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Building on the long-standing tradition of challenging oppression and questioning whose interests are being served in the field of language education, we report on a study that involved a group of U.S.-based graduate students who collaborated with a ninth-grade English teacher in Nepal. The study comes out of a larger project that sought to internationalize the curriculum of a graduate educational linguistics course at a U.S. university. At the heart of this internationalizing curriculum endeavour was a commitment to expose graduate students in the U.S. to the issues of language teaching outside of the U.S. This was done through co-designing of a unit of lessons, with six graduate students meeting virtually with their teacher partner, Ditya, in Nepal over the course of a semester. The graduate students and Ditya constitute our research participants. The graduate student participants learned about the need to develop pedagogical materials that were relevant to the local context in Nepali classroom, and not attempt to transplant a Western-centric curriculum onto the Nepali classroom. In keeping with recent calls to decolonize higher education, we illustrate how critical theory in general and decolonizing pedagogy in particular can be infused into a U.S. graduate curriculum by drawing on the rich, indigenous knowledge and resources of a teacher collaborator from the Global South. We do this by reporting how this critical, decolonizing goal was realized through collaborative professionalism, which is characterized by the sharing of knowledge, skills, and experience to improve student achievement, reflection, dialogue and collective responsibility.

Introduction: Open access to digital research output is increasing, but academic library policies can place restrictions on public access to libraries. This paper reports on a preliminary study to investigate the correlation between academic library access policies and institutional positions of openness to knowledge. Method: This primarily qualitative study used document and data analysis to examine the content of library access or use policies of twelve academic institutions in eight countries. The outcomes were statistically correlated with institutional open access publication policies and practices. Analysis: We used an automated search tool together with manual searching to retrieve Web-based library access policies, then categorised and counted the levels and conditions of public access. We compared scores for institutional library access feature with open access features and percentages of open access publications. Results: Academic library policies may suggest open public access but multi-layered user categories, privileges and fees charged can inhibit such access, with disparities in openness emerging between library policies and institutional open access policies. Conclusion: As open access publishing options and mandates expand, physical entry and access to print and electronic resources in academic libraries is contracting. This conflicts with global library and information commitments to open access to knowledge.

The Chinese undergraduate student population currently represents 12.8% of all international students enrolled in the United States (Institute for International Education, 2015a). In an effort to understand the experiences of this population in their first year of college in the United States, a phenomenological study was conducted using a conceptual framework comprising Schlossberg's Transition Model (Schlossberg, Waters, & Goodman, 1995) and the Culturally Engaging Campus Environments (CECE) Model (Museus, 2014). Three transition types were identified--academic, social/personal, and linguistic--and participants' preparation, sources of institutional support, and coping strategies for moving through these transitions were examined. Recommendations for practice include: multi-faceted, mandatory orientation programs; ongoing workshops and resources beyond orientation; and improvements to housing and residential life opportunities and experiences.

Objectives: Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder as men. Yet suicide rates are four times higher in men than women, increasing to six times when comparing older men to older women. Investigators have begun researching if depression presents differently in individuals who adhere to masculine norms, leading to the conceptualization of masculine depression. Despite validity evidence for the Male Depression Risk Scale-22 (MDRS-22) in mixed-age samples, few studies have investigated the possibility of age-related differences in masculine depression. The present study aimed to test for age invariance of the MDRS-22. Method: Age invariance for the MDRS-22 was tested via a multi-group confirmatory factor analysis with groups of younger (18–64 years) and older (65+ years) males (N = 469). Results: Age invariance for the MDRS-22 was not established, ΔX2 = 451.47, Δdf = 16, p < 0.001. Conclusion: Results of the study indicate that masculine depression may present differently between younger and older men. To fully understand the construct of masculine depression, it is important to investigate how symptoms may present in individuals of all ages. Overall, the study highlights the importance of investigating how masculine depression may present differently in older men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mixed-methods study was conducted to explore the role of faith in mental health among Latino women (Latinas) during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of a lifestyle study, surveys were administered to 89 participants during the 1st year of the pandemic. Specifically, a focus group was conducted with participants (n = 6) directly affected by COVID-19 (i.e., self or family member). The results showed inverse correlations between religiosity and both depression and anxiety, as well as positive correlations among religious practices, religious coping, and religiosity. Given these associations, future interventions should explore the role of faith in supporting individuals during difficult times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction We quantified the linear trend in combustible tobacco smoking among adolescents in the United States from 2014 to 2020, and then compared these trends across racial and ethnic categories. We also tested the effect of e-cigarette use on these trends for all-youth and across racial and ethnic categories. Aims and Methods We pooled and analyzed seven years of National Youth Tobacco Survey data for n  = 124 151 middle and high school students from 2014 to 2020. Weighted logistic regression analyses calculated the annual change in combustible tobacco smoking (ie cigarettes, cigars, and hookah) from 2014 to 2020. Stratified analyses examined linear trends for non-Hispanic White (NHW), NH-Black (NHB), Hispanic/Latino, and NH-Other (NHO) youth. All-models controlled for sex, grade level, and past 30-day e-cigarette use. Results Combustible tobacco smoking from 2014 to 2020 dropped by more than 50% for NHW youth, more than 40% for Latino and NHO youth, compared to just 16% among NHB youth. From 2014 to 2020, the odds of combustible tobacco smoking declined by 21.5% per year for NHWs, which was significantly greater than Hispanic/Latinos (17% per year; p  = .025), NHOs (15.4% per year; p  = .01), and NHBs (5.1% per year; p  < .001), adjusting for sex, grade, and e-cigarette use. Trends and disparities in trends by race and ethnicity were observed independent of e-cigarette use. Conclusions Combustible tobacco smoking declined for all-youth but at significantly different rates across races and ethnicities. Notably, declines in combustible tobacco smoking are lagging among NHB youth. Interventions are critically needed to address this disparity. Implications A direct, evidence-based intervention to reduce combustible tobacco smoking among NHB youth is critically needed. Such tobacco control initiatives should follow the Best Practices for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Framework, incorporating sustainable funding for school-based intervention, public health education, and adult cessation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses considerations for defining homelessness in public health data collection. Topics include importance of improving collection of data on housing status in public health data collection efforts, reason that collecting data related to homelessness and disease is considered complicated, and various criteria used to define homelessness.

