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Molinar-Inglis O, Price LN, DiCarlo AL. Highlighting the NIAID Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program's Commitment to Training and Diversifying the Radiation Workforce. Radiat Res 2024; 201:330-337. [PMID: 38348567 PMCID: PMC11060511 DOI: 10.1667/rade-23-00207.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Developing and maintaining a robust and diverse scientific workforce is crucial to advance knowledge, drive innovation, and tackle societal issues that impact the economy and human health. The shortage of trained professionals in radiation and nuclear sciences derives from many factors, such as scarcity of specialized coursework, programming, professional development, and experiential learning at educational institutions, which significantly disrupt the training pipeline. Other challenges include small numbers of faculty and educators with specialized radiation/nuclear expertise that are continually overextended professionally and scientifically, with the burden of training falling on this subset of individuals. Even more alarming is the recent loss of radiobiologists due to increased retirements and deaths, leaving the radiobiology community with a void of mentors and knowledge. Lastly, inconsistency in acquiring stable grant funding to recruit and retain scientists is a major hurdle to training the next generation of radiation and nuclear scientists. Recommendations from the scientific community and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine describe the need to bolster educational resources and provide more hands-on training experiences. Of equal importance was the suggestion that funding agencies provide more opportunities for training and tracking the radiation workforce. The Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), and the Office of Research Training and Special Programs (ORTSP), both within the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) are committed to helping to develop and sustain the radiation research workforce. This commentary illustrates the importance of addressing radiation workforce development and outlines steps that the RNCP is taking to help mitigate the issue. In addition, the role for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) in helping to increase the number of students trained in the radiation sciences is discussed, and the NIH's DEIA priorities and RNCP efforts to improve DEIA in the research community are highlighted. One of the main goals of this commentary is to provide awareness of available educational (i.e., development of a radiation biologist eBook) and funding resources. A summary of available awards targeting early- to mid-stage investigators and diversity candidates is given, and it is hoped that this list, although not exhaustive and not specific for all focus areas in radiation (e.g., cancer research), will encourage more radiation biologists to explore and apply to these under-utilized opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Molinar-Inglis
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland, 20852
| | - LeShawndra N. Price
- Office of Research Training and Special Programs (ORTSP), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland, 20852
| | - Andrea L. DiCarlo
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland, 20852
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Yang H, Howerton B, Brown L, Izumi T, Cheek D, Brandon JA, Marti F, Gedaly R, Adatorwovor R, Chapelin F. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Macrophage Response to Radiation Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5874. [PMID: 38136418 PMCID: PMC10742077 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging modality which, in conjunction with biopsies, provide a qualitative assessment of tumor response to treatment. Intravenous injection of contrast agents such as fluorine (19F) nanoemulsions labels systemic macrophages, which can, then, be tracked in real time with MRI. This method can provide quantifiable insights into the behavior of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment and macrophage recruitment during therapy. METHODS Female mice received mammary fat pad injections of murine breast or colon cancer cell lines. The mice then received an intravenous 19F nanoemulsion injection, followed by a baseline 19F MRI. For each cancer model, half of the mice then received 8 Gy of localized radiation therapy (RT), while others remained untreated. The mice were monitored for two weeks for tumor growth and 9F signal using MRI. RESULTS Across both cohorts, the RT-treated groups presented significant tumor growth reduction or arrest, contrary to the untreated groups. Similarly, the fluorine signal in treated groups increased significantly as early as four days post therapy. The fluorine signal change correlated to tumor volumes irrespective of time. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate the potential of 19F MRI to non-invasively track macrophages during radiation therapy and its prognostic value with regard to tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Yang
- F. Joseph Halcomb III, M.D. Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (H.Y.); (L.B.)
| | - Brock Howerton
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Logan Brown
- F. Joseph Halcomb III, M.D. Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (H.Y.); (L.B.)
| | - Tadahide Izumi
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (T.I.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Dennis Cheek
- Department of Radiation Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA;
| | - J. Anthony Brandon
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40508, USA;
| | - Francesc Marti
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (T.I.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
- Department of Surgery, Transplant Division, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Roberto Gedaly
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; (T.I.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
- Department of Surgery, Transplant Division, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Reuben Adatorwovor
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA;
| | - Fanny Chapelin
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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Camargo A. Developing strategies to improve the sense of belonging and mitigate tokenism. Clin Imaging 2023; 103:109987. [PMID: 37742412 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2023.109987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite the increase in DEI initiatives and the rising social awareness, diversity, equity, and inclusiveness are still scarce in many work environments. In the process of implementing a diverse group in the workplace and training programs, retention efforts should always follow recruitment strategies; it is crucial to establish an environment that offers recruited women and minorities a sense of belonging and inclusiveness. Literature shows that diversity and belonging benefit not only the individual, but also the organization, society, and health care system. Many strategies to foster a sense of belonging in the workplace have been suggested, including, but not limited to, mentorship, sponsorship, affinity groups, dashboards, and surveys. Leaderships should acknowledge DEI initiatives, promoting efforts to enhance inclusiveness and mitigate tokenism. Amid DEI criticism and backlash, it is important to continue to promote education and positive discussions and aim for cultural changes targeting rooted systemic racism and discrimination, which continue to impose an obstacle to DEIB achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Camargo
