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Photograph of the Washington Monument and blooming cherry blossom trees.
Photo by Bryant's Juarez

Washington D.C. has been home to many influential and powerful women. Whether they were born in the city or moved to the capital during the course of their lives, many women who helped shape the country lived in and formed communities in D.C. The stories of the following three women provide a glimpse into the ways in which women contributed to the well-being of the city and the broader country! 

Charlotte Dupuy:

Born on the Eastern Shore of Maryland to Rachel and George Stanley, Charlotte Dupuy (nee Stanley) was an enslaved woman who petitioned the U.S. Circuit Court of the District of Columbia for her freedom. When Charlotte was a child, she, her mother and two siblings were enslaved to Daniel Parker of Dorchester County, Maryland. While Charlotte’s father was able to eventually secure freedom for his wife and two children, for unknown reasons, Charlotte was still enslaved to the Parker household. At the age of nine, Charlotte was then sold to James Condon, a local tradesman. While working for this new household, Charlotte maintained contact with her own family, but several years later, Condon moved his family from Maryland to Lexington, Kentucky, separating Charlotte from her relatives. 

While living in Lexington, Charlotte eventually met and married Aaron Dupuy, an enslaved man who worked at Ashland, the estate for Whig politician Henry Clay. After Charlotte and Aaron’s marriage, Henry Clay purchased Charlotte and she worked as a domestic servant for the Clay estate. Clay was a politician, serving in the House of Representatives in 1810 before becoming the Speaker of the House in 1817 or 1818. Clay moved his household, including Charlotte, Aaron Dupuy and their two children, to Washington D.C. When Henry Clay was appointed to the Secretary of State for the Adams administration, he once again moved his family, this time settling in the house across from the White House, now known as the Decatur House. While living in Washington D.C., Charlotte Dupuy was able to frequently visit her extended family and when Henry Clay sought to return to Kentucky years later, Charlotte resisted. A local lawyer filed a petition on Charlotte’s behalf as she attempted to seek her freedom through legal action. Charlotte Dupuy was one of many enslaved people who petitioned the courts and attempted to use legal precedents to gain their freedom. In Charlotte’s case, she argued that because her grandmother and mother were both free women, this entitled Charlotte to her freedom as well.

Photograph of the exterior of the Decatur House in Washington D.C.
The Decatur House located at the corner of H Street NW and Jackson Place. Photo Credit: National Park Service

Unfortunately, the Circuit Court ruled against Charlotte and while she resisted returning to Henry Clay’s estate, she eventually was transported to New Orleans where she worked for Clay’s daughter. Charlotte Dupuy and her daughter gained their freedom in 1840 and while records are sparse, it seems likely that she continued to live in Kentucky to remain close to her husband and other children. Charlotte Dupuy’s story is a reminder of the ways in which enslaved people actively resisted their enslavement and her story is still told to modern day visitors of the Decatur House. 

Eliza Scidmore:

Photograph portrait of Eliza Scidmore.
Photograph of Eliza Scidmore. Photo Credit: National Park Service

This week the cherry blossom trees located on the Tidal Basin and around D.C. are predicted to hit peak bloom. There are countless people to thank for bringing cherry blossoms to Washington D.C. and one figure who was most influential in the beautification process was Eliza Scidmore! 

Born in Iowa in 1856, Eliza Scidmore was an explorer, writer and editor who traveled through the Alaska Inside Passage and published the first Alaska travel guide which sparked tourism in the state. Scidmore also was a member of the National Geographic Society and sat on their Board of Managers. While she is remembered for her travel writing, one of her most lasting impacts is felt every spring when the cherry blossoms bloom.

During a visit to Japan, Scidmore was deeply impressed with the Japanese cherry trees and their flowers. When she returned to the United States, she immediately began to work to bring the trees to the States in an effort to beautify the Capital. Her efforts were initially rebuffed by the Superintendent of Public Buildings and Grounds. But this did not stop Scidmore. She eventually met and partnered with Department of Agriculture Plant Explorer David Fairchild who was actively engaged in his own work with the cherry blossoms. Scidmore also wrote a letter to First Lady Helen Taft who was also keen to improve the city. Scidmore’s original idea was to raise money to purchase a hundred trees each year for several years. But a Japanese chemist, Dr. Jokich Takamine, heard about Scidmore’s letter to First Lady Taft and this spiraled into multiple political and influential leaders working together to bring cherry blossom trees to the United States. 

The Japanese government first donated a shipment of about 2,000 trees but unfortunately the trees were diseased and contained bugs that American scientists feared would be harmful to native plants. The first shipment of trees were burned as a result. The Japanese government then sent another shipment of 3,020 trees and once they were approved by scientists, the trees were planted around the Tidal Basin and throughout the city. Today, less than one hundred of these original trees are still on display. But the annual blooming of the cherry blossoms serves as a reminder of Eliza Scidmore’s dedication to beautifying Washington D.C. 

Mary Ann Shadd Cary:

Black and white photograph of Mary Ann Shadd Cary.
Photograph of Mary Ann Shadd Cary. Photo via National Park Service and courtesy of National Archives of Canada

Mary Ann Shadd Cary was a major figure in the women’s suffrage movement and spent years fighting for the expansion of voting rights. 

Mary Ann Shadd Cary was born in 1823 in Delaware to a family who actively participated in the Underground Railroad and assisted people who sought to claim their freedom. After the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act in 1850, Mary Ann Shadd Cary and her family moved to Ontario, Canada. While living abroad, Cary opened her own schoolhouse where she taught both white and black children. She eventually married Thomas J. Cary and together they had two children.