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This study collected and analyzed data on the required and recommended textbooks and board exam prep resources in academic health sciences libraries that serve accredited colleges of osteopathic medicine (COM) programs in the United States. The study consisted of locating, compiling, and analyzing data on the required and recommended texts and board exam prep resources through the COM libraries' public-facing websites. The investigators compiled the required or recommended texts and the board exam prep resources used within the COM curricula from 38 COM libraries. The study results provide information for medical school administrators, especially within the academic affairs department and library directors, to help identify trends across U.S. osteopathic medical schools to justify the need for additional resources and services. These results can assist medical and library leadership in COM schools in planning for their future academic health sciences libraries and COM programs. Finally, the findings could assist programs in library and information sciences in redesigning their curriculum and students who seek future careers in academic health sciences libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Couples raising a child diagnosed with autism spectrum condition (ASC) experience unique challenges that can affect their relationship. This grounded theory study explores how couples maintain functioning in their relationship despite ongoing stressors related to raising a child on the spectrum. The presented model shows what couples can do to create and maintain their relationship functioning. It utilises four major themes developed from our analysis of interviews with 19 couples in the United States with a child diagnosed with ASC. This study increases understanding of couple functioning when raising a child on the spectrum. The grounded theory defines couple functioning for couples with a child diagnosed with ASC as balancing four mutually influential themes: togetherness, adaptability, resilience and communication. We also discuss clinical implications for systemic therapists to work with couples with a child diagnosed with ASC effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Widespread outbreaks of person-to-person transmitted hepatitis A virus (HAV), particularly among people who inject drugs (PWID), continue across the United States and globally. However, the herd immunity threshold and vaccination coverage required to prevent outbreaks are unknown. We used surveillance data and dynamic modeling to estimate herd immunity thresholds among PWID in 16 US states. Methods We used a previously published dynamic model of HAV transmission calibrated to surveillance data from outbreaks involving PWID in 16 states. Using state-level calibrated models, we estimated the basic reproduction number (R 0) and herd immunity threshold for PWID in each state. We performed a meta-analysis of herd immunity thresholds to determine the critical vaccination coverage required to prevent most HAV outbreaks among PWID. Results Estimates of R 0 for HAV infection ranged from 2.2 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9–2.5) for North Carolina to 5.0 (95% CI, 4.5–5.6) for West Virginia. Corresponding herd immunity thresholds ranged from 55% (95% CI, 47%–61%) for North Carolina to 80% (95% CI, 78%–82%) for West Virginia. Based on the meta-analysis, we estimated a pooled herd immunity threshold of 64% (95% CI, 61%–68%; 90% prediction interval, 52%–76%) among PWID. Using the prediction interval upper bound (76%) and assuming 95% vaccine efficacy, we estimated that vaccination coverage of 80% could prevent most HAV outbreaks. Conclusions Hepatitis A vaccination programs in the United States may need to achieve vaccination coverage of at least 80% among PWID in order to prevent most HAV outbreaks among this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital health technologies (DHTs) can transform neurological assessments, improving quality and continuity of care. In the United States, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the safety and efficacy of these technologies, employing a detailed regulatory process that classifies devices based on risk and requires rigorous review and post-market surveillance. Following FDA approval, DHTs enter the Current Procedural Terminology, Relative Value Scale Update Committee, and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services coding and valuation processes leading to coverage and payment decisions. DHT adoption is challenged by rapid technologic advancements, an inconsistent evidence base, marketing discrepancies, ambiguous coding guidance, and variable health insurance coverage. Regulators, policymakers, and payers will need to develop better methods to evaluate these promising technologies and guide their deployment. This includes striking a balance between patient safety and clinical effectiveness versus promotion of innovation, especially as DHTs increasingly incorporate artificial intelligence. Data validity, cybersecurity, risk management, societal, and ethical responsibilities should be addressed. Regulatory advances can support adoption of these promising tools by ensuring DHTs are safe, effective, accessible, and equitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The American Board of Surgery has endorsed competency-based education as vital to the assessment of surgical training. From 2018 to 2020, a national pilot study was conducted at 28 general surgery programs to evaluate feasibility of implementing entrustable professional activities (EPAs) for 5 common general surgical conditions. ACGME core competency Milestones were also rated for each resident by program clinical competency committees. This study aimed to evaluate the validity of general surgery EPAs compared with Milestones. STUDY DESIGN: Prospectively collected, de-identified EPA Pilot Study data were analyzed. EPAs studied were EPA-1 (gallbladder), EPA-2 (inguinal hernia), EPA-3 (right lower quadrant pain), EPA-4 (trauma), and EPA-5 (consult). Variables abstracted included levels of EPA entrustment (1 to 5) and corresponding ACGME Milestone subcompetency ratings (1 to 5) for the same study cycle. Spearman's correlations were used to evaluate the relationship between summative EPA scores and corresponding Milestone ratings. RESULTS: A total of 493 unique residents received a summative entrustment decision. EPA summative entrustment scores had moderate-to-strong positive