Lessons learned from implementing a diversity, equity, and inclusion curriculum for health research professionals at a large academic research institution.

Objective: Despite advances in incorporating diversity and structural competency into medical education curriculum, there is limited curriculum for public health research professionals. We developed and implemented a four-part diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training series tailored for academic health research professionals to increase foundational knowledge of core diversity concepts and improve skills. Methods: We analyzed close- and open-ended attendee survey data to evaluate within- and between-session changes in DEI knowledge and perceived skills. Results: Over the four sessions, workshop attendance ranged from 45 to 82 attendees from our 250-person academic department and represented a mix of staff (64%), faculty (25%), and trainees (11%). Most identified as female (74%), 28% as a member of an underrepresented racial and ethnic minority (URM) group, and 17% as LGBTQI. During all four sessions, attendees increased their level of DEI knowledge, and within sessions two through four, attendees' perception of DEI skills increased. We observed increased situational DEI awareness as higher proportions of attendees noted disparities in mentoring and opportunities for advancement/promotion. An increase in a perceived lack of DEI in the workplace as a problem was observed; but only statistically significant among URM attendees. Discussion: Developing applied curricula yielded measurable improvements in knowledge and skills for a diverse health research department of faculty, staff, and students. Nesting this training within a more extensive program of departmental activities to improve climate and address systematic exclusion likely contributed to the series' success. Additional research is underway to understand the series' longer-term impact on applying skills for behavior change.

Molecular markers in pituitary tumors.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes our current understanding of the mechanisms and factors involved in pituitary tumorigenesis. It provides a comprehensive review on the role of genetic mutations, epigenetics, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, cell cycle deregulation, and highlights recent findings of altered micro-RNA and long noncoding RNA expression in pituitary tumors. RECENT FINDINGS: This article provides a concise summary of our knowledge regarding oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and cell cycle deregulation in pituitary tumors. Additionally, it highlights new findings in epigenetics and altered micro-RNA and long noncoding RNA expression in pituitary tumors. SUMMARY: Improved understanding of the mechanism(s) and candidates implicated in pituitary tumorigenesis may result in the identification of new therapeutic targets in pituitary tumors.