love taking care of kids and adults, and I loved OB, and at the time I felt like it was impossible to choose which one I wanted to pursue the most, and so family medicine was a great fit. And at the core of that, there's just so much advocacy and social justice work, especially in the community health centers where many family medicine residents train. During that time, I got very interested in LGBTQ healthcare and founded the Rhode Island Trans Health Conference, which led me to work as a PCP at Fenway Health in Boston after that. And so I worked there for many years. And then through a course of being a hospitalist at BI during that work, I worked with many patients with serious illness, making decisions about discontinuing dialysis, about pursuing hospice care in the setting of ILD. I also had a significant amount of family illness and started to recognize this underlying interest I had always had in palliative care, but I think was a bit scared to pursue. But those really kind of tipped me over to say I really wanted to access a different level of communication skills and be able to really go into depth with patients in a way I just didn't feel like I had the language for. And so I applied to the Harvard Palliative Care Fellowship and luckily and with so much gratitude got in years ago, and so trained in palliative care and stayed at MGH after that. So my Dana-Farber position is newer for me and I'm very excited about it. Mikkael Sekeres: Sounds like you've had an amazing career already and you're just getting started on it. I grew up in tiny little Rhode Island and, you know, we would joke you have to pack an overnight bag if you travel more than 45 minutes. So, our boundaries were much tighter than yours. What was it like growing up where you're going from the Midwest to Asia, back to the Midwest, you wind up settling on the east coast? You must have an incredible worldly view on how people live and how they view their health. Dr. Alexis Drutchas: I think you just named much of the sides of it. I think I realize now, in looking back, that in many ways it was living two lives, because at the time it was rare from where we lived in the Detroit area in terms of the other kids around us to move overseas. And so it really did feel like that part of me and my family that during the summers we would have home leave tickets and my parents would often turn them in to just travel since we didn't really have a home base to come back to. And so it did give me an incredible global perspective and a sense of all the ways in which people develop community, access healthcare, and live. And then coming back to the Midwest, not to say that it's not cosmopolitan or diverse in its own way, but it was very different, especially in the 80s and 90s to come back to the Midwest. So it did feel like I carried these two lenses in the world, and it's been incredibly meaningful over time to meet other friends and adults and patients who have lived these other lives as well. I think for me those are some of my most connecting friendships and experiences with patients for people who have had a similar experience in living with sort of a duality in their everyday lives with that. Mikkael Sekeres: You know, you write about the main character of your essay, Suresh, who's a barge captain, and you mention in the essay that your family crossed the Atlantic on cargo ships four times when you were growing up. What was that experience like? How much of it do you remember? Dr. Alexis Drutchas: Our house, like our things, crossed the Atlantic four times on barge ships such as his. We didn't, I mean we crossed on airplanes. Mikkael Sekeres: Oh, okay, okay. Dr. Alexis Drutchas: We flew over many times, but every single thing we owned got packed up into containers on large trucks in our house and were brought over to ports to be sent over. So, I'm not sure how they do it now, but at the time that's sort of how we moved, and we would often go live in a hotel or a furnished apartment for the month's wait of all of our house to get there, which felt also like a surreal experience in that, you know, you're in a totally different country and then have these creature comforts of your bedroom back in Metro Detroit. And I remember thinking a lot about who was crossing over with all of that stuff and where was it going, and who else was moving, and that was pretty incredible. And when I met Suresh, just thinking about the fact that at some point our home could have been on his ship was a really fun connection in my mind to make, just given where he always traveled in his work. Mikkael Sekeres: It's really neat. I remember when we moved from the east coast also to the Midwest, I was in Cleveland for 18 years. The very first thing we did was mark which of the boxes had the kids' toys in it, because that of course was the first one we let them close it up and then we let them open it as soon as we arrived. Did your family do something like that as well so that you can, you know, immediately feel an attachment to your stuff when they arrived? Dr. Alexis Drutchas: Yeah, I remember what felt most important to our mom was our bedrooms. I don't remember the toys. I remember sort of our comforters and our pillowcases and things like that, yeah, being opened and it feeling really settling to think, "Okay, you know, we're in a completely different place and country away from most everything we know, but our bedroom is the same." That always felt like a really important point that she made to make home feel like home again in a new place. Mikkael Sekeres: Yeah, yeah. One of the sentences you wrote in your essay really caught my eye. You wrote about when you were younger and say, "I loved those times, the wild abandon of travel, the freedom of being somewhere new, the way identity can shift and expand as experiences grow." It's a lovely sentiment. Do you think those are emotions that we experience only as children, or can they continue through adulthood? And if they can, how do we make that happen, that sense of excitement and experience? Dr. Alexis Drutchas: I think that's such a good question and one I honestly think about a lot. I think that we can access those all the time. There's something about the newness of travel and moving, you know, I have a 3-year-old right now, and so I think many parents would connect to that sense that there is wonderment around being with someone experiencing something for the first time. Even watching my son, Oliver, see a plane take off for the first time felt joyous in a completely new way, that even makes me smile a lot now. But I think what is such a great connection here is when something is new, our eyes are so open to it. You know, we're constantly witnessing and observing and are excited about that. And I think the connection that I've realized is important for me in my work and also in just life in general to hold on to that wonderment is that idea of sort of witnessing or having a writer's eye, many would call it, in that you're keeping your eye open for the small beautiful things. Often with travel, you might be eating ramen. It might not be the first time you're eating it, but you're eating it for the first time in Tokyo, and it's the first time you've had this particular ingredient on it, and then you remember that. But there's something that we're attuned to in those moments, like the difference or the taste, that makes it special and we hold on to it. And I think about that a lot as a writer, but also in patient care and having my son with my wife, it's what are the special small moments to hold on to and allowing them to be new and beautiful, even if they're not as large as moving across the country or flying to Rome or whichever. I think there are ways that that excitement can still be alive if we attune ourselves to some of the more beautiful small moments around us. Mikkael Sekeres: And how do we do that as doctors? We're trained to go into a room and there's almost a formula for how we approach patients. But how do you open your mind in that way to that sense of wonderment and discovery with the person you're sitting across from, and it doesn't necessarily have to be medical? One of the true treats of what we do is we get to meet people from all backgrounds and all walks of life, and we have the opportunity to explore their lives as part of our interaction. Dr. Alexis Drutchas: Yeah, I think that is such a great question. And I would love to hear your thoughts on this too. I think for me in that sentence that you mentioned, sitting at that table with sort of people in the Navy from all over the world, I was that person to them in the room, too. There was some identity there that I brought to the table that was different than just being a kid in school or something like that. To answer your question, I wonder if so much of the challenge is actually allowing ourselves to bring ourselves into the room, because so much of the formula is, you know, we have these white coats on, we have learners, we want to do it right, we want to give excellent care. There's there's so many sort of guards I think that we put up to make sure that we're asking the right questions, we don't want to miss anything, we don't want to say the wrong thing, and all of that is true. And at the same time, I find that when I actually allow myself into the room, that is when it is the most special. And that doesn't mean that there's complete countertransference or it's so permeable that it's not in service of the patient. It just means that I think when we allow bits of our own selves to come in, it really does allow for new connections to form, and then we are able to learn about our patients more, too. With every patient, I think often we're called in for goals of care or symptom management, and of course I prioritize that, but when I can, I usually just try to ask a more open-ended question, like, "Tell me about life before you came to the hospital or before you were diagnosed. What do you love to do? What did you do for work?" Or if it's someone's family member who is ill, I'll ask the kids or family in the room, "Like, what kind of mom was she? You know, what special memory you had?" Just, I get really curious when there's time to really understand the person. And I know that that's not at all new language. Of course, we're always trying to understand the person, but I just often think understanding them is couched within their illness. And I'm often very curious about how we can just get to know them as people, and how humanizing ourselves to them helps humanize them to us, and that back and forth I think is like really lovely and wonderful and allows things to come up that were totally unexpected, and those are usually the special moments that you come home with and want to tell your family about or want to process and think about. What about you? How do you think about that question? Mikkael Sekeres: Well, it's interesting you ask. I like to do projects around the house. I hate to say this out loud because of course one day I'll do something terrible and everyone will remember this podcast, but I fancy myself an amateur electrician and plumber and carpenter and do these sorts of projects. So I go into interactions with patients wanting to learn about their lives and how they live their lives to see what I