correlation with mapped Milestone subcompetencies, with median rho value of 0.703. Among operation-focused EPAs, median rho values were similar between EPA-1 (0.688) and EPA-2 (0.661), but higher for EPA-3 (0.833). EPA-4 showed a strong positive correlation with diagnosis and communication competencies (0.724), whereas EPA-5, mapped to the most Milestone subcompetencies, had the lowest median rho value (0.455). CONCLUSIONS: Moderate-to-strong positive correlation was noted between EPAs and patient care, medical knowledge, and communication Milestones. These findings support the validity of EPAs in general surgery and suggest that EPA assessments can be used to inform Milestone ratings by clinical competency committees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article comments on the development of a standardized, laboratory result-based hepatitis C virus (HCV) clearance cascade for public health jurisdictions. It identifies elements for constructing a population-level HCV cascade, as well as the important data-to-share opportunities measured by a laboratory result-based HCV cascade. It informs about the funding to support health departments to implement laboratory result-based HCV cascades and cites limitations of HCV cascade.

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review is to explore end-of-life (EOL) care planning and the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) among people who identify as Black or African American. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) were used to guide and inform this systematic review process. The following academic electronic databases with publications that reflected the interdisciplinary fields related to the research objective were searched: APA PsycINFO, CINHAL, PubMed, Scopus, and Social Work Abstracts. Results: After the authors conducted the search, 14 articles (from 13 studies) ultimately met the criteria for inclusion. The results substantiated significant concerns highlighted in previous literature regarding SES and its relation to EOL planning, but also revealed an absence of original work and interventions to increase engagement in EOL planning among Black and African American populations. Conclusion: Black individuals deserve an equitable EOL experience. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers need to move towards advocacy and action to meet this important need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from medical school to residency is a critical developmental phase; coaching may help students prepare for this role transition. We explored whether near-peer coaching could improve a specific workplace skill prior to residency. A resident-as-coach program was piloted for the medicine sub-internship, an advanced acting internship rotation. Between March and June 2021, 26 students were assigned a resident coach (n = 16). Resident coaches completed one training session, and student-coach dyads met for one coaching session on 'pre-rounding'- gathering patient data before rounds. The program was evaluated through surveys and focus groups. 20/26 students and 14/16 residents completed the survey. 19/20 students identified a pre-rounding challenge and reported increased pre-rounding efficiency; all committed to one actionable step for improvement. All 16 residents felt their coaching skills improved. In focus groups, students valued the program's focus on honing a relevant skill in a safe, near-peer setting. Residents expressed their intent to incorporate coaching into their future work. A resident-as-coach model can be effective in preparing students for residency, while concurrently building residents' coaching skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The culturally sensitive nursing practice has not embedded filial piety as a cultural value and stance pertaining to caregiving among aging Chinese and Chinese-American (CCA) families in the United States, yet it is critical for healthy aging among CCAs. Purpose: To understand filial piety when caring for aging CCAs and conceptualize an operational definition and framework. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases. Analysis of the concept of filial piety among CCAs used Walker and Avant's methods. Twenty-six studies were selected in the final full-text analysis. Findings: Synthesis of evidence identified four antecedents: (a) filial obligation as a 'cultural gene', (b) sense of altruism, (c) familial solidarity, and (d) societal expectation of 'birth right'. Attributes included familial material and emotional support, obedience, pious reverence, and societal norms. Consequences were related to caregiver burden, psychological and physical well-being, quality of life, and health equity. Conclusion: Filial piety is an intrinsic desire to support aging parents and an extrinsic desire to adhere to Chinese societal moral tenets. The proposed operational framework "Caregiving for aging CCAs in the United States" merits further study. Highlights: • Filial piety attributes are aging-related material and physical support from family and society. • Filial piety is associated with burden on family caregivers, psychological and physical well-being, quality of life, and health equity. • Culturally-sensitive healthcare services for aging Chinese and Chinese American individuals and families in the U.S. are hindered by lack of awareness of filial piety's effect. • Operationalizing filial piety contributes to bridging the gap in nursing knowledge and understanding of the aging needs of Chinese and Chinese Americans in the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of multiple ancillary services into mental health treatment settings may improve outcomes, but there are no national studies addressing whether comprehensive services are distributed equitably. We investigated whether the availability of a wide range of service types differs based on the facility's racial/ethnic composition. We used the 2020 National Mental Health Services Survey to identify twelve services offered in outpatient mental health treatment facilities (N = 1,074 facilities). We used logistic regression to model each of the twelve services, predicted by the percentage of a facility's clientele that was White, Black, and Hispanic, adjusted for covariates. Facilities with the highest proportions of Black and Hispanic clientele demonstrated the lowest predicted probabilities of offering comprehensive and integrated services. Our findings offer context around upstream factors that may, in part, drive treatment disparities. We orient