When the American Civil War began in 1861, Cary returned to the United States and assisted the war effort by recruiting soldiers to join the Union Army. When the war ended, she moved to Washington D.C. and enrolled in Howard University’s first law school cohort. She was politically active at this time; she wrote articles for the African-American newspaper, The New National Era and encouraged Black Americans to work together to recover after the end of slavery. 

Mary Ann Shadd Cary was passionate about voting rights. During the congressional committee meetings about the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Constitutional Amendments, Cary spoke before the House Judiciary Committee and encouraged congressional leaders to ratify the amendments. She was critical of the fact that the Fifteenth’s Amendment didn’t also extend voting rights to women, but she argued that voting rights should be granted to African-American men. Cary was a member of the National Woman Suffrage Association and continued to fight for the right for women to vote, hoping to one day see voting rights be given to women. 

She lived in a brick row home located on W Street Northwest. The home is now a historic landmark, though it is not currently open to the public. A plaque outside the home shares a more detailed history about Mary Ann Shadd Cary and her efforts to uplift people within her community. 

The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum:

Charlotte Dupuy, Eliza Scidmore and Mary Ann Shadd Cary are just a few of the many women who lived in and left their mark on Washington D.C. Landmark plagues and historical sites share stories of other women such as suffragist Lucy Burns, entrepreneur Cathy Hughes, educator Mary McLeod Bethune and more. In a few years, Washington D.C. will also be home to the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum! 

“With a digital-first mission and focus, the Smithsonian amplifies a diversity of women’s voices in a new museum and through the Smithsonian’s museums, research centers, cultural heritage affiliates, and anywhere people are online.” (About, n.d., para. 2) . 

While the physical building is not projected to open until the 2030s or later, visitors can explore their digital exhibits, collections and collection items such as ‘In Her Words: Women’s Duty and Service in World War I’, ‘Women of Public Health’ and ‘American Women Athletes’. The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum will be an essential resource for people interested in learning more about American Women’s History and the contributions women made to the United States.

There is a long history of women investing time and energy into improving Washington D.C. and the United States as a whole. If there is a local figure you’d like to highlight during Women’s History Month, we’d love to read about it in the comments! 

References:

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Since 2020, many people have actively sought out books, podcasts, webinars and other media to help them understand the origins of and ways to dismantle systemic injustices. People interested in incorporating anti-discriminatory techniques and practices into their daily lives may find it difficult knowing where to start. Taking large steps such as attending a rally or contacting your elected official may appear to be the only way to move towards change. But smaller actions are equally important and necessary. 

According to scholars, without education and a deeper understanding of systemic harms, it is difficult to address these harms or work towards solutions. Education is the first and crucial step in uncovering implicit and explicit biases. If you are interested in learning more about the history of racism, sexism, homophobia or any other form of discrimination, please visit GW SMHS Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s Anti-Racism Resources for Physicians or explore any of the resources listed in the references section. Journalist Anna North quotes educator and author Cornelius Minor in a Vox article, stating “Once you’ve educated yourself, the next step is “to actually take action that benefits the members of your community…”” (North, 2020, para. 22)

Scholars, activists and others have suggestions for allies who wish to address long-standing systemic issues:

  1. Be mindful of how you use social media: Social media is a useful tool for spreading awareness, sharing resource lists, connecting with like-minded individuals/organizations or listening to marginalized voices. Yet the ease in which people can ‘like’, comment or reshare posts means people may engage with content on a superficial level or mimic their peers without a deeper awareness of why an issue is important. This may be seen as ‘virtue signaling’ or ‘performative allyship.’ Virtue signaling is defined as “an attempt to show other people that you are a good person, for example by expressing opinions that will be acceptable to them, especially on social media.” (Cambridge Dictionary, n.d.) While performative allyship is “the practice of words, posts and gestures that do more to promote an individual’s own virtuous moral compass than actually helping the causes that they’re intending to showcase.” (Kersten, 2020, para. 6) Information moves rapidly on social media platforms and you may feel as if you need to share your opinion online. Before rushing to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, ask yourself if you’re posting to alleviate your own anxiety or because you genuinely wish to show support and think about if there are alternative actions you can take instead of relying on social media. “With any kind of supposed social media activism, we need to be critical and examine who it’s actually helping and if there is a way it could be more effective.” (Rudhran, 2020, para. 11) There is no harm in expressing your support of marginalized communities online, but make sure your support is also visible and tangible offline. 
  2. Have difficult conversations: Challenging the opinions of your social circle can be hard and may activate complex emotions or responses. You may hear a harmful remark from a close friend or family member, but feel anxious about addressing the remark. “This physiological impact of conflict and stress prompts the brain to release cortisol and adrenaline into the bloodstream, putting the body into a fight, flight, or freeze response. In this state, we are biologically primed to respond to imminent danger–not to do complex thinking or bring our social graces to bear.” (Jackson, 2019, para. 23) Despite this, having difficult conversations not only provides space to educate and learn from others, but it also takes stress away from marginalized people who are already handling the stress of frequent systemic harm. If you’d like to engage in more in-depth conversations, there are resources that can assist you such as this guide from Teaching Tolerance or this article from Jamilah King. (North, 2020)
  3. Donate time or resources: Volunteering is a great way to connect with your local community. Nonprofit organizations often rely on volunteers to operate and deliver relief to the neighborhood. If there is an organization you’re interested in helping, research to see if they have volunteer opportunities. You can commit to becoming a regular volunteer or you can volunteer as your schedule permits. Consider bringing friends or family members with you as well. If you’re unable to volunteer your time, then think about making a financial donation to an organization if it is feasible. No matter how you decide to donate time or resources, supporting and uplifting organizations is a way to reaffirm your commitment to anti-discrimination ideals. 
  4. Speak out against discriminatory practices: Being aware of and understanding socioeconomic disparities enables you to speak out against discriminatory policies and practices that discriminate. In the workplace, long-standing hiring practices may unintentionally keep the selection pool small and homogeneous. If you’re in a position to evaluate hiring practices, speak up. “If you’re hiring, strengthen your own processes. Insist on open job listing and targeted recruiting to avoid an overreliance on referrals…Make sure candidate pools are diverse–with at least one person and ideally many people from marginalized groups. Finally, enforce fair application reviews and committee deliberations, watching for and calling out red-flag comments.” (Melaku et al., 2020, para. 32) You can also push back against harmful laws and regulations by contacting your elected representatives, attending community forums, signing petitions or by participating in other civic duties. 
  5. Admit mistakes: Being an ally means being visibly and vocally supportive of marginalized communities. But sometimes people make mistakes. If this occurs, it is best to admit to the mistake, pause for reflection and continue to show support where you can. “Being an ally is an ongoing process, and you are bound to say or do the wrong thing at certain points. Sometimes, the best way to learn is through trial and error. The important thing is to acknowledge when you’re wrong, and to not make those same mistakes again.” (Kersten, 2020, para. 10) View mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. If someone corrects you, remain open and thank them for being willing to educate you. Being an ally does not mean you must aim for constant perfection. Instead it means offering support when you can and learning from any missteps you encounter. 