can pick up on as well, how I can take something out of that interaction and actually use it practically. My father-in-law has this phrase he always says to me when a worker comes to your house, he goes, he says to me, "Remember to steal with your eyes." Right? Watch what they do, learn how they fix something so you can fix it yourself and you don't have to call them next time. So, for me it's kind of fun to hear how people have lived their lives both within their professions, and when I practiced medicine in Cleveland, there were a lot of farmers and factory workers I saw. So I learned a lot about how things are made. But also about how they interact with their families, and I've learned a lot from people I've seen who were just terrific dads and terrific moms or siblings or spouses. And I've tried to take those nuggets away from those interactions. But I think you can only do it if you open yourself up and also allow yourself to see that person's humanity. And I wonder if I can quote you to you again from your essay. There's another part that I just loved, and it's about how you write about how a person's identity changes when they become a patient. You write, "And in that moment the full weight of what he had lost hit me as forcefully as a cresting wave. Not just the physical decline, but the profound shift in identity. What is more, we all live, me included, so precariously at this threshold. In this work, it's impossible not to wonder, what will it be like when it's me? Will I be seen as someone who's lived many lives, or whittled down only to someone who's sick?" Can you talk a little bit more about that? Have you been a patient whose identity has changed without asking you to reveal too much? Or what about your identity as a doctor? Is that something we have to undo a little bit when we walk in the room with the stethoscope or wearing a white coat? Dr. Alexis Drutchas: That was really powerful to hear you read that back to me. So, thank you. Yeah, I think my answer here can't be separated from the illness I faced with my family. And I think this unanimously filters into the way in which I see every patient because I really do think about the patient's dignity and the way medicine generally, not always, really does strip them of that and makes them the patient. Even the way we write about "the patient said this," "the patient said that," "the patient refused." So I generally very much try to have a one-liner like, "Suresh is a X-year-old man who's a barge captain from X, Y, and Z and is a loving father with a," you know, "period. He comes to the hospital with X, Y, and Z." So I always try to do that and humanize patients. I always try to write their name rather than just "patient." I can't separate that out from my experience with my family. My sister six years ago now went into sudden heart failure after having a spontaneous coronary artery dissection, and so immediately within minutes she was in the cath lab at 35 years old, coding three times and came out sort of with an Impella and intubated, and very much, you know, all of a sudden went from my sister who had just been traveling in Mexico to a patient in the CCU. And I remember desperately wanting her team to see who she was, like see the person that we loved, that was fighting for her life, see how much her life meant to us. And that's not to say that they weren't giving her great care, but there was something so important to me in wanting them to see how much we wanted her to live, you know, and who she was. It felt like there's some important core to me there. We brought pictures in, we talked about what she was living for. It felt really important. And I can't separate that out from the way in which I see patients now or I feel in my own way in a certain way what it is to lose yourself, to lose the ability to be a Captain of the ship, to lose the ability to do electric work around the house. So much of our identity is wrapped up in our professions and our craft. And I think for me that has really become forefront in the work of palliative care and in and in the teaching I do and in the writing I do is how to really bring them forefront and not feel like in doing that we're losing our ability to remain objective or solid in our own professional identities as clinicians and physicians. Mikkael Sekeres: Well, I think that's a beautiful place to end here. I can only imagine what an outstanding physician and caregiver you are also based on your writing and how you speak about it. You just genuinely come across as caring about your patients and your family and the people you have interactions with and getting to know them as people. It has been again such a treat to have Dr. Alexis Drutchas here. She is Director of the Core Communication Program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School to discuss her article, "The Man at the Bow." Alexis, thank you so much for joining us. Dr. Alexis Drutchas: Thank you. This has been a real joy. Mikkael Sekeres: If you've enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or colleague, or leave us a review. Your feedback and support helps us continue to save these important conversations. If you're looking for more episodes and context, follow our show on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen, and explore more from ASCO at ASCO.org/podcasts. Until next time, this has been Mikkael Sekeres for the ASCO podcast Cancer Stories: The Art of Oncology. The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. This is not a substitute for professional medical care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests on this podcast express their own opinions, experience, and conclusions. Guest statements on the podcast do not express the opinions of ASCO. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity, or therapy should not be construed as an ASCO endorsement. Show notes: Like, share and subscribe so you never miss an episode and leave a rating or review. Guest Bio: Dr. Alexis Drutchas is a palliative care physician at Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
“We learn traditionally that bone metastasis is terminal.” 一 Or is it? In this episode of the BackTable MSK podcast, host Dr. Jacob Fleming welcomes Dr. Francis Lee, a leading figure in orthopedic oncology, to discuss advancements in treating skeletal metastasis. Dr. Lee, the Wayne O. Southwick Professor from Yale and President-elect of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, shares his innovative AORIF (Ablation, Osteoplasty, Reinforcement and Internal Fixation) technique, which emphasizes collaboration between orthopedic oncologists and interventional radiologists. --- This podcast is supported by an educational grant from Medtronic. --- SYNPOSIS The conversation covers the complexities of bone metastasis, the biomechanics of skeletal ablation, and the importance of understanding bone-cancer interactions. Dr. Lee also shares insights from his translational research on cancer and bone dynamics, and emphasizes the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration to drive forward minimally invasive treatments. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 01:39 - Crash Course: Orthopedic Oncology 10113:24 - The Important Role of Biomechanics20:10 - Dr Lee's Training and Interdisciplinary Collaboration28:13 - Intraoperative Imaging and Techniques in AORIF40:15 - Cannulated Screws for Access and Fixation 42:24 - Case Study: Sacral Insufficiency Fracture and Cement Injection44:17 - Understanding Cement Properties and Application46:45 - Case Study Series: Approach to Reconstruction57:58 - Decision Making in Complex Procedures01:08:40 - The Power of Bone Regeneration01:12:31 - Final Thoughts --- RESOURCES Dr. Francis Lee, MD, PhD, FAAOS, MBAhttps://medicine.yale.edu/profile/francis-lee/ Minimally Invasive Image-Guided Ablation, Osteoplasty, Reinforcement, and Internal Fixation (AORIF) for Osteolytic Lesions in the Pelvis and Periarticular Regions of Weight-Bearing Boneshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32139256/
This week Bobbi Conner talks with MUSC's Dr. Scott Hutchison about oncology occupational therapy.
Thanks in part to 18th-century nuns, we now know that having children and breastfeeding reduces a mum's risk of developing breast cancer for years, even until her kid is well into primary school.Now Australian scientists have discovered how breastfeeding specifically enlists the immune system to protect against an aggressive and hard-to-treat type of breast cancer.You can binge more episodes of the Lab Notes podcast with science journalist and presenter Belinda Smith on the ABC Listen app (Australia). You'll find episodes on animal behaviour, human health, space exploration and so much more.Get in touch with us: labnotes@abc.net.auFeaturing:Sherene Loi, medical oncologist at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Extra information:Parity and lactation induce T cell mediated breast cancer protectionHaving children and breastfeeding reduces breast cancer risk by triggering immune system, study findsThis episode of Lab Notes was produced on the lands of the Wurundjeri and Menang Noongar people.
Over the last five years, billions of people have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. New research has found an unanticipated result of these vaccines: Cancer treatments are more effective for some vaccinated patients, and many live longer than their unvaccinated counterparts. This news comes at a time where the federal government is slashing funding for mRNA research. Host Ira Flatow speaks to lead study author Adam Grippin and vaccine expert Eric Topol.Guests: Dr. Adam Grippin is a radiation oncologist at the MC Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Eric Topol is a cardiologist and genomics professor at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.
For many Americans, health insurance open enrollment is underway. They're deciding which coverage they need and how they can afford out-of-pocket expenses. They may be learning about high-deductible plans, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and so many other options when it comes to health insurance. So how do you know which plan is right for you? Joining me today is Valerie Nelson, manager of federal policy and advocacy at Susan G. Komen, and Mari Montesano, a manager at Komen's Breast Care Helpline, who assists individuals in need of information, support or help navigating their breast health issues.
Dr. Mary Maish shares the signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer and the latest on surgery and treatment options available.
Click here to view the full article on Oncology Data Advisor: https://oncdata.com/mary-pasquinelli-sybil-ai In this episode of Exploring AI in Oncology, Dr. Waqas Haque speaks with Mary Pasquinelli, DNP, Nurse Practitioner and Director of the Lung Screening Program at the University of Illinois (UI) Health, about the evolving role of screening and artificial intelligence (AI) in lung cancer detection. Their conversation spans program design, health equity, AI validation in diverse populations, multimodal detection with circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and imaging, and practical strategies that boost adherence and impact in both academic and community settings.