our findings around frameworks of structural racism and inequities in mental healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The suicide rate among farmers is higher than that of the overall working population. Literature on farmer mental health in Georgia (GA) has been scarce and mostly focused on suicide as a result. Literature on stressors or coping are mostly qualitative studies. This study looks at the influence of being a first‐generation farmer on farm‐related stressors and coping mechanisms. Methods: This cross‐sectional study inventories mental well‐being, stressors, and coping mechanisms for different types of farmers in GA, USA. The online survey ran from January 2022 through April 2022. Participants (N = 1,288) were asked about demographics, work descriptors, health care access, specific stressors, stress levels, and coping mechanisms. Findings: Two‐thirds of our sample were first‐generation farmers. First‐generation farmers had a higher stress score on average, as well as being more likely to feel depressed, and feel hopeless. They also showed less diverse coping mechanisms than generational farmers, with alcohol in their top 3 coping mechanisms. First‐generation farmers were also much more likely to experience suicidal ideation: 9% daily and 61% at least once in the past year (vs generational: 1% daily; 20% once in the past year). Binary logistic regression indicated that having more diverse coping mechanisms is a protective factor against suicidal ideation within the previous year. The same model indicated that being a farm owner or farm manager, being first‐generation, being unhappy with one's role, feeling sad or depressed, and feeling hopeless were all risk factors. Conclusions: First‐generation farmers experience more stress and exhibit more risk factors for suicidal ideation than generational farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We propose a combined approach to explore the model transferability and the effect of climate change on habitat suitability. Location: Southwest United States. Taxon: Amphibians; Anura; Bufonidae; Anaxyrus microscaphus. Methods: To assess the impacts of climate change on A. microscaphus, we obtained 3162 records from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. We classified occurrence records data into six historical groups (from 1960 to 2018) and a contemporary group (from 2019 to 2022). We investigated the ability of historical data to generate accurate predictions of the species' contemporary distribution. We used species distribution modelling to compute habitat suitability values and identified spatial clusters of high suitability values (using hotspot analyses). Results: We show that historical occurrences successfully predicted the contemporary distribution of A. microscaphus. We demonstrate that the geographical distribution of contemporary hotspots is strongly related to precipitation of the wettest quarter. This research provides evidence that climate change will likely affect the distribution of hotspots and the habitat suitability of A. microscaphus. Losses of 37%–48% contraction are expected at the margins of the range both in the north and south of the geographic limits. Main Conclusions: We show that recent past data can be used to predict contemporary species distribution accurately. We highlight that habitat suitability values of A. microscaphus are strongly related to climate, topography and distance to streams. This study provides clear evidence of the negative impacts of climate change on habitat suitability in the Southwest United States drylands. Our approach has applied utility to managers to target survey areas, monitor habitat changes, plan for conservation mitigation measures, conserve stream flows across the species' range and inform recovery if needed. Thus, managers could use previously collected data to predict contemporary species distribution when their occurrence accurately characterizes the species' ecological niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this review was to understand the research on carpal tunnel syndrome in athletes who compete in wheelchair sport. Eight articles were identified using the search strategy. The most common sport evaluated was wheelchair basketball (N = 4). Most athletes were male and were diagnosed with a spinal cord injury. Different clinical and electrodiagnostic criteria have been used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. Two studies incorporated ultrasound into the clinical evaluation of median nerve pathology. The duration of disability and wheelchair use were associated with increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome in four studies. There was no association between training load and the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome. No study has explored the functional implications of carpal tunnel syndrome on sports participation and performance. No study has assessed the prevention and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome in individuals who compete in wheelchair sport. This review provides an understanding of the important diagnostic tools, and demographic and training risk factors to consider when evaluating para-athletes for carpal tunnel syndrome and highlights areas for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research is a vital component in the advancements of surgical sciences due to the reliance of treatment options on innovations and outcomes of patient care. This study aimed to identify research pathways, opportunities, and academic productivities of different general surgery residency programs in the United States. A web-based review was conducted concerning accredited US general surgery residency programs. Each program's official website was assessed for the availability of research year, compulsory status, duration, type, structure, and location. The study also identified faculty supervision, research day, funding, output, and opportunities to obtain an advanced degree. Data were collected from all 313 general surgery programs in the United States, out of which 127 (41%) offered a dedicated research year to their residents. The research year was deemed mandatory in 27 programs (8%) and optional in 100 programs (32%). Seventy-two programs (23%) offered to start the dedicated research year after postgraduate year 2 or postgraduate year 3. Twenty-two programs (7.02%) provided examples of resident publications and presentations. Resident research day was cited by 42 programs (13.41%). On campus research opportunity was