Education provides us with tools to grow and act as better allies. Action presents us with opportunities to show our commitment in tangible ways. Education and action create a steady cycle of allyship and advocacy that moves us closer towards an equitable and inclusive world. As this year’s Black History Month comes to an end and Women’s History Month approaches, spend time reflecting on how you wish to ally yourself with marginalized communities and search for opportunities to share your time or other resources with organizations in need of support. 

References:

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Robotic hand reaches for a mural of white dots and connecting lines displayed on a blue backdrop
Photo credit: Photo by Tara Winstead

OpenAI, an artificial intelligence research and development company, released the latest version of their generative text chatbot program, ChatGPT, near the end of 2022. The program provides responses based on prompts from users. Since its release universities, research institutions, publishers and other educators worry that ChatGPT and similar products will radically change the current education system. Some institutions have taken action to limit or ban the use of AI generated text. Others argue that ChatGPT and similar products may be the perfect opportunity to reimagine education and scholarly publishing. There is a lot to learn about AI and its impact on research and publishing. This article aims to serve as an introduction to this rapidly evolving technology.

In a Nature article, Chris Stokel-Walker described ChatGPT as “a large language model (LLM), which generates convincing sentences by mimicking the statistical patterns of language in a huge database of text collated from the Internet.” (Stokel-Walker, 2023, para. 3) OpenAI’s website says “The dialogue format makes it possible for ChatGPT to answer followup questions, admit its mistakes, challenge incorrect premises, and reject inappropriate requests.” (OpenAI, n.d., para. 1) ChatGPT may be used to answer simple and complex questions and may provide long-form responses based on the prompt. In recent months, students and researchers have used the chatbot to perform simple research tasks or develop and draft manuscripts. By automating certain tasks, ChatGPT and other AI technologies may provide people with the opportunity to focus on other aspects of the research or learning process.

There are benefits and limitations to AI technology and many people agree that guidelines must be in place before ChatGPT and similar models are fully integrated into the classroom or laboratory.

Van Dis et al. notes that “Conversational AI is likely to revolutionize research practices and publishing, creating both opportunities and concerns. It might accelerate the innovation process, shorten time-to-publication, and by helping people to write fluently, make science more equitable and increase the diversity of scientific perspectives.” (van Dis et. al., 2023, para. 4) Researchers who have limited or no English language proficiency would benefit from using ChatGPT to develop their manuscript for publication. The current version of ChatGPT is  free to use making it accessible to anyone with internet access and a computer. This may make scholarly publishing more equitable, though there is a version of the program that is only available with a monthly subscription fee. If future AI technologies require fees, this will create additional access and equity issues. 

 While ChatGPT can produce long-form, seemingly thoughtful responses there are concerns about its ability to accurately cite information. OpenAI states that “ChatGPT sometimes writes plausible-sounding but incorrect or nonsensical answers.” (OpenAI, n.d., para. 7) There is a potential for AI generated text to spread misleading information. Scholars who have tested ChatGPT also note that the AI will create references that do not exist. Researchers must fact-check the sources pulled by the AI to ensure that their work adheres to current integrity standards. There are also concerns about ChatGPT’s relationship to properly citing original sources. “And because this technology typically reproduces text without reliably citing the original sources or authors, researchers using it are at risk of not giving credit to earlier work, unwittingly plagiarizing a multitude of unknown texts and perhaps even giving away their own ideas.” (van Dis et al, 2023, para. 10)

Students and researchers interested in using AI generated text should be aware of current policies and restrictions. Many academic journals, universities and colleges have updated their policies to either limit the use or institute a complete ban of AI in research. Other institutions are actively discussing their plans for this new technology and may implement new policies in the future. At the time of writing, GWU has not shared policies to address AI usage in the classroom. If you’re interested in using AI generated text in your research papers or projects, be sure to closely read submission guidelines or university policies. 

