J Natl Med Assoc
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Junior investigators from groups underrepresented in the biomedical workforce confront challenges as they navigate the ranks of academic research careers. Biochemical research needs the participation of these researchers to adequately tackle critical research priorities such as cardiovascular health disparities and health inequities. We explore the inadequate representation of underrepresented minority investigators and the historical role of systemic racism in impacting their poor career progression. ⋯ The Programs to Increase Diversity among Individuals Engaged in Health-Related Research (PRIDE), funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), is a pilot program by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that aims to address these challenges yet, only a limited number of URM can be accepted to PRIDE programs. Hence the need for additional funding for more PRIDE or PRIDE-like programs. Here we aim to examine the challenges underrepresented minority biomedical investigators face and describe ongoing initiatives to increase URM in biomedical research using the NHLBI-PRIDE program as a focus point.
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Racial disparities in medicine have greatly harmed patients, particularly those of Black race. This review focuses on the persistent paucity of Black physicians in medicine, elucidating the common barriers impeding the Black academic physician workforce. Multiple studies over several decades have established that Black academic faculty members remain persistently underrepresented at all faculty ranks regardless of medical subspecialty at less than 4% overall, far below the 13% Black representation in the United States census. ⋯ Increased activities not resulting in promotion (commonly known as the "minority tax"). Potential tangible solutions discussed include targeted research funding directed towards junior minority faculty, increasing non-concordant race mentors early in the pipeline, and incorporating diversity-related activities and committees into promotion and compensation processes. Most likely, only a multifaceted approach will provide tangible success against the longstanding and persistently active racial disparities facing Black physicians.
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The SARS-CoV-2 Virus (COVID-19) is responsible for over 239 million cases and 4.8 million deaths globally (Data source WHO COVID-19 Dashboard accessed on October 14, 2021). It continues to surge and ravage countries, leaving healthcare systems in constant struggle and uncertainty. ⋯ Reports of possible allergic reactions with COVID-19 vaccines are a significant cause of public concern, especially among those with a known history of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis). Here we review articles relevant to COVID-19 vaccines and their excipients (especially PEG (Polyethylene glycol) and hypersensitivity reactions associated with COVID-19 vaccines (including clinical features, pathophysiology, special populations receiving COVID-19 vaccinations, potential diagnostic tests, and preventive measures that can be taken to minimize the risks of hypersensitivity reactions with COVID-19 vaccines).
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Review Case Reports
Risperidone induced hypotension: A case report and literature review.
Risperidone is a second-generation antipsychotic agent used in psychiatric management, acutely and chronically. A rare adverse effect has been described with its use in the form of orthostatic hypotension especially in pharmaceutical clinical trials. However, there remains a lack of literature on the replication or prevalence of this adverse effect among patients in clinical settings. Hence, we present an incidental case of orthostatic hypotension following Risperidone therapy.