mentioned by nine programs (2.8%), while the off campus chance was provided by 10 programs (3.19%). Furthermore, 36 programs (11.5%) demonstrated potential funding sources. Finally, 38 (12.14%) programs mentioned receiving advanced degrees after the research year. Although dedicated research time is provided to trainees for some research programs, there is a lack of structure and the need to expand the available content and information regarding research opportunities for the various general surgery residency programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited real-world evidence on how increasing use of treatment intensification in metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) has influenced treatment decisions in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The study objective was to evaluate the impact of novel hormonal therapy (NHT) and docetaxel use in mCSPC on first-line treatment patterns among patients with mCRPC in 5 European countries and the United States (US). Methods: Physician-reported data on patients with mCRPC from the Adelphi Prostate Cancer Disease Specific Program were descriptively analyzed. Results: A total of 215 physicians provided data on 722 patients with mCRPC. Across 5 European countries and the US, 65% and 75% of patients, respectively, received NHT, and 28% and 9% of patients, respectively, received taxane chemotherapy as first-line mCRPC treatment. In Europe, patients who had received NHT in mCSPC (n = 76) mostly received taxane chemotherapy in mCRPC (55%). Patients who had received taxane chemotherapy, or who did not receive taxane chemotherapy or NHT in mCSPC (n = 98 and 434, respectively) mostly received NHT in mCRPC (62% and 73%, respectively). In the US, patients who had received NHT, taxane chemotherapy, or neither in mCSPC (n = 32, 12, and 72, respectively) mostly received NHT in mCRPC (53%, 83%, and 83%, respectively). Two patients in Europe were rechallenged with the same NHT. Conclusions: These findings suggest that physicians consider mCSPC treatment history when making first-line treatment decisions in mCRPC. Further studies are needed to better understand optimal treatment sequencing, especially as new treatments emerge. This study evaluated whether treatments used in the metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) setting influence choice of first-line treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) across a diverse, real-world patient population in five European countries and the US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Continuous androgen deprivation therapy ± first-generation non-steroidal antiandrogen was previously the standard-of-care for patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). Treatment intensification with novel hormonal therapy (NHT) or taxane chemotherapy is now approved and guideline-recommended for these patients. Methods: Physician-reported data on adult patients with mCSPC from the Adelphi Prostate Cancer Disease Specific Programme were analyzed descriptively. We evaluated real-world treatment trends for patients with mCSPC in 5 European countries (United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy) and the United States (US), looking at differences between patients initiating treatment in 2016-2018 and in 2019-2020. We also investigated treatment trends by ethnicity and insurance status in the US. Results: This study found that most patients with mCSPC do not receive treatment intensification. However, greater use of treatment intensification with NHT and taxane chemotherapy was observed in 2019-2020 than in 2016-2018 across 5 European countries. In the US, greater use of treatment intensification with NHT in 2019-2020 than in 2016-2018 was observed for all ethnicity groups and those with Medicare and commercial insurance status. Conclusions: As the number of patients with mCSPC who receive treatment intensification increases, more patients who progress to metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) will have been exposed to intensified treatments. Treatment options for patients with mCSPC and mCRPC overlap, suggesting that an unmet need will emerge for new therapies. Further studies are needed to understand optimal treatment sequencing in mCSPC and mCRPC. This study evaluated real-world metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) treatment trends between 2016 to 2020 across a large, diverse patient population. The study also investigated whether treatment trends vary by ethnicity and insurance status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 31‐item Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES‐NWI) has been frequently used globally to measure the nurse work environment. However, due to its length and subsequent respondent burden, a more parsimonious version of the PES‐NWI may be desirable. Item response theory (IRT) is a statistical technique that assists in decreasing the number of items in an instrument without sacrificing reliability and validity. Two separate samples of nurses in the United States (one called the "internal data source" and the other called "external data source"; sample sizes = 843 and 722, respectively) were analyzed. The internal data source was randomly split into training (n = 531) and validating data sets (n = 312), while a separate whole external data source was used as the final validating data set. Using IRT with training data, we removed nine items; two additional items were removed based on recommendations from a previous study. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the validity of the measurement model with the 20‐item of PES‐NWI in both internal and external validation data sources. The correlations among subscales between 31‐ and 20‐item versions were high magnitude for five subscales in both validation data sets (τ = 0.84–0.89). Ultimately, we identified a 20‐item version of the PES‐NWI which demonstrated adequate validity and reliability properties while decreasing data collection burden yet maintaining a similar factor structure to the original instrument. Additional research may be necessary to update the items themselves on the PES‐NWI. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients were not involved in setting the research question, the outcome measures, the design, or implementation of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tree planting is increasingly being adopted as a strategy to address global change, including mitigation, adaptation, and restoration. Although reforestation has long been central to forest management, the desired outcomes of traditional and emerging tree-planting strategies face barriers linked to a lack of ecological diversity in forest nurseries. In the present article, we outline how insufficient diversity in nursery seedlings among species, genotypes, and stock types has impeded and will continue to hinder the implementation of diverse ecological or climate-suitable planting targets, now and into the future. To support this, we demonstrate disparities in seedling diversity among nursery inventories, focusing on the northern United States. To overcome these challenges, we recommend avenues for improving policy and financing, informational resources and training, and research and monitoring. Absent these advances, current seedling production and practices will fall short of ambitious tree-planting goals proposed for forest restoration and global change mitigation and adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Although many people who are incarcerated have risk factors for hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection, the proportion of hepatitis A cases among people with a recent incarceration is unknown. We examined the relationship between recent incarceration and HAV infection during community-based, person-to-person outbreaks to inform public health recommendations. Methods: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention surveyed health departments in 33 jurisdictions reporting person-to-person HAV outbreaks during 2016-2020 on the number of outbreak-associated cases, HAV-infected people recently incarcerated, and HAV-associated hospitalizations and deaths. Results: Twenty-five health departments reported 18 327 outbreak-associated hepatitis A cases during January 11, 2016–January 24, 2020. In total, 2093 (11.4%) HAV-infected people had been recently incarcerated. Of those with complete data, 1402 of 1462 (95.9%) had been held in a local jail, and 1513 of 1896 (79.8.%) disclosed hepatitis A risk factors. Eighteen jurisdictions reported incarceration timing relative to the exposure period. Of 9707 cases in these jurisdictions, 991 (10.2%) were among recently incarcerated people; 451 of 688 (65.6%) people with complete data had been incarcerated during all (n = 55) or part (n = 396) of their exposure period. Conclusions: Correctional facilities are important settings for reaching people with risk factors for HAV infection and can also be venues where transmission occurs. Providing HAV vaccination to incarcerated people, particularly people housed in jails, can be an effective component of community-wide outbreak response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide ranks among the 10 leading causes of death, with rates increasing among middle-aged adults. Anger is associated with suicide risk, but few studies have investigated this association in a primarily middle-aged sample. The present study investigated the association between state or trait anger and suicidal ideation among a national sample of 1255 middle-aged adults. Participants (M = 54.5, SD = 11.7; range = 34–84) were from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Biomarker sub-project (2004–2009). In a multivariate model including age, sex, depression symptoms, angry temperament, and externalized anger, only angry temperament significantly predicted suicidal ideation independent of depression symptoms (OR = 1.13, p =.04). The associations between anger subscales and suicidal ideation were not moderated by gender or depression symptoms and were not mediated by interpersonal difficulties. Among middle-aged adults, angry temperament is associated with risk of suicidal ideation, irrespective of gender or depression symptoms. Assessing and addressing angry temperament in treatment may help decrease suicide risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People all over the world relish the opportunity to count down the final moments of the year and welcome an exciting New Year full of opportunities and fresh beginnings. Different cultures have historical traditions of welcoming in the New Year, from eating black-eyed peas in the American South to creating geometric "Rangoli" (a form of sandpainting decoration) in India as part of the five-day Hindu festival of Diwali. These culturally rich celebrations offer time for both reflection on events past and resolutions for future behavior. In the United States, the New Year's holiday is truly global, as opposed to holidays such as Thanksgiving or Independence Day that arise from our national history. The New Year's holiday offers students the opportunity to consider critically the multicultural traditions practiced in the society. A study of the changing of the year offers myriad social studies connections--from questioning how calendars have developed, to analyzing celebrations across geographic and political boundaries, to making a personal commitment to improve the community in some way. In an effort to move beyond craft-based "celebrations," the authors use the New Year's holiday to emphasize global understanding, multiple perspectives, and civic responsibility. By cultivating a deeper awareness and understanding of traditions practiced in the United States and abroad, students develop knowledge of diverse cultures and make global connections. The authors describe three classroom activities that engage students with rich social studies content and use the fresh beginning of a new year to work as active global citizens by making resolutions that involve community-based civic action. (Contains 3 notes.)

Although corporal punishment has been banned in 29 states, more than a million cases of corporal punishment in U.S. schools continue to be reported annually, with states located in the southeastern and southwestern United States accounting for the vast majority of instances of corporal punishment. This article provides an overview of corporal punishment in U.S. public schools and includes a discussion of the influence of cultural and religious attitudes on the use of corporal punishment as a means of disciplining students. It offers several strategies designed to reduce the frequency of corporal punishment in general as well as strategies that specifically target those communities where strongly held religious and cultural beliefs reinforce the routine use of corporal punishment, and it calls on school social workers to advocate for effective alternatives to corporal punishment and to work to ban corporal punishment in those 21 states where it remains legal.