ChatGPT and other AI text generators are having profound impacts and as the technology continues to improve, it will become increasingly difficult distinguishing work written without the aid of an AI and work co-authored with an AI. The long term impacts of AI in the classroom have yet to be fully understood. Many institutions are moving to address this new technology. As we continue to learn about ChatGPT’s benefits and limitations, it is important to remain aware of your institution’s policies on using AI in research. To learn more about ChatGPT, please read any of the sources listed below! Himmelfarb Library will continue to discuss AI technology and its impact on research as more information is made available.

Additional Reading:

Work Cited:

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An African-American man dressed in a white shirt and grey pants is seated crossed legged on brown rocks and looks over a green, hilly landscape

“Winter blues” is a colloquial term people use when describing the general sense of sluggishness, mental/emotional fatigue and lack of interest in normal hobbies or activities during the winter months. Many people self-report mood or behavior changes during the late fall and winter seasons. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression “characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4 to 5 months per year.” (National Institute of Mental Health, n.d., para. 4)  It may be difficult for people to openly discuss their mental health or seek out help for severe symptoms. January is Mental Wellness Month and an opportune time to have open, honest conversations about mental health care with your patients and social circle. 

Despite many people reporting lower energy levels and experiencing extended periods of sadness or loss of interest in daily activities during the winter season, people may be unaware of the symptoms of SAD or how to treat it. Have conversations with your patients about their mood and engagement with hobbies during the late fall and winter period. Ask if they have access to a mental health specialist or if they’re interested in working with a specialist. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has a webpage dedicated to SAD including a thorough explanation of the disorder, common symptoms associated with it and potential treatment options. Sharing this information with patients will help them learn that SAD is a common experience and may reduce shame people experience when discussing their mental health. 

Knowing how to connect patients with mental health resources is important. The NIMH’s Help for Mental Illnesses page offers mental health hotlines, ways to evaluate if a mental health specialist is a good fit and federal resources that connect people with low-cost health services. Websites such as Psychology Today, Therapy for Black Girls, American Psychological Association’s Psychologist Locator and the National Register of Health Service Psychologists allow users to search for a mental health specialist that meets their needs. Encourage your patients to speak with their friends or family about their experiences with therapy or other mental health services. 

If a professional mental health specialist is not an option for your patients, work with them to develop a management plan that prioritizes their mental well-being. Ask about their sleeping habits, how often they exercise and their social connections. Share research findings that discuss the importance of developing healthier habits and how these habits can reduce stress and improve moods. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service has accessible pages that include practical tips on how to develop better nutrition, physical activity and sleep habits. This is a great resource to share with your patients. 

Just as it is important to discuss mental health with your patients, it is equally important to take care of your own health. The Healthy Living @ Himmelfarb Guide has resources, services, wellness apps and more that are available for you to use. Connect with GW services such as the Student Health Center, GW Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) or the GW Resiliency & Well Being Center. The Books & Library Resources page includes books, exercise equipment, games and more that are available for checkout from the library. Lastly, the Wellness Apps page lists smart device apps such as Calm, Mint, Daily Yoga and more to help you incorporate more movement into your life, develop a meditation practice or manage your finances. 

Taking care of our mental health allows us to stay present and not feel overwhelmed by the difficult periods we encounter. Mental health is just as important as physical health. For Mental Wellness Month, spend time evaluating your current mental health and make changes by incorporating more self-care into your routine. Ask for help if you need it and explore one of the many resources listed above to begin your journey towards mental wellness. 

References:

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Seasonal Affective Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

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Photo by Wilson Rodriguez

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is well known for his passionate and thoughtful speeches that examined racial discrimination in the United States, the negative impacts of poverty and a need for communities to rally behind and support vulnerable populations. One of his most well known speeches, ‘I Have a Dream,’ occurred on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 1963 during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. 

Dr. King’s speeches primarily focused on education, access to housing, racial desegregation in public and private spaces and building an equitable country. But on March 25, 1966, Dr. King spoke at a meeting of the Medical Committee for Human Rights where he discussed racial inequities and health. The full transcript for this speech has not been discovered, though fragments of it were printed in newspapers. Similar to Dr. King’s other speeches, his speech at the meeting not only addressed the harsh realities of people of color, particularly Black Americans, in the country, but also urged the listeners to educate themselves on these inequities and pursue action to dismantle systemic oppression. 

Due to the lack of a speech transcript, there are different iterations of Dr. King’s words and thoughts on health inequity. Professor Charlene Galarneau uses the following quote in her article ‘Getting King’s Words Right’: 

“We are concerned about the constant use of federal funds to support this most notorious expression of segregation. Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhuman because it often results in physical death. 

I see no alternative to direct action and creative nonviolence to raise the conscience of the nation.” (Galarneau, 2018, p. 5)

Galarneau states that these words were spoken during a press conference before the annual meeting and were documented by news sources such as the Associated Press. We may never know Dr. King’s exact words during the press conference or during his speech, but this quote shows that Dr. King understood the pressing need to address injustices in health. 