Send us a textGood morning from Pharma Daily: the podcast that brings you the most important developments in the pharmaceutical and biotech world. Today, we're diving into a series of groundbreaking developments that are reshaping the landscape of drug development and patient care. These stories highlight the dynamic nature of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, where scientific advancements and regulatory changes are driving significant shifts.We begin with a crucial milestone in oncology treatment. The FDA has granted approval to Johnson & Johnson's Darzalex Faspro for patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma. This approval is particularly significant as it provides a new therapeutic pathway for individuals with this precursor condition to active multiple myeloma, which previously had few treatment options. The drug works by targeting CD38 proteins on myeloma cells, representing a leap forward in monoclonal antibody treatments for cancer. This decision underscores the FDA's ongoing commitment to expanding treatment options for conditions with high unmet needs, potentially setting a precedent for future approvals in early-stage malignancies.Meanwhile, Gilead Sciences encountered challenges with its oncology pipeline as Trodelvy failed to meet its primary endpoint in a Phase 3 trial for first-line HR+/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. This outcome highlights the complexities of oncology drug development, despite previous successes in other indications. Such setbacks remind us of the inherent risks involved in bringing innovative therapies to market.In contrast, Akeso has announced positive data for ivonescimab, a PD-(L)1xVEGF bispecific antibody. The drug demonstrated significant overall survival benefits in patients with previously treated EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. This advancement underscores the therapeutic potential of bispecific antibodies in cancer immunotherapy, which continue to gain traction as they target multiple pathways involved in tumor growth and immune evasion.Regulatory incentives have also been making waves. The FDA's rollout of the second round of "national priority" voucher winners aims to accelerate drug development timelines, particularly in critical areas such as obesity. Companies like Lilly and Novo Nordisk have been recognized for their efforts, highlighting a broader strategy to bring transformative therapies to market more swiftly.On the corporate front, Bayer's proposed private equity buyout fell through due to insufficient shareholder support, reflecting ongoing financial volatility and strategic recalibrations within biotech firms. Meanwhile, CMS's introduction of a new Medicaid pricing model aims to implement "most-favored nation" pricing strategies to control drug costs, signaling potential shifts in how pharmaceutical companies approach pricing negotiations and reimbursement strategies.Technological advancements are also at the forefront of innovation. Eli Lilly has expanded its AI-driven drug discovery partnership with XtalPi, focusing on antibody development. This collaboration exemplifies how AI is increasingly being integrated into pharmaceutical research to enhance drug discovery processes.Furthermore, China's decision to lift its ban on Illumina's DNA sequencers is expected to facilitate greater access to advanced genomic technologies within the region, fostering innovation in precision medicine.Leadership changes continue to shape industry dynamics. For instance, Recursion Pharmaceuticals is undergoing executive restructuring to better align with evolving market needs and innovation strategies. These changes are crucial for maintaining competitiveness and fostering an environment conducive to scientific breakthroughs.The industry is also witnessing strategic realignmenSupport the show
The latest episode of Oncology On the Go focused on survivorship and supportive care. Stemming from conversations with leading clinicians in the field, the compilation highlights gaps and educational insights into multiple areas. Covering topics like nutrition, oncodermatology, body image, sexual health, and mortality, these conversations explored how to truly optimize multidisciplinary cancer care. Declan Walsh, MD, chair of the Department of Supportive Oncology at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute: 1:01-2:44: What is the importance of developing and managing supportive care at major oncology centers, and how can it be adapted across the US? 2:45-4:19: Supportive care is one piece of the multidisciplinary team. How can clinicians work with supportive care specialists to ensure that patients are receiving all the help that they need? Denise Reynolds, RD, of Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute: 4:20-5:46: Some adverse effects (AEs) include severe nausea and vomiting. What nutritional strategies do you recommend to ensure adequate intake? 5:47-7:29: Taste and smell changes are common AEs. What advice do you give to patients to help cope and combat them? Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD, professor and chair of dermatology, director of the Residency Program, and director of translational research at George Washington Medical Faculty Associates in Washington, DC: 7:30-9:24: Your study found that a significant proportion of respondents, including those who have been previously treated for cancer, would decline anti-cancer therapies due to dermatologic AEs like hair loss. What are some crucial communication strategies oncologists should employ to address this? 9:25-11:37: What should all oncology clinicians know about how to manage mild to moderate dermatologic AEs? 11:38-24:54: Daniel C. McFarland, DO, the director of the Psycho-Oncology Program at Wilmot Cancer Center; a medical oncologist who specializes in head, neck, and lung cancer; and the psycho-oncology editorial advisory board member for the journal ONCOLOGY®, spoke with different psycho-oncology colleagues regarding topics like body image, sexual health, and mortality. These colleagues included Michelle Fingeret, PhD, founder of Fingeret Psychology Services; Christian J. Nelson, PhD, chief of Psychiatry Service, attending psychologist, and codirector of the Psycho-Oncology of Care and Aging Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; and William S. Breitbart, MD, attending physician and the Jimmie C. Holland Chair in Psycho-Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. All psycho-oncology episodes are now available on our website. Reference Menta N, Vidal SI, Whiting C, Azim SA, Desai S, Friedman A. Perceptions and knowledge of dermatologic side effects of anti-cancer therapies: a pilot survey. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24(8):e57-e58.
Host: Jennifer Caudle, DO Guest: Samuel Klempner, MD Guest: Nataliya Uboha, MD, PhD Testing for biomarkers like PD-L1, HER2, claudin 18.2, and FGFR2b is reshaping our approach to first-line therapy in advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers. Alongside biomarker profiling, we must also weigh practical considerations around efficacy, toxicity, and patient-specific factors when selecting treatment. Joining Dr. Jennifer Caudle to explore how we can optimize our first-line treatment selection are Drs. Samuel Klempner and Dr. Nataliya Uboha. Dr. Klempner is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and Dr. Uboha is an Associate Professor in the Division of Hematology and Oncology in the Department of Medicine at the University of Wisconsin.
"I think we really need to push more of our oncology nurses to get into elected and appointed positions. So often we're looking at health positions to get involved in, and those are wonderful. We need nurses as secretaries of health, but there are others. We as nurses understand higher education. We understand environment. We understand energy. So I think we look broadly at, what are positions we can get in? Let's have more nurses run for state legislative offices, for our House of Representatives, for the U.S. Senate," ONS member Barbara Damron, PhD, LHD, RN, FAAN, told Ryne Wilson, DNP, RN, OCN®, CNE, ONS member and member of the ONS 50th anniversary committee, during a conversation about the future of oncology nursing advocacy and health policy. Wilson spoke with Damron and ONS member Janice Phillips, PhD, RN, CENP, FADLN, FAAN, about how ONS has advanced advocacy and policy efforts over the past 50 years and its approaches for the future. Music Credit: "Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod Licensed under Creative Commons by Attribution 3.0 Episode Notes This episode is not eligible for NCPD. ONS Podcast™ episodes: ONS 50th anniversary series Episode 229: How Advocacy Can Shape Your Nursing Career ONS Voice articles: Oncology Nurses Take to Capitol Hill to Advocate for Cancer Care Priorities Our Unified Voices Can Improve Cancer Survivorship Care With Voices Amplified by ONS, Oncology Nurses Speak Out for Patients and the Profession on Capitol Hill NOBC Partnerships Advance Nurses' Placements on Local and National Boards Nursing Leadership Has Space for You and Your Goals ONS courses: Advocacy 101: Making a Difference Board Leadership: Nurses in Governance Oncology Nursing Forum articles: Nurses on Boards: My Experience on the Moonshot Strengthening Oncology Nursing by Using Research to Inform Politics and Policy ONS Center for Advocacy and Health Policy Current ONS position statements Connie Henke Yarbro Oncology Nursing History Center Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Cancer Moonshot National Cancer Policy Forum National Council of State Boards of Nursing APRN Roundtable National Patient Advocate Foundation Nurses on Boards Coalition One Voice Against Cancer Patient Quality of Life Coalition Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellows To discuss the information in this episode with other oncology nurses, visit the ONS Communities. To find resources for creating an ONS Podcast club in your chapter or nursing community, visit the ONS Podcast Library. To provide feedback or otherwise reach ONS about the podcast, email pubONSVoice@ons.org. Highlights From This Episode Phillips: "I think that there are so many pressing issues, but I'm going to start with any kind of threats or legislation that's poised to take away safety-net resources. It's really going to set us back because we all know that, particularly for minorities and certain other underserved populations, they have experienced poor cancer outcomes for a variety of reasons, variety of socioeconomic reasons, lack of access to quality screening resources—you name it. When you take away those safety net resources and take away resources for people who are already underserved, uninsured, or underinsured, it also jeopardizes their ability to get proper screening, get proper follow-up, have access to state of the art cancer services. I think the lack of affordability of health care is a problem that continues to challenge us, whether you on Medicaid or whether you have limited insurance." TS 10:16 Damron: "Because ONS is so grounded in science and research—we're not just a clinical organization; we're grounded in scholarship, science, research, and publication—we're able to take this vast network of strong clinicians [and combine it] with amazing scientists. … We've had some amazing scientists come out of ONS; some of the leading nurse scientists of all time were also oncology nurses. So by combining this, we're able to make a difference at the state and federal level. So the advocacy work that I've been involved in, state and federal levels, really involved working with the ONS staff involved with advocacy and those scientists and clinicians who brought that expertise." TS 18:19 Phillips: "I think expanding the work around multiculturalism in oncology will always be important. Are there any new partnerships or avenues that ONS can reach out to or explore? Maybe there are other specialty organizations or groups—and not always necessarily nursing— because as we think about the determinants of health, we think about things like health and all policies. Maybe there are other disciplines or other specialties that we need to embrace as we launch our agendas." TS 23:28 Damron: "As nurses, just our basic nursing training, we get these skills—we see a problem, we identify the problem, we assess what we're going to do about it, we do it, and then we evaluate what we did. Does that work or not? That's how you make policy. So we were all trained in this. Then what you bring on top of that are oncology nursing experience, whether it's clinical, whether it's research, whether it's teaching, practice, etc. Those continue to refine those skills that are basic to us as nurses. We have this built-in skill set, and we need to own it and understand it." TS 30:25
Send us a textCould exercise be just what the doctor ordered for recovery during chemotherapy? In this episode of “The UMB Pulse,” explore this novel approach to cancer recovery with Ian Kleckner, PhD, MPH, associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Nursing and director of the SYNAPSE Center. Kleckner shares how exercise can alleviate symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. Through his research, Kleckner investigates how movement can reduce inflammation, enhance brain and body coordination, and empower patients to reclaim their lives. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction 00:00:17 – Cancer Treatment & Neuropathy 00:01:37 – Guest Introduction: Dr. Ian Kleckner 00:05:06 – Understanding Neuropathy 00:09:38 – Research Findings: Brain & Exercise 00:13:33 – Exercise Intervention & Clinical Trials 00:19:08 – Practical Advice & Takeaways 00:23:31 – Conclusion & CreditsListen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube.Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.