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Cusson T, Lebel K, Spalluto L, Hillier T, Darras K, Yong-Hing C. Recommendations for Improving Canadian Radiology Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Can Assoc Radiol J 2023; 74:30-36. [PMID: 35617112 DOI: 10.1177/08465371221099956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within Canadian radiology is critical for optimal patient care and to reduce health disparities. Although there are increasing national EDI initiatives, there is a paucity of resources available to assist radiology departments as the culture of EDI evolves and faculty and institutions are expected to incorporate EDI in their practice. We present practical recommendations for radiology departments, radiology training programs, and individual radiologists wishing or mandated to improve EDI in the workplace. Actionable strategies for creating an environment that promotes EDI, attracting and supporting diverse trainees, and for how individual radiologists can be allies are presented. These EDI strategies are imperative to provide the best patient care and to strengthen the future of Canadian radiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha Cusson
- Faculty of Medicine, 5622University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kiana Lebel
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, 5622University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lucy Spalluto
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, 12328Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Veterans Health Administration-Tennessee Valley Healthcare System Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Tracey Hillier
- Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, 3158University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Kathryn Darras
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Charlotte Yong-Hing
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Diagnostic Imaging, BC Cancer, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Gupta S, Choe AI, Hardy PA, Ganeshan D, Hobbs SK, Probyn L, Awan OA, Straus CM. Proposed Multilevel measures to Support Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Efforts in Radiology. Acad Radiol 2022; 30:952-958. [PMID: 36155167 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2022.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Integrating diversity into healthcare systems has its challenges and advantages. Academic medicine strives to expand the diversity of the healthcare workforce. The Association of University Radiologists (AUR) put together a task force to review the concept of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) as it pertains to Radiology and to propose strategies for better integrating DEI in Radiology. We present several measures aimed at the trainee, leadership, management and professional society levels to empower DEI in Radiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya Gupta
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Amita St. Mary's Hospital, Western Springs, IL.
| | - Angela I Choe
- Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Cente, Hershey, PA
| | | | - Dhakshina Ganeshan
- Department of Abdominal Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Susan K Hobbs
- Department of Imaging Sciences, Education Department of Imaging Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology Residency Program, Integrated Diagnostic Radiology/Interventional Radiology Residency Program, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Linda Probyn
- Department of Medical Imaging, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
| | - Omer A Awan
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Omofoye T, Bradshaw M. The Emerging Diverse Radiology Workplace: Case Studies on the Importance of Inclusion in Radiology Training Programs. Acad Radiol 2022; 30:983-990. [PMID: 35750607 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2022.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Radiology remains one of the least diverse fields in medicine. With increasing understanding of the benefits of workforce diversity on health care outcomes, radiology society leadership and radiologists are engaging in necessary efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion. To date, much of the initiatives have focused on pipeline development and recruitment strategies. Literature from organizational psychologists, human resources and business strategists suggest that incorporation of inclusion could overcome some of the persistent barriers to workforce diversity. Using case studies from real-life residency programs, we describe challenges associated with being a member of an underrepresented minority group in radiology. We illustrate concepts in inclusion, proposing concrete ideas for personal and institutional growth in this area, as a strategy for improving workforce diversity and team effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toma Omofoye
- Department of Breast Imaging (T.O.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences (M.B.), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.
| | - Marques Bradshaw
- Department of Breast Imaging (T.O.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences (M.B.), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Dodelzon K, Patel A, Smetherman D. National Virtual Visiting Professorship in Breast Imaging. J Am Coll Radiol 2022; 19:278-280. [PMID: 35007509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Dodelzon
- Associate Director, Breast Imaging Fellowship, and Associate Program Director, Diagnostic Radiology, Weill Cornell Department of Radiology, New York, New York; and Physician Site Leader, Weill Cornell Imaging at New York-Presbyterian, New York, New York.
| | - Amy Patel
- Immediate Past Chair, ACR Young & Early Career Professional Section; Associate Editor of Digital Media of JACR; Chair, Patient and Family Centered Care Economics Committee; and Medical Director of The Breast Care Center at Liberty Hospital, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Liberty, Missouri
| | - Dana Smetherman
- ACR Secretary/Treasurer; Chair, Breast Commission; Chair, Department of Radiology; Associate Medical Director, Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
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Haken OJ, Gong AJ, Ambinder EB, Myers KS, Oluyemi ET. Diversity and Inclusion in Breast Imaging and Radiology at Large: What Can We Do to Improve? CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2021; 9:13. [PMID: 34804641 PMCID: PMC8589088 DOI: 10.1007/s40134-021-00389-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review A racially and ethnically diverse healthcare workforce leads to increased access to care and better health outcomes. Radiology and specifically the patient-centered subspecialty of breast imaging have a growing mismatch between the demographics of the physician workforce and the patient population served. Identifying and addressing the barriers for diversity is imperative in order to decrease disparities in breast cancer morbidity and mortality and achieve excellence in patient care. Recent Findings Three major barriers to promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of breast imaging and in the specialty of radiology more generally are unconscious bias, lack of mentorship for underrepresented minority (URM) students, and career development challenges facing women in radiology. We focus on these three issues and provide suggestions for addressing each of them. Summary Tackling unconscious bias through encouraging individual accountability and establishing implicit bias programs at the institutional level, supporting both formal and informal mentorship opportunities for URMs, and creating an environment to support women in leadership will bring us one step closer to fostering a diverse and inclusive breast imaging workforce and meeting the healthcare needs of the diverse US population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orli J. Haken
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Suite 7203, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Anna J. Gong
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Emily B. Ambinder
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Suite 7203, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Kelly S. Myers
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Suite 7203, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Eniola T. Oluyemi
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Suite 7203, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
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