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The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) is a promising approach for the detection of aquatic species, including species at risk. One freshwater mussel species of interest in Atlantic Canada, the brook floater (Alasmidonta varicosa), is listed as being of Special Concern under the Species at Risk Act in Canada and as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Further scientific data regarding species distribution and critical habitat is needed for the protection and conservation of this species.The aim of this study was to design, optimize, and apply a species‐specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of brook floater from eDNA samples, and to assess temporal variability in brook floater eDNA quantities.Through an eDNA survey performed in New Brunswick rivers in 2017 and 2018, brook floater DNA was found at a total of 16 out of 56 sites sampled. The amount of brook floater DNA detected at all 16 sites was always below the theoretical limit of detection of the assay, and, as such, results were classified as either 'inconclusive' or 'suspected'.The co‐detection of eastern pearlshell (Margaritifera margaritifera), a more abundant freshwater mussel species in Atlantic Canada, was successfully used as a natural positive control.Temporal variability in the amount of eDNA found in the water was also assessed at a site with a known brook floater population and minimal variability in eDNA quantities was observed from May to September.These results provide researchers and managers with a new tool for the detection of the brook floater in support of conservation and monitoring efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer disproportionately affects African-American men. Family, friends, and trust in health care providers are factors that influence the decision making of African-American men when determining whether or not to get a prostate cancer screening done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Recruitment for research and clinical trials continues to be challenging. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and disproportionately affects African American men; thus, effective recruitment strategies are essential for this population. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to focus on innovative and effective recruitment strategies for research on prostate cancer with minorities. METHODS: A systematic description is provided of the recruitment efforts for a hermeneutic phenomenological qualitative study of African American men's experiences in decision making on whether to have a prostate cancer screening. RESULTS: Seventeen African American men were enrolled from rural Central Virginia. Recruiting strategies were targeted on places where African American men usually are found but that are rarely used for recruitment: barbershops, community health centers, and churches. Word of mouth was also used, and most of the participants (n = 11) were reached through this method. DISCUSSION: Recruitment efforts have been noted to be particularly challenging among minorities, for numerous reasons. Making minority recruitment a priority in any research or clinical trial is essential in gaining a representative sample. Word of mouth is a powerful tool that is often forgotten but should be looked at in further detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were to (1) describe facilitators and barriers to self-care for African Americans with type 2 diabetes living in a rural community, (2) compare experiences of men and women, and (3) solicit recommendations for programs of care. METHODS: Focus groups with small numbers of men and women (n = 7) were held to explore facilitators and barriers to self-management. Groups were led by moderators of the same gender and race as participants. Data from these information-rich cases were analyzed thematically using FolioViews and Inspiration software. RESULTS: Final categories included 'being diagnosed,' 'diabetes as betrayal by the body,' 'provider-individual-family relationship,' 'self-management,' and 'difficulty getting help.' Although limited by sample size and methodology, results indicate differences by gender that require additional investigation. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of self-care patterns is foundational to designing culturally appropriate interventions and programs of care for rural African Americans living with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]