The national screening programme for breast cancer is projected to miss its screening targets for a third consecutive year. Dr Michael McCarthy, Consultant medical oncologist and President of the Irish society of medical Oncology discuss the missed targets with Ciara.
In today's episode, we are joined by Professor Stephen Maher, an expert in translational oncology and radiation research at Trinity College Dublin, where he also serves as the Director of Postgraduate Studies for the School of Medicine. Stephen's work focuses on understanding why some cancers respond to treatment while others resist it — particularly in relation to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. His research explores how factors like microRNAs, the DNA damage response, and tumor hypoxia influence treatment sensitivity, with a strong emphasis on oesophageal and pancreatic cancers. Hit play to explore: The future of anti-cancer therapeutics. The ways that radiation research is evolving. Why translational oncology is so important for improving patient outcomes. After completing his Ph.D. in Oncology at RCSI and a fellowship at the National Cancer Institute in Maryland, Stephen has built a career dedicated to bridging lab-based discovery with patient-focused care. He leads national and international collaborations in cancer biology and has helped develop cutting-edge radiotherapy and hypoxia research cores at Trinity's Translational Medicine Institute. Click here to learn more about Stephen and his important work!
When the system kills a $2.4 million study on Black maternal health with one Friday afternoon email, the message is loud and clear: stop asking questions that make power uncomfortable. Dr. Jaime Slaughter-Acey, an epidemiologist at UNC, built a groundbreaking project called LIFE-2 to uncover how racism and stress shape the biology of pregnancy. It was science rooted in community, humanity, and truth. Then NIH pulled the plug, calling her work “DEI.” Jaime didn't quit. She fought back, turning her grief into art and her outrage into action. This episode is about the cost of integrity, the politics of science, and what happens when researchers refuse to stay silent.RELATED LINKS• The Guardian article• NIH Grant• Jaime's LinkedIn Post• Jaime's Website• Faculty PageFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship email podcasts@matthewzachary.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Monty Pal and Dr. Pauline Funchain discuss the latest efforts to diagnose, prevent, and treat the series of immune-related adverse events that have emerged in the era of immunotherapy. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Monty Pal: Hello, and welcome to the ASCO Daily News Podcast. I am Monty Pal, a medical oncologist, professor and vice chair of medical oncology at the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles, California. Now, it is probably no surprise to this audience that immunotherapy has transformed the treatment landscape for multiple cancer types. It remains a pillar of modern oncology. Having said that, I think we have all been baffled by certain toxicities that we run into in the clinic. Today, I am delighted to be joined by Dr Pauline Funchain to discuss some of the checkpoint inhibitor toxicities that people struggle with most. And we will also touch on some side effects of immunotherapy beyond checkpoint inhibitors: CAR-T cells, bispecifics, so on and so forth. Dr Funchain is a dear friend, and she is an associate professor and associate director of cancer research training and education at the Stanford Cancer Institute. She is co-director of the Immunotherapy Toxicity Program and the Skin Cancer Genomics Program at Stanford, where she also serves as associate program director of hematology and oncology fellowship. Dr. Funchain is also the co-founder of ASPIRE, and we are going to talk about that a little bit today, the Alliance for the Support and Prevention of Immune-Related Events. FYI for listeners, if you are interested in our disclosures, they are available at the transcript of this episode. Pauline, thanks so much for joining us today. Dr. Pauline Funchain: Monty, thank you for this invitation. It is always great to talk. Dr. Monty Pal: So, for the audience, Pauline and I know each other from my days as a fellow at City of Hope. She was a resident at Harbor UCLA and a stellar resident at that. It has just been amazing to sort of see your career grow and blossom and to witness all the cool things that you are doing. ASPIRE, in particular, sort of caught my eye. So again, for listeners, this is the Alliance for the Support and Prevention of Immune-Related Events. Can you tell us a little bit briefly about the genesis of that, how that came about? Dr. Pauline Funchain: So, there was a bunch of us who were really struggling, I mean, all of us have struggled with these immune-related adverse events, these irAEs. You know, they are new disease states, and even though they look like autoimmune diseases, they tend to need a whole lot more steroid than autoimmune diseases do and they do not totally present in the same way. And in fact, you know, Triple-M, or Triple-M overlap syndrome, is a completely new irAE, a new immune state that we have never had before the advent of checkpoint inhibitor. And so a Triple-M, for those of you who are not as familiar, that is the constellation of myocarditis, myositis, and myasthenia gravis, something that never occurs as a natural autoimmune disease. So we were starting to realize that there were some major differences with these irAEs and autoimmune diseases. We could not treat them the right way. We really needed to learn more about them. And a bunch of us who had interest in this said, "Look, we really need to be all in one space to talk about what we are doing," because all of our treatments were our own little homegrown brews, and we needed to really get together and understand how to treat these things, how to diagnose them, and then learn more about them. So, Dr. Alexa Meara from Ohio State, Dr. Kerry Reynolds from Mass Gen, we put together this research consortium, brought together all of our irAE friends, got our best subspecialists together in a research consortium, which is now only about a year and a half old. And we made this research consortium, the Alliance for Support of Prevention of Immune-Related Events, and we reached out to ASCO, and ASCO was so kind to grant us a [Alliance for Support and Prevention of Immune-Related adverse Events (ASPIRE)] Community of Practice. So we met for the first time as a Community of Practice at the ASCO Annual Meeting just this past June and really got an ASCO community together to really think about how to again, diagnose, prevent, treat irAEs. Dr Monty Pal: This is interesting to me. The ASCO Community of Practice phenomenon is something that I was not super familiar with. Can you explain to our listenership what is the ASCO Community of Practice model? If you have particular interests, how do you sort of get one started? Dr Pauline Funchain: Yeah, so ASCO has an entire page on their Community of Practice. There are multiple Community of Practice groups or COPs. There are ones for Supportive Oncology and Survivorship. There is Women in Oncology. There is a group for International Medical Graduates. And there is about, I think 10 or 12 now that have a physical presence at ASCO but also a virtual presence on the ASCO Community of Practice site. So, if you were interested in any one of these, and you can see them on the ASCO Communities of Practice sites, you would ask to become a member. Once granted membership, then there is a whole webpage of postings and conversations that people can have. You can get email digests of conversations that happen on the website, and then you can anchor it with in-person participation at the Annual Meeting. Dr Monty Pal: That is awesome, and I can think of so many different foci within oncology that really sort of deserve a Community of Practice. This definitely being one of them. You know, it strikes me as being so interesting. I mean, the checkpoint inhibitors have been around for a while now. I think when you and I were in training, gosh, back then, these were just a little bit of a pipe dream, right? But having said that, I would probably say that more than half of my kidney cancer practice is either on checkpoint inhibitors, and the vast majority have been on one at some point in their past, right? With that in mind, you know, we have all treated a lot of patients with these drugs. Why is it that we still struggle to manage the toxicities? And just to take that one step further, what are some of the toxicities that, perhaps through ASPIRE or through your experience, people struggle with the most? Dr Pauline Funchain: So, I think we are still struggling with these because again, they are new disease states, right? This is what we all experienced with COVID, a brand-new virus and a brand-new syndrome. We now have 20-plus of these as irAEs. And what we have realized about them is the immune activation that happens with these is so much more than what we have seen with autoimmune diseases. So for instance, if you have a Crohn's or ulcerative colitis, you will top out at 40 to 60 milligrams of prednisone if a Crohn's flare or ulcerative colitis flare happens. But for our severe IR colitises, you know, it is at least 1 mg per kg, often goes up to 2 mg per kg. We, in some cases, have done 1 gram pulses