During the time of his speech, Black patients and healthcare providers were facing widespread discrimination in healthcare centers. Organizations like the Medical Committee for Human Rights sought to address the healthcare needs of underserved communities, while also building healthcare centers that would continue the work once the committee’s healthcare workers relocated. “A predominantly white organization, the committee would continue to assist civil rights workers in Mississippi and other southern states but shifted its focus to deal with health problems facing thousands of poor blacks who lacked any medical services.” (Dittmer, 2014, p. 746)

Dr. King’s speech highlighted another area of society that suffered from racial and economic discrimination, thus furthering the divide between the privileged and underserved. As Galarneau writes in her article “King’s words remind us that health and health care are social goods at the community and national levels. As such health and health care are socially created and require social responsibility in a collective agreement about what constitutes health in/justice.”(Galarneau, 2018, p. 7)

Dr. King’s remarks are also a call to action. He believed that everyone had a role to play in dismantling injustices domestically and globally. He strongly encouraged people to seek out information about the issues related to racism and economic inequality and apply this knowledge to establish and maintain inclusive communities.

As we all spend the MLK holiday weekend reflecting on the words and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Himmelfarb Library would like to offer resources and promote events that build upon the advocacy work that Dr. King participated in. Himmelfarb Library’s Diversity and Disparities in Health Care, Diversity in Dermatology and Humanities & Health Collection highlight library resources that explore topics related to inequities in health care and how to build a more inclusive health care system. 

On Wednesday, January 25 at noon, the Anti-Racism Coalition will hold the 7th Annual SMHS Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture Series–Advancing the Dream: Why We Can’t Wait. Milken Institute School of Public Health professor, Dr. Wendy Ellis, will participate in a conversation about “race, advocacy, and finding your voice in the fight for racial justice…” Registration for this event is now open. 

If you are interested in taking action to address health inequities, consider joining local student or professional organizations such as White Coats for Black Lives, Antiracism Nursing Student Alliance or Black Public Health Student Network. Collaborate with your peers to find creative solutions to teach the public about health injustices or search for local issues that may need your support. 

Dr. King understood that a coalition was required to build an inclusive and equitable future and we can honor his legacy by connecting with like-minded community members and seeking out their advice and feedback.

References:

Galarneau, C. (2018). Getting King’s Words Right. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 29(1), 5–8. https://doi.org/10.1353/hpu.2018.0001

Dittmer, J. (2014). The Medical Committee for Human Rights. AMA Journal of Ethics, 16(9), 745-748. https://doi.org/10.1001/virtualmentor.2014.16.9.mhst1-1409

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This is the sixth article on the changes to the NIH Data Management and Sharing policies that will go into effect for NIH grant applications starting January 2023. For more information, see our previous articles on data management.  

Broadly speaking, file management pertains to the organization, access, storage and retrieval of documents, folders and information. When creating a research plan, it is important to spend time reflecting on your file management system to avoid future complications such as losing a necessary document or being locked out of a folder. A proper file management system will ensure that all documents are correctly labeled, stored and available to be viewed by project team members. 

The Lamar Soutter Library states that file management consists of “Structuring the hierarchical organization of file folders in a logical and clear way; Planning for the syntax and vocabulary of individual file names; [and] Using agreed-upon conventions consistently.” (Lamar Soutter Library, 2022) A file management system clarifies steps for preserving research data in a manner that is accessible to all research team members. 

You should create your file management system before engaging in your research. Spend as much time as necessary establishing and documenting a routine, folder hierarchy, file naming conventions and other information. Here are some points to consider when creating your file management system:

  1. Think about the goal and purpose of file management for your research: Having a goal in mind will allow you to determine the best way to manage your files and ensure that you are in compliance with the new NIH Data Management and Sharing policies. A goal will also allow you to eliminate any confusion surrounding file management or the software or hardware you will use to maintain your research files. 
  2. Seek input from all research team members: If multiple people are involved in the research project, seek their input on how they manage their personal files. Learn which tools and resources they are accustomed to. Form a consensus on which software and file management structure the team will use. 
  3. “Develop a nested folder structure that makes the most sense for your project and team’s retrieval needs” (Lamar Soutter Library, 2022) : There are multiple ways to organize a nested folder structure. If the research project will occur over a long period of time, consider creating a “base” folder with the project name and adding additional folders based on the year, month or quarter for the project. You may also consider nesting folders based on the type of information. For example, if you conduct a survey, separate the responses into different folders based on whether the survey occurred in person, over the phone, via email or through another form of communication. Think about your research plan and what types of information you will or may gather, then create corresponding folders. Be sure to create folders that may be of use in the future so you can immediately organize that information without disrupting your current file management system. 
  4. Once a system has been established, make sure all team members have access: No matter how you decide to store your files, take time to ensure all project members can access the folders and documents that they need. If there are passwords attached to folders or documents, store those passwords in a secure location that members can locate. 
  5. Create a reference file management document: Once you and your team have established a file management system, create a separate document that notes the systems and software you plan to use, folder passwords, file naming conventions and other relevant information. Store this document in a location that is accessible and use it as a reference over the course of the research project. If changes are made to the file management system, be sure to update this document to reflect the new changes. 

Resources are available to guide you through the file management development and maintenance process. Read our previous NIH Data Management and Sharing policies articles to gain valuable information on the new policy and how to comply with it. Our File Naming Conventions article offers insight on how to name your files in a clear and consistent manner and our File Storage and Backup Best Practices article discusses storage tools, the importance of saving your files in multiple locations and data security. 

GW IT has a breakdown on the different document management services available to GW faculty and staff. This webpage explains the difference between regulated, restricted and public data and has a guide to help you determine which service best meets your research needs. 

Lastly, if you’re unsure of where to begin with creating a file management system MIT Libraries’ Data Management Guide provides a worksheet that walks you through the process of creating a file management hierarchy. Follow the steps from the very beginning or pick sections from the worksheet to help you develop a file management system for your research project. 

