Effects of methotrexate on the expression of the translational isoforms of glucocorticoid receptors α and β: correlation with methotrexate efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Objectives: To test the effect of MTX on the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) α and β isoforms AB, C and D in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in culture, from newly diagnosed RA patients and to evaluate whether the test results correlate with patients' subsequent response to MTX treatment.

Methods: Twenty patients with early active RA were enrolled. Patients who had previously received any DMARD or cytotoxic agent, or who had received CSs in the 6 months before enrolment were excluded.

Pan-American League of Associations for Rheumatology (PANLAR) recommendations and guidelines for musculoskeletal ultrasound training in the Americas for rheumatologists.

Objective: To develop guidelines for Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSKUS) training for rheumatologists in the Americas.

Methods: A total of 25 Rheumatologists from 19 countries of the American Continent participated in a consensus-based interactive process (Delphi method) using 2 consecutive electronic questionnaires. The first questionnaire included the following: the relevance of organizing courses to teach MSKUS to Rheumatologists, the determination of the most effective educational course models, the trainee levels, the educational objectives, the requirements for passing the course(s), the course venues, the number of course participants per instructor, and the percentage of time spent in hands-on sessions.