Not since the late 1850s has the United States seen the portents leading to a major political crisis be so numerous and grave. Over the last two decades, local and national social capital has steeply declined, culminating in a near‐collapse of social capital within the last 6 years. The potential for a national political crisis is now more plausible, making a dramatic crisis (e.g., bloodless revolt, a civil war, or secession) conceivable within a generation. This article reviews the interlocking concepts of social inclusion, social exclusion, radicalization, and societal collapse and draws from these concepts to elucidate the antecedents to major political crises. We connect these observations to the central role of political and administrative leadership in a democratic society in challenging times. Integrative recommendations for combating extremism and radicalization are provided to highlight key strategies for restoring social capital and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the efficacy of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), retention in care in the United States remains suboptimal. The goal of this study was to explore factors that lead to suboptimal retention in PrEP care for men who have sex with men (MSM) in real-world clinical settings in the United States. Trained interviewers conducted semi-structured interviews with MSM (N = 49) from three clinics who had been engaged in PrEP care in the Midwest (n = 15), South (n = 15), and Northeast (n = 19) geographic regions and had experienced a lapse in PrEP use. Factors that emerged as related to suboptimal retention in PrEP care included structural factors such as transportation and out-of-pocket costs; social factors such as misinformation on media and in personal networks; clinical factors such as frequency and timing of appointments; and behavioral factors such as changes in sexual behavior and low perceived risk for HIV. Participants suggested reducing the out-of-pocket costs of medications and lab visits, having flexible appointment times, culturally responsive services, and comprehensive patient navigation to help retention in care. These findings leveraged real-world experiences and opinions of patients to inform gaps in current services and how to make changes to optimize PrEP care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Systemic inequities may place people with disabilities at higher risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness or lower likelihood to be discharged home after hospitalization. We examined whether severity of COVID-19 hospitalization outcomes and disposition differ by disability status and disability type. Methods In a retrospective analysis of April 2020–November 2021 hospital-based administrative data among 745 375 people hospitalized with COVID-19 from 866 US hospitals, people with disabilities (n = 120 360) were identified via ICD-10-CM codes. Outcomes compared by disability status included intensive care admission, invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), in-hospital mortality, 30-day readmission, length of stay, and disposition (discharge to home, long-term care facility (LTCF), or skilled nursing facility (SNF). Results People with disabilities had increased risks of IMV (adjusted risk ratio [aRR]: 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.08) and in-hospital mortality (1.04; 1.02–1.06) compared to those with no disability; risks were higher among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) (IMV [1.34; 1.28–1.40], mortality [1.31; 1.26–1.37]), or mobility disabilities (IMV [1.13; 1.09–1.16], mortality [1.04; 1.01–1.07]). Risk of readmission was increased among people with any disability (1.23; 1.20–1.27) and each disability type. Risks of discharge to a LTCF (1.45, 1.39–1.51) or SNF (1.78, 1.74–1.81) were increased among community-dwelling people with each disability type. Conclusions Severity of COVID-19 hospitalization outcomes vary by disability status and type; IDD and mobility disabilities were associated with higher risks of severe outcomes. Disparities such as differences in discharge disposition by disability status require further study, which would be facilitated by standardized data on disability. Increased readmission across disability types indicates a need to improve discharge planning and support services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the association between race/ethnicity and COVID‐19 outcomes in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: Individuals with SLE from the US with data entered into the COVID‐19 Global Rheumatology Alliance registry between March 24, 2020 and August 27, 2021 were included. Variables included age, sex, race, and ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic, other), comorbidities, disease activity, pandemic time period, glucocorticoid dose, antimalarials, and immunosuppressive drug use. The ordinal outcome categories were: not hospitalized, hospitalized with no oxygenation, hospitalized with any ventilation or oxygenation, and death. We constructed ordinal logistic regression models evaluating the relationship between race/ethnicity and COVID‐19 severity, adjusting for possible confounders. Results: We included 523 patients; 473 (90.4%) were female and the mean ± SD age was 46.6 ± 14.0 years. A total of 358 patients (74.6%) were not hospitalized; 40 patients (8.3%) were hospitalized without oxygen, 64 patients (13.3%) were hospitalized with any oxygenation, and 18 (3.8%) died. In a multivariable model, Black (odds ratio [OR] 2.73 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.36–5.53]) and Hispanic (OR 2.76 [95% CI 1.34–5.69]) individuals had higher odds of more severe outcomes than White individuals. Conclusion: Black and Hispanic individuals with SLE experienced more severe COVID‐19 outcomes, which is consistent with findings in the US general population. These results likely reflect socioeconomic and health disparities and suggest that more aggressive efforts are needed to prevent and treat infection in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United States has adjusted its nuclear posture recently by adding nonstrategic weapons to its arsenal and raising the prospect of nuclear retaliation for nonnuclear attacks against command-and-control systems. Critics argue the former change is too dangerous due to the discrimination problem, while the latter change is too draconian due to the proportionality problem. I argue instead that new capabilities introduce a magazine depth problem, while new threats introduce an opportunistic aggression problem. This suggests that changes in force structure are not as dangerous as critics suggest, while changes in declaratory policy are more dangerous than they realize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adults with disabilities in low-income communities