if we are worried that somebody is going to perforate. So that was sort of like the first 5 years of treating irAE, and then now in the sort of second 5 years of treating irAE, we have realized that that is a lot of immunosuppression, and we might be able to get away with less with the newer biologics that are on board. So, we are struggling to try to get the data for some of these irAEs that we knew, we have known for a while, but to try to get newer treatments that may immunosuppress less so that you may still be able to retain that tumor response. And in fact, some of the preclinical studies suggest that some of these biologics may actually synergize with the immunotherapy and actually make the immunotherapy more effective from a tumor perspective and calm down the irAE as sort of the bystander effect. So we are still trying to optimize those. Getting up trials in the space has been very difficult. That is one of the reasons for the genesis of ASPIRE because we realized we needed to band together to have a bigger voice in that realm. Then there are other things that are brand new. So we talked about Triple-M. So Triple-M, again, with Triple-M or any myocarditis or myasthenia, I mean, there is about a 50% chance of death from irAE based on the literature. I think we are getting better at recognizing this, and so at Stanford we have some data to say that if you serially follow troponin, that maybe your outcomes are better. You can potentially lower the percentage of cases that are fatal because you can catch them early. I mean, this is all preliminary data, but again, these are all things that are evolving, and we do not all have the right answer. I mean, even the serial troponin thing, I think, is pretty controversial. And in fact, at one of our quarterly Zoom meetings that we are doing in ASPIRE in December is going to sort of flush out that controversy about serial troponin measuring and what is the best thing to use? Would you use something like abatacept or would you use ruxolitinib? Which one is better? I think there is a lot of controversy still about these things. Dr Monty Pal: You have really piqued my curiosity here because you think about the cons of treating irAEs, right? And I worry exactly about what you had mentioned, right, which is, "Gosh, what is going on with this tumor in terms of immunosuppression?" But you think about some of the newer agents, you mentioned ruxolitinib, I have heard of dasatinib, for instance, in this setting. Frankly speaking, a lot of these, as you point out, are really thought of as being also anticancer drugs. So you have really got me thinking about the potential synergy between perhaps suppressing an irAE and augmenting antitumor activity, which I think is very interesting. Am I on the right track with that? Dr Pauline Funchain: I think so, but you will find that a lot of people will not even go there because they are worried about how much immunosuppression you are going to cause. I am at heart a geneticist, but I think an immunologist will happily tell you that the immune system is very complex. There are multiple pathways, and these drugs do not all target the same immune pathways. So if we understand a little bit more about the pathways we are targeting and pick apart the pathways that are really, really tumor relevant and the other pathways that are not tumor relevant, you may be able to piece together a better marriage of tumor response and irAE control. Dr Monty Pal: Kind of on this topic, and again, leaning on your background in genetics, where are we in terms of predicting these irAEs? I mean, you would think the holy grail would be picking out a snip or something of this for it, right, that could potentially identify that patient who is going to get Triple-M or, you know, at the very least a significant high-grade irAE event. Are we anywhere closer to that in 2025? Dr Pauline Funchain: There have been data published. There have been some big GWAS studies. All of the effect sizes are pretty small. So there are some prediction algorithms, but none of them are clinically useful. And I think when you look at the odds ratios, they will increase risk by maybe 20%. I think one of the things that we found in a very small series and supported anecdotally is something as easy as family history of autoimmune disease is probably more predictive at this point than any of those types of markers. I think we will get there, but we are not anywhere near where we would like to be. Things like TMB also, actually, there is some good data about higher TMB, higher risk of irAE too. Dr Monty Pal: Interesting. I see all this data coming through, IL-8 polymorphisms, etc. And I just wondered if any of that was ready for prime time. But I mean, this is a good message for the practicing clinician. Sounds like we are not quite there yet. And I could probably keep you on for another entire podcast to talk about this topic, but let us see if we can at least skim the surface. I never thought I would see the day when BiTEs and CAR-Ts were entering into my kidney cancer practice, but in fact, it is really become central to a lot of our clinical trials in RCC these days. I would be lying if I did not say that I was not struggling with the toxicities and so forth associated with these drugs. Can you give us a quick primer, maybe just good resources that people can go to for managing toxicity with BiTEs and with CAR and with some of these novel therapeutic modalities that we are using in the oncology clinics? Dr Pauline Funchain: I know there is a recently published toxicity manual for BiTEs in hematologic malignancies, I think it was in Blood. CAR-T is covered in many irAE guidelines. So ASCO guidelines actually has a CAR-T [cell therapy guideline], and I would be remiss not to point out that actually ASCO has a, I am a little biased, but a wonderful guideline on irAE that is actually being updated as we speak. We are hoping for publication next year. I find the format of that, there are many guidelines out there, actually. There is ASCO, SITC, ESMO has a guideline for irAE, but I find the formatting of the ASCO guideline to be much easier to flip through during clinic, just because of the visual format of the tables. But that is going to be updated next year. And with CAR-T, there is now multiple publications also in terms of guidelines. But what I will say about bispecifics and CAR-T, so they have very similar toxicities in terms of the cytokine release and also with the ICANS, so the neurotoxicity. But what we have been finding that is really interesting with BiTEs and CAR-T, and actually even with TIL, cytokine release is very similar to some of the IL-2 toxicities but not identical that we see with TIL treatment. But now we are starting to see overlap. So patients who have been treated with immunotherapy and then go on to get a bispecific or then go on to get TIL, so I have seen some colitises that have occurred after the fact. Some of the newer CAR-Ts without checkpoint have been causing some really interesting, probably not in a good way, but interesting biologically, colitises that are really refractory. So we are starting to see some overlap, and again, I think this field is just evolving constantly. Dr Monty Pal: Yeah, no, I almost think I need to go back to that fellowship that you and I did together 20 years ago and, you know, and see if I could repeat some coursework on CAR-T management. You know, Pauline, I could probably keep you on the horn for hours, but this has just been terrific. Thank you so much for sharing all of your insights with us today on the ASCO Daily News Podcast. Dr Pauline Funchain: Thank you for the invitation. It was wonderful to talk about this, and it was wonderful to catch up a little bit, Monty. Dr Monty Pal: Same here, same here. And thanks to our listeners too. If you value the insights you heard today on the ASCO Daily News Podcast, please rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Disclaimer: The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. This is not a substitute for professional medical care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests on this podcast express their own opinions, experience, and conclusions. Guest statements on the podcast do not express the opinions of ASCO. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity, or therapy should not be construed as an ASCO endorsement. Find out more about today's speakers: Dr. Monty Pal @montypal Dr. Pauline Funchain @FunchainMD Follow ASCO on social media: @ASCO on Twitter ASCO on Bluesky ASCO on Facebook ASCO on LinkedIn Disclosures: Dr. Monty Pal: Speakers' Bureau: MJH Life Sciences, IntrisiQ, Peerview Research Funding (Inst.): Exelixis, Merck, Osel, Genentech, Crispr Therapeutics, Adicet Bio, ArsenalBio, Xencor, Miyarsian Pharmaceutical Travel, Accommodations, Expenses: Crispr Therapeutics, Ipsen, Exelixis Dr. Pauline Funchain: Consulting or Advisory Role: Merck, Replimune, Sanofi/Regeneron, Immunocore, Tempus Research Funding (Inst.): Pfizer, Bristol-Myers Squibb, IDEAYA Biosciences, Linnaeus Therapeutics Travel, Accommodations, Expenses: Merck
Join Sarah Anderson, Therapeutic Strategy Director, Oncology at Novotech, and Izabela Chmielewska from Citeline as they explore how next-generation immuno-oncology strategies are reshaping cancer research. From emerging modalities to smarter trial design and evolving regulatory expectations, discover what's driving the next wave of innovation in oncology.