File management may feel like a daunting task. By reflecting on the goals of your management system and developing a plan before collecting data, you will avoid losing research data or navigating unorganized folders and files. The staff at Himmelfarb Library are here to help you understand file management or any topic related to the new NIH policy. Be sure to read our previous articles or browse our NIH Data Management & Sharing Plan (DMSP) Research Guide. Continue to follow our Himmelfarb Library News site for future data management articles! 

References:

MIT Libraries. (n.d.). Organize Your Files. Data Management. https://libraries.mit.edu/data-management/store/organize/

Lamar Soutter Library. (November 22, 2022). File Management. Research Data Management Resources. https://libraryguides.umassmed.edu/research_data_management_resources/file_management
Microsoft 365 Team. (June 15, 2021). 11 ideas for how to organize digital files. Microsoft: Business Insights and Ideas. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/business-insights-ideas/resources/11-ideas-for-how-to-organize-digital-files

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The end of 2022 is only a few days away and before the year ends, Himmelfarb Library staff would like to reflect and recognize the many accomplishments and positive changes that occurred during these twelve months.

In 2022, Himmelfarb Library welcomed a new library director and several new staff members. In the summer, Laura Abate was officially named the Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library Director, filling that position after the retirement of Anne Linton.  In the July 11th Himmelfarb Library News article, Laura stated that she is “excited to continue to rebuild and hone our collections, and want to explore new ways that we can support teaching and learning, research and scholarly publishing, and clinical care.” Along with a new director, Himmelfarb Library welcomed Rachel Brill (Reference and Instruction Librarian), Temitayo Wolff (Daytime Reference Specialist), Nat Curtin (Evening and Weekend Library Assistant), and most recently Deborah Wassertzug (Reference and Instruction Librarian) to the team!

Himmelfarb Library continues to meet the evolving needs of our users and in 2022 our collection expanded in exciting ways! During the summer, we acquired two Quest VR Headsets that were preloaded with the Medicalholodeck medical virtual reality platform. During the August orientation, students were able to test the VR headsets and both headsets are currently available for checkout. 

The Serials department also restored access to 30 journals whose subscriptions were canceled in 2021. Thanks to the work of this department, Himmelfarb Library once again has access to journals such as Advances in Nutrition, Clinical Chemistry, Journal of Allied Health, Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs and more. Himmelfarb Library, Gelman Library and Burns Law Library also worked to secure a “transformative” agreement with Cambridge University Press. Per this agreement, GW authors are able waive article processing charges (APCs) when they publish their work in open access Cambridge journal titles, which will give authors the opportunity to share their research to a wider audience without significant financial burdens. 

Himmelfarb Library now offers free 3D printing to our users. This policy went into effect during the summer and users may submit their printing request online. 

Library staff developed several new research guides for the Himmelfarb community. Our Borrow from Other Libraries guide breakdowns the Consortium Loan Service, Documents2Go and how to acquire materials from other libraries. The Correcting Misinformation with Patients guide is a useful tool when engaging with patients and provides techniques to assist you during complex health conversations. The NIH Data Management & Sharing Plan (DMSP) guide discusses the new NIH Data Management plan that is scheduled to go into effect early 2023. The DMSP guide explains the new policy, how it will impact researchers and what researchers can do to ensure they comply with the policy. 

Lastly, Read by QxMD is an application that allows users to stay up to date on current health sciences research. The app provides full text PDFs to research and users can curate their feed to receive up to date articles tailored to their specific research interests.By selecting GW as your institution’s affiliation on the app, users will have access to Himmelfarb’s full-text collection on their smart device. To learn more about any of the listed resources, please contact Himmelfarb Library at himmelfarb@gwu.edu or (202)-994-2850. 

2022 also saw the return of the library’s Annual Art Show. The art show took place virtually and in person during the spring. Preparations for the 2023 art show will occur in a few months, but if you’d like to view the artwork from the 2022 show or any previous show, please visit the art show collection in the Health Sciences Research Commons (HSRC). 

The HSRC also reached its one millionth download recently! The repository shares GW authored research with readers around the country and new research is added on a monthly basis. Sara Hoover, Himmelfarb’s Metadata and Scholarly Publishing Librarian, co-authored with Karen S. Kesten of the GW School of Nursing on the paper ‘Doctor of nursing practice scholarship dissemination through open access repository’ which discussed the Doctor of Nursing Practice collection in the HSRC.  

As we wrap up this year and prepare for the winter break, we would like to extend our gratitude to all of our users. We look forward to returning in 2023 and offering more exciting resources and services to assist you with your information, research and education needs!

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The weeks between Thanksgiving and winter break can be a daunting and stressful time as we race to the end of the fall semester. Stress can have negative impacts on our body. Too much stress can lead to headaches, insomnia, changes in our mood, high blood glucose or blood pressure levels and more. (Pietrangelo, 2020) There are many ways to reduce stress and take care of yourself during this hectic time. Here are a few ways to help you stay healthy during the next few weeks. 

It is easy to forgo sleep when you’re studying for exams or writing end of semester papers. But getting enough sleep can significantly reduce stress and provide you with enough energy for the coming days. The Department of Health and Human Services says that getting enough sleep can lower risks of developing serious health problems, reduce stress and improve mood and help with the decision making process. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2022) Creating and applying a sleep routine to your daily life may seem difficult, but if done consistently you’ll notice an improvement in the quality of your sleep. To develop a better relationship with sleep, consider dedicating a few minutes of ‘wind down’ time before you go to bed. During this time, accomplish tasks that require little effort or energy, like reading, planning your to-do list for the next day or writing in your journal. Avoid smart devices or TV during this time. If you have trouble falling asleep, try listening to gentle music, such as classical, jazz or lo-fi. Or, put on a podcast such as ‘The Sleepy Bookshelf,’ ‘Sleep With Me’ or ‘Get Sleepy.’  Set a ‘sleep timer’ so the music or podcast turns off automatically and make sure to keep the volume settings low so the music or show doesn’t distract you.   

While the end of the semester may feel like a time for self-isolation and solo studying, this is the perfect opportunity to lean into your community and reach out for support. Organize study sessions with your classmates and reserve space in one of Himmelfarb’s study rooms. If you want to understand the noise level standards for the library, visit our recent Studying at Himmelfarb? Know Our Zones! post. If you’d like to socialize without worrying about class work, plan a lunch or dinner break with a friend. Call a relative or friend who lives far away, or set aside time for a virtual movie night. Connecting with your community is a great way to take your mind off of school and can also reduce the pent up anxiety you may feel. Speaking to your friends, family or other loved ones may provide you with the space to talk through mental or emotional walls, thus allowing you the ability to return to your work with a clearer understanding of what needs to be accomplished. 

Breaking down your assignments into smaller, manageable pieces is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Create a roadmap or plan to help you complete your work and set a daily goal of accomplishing 1-2 sections until you reach the end. Or write a to do list in the morning and rank your list items from highest to lowest priority. By checking off smaller tasks, you’ll progress through your work without feeling overwhelmed. 

Lastly, December 1-16, George Washington University and the Division for Student Affairs will hold a series of end of semester events to help students unwind and de-stress. The university’s ‘Midnight breakfast’ will take place on December 12 at 9 p.m. in the University Student Center. There will be food from vendors like Insomnia Cookies, Domino’s Pizza and Kilwin’s. Entertainment will include a gaming station, karaoke, a ‘Build-A-Study Buddy’ area and coloring; there will also be opportunities to win prizes such as a limited edition ‘Midnight Breakfast’ shirt, an Ipad and more. If you’re unable to attend this event, there are other opportunities to engage in fun and relaxation. December 5 and 12 there will be free chair massages at District House B205. December 10, take a walk to Roosevelt Island or attend an improv show at the University Student Center amphitheater organized by [insert here] improv on December 9. Visit ‘The Final Lap’ webpage for a full list of planned activities! 

The Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) has additional stress management resources available. If you need academic support, the staff at Himmelfarb are available to provide assistance whether it’s fulfilling an interlibrary loan request, providing a reference service or helping you create a 3D print model. If you have any stress management suggestions, please feel free to share them in the comments!  We hope that you accomplish all of your work before the end of the semester while also finding time to honor your basic needs and get some well-deserved rest! 

References:

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022). Health Living: Get Enough Sleep. https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships/get-enough-sleep

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Image of a person's hand, palms up, one in top of the other. In the top palm are two pills.

Diabetes impacts the lives of approximately 37 million Americans and if left untreated, it can damage a person’s eyes, heart, kidneys or more. Diabetes can cause serious issues for people who have high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. By encouraging patients to build a team of healthcare professionals, incorporate more exercise into their daily routine and make different nutritional choices, healthcare providers can teach people with diabetes how to effectively manage their blood sugar, or glucose, levels and avoid future health complications. 

It is important to speak to patients about their current level of awareness about diabetes as many people may not be aware of the symptoms or factors that are indicative of a person developing diabetes. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases list several symptoms associated with diabetes, though they also stress that “Symptoms of type 2 diabetes often develop slowly–over the course of several years–and can be so mild that you might not even notice them. Many people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms.” (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, n.d., para. 3)  Some symptoms of diabetes include “increased thirst and urination, increased hunger, fatigue, numbness or tingling in the feet or hands, and sores that do not heal.” (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, n.d., para. 2) Some factors that may impact whether a person develops diabetes include a family history of diabetes, race, having prediabetes, and being over the age of 35. People who developed gestational diabetes while they were pregnant are also at a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Annual health screenings and blood work can check current blood glucose levels to determine if a person has developed prediabetes or diabetes and health care professionals can also offer advice during these screenings on how patients can manage their blood glucose levels. 

Social media graphic that says 'Diabetes Management. It Takes A Team.'

November is American Diabetes Month and this year’s theme is ‘It Takes a Team.’  For many people, living with diabetes can feel overwhelming and may cause them stress, anxiety or depression. But health care professionals can offer guidance and support for patients who must navigate their post-diagnosis reality. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease has consumer health resources that can be used as instructional tools when speaking to patients about managing their diabetes. The institute’s ‘diabetes ABCs’ breakdown the health tests people should stay aware of. “Knowing your diabetes ABCs will help you manage your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol…Working toward your ABC goals can help lower your chances of having a heart attack, stroke, or other diabetes problems.” (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, n.d., para. 4) Additional consumer health resources that may be useful include the American Diabetes Association and their list of local offices which will connect people with other diabetes patients and social or health events. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains a Diabetes Division which offers more information about the different types of diabetes, statistics on the state of diabetes in the country and nutrition guidance. Health care professionals can also encourage their patients to speak to their friends and family about ways to be supportive. Friends and family can encourage people with diabetes to add more exercise into their routine or choose diabetes friendly foods. 

Living with diabetes can be challenging for patients and requires that they make lifestyle changes to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Health professionals can share consumer health readings and resources with their patients in an effort to encourage them to make necessary lifestyle changes. By encouraging patients to stay connected to an informed and supportive community, health care professionals give their patients tools to receive the care and space they need to make important, healthy decisions. 

References

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2022). National Diabetes Month 2022. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/community-health-outreach/national-diabetes-month.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (n.d.). Managing Diabetes. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (n.d.). Symptoms & Causes of Diabetes. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/symptoms-causes.

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Photo by EVG Kowalievska

The United States has a history of assisting vulnerable populations with community needs, often with varying degrees of success. The Indian Health Service (IHS), part of the Department of Health and Human Services, is one such government organization that provides healthcare for millions of Indigenous people and since its inception, the service has positively impacted federally recognized Native nations despite budgetary constraints. The Service employs physicians, nurses, dentists and other healthcare professionals to meet the healthcare needs of Indigenous populations and the organization sponsors professional opportunities for Indigenous students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels who express an interest in entering the healthcare field.

The Indian Health Service was created in 1955 and was born out of a long history of the United States government providing assistance to Indigenous nations. “The provision of health services to members of federally-recognized tribes grew out of the special government-to-government relationship between the federal government and Indian tribes. This relationship, established in 1787, is based on Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution, and has been given form and substance by numerous treaties, laws, Supreme Court decisions, and Executive Orders.”(Warne & Frizzell, 2014, p. S263) The federal government would send military physicians to Indigenous communities in an effort to address the spread of diseases such as smallpox. Unfortunately the government spent far less money on the healthcare of Indigenous people in comparison to members of the military. In 1880, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Thomas J. Morgan requested more funding to cover expenses and he “calculated the disparity in resources, finding that the Army spent $21.91 per soldier and the Navy $48.10 per sailor, while the government only appropriated $1.25 per Indian patient.” (Trahant, 2018, p. 118)

In 1911 President William Howard Taft urged Congress to raise the salary of healthcare workers employed in the Indian Service. But the history of underfunding Indigenous healthcare continued. When the Bureau of Indian Affairs opened a health division in 1921, the system suffered from poor funding, unsanitary facilities and inadequate supplies which placed a strain on the quality of care provided. In 1955, Congress transferred the health programs away from the Bureau of Indian Affair to the newly formed Indian Health Service. They also raised the service’s budget from $10 million to $17.7 million a year. Finally in 1976, “Congress proposed a sweeping new authorization for Indian health programs. The Indian Health Care Improvement Act…called on Congress to appropriate at least $1.6 billion in new funding for Indian health, spending resources on improving staffing, facilities, access to care for urban Indian populations, and, for the first time, opened up Medicare and Medicaid revenue.” (Trahant, 2018, p. 119)

The Indian Health Service’s headquarters is located in Rockville, Maryland and has twelve service areas located across the country. The current head of the service is Roselyn Tso, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. Tso began working for the Service in the 1980s and has worked in many different capacities, including serving as the director of the Indian Health Service Navajo Area in 2019. The Indian Health Service provides access to hospitals, health centers, dental clinics and behavioral health facilities to Indigenous communities in the twelve service areas. The organization also offers healthcare education so people can improve their quality of health outside of regularly scheduled appointments. The Indian Health Service is one of the few federal organizations that prioritizes Indigenous applicants during the job search process and they also host funding opportunities for students interested in a career in healthcare. Scholarships are available for undergraduate, graduate and preparatory school students. The Indian Health Service also offers an extern program where participants earn valuable, hands-on skills while working in IHS facilities. 

While the organization continues to suffer from poor funding in comparison to other federal organizations, the Indian Health Service has improved the overall health of their patients. For example, the infant mortality rate for Indigenous communities has drastically decreased since 1955 and “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that, in the United States from 2004 to 2008, 84 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives have a ‘usual place for health care.’” (Trahant, 2018, p. 120) Besides the lack of adequate funding, another criticism of the Indian Health Service is the organizations’ lack of focus on Indigenous people who live in urban areas.  Over the years, the IHS has sought  to provide resources to patients in urban areas,  and to meet the needs of over 2 million Indigenous patients.

The Indian Health Service was born out of the numerous treaties, legally binding agreements and promises made between the US federal government and the governments of Indigenous nations such as the 1832 treaty between the War Department and the Winnebago Tribe in Wisconsin in which the federal government promised two physicians in exchange for land (Trahant, 2018). The healthcare and administrative workers in the IHS search for creative solutions to meet the pressing healthcare needs of their patients. And by offering scholarships and externships, the organization aims to tackle the healthcare industry’s lack of Indigenous workers. The Indian Health Service’s mission is “To raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level” and by fulfilling this mission, the IHS provides an example for other healthcare organizations committed to addressing health disparities in other vulnerable and underserved communities.

References:

Indian Health Service. (n.d.). Indian Health Service: The Federal Health Program for American Indians and Alaska Natives. https://www.ihs.gov/

Marcinko, T. (2016, November 13). More Native American Doctors Needed to Reduce Health Disparities in Their Communities. AAMCNEWS. https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/more-native-american-doctors-needed-reduce-health-disparities-their-communities. 

Warne, D. & Frizzell, L.B. (2014). American Indian Health Policy: Historical trends and contemporary issues. American Journal of Public Health, 104(3), S263-S267. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2013.301682

Trahant, M.N. (2018). The story of Indian health is complicated by history, shortages, & bouts of excellence. Daedalus, 147(2), 116-123. https://doi.org/10.1162/DAED_a_00495

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