of colour are disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We interviewed 14 self-advocates with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to learn more about their experiences during the peak of infections, hospitalisations, and deaths in Los Angeles, between December 2020 and March 2021. A modified grounded theory analysis revealed major themes of family, making choices & going places, formal services, and employment, which are discussed in relation to the participants' sense of autonomy and access to goods and services. Implications for practice include increased access and training for adults with IDD in computer skills to maintain social engagement with video conferencing, and to utilise grocery delivery services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veterans in rural areas of the United States face barriers to accessing healthcare and other services, which are intensified for those experiencing housing instability. Recent legislative acts have the potential to address obstacles faced by rural patients in the U.S. This study explores how infrastructure—including features related to the physical and digital environment—impacts the ability of rural Veterans experiencing housing instability to access healthcare and related services from the perspective of homeless service providers within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). We conducted semi‐structured telephone interviews (n = 22) with providers in high/low performing and/or resourced communities across the U.S. in May and June 2021 and analysed transcripts using template analysis. Themes described by providers highlight how infrastructure limitations in rural areas can exacerbate health disparities for Veterans experiencing housing instability, the impact of COVID‐19 on service access, and recommendations to enhance service delivery. Providers suggested that VHA reconfigure where and how staff work, identify additional resources for transportation and/or alternative transportation models, and increase Veterans' access to technology and broadband Internet. Federal infrastructure investments should address challenges faced by Veterans experiencing housing instability in rural areas and the concerns of providers connecting them with care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Residents of nursing homes experience disproportionate morbidity and mortality related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and were prioritized for vaccine introduction. We evaluated COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness (VE) in preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections among nursing home residents. Methods We used a retrospective cohort of 4315 nursing home residents during 14 December 2020–9 November 2021. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate hazard ratios comparing residents with a completed vaccination series with unvaccinated among those with and without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, by vaccine product, and by time period. Results Overall adjusted VE was 58% (95% confidence interval [CI], 44% to 69%) among residents without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. During the pre-Delta period, the VE within 150 days of receipt of the second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech (67%; 95% CI, 40% to 82%) and Moderna (75%; 95% CI, 32% to 91%) was similar. During the Delta period, VE measured >150 days after the second dose was 33% (95% CI, −2% to 56%) for Pfizer-BioNTech and 77% (95% CI, 48% to 91%) for Moderna. Rates of infection were 78% lower (95% CI, 67% to 85%) among residents with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and completed vaccination series compared with unvaccinated residents without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conclusions COVID-19 vaccines were effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infections among nursing home residents, and history of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection provided additional protection. Maintaining high coverage of recommended doses of COVID-19 vaccines remains a critical tool for preventing infections in nursing homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The education of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the United Kingdom and Ireland has many parallels with the university programs in the United States. A comparison of the two also reveals several differences. I know several SLPs who have moved to Ireland to assume excellent positions; furthermore, I recently met three other professionals who have relocated from Ireland to California to work in the schools and hospitals there. Thus, it is important to understand educational programs beyond our borders. This interview with Sister Marie de Monfort Supple of Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland, provides such an opportunity. I met Sister Marie in 1995 at the International Association of Logopedics and Phonetrics (IALP) Conference in Cairo, Egypt. She has been a dynamic international leader in speech-language pathology issues for several decades and is often present at ASHA conferences. I have visited Trinity College twice and hold my colleagues there in high esteem. In this interview, Sister Marie offers a thoughtful review of the educational process in the UK and Ireland.

Background: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can significantly reduce HIV acquisition especially among communities with high HIV prevalence, including men who have sex with men (MSM). Much research has been finding suboptimal PrEP persistence; however, few studies examine factors that enhance PrEP persistence in real-world settings.Methods: We interviewed 33 patients who identified as MSM at three different PrEP clinics in three regions of the U.S. (Northeast, South, Midwest). Participants were eligible if they took PrEP and had been retained in care for a minimum of 6 months. Interviews explored social, structural, clinic-level and behavioral factors that influencing PrEP persistence.Results: Through thematic analysis we identified the following factors as promoting PrEP persistence: (1) navigation to reduce out-of-pocket costs of PrEP (structural), (2) social norms that support PrEP use (social), (3) access to LGBTQ + affirming medical providers (clinical), (4) medication as part of a daily routine (behavioral), and (5) facilitation of sexual health agency (belief).Discussion: In this sample, persistence in PrEP care was associated with structural and social supports as well as a high level of perceived internal control over protecting their health by taking PrEP. Patients might benefit from increased access, LGBTQ + affirming medical providers, and communications that emphasize PrEP can promote sexual health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]