In this inspiring episode of Moving Medicine Forward,Amanda King, Senior Clinical Scientist at CTI, discusses her remarkable journey from pediatric ICU nurse practitioner to leading-edge oncology researcher. Amanda shares how personal loss fueled her passion for patient-centered careand clinical research, and how her work at the NIH and CTI is shaping the future of medicine. From the complexities of oncology trials to the emotional weight of working with vulnerable patients, Amanda offers a candid look at thechallenges and triumphs of advancing therapeutic options. Whether you're in healthcare or simply curious about the human stories behind medical innovation, this episode is a must-listen.00:30 Meet Amanda King: her background and passionfor patient-centered care. 01:07 Amanda's clinical roots in pediatric ICU andtransition to research. 02:00 Pursuing a PhD and discovering a love forclinical trials at the NIH. 02:34 The motivation behind Amanda's shift toclinical research. 03:34 Why Amanda joined CTI and what drew her toindustry research. 05:10 Amanda's role as a Senior Clinical Scientistand her impact on trial safety. 06:35 Deep dive into Amanda's work at the NIH and theimportance of patient outcomes data. 09:21 Challenges in oncology trials: balancingsafety, complexity, and emotional toll. 11:39 The rewards of working in oncology and Amanda'spersonal connection to cancer research. 13:08 Advice for young people interested in clinicalresearch and the importance of mentorship. 15:14 Amanda's vision for the future of medicine:innovation meets compassion. 16:10 Closing thoughts and how to stay connected withCTI.
In this week's episode, Blood editor Dr. Laura Michaelis interviews author Dr. Taylor Brooks on his latest paper published in volume 146 issue 18 of Blood Journal. The conversation discusses outcomes of bispecific antibodies (epcoritamab or glofitamab) in treating aggressive B-cell lymphoma in a study with 245 patients. Findings show a tentative way forward in treatment for patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).Featured Article:Real-world outcomes of patients with aggressive B-cell lymphoma treated with epcoritamab or glofitamab
Fluoropyrimidines such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and capecitabine remain cornerstone chemotherapies in oncology. However, for patients with certain DPYD gene variants, these commonly used drugs can cause life-threatening toxicities due to impaired metabolism of the active compounds. In this episode of the Precision Medicine Pharmacist Podcast, host Melissa Smith, PharmD, explores how DPYD genotyping is transforming oncology care by helping clinicians identify patients at risk before toxicity occurs. Joined by Karen Merritt, an advocate for universal DPD testing and leader with the Test4DPD initiative, the discussion sheds light on how pharmacogenomics is shaping safer, more personalized cancer treatment. Together, they explore current evidence, new FDA updates, and implementation frameworks that empower pharmacists and oncology teams to prevent preventable harm through precision medicine.
Send us a textWelcome to The Oncology Journal Club Podcast Series 3Hosted by Professor Craig Underhill, Dr Kate Clarke & Professor Christopher Jackson | Proudly produced by The Oncology NetworkKate Clarke takes over hosting duties!Join our expert trio — Professor Craig Underhill, Dr Kate Clarke and Professor Christopher Jackson — for the usual OJC antics in Part 2 of our ESMO Special.Craig talks us through the GU and lung highlights, while the team each share their top ‘practice-changing' abstracts. Plus, CJ chats with Susie Stanway about the upcoming London Global Cancer Week.Expect nuanced analysis, sharp insights and the occasional cheeky joke along the way.To learn more about The Oncology Network, subscribe to our free weekly Newsletter and listen to other fantastic podcasts, visit our website: www.oncologynetwork.com.au. You'll also find the Show Notes on the website with links to the abstracts, bios of our hosts and a downloadable Bingo Card
EPISODE DESCRIPTIONAllison Applebaum was supposed to become a concert pianist. She chose ballet instead. Then 9/11 hit, and she ran straight into a psych ward—on purpose. What followed was one of the most quietly revolutionary acts in modern medicine: founding the country's first mental health clinic for caregivers. Because the system had decided that if you love someone dying, you don't get care. You get to wait in the hallway.She's a clinical psychologist. A former dancer. A daughter who sat next to her dad—legendary arranger of Stand By Me—through every ER visit, hallway wait, and impossible choice. Now she's training hospitals across the country to finally treat caregivers like patients. With names. With needs. With billing codes.We talked about music, grief, psycho-oncology, the real cost of invisible labor, and why no one gives a shit about the person driving you to chemo. This one's for the ones in the waiting room.RELATED LINKSAllisonApplebaum.comStand By Me – The BookLinkedInInstagramThe Elbaum Family Center for Caregiving at Mount SinaiFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship, email podcast@matthewzachary.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In recognition of Oncology Awareness Month, our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, invited Rachel Venable, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), to the show to discuss some common oncology mistakes that are being made in general practice, and how to correct them. All dvm360 oncology content for the month of November is sponsored by IDEXX.
At the 2025 ESMO Congress, leading oncologists reflected on data expected to redefine practice across breast, genitourinary, and gynecologic malignancies.
Is your patient progressing on an aromatase inhibitor (AI)? Fine-tune ddPCR/NGS testing to detect resistance and optimize oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) success. Credit available for this activity expires: 11/04/2026 Earn Credit / Learning Objectives & Disclosures: https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/esr1-mutation-testing-breast-cancer-setting-standard-2025a1000u0f?ecd=bdc_podcast_libsyn_mscpedu
Living in the best of both worlds: balancing pain management and quality of life. In this BackTable MSK Brief, Dr. Mark Amsbaugh and Dr. Ran Lador discuss multidisciplinary approaches to treating spinal tumors with a particular focus on pain management. They explore the complexities of defining and treating pain related to spinal tumors, differentiating between mechanical instability, tumor burden, and neuropathic pain. The conversation delves into the roles of various treatments including opioids, radiation, nerve blocks, cryoablation, and surgical interventions. They highlight the evolving landscape of spine oncology, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches and the promising future of integrating advanced technologies for better patient outcomes. Episode Outline 00:00 - Introduction 00:53 - Approach to Pain Management in Spine Oncology 02:54 - Multimodal Analgesia 04:25 - What is a Safe Radiation Dose that Spares Spinal Nerves? 07:59 - The Balance Between Quality of Life and Pain Management 09:58 - Final Remarks Resources Dr. Mark Amsbaugh, MD https://med.uth.edu/neurosciences/dr-mark-j-amsbaugh-md/ Dr. Ran Lador, MD https://med.uth.edu/ortho/2022/11/02/ran-lador-md/ Dr. Alexa Levey, MD https://medicine.yale.edu/profile/alexa-levey/
Today on Real Pink, we are joined by someone w ho knows what it means to care deeply for others and what it feels like when life suddenly requires that same care and compassion be turned inward. She's a devoted mother and caregiver to her son, and when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she found that she was more mentally prepared to navigate it than expected. Sabrina Thomas is here to tell her story, including how she advocated for herself and learned to accept help from others when she's so used to being the one who gives it. This conversation is a reminder that strength comes in many forms.
Check out this week's QuadCast as we highlight the role of elective nodal treatment in bladder cancer, the impact of cribriform morphology on prostate cancer metastasis risk, and much more. Check out the website and subscribe to the newsletter! www.quadshotnews.com Founders & Lead Authors: Laura Dover & Caleb Dulaney Podcast Host: Sam Marcrom
Jim Foote, CEO and Founder of First Ascent Biomedical a pioneer in functional precision medicine (FPM) that aims to eliminate guesswork from cancer treatment. After losing his son to cancer, Jim left a career in cybersecurity to build a data-driven platform that combines AI, robotics and real-time tumour testing to help doctors choose the right therapy for each patient. In this episode, we explore how FPM differs from traditional genomics-only testing, why tumours can respond differently even with the same patient and how AI can support rather than replace clinicians in treatment decisions. Jim also shares the economic impact of ineffective therapies, the challenges of scaling regulatory innovation in oncology, and why the future of cancer care depends on personalisation at the cellular level.Timestamps:[00:00:45] What Is Functional Precision Medicine?[00:02:00] Jim's Personal Journey from Tech to Healthcare[00:05:50] Overcoming Regulatory and Systemic Gatekeepers[00:08:13] From Reactive Care to Personalised Treatment[00:09:08] What Lab Findings Reveal about Cancer Cells[00:10:30] Why Genomics Alone Isn't Enough[00:12:03] AI as Decision Support Not a Decision Maker[00:15:55] Cancer in Younger Populations and Misconceptions[00:20:25] Reducing Cost and Waste in Cancer Treatment[00:26:34] What Success Really Means to Jim FooteConnect with Jim - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-foote/ Learn more about First Ascent Biomedical - https://www.linkedin.com/company/firstascentbio/ Get in touch with Karandeep Badwal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karandeepbadwal/ Follow Karandeep on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KarandeepBadwalSubscribe to the Podcast
Dr. Faisal Khan explains what screening is available for lung cancer, who qualifies for a screening, and how often lung screening appointments should be made.
Good morning from Pharma Daily: the podcast that brings you the most important developments in the pharmaceutical and biotech world. Today, we're diving into a series of fascinating advancements and strategic movements that are shaping the landscape of drug development and patient care.Starting with a significant milestone in precision oncology, China has approved its first EGFR-targeted antibody-drug conjugate. This approval marks a pivotal moment in the industry's shift towards targeted therapies, which promise more precise treatment options with potentially fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Targeted therapies are at the forefront of personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to individual genetic profiles, offering hope for more effective cancer care.In the realm of HIV prevention, Gilead Sciences has reported impressive sales for its new long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis medication, Yetztugo. Since its launch in June 2025, Yetztugo has generated $54 million in U.S. sales, underscoring the demand for long-term HIV prevention solutions. This development is part of Gilead's broader strategy to strengthen its HIV franchise as it advances its pipeline with promising candidates like GS-3242 alongside lenacapavir. The aim is to develop treatments that require less frequent dosing, which could significantly improve patient adherence and outcomes. Despite challenges within its HIV portfolio and declining Veklury sales, Gilead Sciences is actively seeking growth opportunities through strategic partnerships and pipeline advancements—an essential approach for navigating patent cliffs while sustaining long-term growth.On the financial front, AbbVie has increased its revenue forecast by $400 million to a staggering $60.9 billion, driven by robust sales from its immunology drugs Skyrizi and Rinvoq. These treatments address chronic inflammatory conditions like psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, reflecting AbbVie's strong positioning in this therapeutic area despite competitive pressures. AbbVie continues to report strong earnings from Skyrizi and Rinvoq, reinforcing its dominance in the immunology market and highlighting the profitable nature of successful biologics in treating chronic inflammatory diseases.Biogen continues to bolster its multiple sclerosis franchise by focusing on both legacy treatments and new product launches. This strategy highlights the importance of balancing innovation with lifecycle management to maintain market strength against generic competition—a common challenge in the industry.Meanwhile, the American Academy of Pediatrics has taken a cautious stance by not endorsing leucovorin for autism treatment due to insufficient evidence. This decision emphasizes the critical need for rigorous, evidence-based practices in developing clinical guidelines for complex disorders like autism.Internationally, CSL Seqirus has partnered with Saudi Arabia to supply cell-based influenza vaccines and support local production capabilities. This move aligns with global efforts to enhance pandemic preparedness and healthcare resilience through local manufacturing initiatives.The volatile nature of the biotech sector is evident with reports of 16 companies ceasing operations in 2025 due to high R&D costs and regulatory challenges. Despite these closures, such volatility opens doors for new innovations that could address unmet medical needs.Turning our attention to obesity treatment, Eli Lilly stands at a crucial juncture with its novel obesity medication, orforglipron. The company aims to make this weight loss pill accessible while maintaining financial viability for future R&D—a balancing act faced by many pharmaceutical companies as they strive to deliver affordable yet innovative treatments amid growing global health concerns. However, not all R&D efforts reach fruition. Eli Lilly has decided to discontinue its mid-stage program Support the show
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Osteosarcoma from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Gallbladder Cancer from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Renal Cell Carcinoma from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Gastric Cancer from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets
In this solosode of The Energy Code, Dr. Mike unveils the most comprehensive update yet to BioLight's flagship supplement — BioBlue — and takes listeners deep inside the quantum bioenergetic thinking that shaped its redesign. What began as a methylene-blue-based mitochondrial catalyst has evolved into a next-generation longevity systemintegrating deuterium-depleted water, elevated NMN, taurine, and trace gold-silver resonance compounds. Dr. Mike breaks down the science and reasoning behind each refinement: why Litewater's 10 ppm deuterium-depleted water now forms the clean matrix for all BioBlue liquids, how NMN has been increased ten-fold (10 mg → 100 mg) to meaningfully expand NAD⁺ pools and drive biogenesis, and how taurine stabilizes mitochondrial membranes and calcium signaling for endurance and resilience. He explains the subtle yet powerful tweaks — like a 50 % increase in colloidal gold and silver and a 40 % reduction in fulvic acid — that sharpen redox coherence and enhance longevity signaling. Dr. Mike dives into: Overview of how BioBlue progressed from a simple methylene-blue solution to a full mitochondrial optimization system. Why all BioBlue liquids now utilizes Litewater for cleaner proton flow and improved ATP efficiency. Why NMN increased from 10 mg → 100 mg per dose to meaningfully raise NAD⁺ levels, drive biogenesis, and enhance DNA repair. Why the addition of Taurine – 100 mg per serving for membrane stability, calcium regulation, and long-term mitochondrial resilience. Enhanced Trace Elements – 50 % more colloidal gold & silver plus refined fulvic acid for smoother redox flow and higher photodynamic efficiency. This episode isn't just about formulation — it's about why every molecule matters in the pursuit of mitochondrial efficiency, redox stability, and long-term cellular youthfulness. Mike also previews BioLight's upcoming new website, pre-Black-Friday event, and a soon-to-launch BioBlue Lite product line for those seeking simplicity without compromise. Key Topics Covered Evolution of BioBlue — from the original methylene blue + NMN formula to a comprehensive mitochondrial optimization system. Integration of Deuterium-Depleted Water (Litewater, 10 ppm) — explanation of how lowering deuterium enhances ATP production, redox efficiency, and longevity potential. NMN Upgrade (10× Increase) — new 100 mg per serving dosage for boosting NAD⁺ levels, mitochondrial biogenesis, DNA repair, and energy metabolism. Addition of Taurine (100 mg per serving) — supports membrane integrity, calcium balance, ROS buffering, and cellular longevity signaling. Enhanced Colloidal Gold & Silver (50 % Increase) — improved redox stability, electron flow, and photodynamic synergy with methylene blue and red light. Refined Wu Jin Sun Fulvic Acid (−40 %) — optimizes redox balance and mineral transport while improving synergy between all active compounds. Comprehensive Mitochondrial Benefits — improved ATP efficiency, autophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis for cleaner, more resilient energy production. New Product Lineup — introduction of BioBlue Lite and BioBlue Leuco Lite (simplified methylene blue + water versions) for accessible mitochondrial support. Key Quotes from Dr. Mike “Deuterium-depleted water doesn't just make the mitochondria go faster—it helps them run truer, cleaner, and more efficiently.” “We've moved BioBlue from a trace metabolic nudge to a real mitochondrial optimization protocol that supports redox cycling, biogenesis, and longevity pathways in a quantifiable way.” “Taurine turns BioBlue from a fast-acting energy compound into a cellular longevity stack—supporting repair, recycling, and resilience.” “By increasing colloidal gold and silver within their optimal bio-signal zones, BioBlue transforms from a chemical redox supplement into a biophysical energy transducer.” “Each change — from Litewater to taurine — was made to help your mitochondria run longer, cleaner, and more accurately. This is longevity through bioenergetics.” Episode Timeline 00:00 – Announcements: Pre-Black Friday + new website 04:00 – The origin of BioBlue and its evolution 10:00 – Introducing the upgraded BioBlue formula 11:00 – Why BioLight partnered with Light Water 12:00 – How deuterium slows mitochondrial ATP production 17:00 – Functional benefits of deuterium-depleted water 19:00 – 10x increase in NMN for energy and repair 27:00 – Synergy between NMN and methylene blue 30:00 – Adding taurine for stability and longevity 39:00 – Increasing colloidal gold for photonic synergy 46:00 – Boosting colloidal silver for redox protection 52:00 – Why lowering fulvic acid improves coherence 56:00 – What's next: BioBlue Light + legacy pricing offer 01:02:00 – Dr. Mike's closing thoughts on mitochondrial optimization Resources & References Deuterium Depletion and Mitochondrial Efficiency Boros, L. G. Deuterium Depletion and Cellular Bioenergetics. Frontiers in Oncology (2020). Sagalevsky, V. — Light Water: The Science of Deuterium-Depleted Hydration (interview referenced in episode). Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) & NAD⁺ Metabolism Mills, K. F. et al. Long-term administration of NMN mitigates age-associated physiological decline in mice. Cell Metabolism (2016). Yoshino, J. et al. NAD⁺ intermediates: The biology and therapeutic potential of NMN and NR. Cell Metabolism (2018). Taurine and Longevity Pathways Wang, W. et al. Taurine deficiency as a driver of aging. Science (2023). Schaffer, S. W. et al. Physiological roles of taurine in the heart and mitochondria. Journal of Biomedical Science (2010). Colloidal Gold & Silver in Cellular Redox Systems Li, Y. et al. Gold nanoclusters enhance mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase activity. ACS Nano (2019). Kim, Y. S. et al. Silver nanoparticles exhibit SOD- and catalase-like activity for redox modulation. Nano Research (2020). Fulvic & Humic Acids as Bioactive Redox Modulators Senesi, N. Nature of humic substances and their interactions with trace metals and organics in the environment. Soil Science (1992). Wu Jin San extract — traditional Chinese “gold medicine” formulation known for enhanced mineral transport and detoxification support. Additional Mentions PGC-1α, SIRT1/SIRT3, and Autophagy pathways in mitochondrial biogenesis and longevity. Quantum redox coupling and plasmonic resonance as mechanisms for light-driven bioenergetic optimization.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?David: Unlocking potential.Biotech startups face daunting challenges, but David Kiewlich, Founder and CEO of Tomorrow Biotech Corporation, has created a model that flips the odds. While most startups face a 90% failure rate, David's incubator, Badass Labs, boasts an astounding 95% success rate.The secret? David's incubator takes on time-consuming tasks and provides founders with the tools and support they need to focus on high-value activities. “We take what I call low-value, high-risk tasks off of the responsibility of these early founders,” David explained. By handling procurement, accounting, and regulatory compliance, the incubator saves startups time, money, and frustration.For example, David shared how the incubator's full-service procurement system saves companies more than 70 hours of work while also cutting costs. “Because it's a pooled spend model, it allows us to be one giant customer instead of many little ones,” he said. This approach not only improves efficiency but also doubles the runway for many startups.David's focus goes beyond logistics—he's also deeply invested in coaching founders to grow. He emphasized the importance of coachability, saying, “If they are open to guidance and comfortable with being vulnerable, they'll grow.” This hands-on support ensures founders avoid rookie mistakes, expand their skill sets, and present their companies as professional and investor-ready.The work being done at Badass Labs and Tomorrow Biotech isn't just about improving success rates—it's about saving lives. By accelerating the development of biotech innovations, David's incubator is paving the way for groundbreaking ideas to reach the market faster.If you're inspired by David's approach and want to learn more about his incubator, visit badasslabs.org. With multiple locations across the U.S. and plans to expand, the program is open to biotech, climate tech, and other transformative startups. By helping founders focus on what matters most, David is proving that with the right support, startups can defy the odds and change the world.tl;dr:David Kiewlich's incubator flips the biotech startup success rate from 10% to 95% with unique support.The program removes tedious tasks, saving founders time and enabling them to focus on execution.Coachability is critical—David helps founders grow by fostering their confidence and guiding their development.David shared a superpower: unlocking potential by building up others and inspiring action.Tomorrow Biotech and Badass Labs accelerate innovation, empowering founders to bring life-saving ideas to market.How to Develop Unlocking Potential As a SuperpowerDavid Kiewlich's superpower is his ability to unlock the potential in others by fostering their confidence and helping them grow into their best selves. Reflecting on his life, David shared how he developed this skill early on, saying, “You become sort of focused on how you can lift up and protect everyone around you.” He uses this mindset to empower biotech founders, helping them become “superhumans” who think bigger, execute better, and achieve more.One inspiring story David shared highlights his superpower in action. Years ago, he organized a grassroots effort to rescue surplus food from wholesalers and deliver it to nonprofits across the San Francisco Bay Area. Over the course of a year, he single-handedly moved nearly 600,000 pounds of produce, ensuring it reached those in need instead of ending up in landfills. By showing what's possible, David inspired others to replicate his efforts, amplifying his impact.To develop this superpower, David suggests:Focus on building up others rather than seeking credit for yourself.Encourage people by expressing belief in their abilities.Help others see what's possible by setting an example.Support people in a way that allows them to focus on their strengths.By following David's example and advice, you can make unlocking potential a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDavid Kiewlich (he/him):Founder and CEO, Tomorrow Biotech CorporationAbout Tomorrow Biotech Corporation: Tomorrow Biotech Corporation consists of an accelerator fund, an early stage fund and includes the Bay Area Disruptor and Startup Support Labs (BADASS Labs) a 501c3, non-profit series of biotech incubators. While the funds are new, the incubator has been in operation for 6 years, supporting dozens of pre-seed through series B (and beyond) companies. With a track record of 50 of 55 company successes for members of the incubator, this ecosystem has a uniquely successful approach to founder support, which has substantially changed the concept and expectations for early stage incubators. BADASS Labs is more than a 501c3, non-profit biotech incubator that rents lab space to small businesses. It is a strategic ally that empowers biotech entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential. By offering a comprehensive suite of services, such as purchasing, waste management, operations and even health insurance plans for its members, BADASS Labs enables its clients to focus on their core competencies and substantially reduce their operational costs. BADASS Labs bridges the gap between research and commercialization, by facilitating novel technologies from academic, national lab or self-generated sources into viable products that can enhance the domestic supply chain and generate regional employment. While we can incubate companies at any stage, we have a particular focus on the earlier side, from Pre-Seed through Series B stages.Website: badasslabs.org, TomorrowBiotech.com, MissionBoosterProcurement.comBiographical Information: Dr. David Kiewlich (Ph.D. in Cell and Developmental Biology) is a serial founder and entrepreneur in biotech. With over 35 years' experience working for industry, as well as 6 startups of his own (in Oncology, Cell Based Therapies and Synthetic Biology), his background is excellently aligned with the needs and struggles of pre-commercialization startups. He founded and runs Tomorrow Biotech, which includes the Bay Area Disruptor and Startup Support Labs (BADASS Labs) a 501c3, non-profit series of biotech incubators, which has supported dozens of pre-seed through series B (and beyond) companies, as well as a startup and early-stage fund. In addition to Tomorrow Biotech, David is also the CSO of a cell based therapy company, focused on autoimmune disease, advisor for several biotech startups and frequent public speaker advocating for increased sustainability and greater Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the sciences.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/davidkiewlichSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here to help us Power Up October.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, November 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern — Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “Investing with a Self-Directed IRA.” In this session, Devin will explain how investors can use self-directed IRAs to participate in regulated investment crowdfunding while managing taxes and optimizing returns. He'll break down when this strategy makes sense, how to choose the right custodian, and what fees, rules, and risks to watch for. With his trademark clarity and real-world experience, Devin will help you understand how to balance simplicity with smart tax planning—so you can invest confidently, align your portfolio with your values, and make your money work harder for both impact and income.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live, in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Intraductal Papilloma from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets
EPISODE DESCRIPTIONRebecca V. Nellis never meant to run a nonprofit. She just never left. Twenty years later, she's still helming Cancer and Careers after a Craigslist maternity-leave temp job turned into a lifelong mission.In this 60-minute doubleheader, we cover everything from theater nerdom and improv rules for surviving bureaucracy, to hanging up on Jon Bon Jovi, to navigating cancer while working—or working while surviving cancer. Same thing.Rebecca's path is part Second City, part Prague hostel, part Upper East Side grant writer, and somehow all of that makes perfect sense. She breaks down how theater kids become nonprofit lifers, how “sample sale feminism” helped shape a cancer rights org, and how you know when the work is finally worth staying for.Also: Cleavon Little. Tap Dance Kid. 42 countries. And one extremely awkward moment involving a room full of women's handbags and one very confused Matthew.If you've ever had to hide your diagnosis to keep a job—or wanted to burn the whole HR system down—this one's for you.RELATED LINKSCancer and CareersRebecca Nellis on LinkedIn2024 Cancer and Careers Research ReportWorking with Cancer Pledge (Publicis)CEW FoundationI'm Not Rappaport – Broadway InfoFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship opportunities, email podcast@matthewzachary.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Metastatic Cancer to Bone from the Oncology section at Medbullets.comFollow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets