Publications

Publications

Breastfeeding

Meadows-Oliver, M. (2024). In The Family Nurse Practitioner (pp. 29-31). Wiley. 10.1002/9781119603238.ch2.2
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Abstract
This chapter explores the case of Julio, a 9-month-old male, who is presented to the primary care office for a well-baby visit. Julio's nutrition history reveals that he is still being breastfed but that he is also being supplemented with a low-iron, milk-based formula. Julio's mother states that she gives Julio low-iron formula because formula that is not low-iron makes him constipated. Past medical history reveals that he was hospitalized at 4 months of age for bronchiolitis. The chapter provides essential guidance and information for understanding how to diagnose and manage this case by conducting pulmonary screening. This includes differential diagnosis and a series of critical thinking questions ideal for the family nurse practitioner.

Building healthy bodies and minds in our children

Newland, J. A. (2024). Nurse Practitioner, 49(9), 8. 10.1097/01.NPR.0000000000000229

Burn

Meadows-Oliver, M. (2024). In The Family Nurse Practitioner (pp. 61-62). Wiley. 10.1002/9781119603238.ch3.3
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Abstract
This chapter presents a case of a two-year-old female who is presented to the primary care office with her mother with a complaint of a burn to the right hand. Her nutrition history reveals that she has a balanced diet with enough dairy, protein, fruits, and vegetables. She has not eaten since she burned her hand. Her mother and father are healthy and have no history of chronic medical conditions. Her paternal grandmother (40 years old) has a history of obesity and high blood pressure. The chapter also provides essential guidance and information for understanding how to diagnose and manage this case. This includes differential diagnosis and a series of critical thinking questions ideal for the family nurse practitioner.

Can formal home and community-based care substitute informal care? Evidence from Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey

Wang, Y., Wu, B., & Yang, W. (2024). BMC Geriatrics, 24(1). 10.1186/s12877-024-05312-7
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Abstract
Background: Formal home and community-based care are often considered as the preferable option to institutional care, offering older individuals the convenience of receiving care in their homes. Although research has found that these services may alleviate the burden on informal caregivers, there is a lack of research on which specific types of formal home and community-based care influence informal care provision. Methods: Employing fixed-effects and quantile regression models, this study seeks to explore the effects that various formal home and community-based care services have on reducing the burden of informal care. This study draws data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2005, 2008, 2011, 2014, and 2018. Results: Our findings indicate that two types of formal care substantially influence the provision of informal care. The availability of daily living assistance services correlates with reduced informal caregiving hours, especially for those with extensive care needs. The availability of community-based health care services is linked to a reduction in the direct expenses incurred from informal caregiving, especially for those incurring greater direct caregiving costs. These effects are more prominent among urban residents. Other services, such as mental health support and legal advice services, do not demonstrate significant effects on reducing informal care hours and costs. Conclusions: Daily living assistance and community-based health care services play a crucial role in benefiting informal caregivers. It is important to prioritize the expansion of these services, especially among those with greater care needs.

Cannabis use trajectories over time in relation to minority stress and gender among sexual and gender minority people

Flentje, A., Sunder, G., Ceja, A., Lisha, N. E., Neilands, T. B., Aouizerat, B. E., Lubensky, M. E., Capriotti, M. R., Dastur, Z., Lunn, M. R., & Obedin-Maliver, J. (2024). Addictive Behaviors, 157. 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.108079
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Abstract
Substance use disparities among sexual and gender minority (SGM) people are attributed to minority stress, but few studies have examined minority stress and cannabis use over time or investigated differences in cannabis use trajectories by less-studied gender subgroups. We examined if longitudinal cannabis use trajectories are related to baseline minority stressors and if gender differences persisted after accounting for minority stress. Cannabis use risk was measured annually over four years (2017–2021) within a longitudinal cohort study of SGM adults in the United States (N = 11,813). Discrimination and victimization, internalized stigma, disclosure and concealment, and safety and acceptance comprised minority stress (n = 5,673). Latent class growth curve mixture models identified five cannabis use trajectories: ‘low or no risk’, ‘low moderate risk’, ‘high moderate risk’, ‘steep risk increase’, and ‘highest risk’. Participants who reported past-year discrimination and/or victimization at baseline had greater odds of membership in any cannabis risk category compared to the ‘low risk’ category (odds ratios [OR] 1.17–1.33). Internalized stigma was related to ‘high moderate’ and ‘highest risk’ cannabis use (ORs 1.27–1.38). After accounting for minority stress, compared to cisgender men, gender expansive people and transgender men had higher odds of ‘low moderate risk’ (ORs 1.61, 1.67) or ‘high moderate risk’ (ORs 2.09, 1.99), and transgender men had higher odds of ‘highest risk’ (OR 2.36) cannabis use. This study indicates minority stress is related to prospective cannabis use risk trajectories among SGM people, and transgender men and gender expansive people have greater odds of trajectories reflecting cannabis use risk.

Cardiovascular Health in Black and Latino Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

McCarthy, M. M., Del Giudice, I., Wong, A., Fletcher, J., Dickson, V. V., & D’Eramo Melkus, G. (2024). Nursing Research, 73(4), 270-277. 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000730
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Abstract
Background The incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) among U.S. adults has been rising annually, with a higher incidence rate in Black and Hispanic adults than in Whites. The American Heart Association (AHA) has defined cardiovascular health according to the achievement of seven health behaviors (smoking, body mass index [BMI], physical activity, diet) and health factors (total cholesterol, blood pressure, fasting glucose). Optimal cardiovascular health has been associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, and awareness of this risk may influence healthy behaviors. Objectives This study aimed to assess cardiovascular health in a sample of Black and Hispanic adults (age: 18-40 years) with T2DM and explore the barriers and facilitators to diabetes self-management and cardiovascular health. Methods This was an explanatory sequential mixed-method design. The study staff recruited adults with T2DM for the quantitative data followed by qualitative interviews with a subsample of participants using maximum variation sampling. The seven indices of cardiovascular health as defined by the AHA's "Life's Simple 7"were assessed: health behaviors (smoking, BMI, physical activity, diet) and health factors (total cholesterol, blood pressure, A1C). Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore their results as well as the effects of the pandemic on diabetes self-management. Qualitative and quantitative data were integrated into the final analysis phase. Results The majority of the sample was female, with 63% identifying as Black and 47% as Hispanic. The factor with the lowest achievement of ideal levels was BMI, followed by a healthy diet. Less than half achieved ideal levels of blood pressure or physical activity. Themes that emerged from the qualitative data included the impact of social support, the effects of the pandemic on their lives, and educating themselves about T2DM. Discussion Achievement of ideal cardiovascular health factors varied, but the achievement of several health factors may be interrelated. Intervening on even one factor while providing social support may improve other areas of cardiovascular health in this population.

Cardiovascular Implications of Sleep Disorders Beyond Sleep Apnea

Park, J. A., Yoon, J. E., Liu, X., Chang, Y., Maiolino, G., Pengo, M. F., Lin, G. M., & Kwon, Y. (2024). Current Sleep Medicine Reports, 10(3), 320-328. 10.1007/s40675-024-00302-y
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Abstract
Purpose of review: Sleep is crucial for human health and life. There is still limited attention to the association between sleep disorders beyond sleep apnea and cardiovascular (CV) health. We investigated the current evidence between non-respiratory sleep disorders and CV health. Recent findings: Current evidence suggests an important association between sleep duration, circadian rhythm, insomnia, disorders of hypersomnolence and CV health. Sleep-related movement disorders exhibit a moderate association with CV health. Further research is needed to explore the effects of each sleep disorder on CV health. Summary: Given the close association between non-respiratory sleep disorders and CV health, it is crucial to recognize and address sleep disorders in patients with a high CV risk.

Cardiovascular Screening Exam

Meadows-Oliver, M. (2024). In The Family Nurse Practitioner (pp. 1-5). Wiley. 10.1002/9781119603238.ch1.1
Abstract
Abstract
This chapter explores the case of a 10-day-old male who is presented in the primary care office for a weight check and cardiovascular screening. His mother is concerned about his feeding habits. She believes that he takes awhile to drink his formula—longer than his siblings did; she also thinks that he sweats more than they did, even when he does not feel warm. During labor, she experienced a failure to progress, which resulted in her having a cesarean birth. The baby's Apgar scores were 8 at 1 minute and 9 at 5 minutes. The chapter provides essential guidance and information for understanding how to diagnose and manage this case. This includes differential diagnosis and a series of critical thinking questions ideal for family nurse practitioner.

Care partners experience of an oral health intervention for individuals with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia using behavior change technique: A qualitative study

Bryant, A. L., Hirschey, R., Caiola, C. E., Chan, Y. N., Cho, Y., Plassman, B. L., Wu, B., Anderson, R. A., & Bailey, D. E. (2024). Geriatric Nursing, 56, 40-45. 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.12.021
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Abstract
Oral health declines in older adults with cognitive impairment. We aimed to improve oral hygiene outcomes for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia (MD) by fostering behavior changes among carepartners assisting them. We used qualitative data of verbatim transcripts of coaching sessions with carepartners (n = 17 dyads:10 dyads for MCI, 7 dyads for MD). Directed and emergent coding were used to understand behavior change techniques (BCTs). BCTs were compared with carepartners of participants with MCI and MD. Most frequently used BCTs in both groups: prompts and cues, instruction on how to perform the behavior, review behavioral goal, and problem solving. Different BCTs emerged in study: social support-unspecified of the MCI group and credible source for MD group. Findings clarified active intervention components, common BCTs used by carepartners, and different BCT approaches for both participants. Findings help to elucidate the mechanisms of changes in individuals’ behaviors in these interventions.

Caregiving in Asia: Priority areas for research, policy, and practice to support family caregivers

Jiang, N., Wu, B., & Li, Y. (2024). Health Care Science, 3(6), 374-382. 10.1002/hcs2.124
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Abstract
Population aging presents a growing societal challenge and imposes a heavy burden on the healthcare system in many Asian countries. Given the limited availability of formal long-term care (LTC) facilities and personnel, family caregivers play a vital role in providing care for the increasing population of older adults. While awareness of the challenges faced by caregivers is rising, discussions often remain within academic circles, resulting in the lived experiences, well-being, and needs of family caregivers being frequently overlooked. In this review, we identify four key priority areas to advance research, practice, and policy related to family caregivers in Asia: (1) Emphasizing family caregivers as sociocultural navigators in the healthcare system; (2) addressing the mental and physical health needs of family caregivers; (3) recognizing the diverse caregiving experiences across different cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic status, and countries of residence; and (4) strengthening policy support for family caregivers. Our review also identifies deficiencies in institutional LTC and underscores the importance of providing training and empowerment to caregivers. Policymakers, practitioners, and researchers interested in supporting family caregivers should prioritize these key areas to tackle the challenge of population aging in Asian countries. Cross-country knowledge exchange and capacity development are crucial for better serving both the aging population and their caregivers.

Caregiving-Related Characteristics and Dental Care Utilization in Informal Caregivers of Persons With Dementia: Is There a Gender Difference?

Mao, W., Wu, B., Zhang, F., & Yang, W. (2024). Gerontologist, 64(11). 10.1093/geront/gnae133
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: Dental care utilization is an important, yet understudied aspect of healthcare in informal caregivers of persons with dementia. This study examined how caregiving-related characteristics are associated with dental care utilization among U.S. informal caregivers of persons with dementia and further examined gender differences. Research Design and Methods: Pooled data came from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022. A nationally representative sample of informal caregivers (n = 3,909) was included. Dental care utilization was "yes"versus "no"within the past year. Caregiving-related characteristics included caregiver role, intensity of care, duration of care, and type of care. Logistic regressions and subgroup analyses were conducted. Results: In total sample, compared to adult child caregivers, spousal caregivers were 28% less likely to visit a dentist (odds ratio [OR] = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.56, 0.94). Caregivers who provided care for more than 20 hr per week were 18% less likely to visit a dentist (OR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.69, 0.98). In subgroup analyses, intensity of care was a barrier to dental care utilization for female caregivers (OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.62, 0.98), whereas caregiver role such as spousal caregiver (OR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.39, 0.89) or other relative caregiver (OR = 0.70; 95% CI = 0.50, 0.99) was a barrier to dental care utilization for male caregivers. Discussion and Implications: The findings highlight the importance of caregiving-related characteristics in dental care utilization and suggest gender-tailored interventions.

Caring for patients with life-threatening hemoptysis

Chen, L., & Fasolka, B. (2024). Nursing, 54, 44-47. 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000997996.22052.79
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Life-threatening hemoptysis (formerly called massive hemoptysis), though relatively uncommon, imposes significant mortality risks. This article discusses the etiology, clinical presentation, assessment, treatment, and nursing interventions to promote effective clinical management of patients with this condition.

Celebrating diversity in patient needs during the holidays

Newland, J. A. (2024). Nurse Practitioner, 49(12), 7. 10.1097/01.NPR.0000000000000262

Changing the conversation: impact of guidelines designed to optimize interprofessional facilitation of simulation-based team training

Ju, M., Bochatay, N., Werne, A., Essakow, J., Tsang, L., Nottingham, M., Franzon, D., Lyndon, A., & Van Schaik, S. (2024). Advances in Simulation, 9(1). 10.1186/s41077-024-00313-3
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Background: Interprofessional simulation-based team training (ISBTT) is commonly used to optimize interprofessional teamwork in healthcare. The literature documents the benefits of ISBTT, yet effective interprofessional collaboration continues to be challenged by complex hierarchies and power dynamics. Explicitly addressing these issues during ISBTT may help participants acquire skills to navigate such challenges, but guidelines on how to do this are limited. Methods: We applied an educational design research approach to develop and pilot structured facilitator guidelines that explicitly address power and hierarchy with interprofessional teams. We conducted this work in a previously established ISBTT program at our institution, between September 2020 and December 2021. We first reviewed the literature to identify relevant educational theories and developed design principles. We subsequently designed, revised, and tested guidelines. We used qualitative thematic and content analysis of facilitator interviews and video-recording of IBSTT sessions to evaluate the effects of the guidelines on the pre- and debriefs. Results: Qualitative content analysis showed that structured guidelines shifted debriefing participation and content. Debriefings changed from physician-led discussions with a strong focus on medical content to conversations with more equal participation by nurses and physicians and more emphasis on teamwork and communication. The thematic analysis further showed how the conversation during debriefing changed and how interprofessional learning improved after the implementation of the guidelines. While power and hierarchy were more frequently discussed, for many facilitators these topics remained challenging to address. Conclusion: We successfully created and implemented guidelines for ISBTT facilitators to explicitly address hierarchy and power. Future work will explore how this approach to ISBTT impacts interprofessional collaboration in clinical practice.

Characterizing Mental Health Status and Service Utilization in Chinese Americans With Type 2 Diabetes in New York City: Cross-Sectional Study

Shi, Y., Wu, B., Islam, N., Sevick, M. A., Shallcross, A. J., Levy, N., Tamura, K., Bao, H., Lieu, R., Xu, X., Jiang, Y., & Hu, L. (2024). JMIR Formative Research, 8. 10.2196/59121
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Background: Emerging evidence indicates that individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are more prone to mental health issues than the general population; however, there is a significant lack of data concerning the mental health burden in Chinese Americans with T2D. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the comorbid mental health status, health-seeking behaviors, and mental service utilization among Chinese Americans with T2D. Methods: A cross-sectional telephone survey was performed among 74 Chinese Americans with T2D in New York City. We used standardized questionnaires to assess mental health status and to gather data on mental health–seeking behaviors and service utilization. Descriptive statistics were applied for data analysis. Results: A total of 74 Chinese Americans with T2D completed the survey. Most participants (mean age 56, SD 10 years) identified as female (42/74, 57%), were born outside the United States (73/74, 99%), and had limited English proficiency (71/74, 96%). Despite nearly half of the participants (34/74, 46%) reporting at least one mental health concern (elevated stress, depressive symptoms, and/or anxiety), only 3% (2/74) were currently using mental health services. Common reasons for not seeking care included no perceived need, lack of information about Chinese-speaking providers, cost, and time constraints. The cultural and language competence of the provider was ranked as the top factor related to seeking mental health care. Conclusions: Chinese Americans with T2D experience relatively high comorbid mental health concerns yet have low service utilization. Clinicians may consider team-based care to incorporate mental health screening and identify strategies to provide culturally and linguistically concordant mental health services to engage Chinese Americans with T2D.

Cocreating First Steps, a Toolkit to Improve Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Services: Qualitative Human-Centered Design Study With Hispanic and Black Adolescent Mothers in New York City

Gerchow, L., Lanier, Y., Fayard, A. L., & Squires, A. (2024). JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting, 7. 10.2196/60692
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Background: Adolescent voices are frequently excluded from sexual and reproductive health (SRH) research. Despite progressive policies and access to SRH care, adolescents in New York City who live in neighborhoods with high poverty and those who identify as Black or Hispanic experience poor SRH outcomes, including high rates of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Objective: This qualitative study aims to guide Black and Hispanic adolescent mothers in identifying problem areas in SRH care and cocreate health service recommendations with input from health care stakeholders to address those problems and improve SRH experiences. Methods: Through ethnographic interview methods, adolescent mothers in New York City shared their experiences from before pregnancy through parenting and identified problem areas in adolescent SRH services and education. Data were analyzed inductively and using situational analysis. Adolescent participants attended 2 cocreation workshops. In the first workshop, they confirmed interview findings, set priorities, and created rough prototypes. Following the first workshop, health care providers were interviewed to inform refinement of the rough prototypes. Adolescents further developed prototypes in the second cocreation workshop and named the resulting toolkit. Results: A total of 16 adolescent mothers participated in 47 interviews, and 10 (63%) participants attended at least 1 cocreation workshop. They highlighted deficiencies in sexual health education and emphasized the roles of health care providers and parents, rather than schools, in improving it. Adolescent participants designed recommendations for adolescents and health care providers to support quality conversations between adolescents, parents, and health care providers and created a preappointment checklist to help young patients initiate conversations with health care providers. Young participants stressed that sex education should address topics beyond sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy, such as emotional health and relationships. They created guidelines for health care providers outlining communication strategies to provide respectful, unbiased care and contraceptive counseling that encourages adolescent autonomy. Participants shared specific suggestions for how to support young parents respectfully. Health care stakeholders recommended adding information on confidential care; supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth; and focusing on improving communication between health care providers and patients rather than creating educational materials. In the second workshop, adolescent participants revised the prototypes based on feedback from health care stakeholders and named the toolkit of recommendations First Steps. Conclusions: This study highlighted the important roles that parents and health care workers play in adolescent sexual health education. Cocreated toolkits offer a practical approach for health care providers to engage adolescents and their parents in meaningful, adolescent-centered conversations that can promote health, safety, and well-being.

Cognitive Trajectories and Associated Social and Behavioral Determinants Among Racial/Ethnic Minority Older Adults in the United States

Wang, K., Chen, X. S., Zeng, X., Wu, B., Liu, J., Daquin, J., Li, C., & Gaugler, J. E. (2024). Gerontologist, 64(12). 10.1093/geront/gnae147
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Abstract
Background and Objectives. Despite higher risks of developing Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease–related dementias among racial/ethnic minority populations, some maintain good cognition until old age. The aims of this study were to investigate heterogeneous cognitive trajectories among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic older adults, examine cognitive impairment prevalence across trajectory classes, and identify associated social and behavioral determinants. Research Design and Methods. Using 11 waves of data from the Health and Retirement Study (1996–2016), 1,322 non-Hispanic Black and 747 Hispanic adults aged 50+ years in 1996 with normal cognition were included. Latent class growth modeling and multinomial logistic regressions were performed to examine cognitive trajectories and associated determinants. Results. For both racial/ethnic groups, 3 trajectory classes were identified: high, medium, and low cognition. In the low-cognition class, 87% and 100% of non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants, respectively, developed cognitive impairment. For both racial/ethnic groups, older age and living in rural areas during schooltime increased the likelihood of being in the low-cognition class, whereas more education was associated with a lower likelihood. Unique risk and protective determinants for non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants were also identified. Discussion and Implications. This study reveals the heterogeneity of cognitive trajectories among racial/ethnic minority older adults and various associated social and behavioral determinants. More prevention interventions and accessible, affordable diagnosis and treatment should be provided to older racial/ethnic minorities with these characteristics to reduce disparities. More research is needed to further explore associations between unique determinants and cognition in racial/ethnic minority populations to better inform interventions.

Community Social Capital and Self-Reported Oral Health among Chinese Older Adults: The Moderating Role of Income and the Mediating Role of Depressive Symptoms

Lu, N., Wu, B., & Mao, S. (2024). Health and Social Care in the Community, 2024. 10.1155/2024/8991939
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Abstract
This study examined the associations between community social capital and self-reported oral health among older adults in urban China, as well as the moderating effect of household income and the mediating role of depressive symptoms in these associations. Data were obtained from a community survey conducted in 2020 in Tianjin and Shijiazhuang City, China; the final analytical sample comprised 776 adults aged 60 years and above. To test the proposed moderation and mediation models, the data were analysed using binary logistic regression models and a path analysis, respectively. The findings showed that cognitive social capital and social participation (i.e., an indicator of structural social capital) were significantly associated with self-reported oral health. Additionally, the results revealed that while income significantly moderated the association between cognitive social capital and self-reported oral health, depressive symptoms significantly mediated it. The findings not only highlight the crucial role of community social capital in promoting oral health in later life among low-income older adults but also provide important evidence for a psychosocial pathway between social capital and oral health. Given the impacts of income and depressive symptoms on the relationship between community social capital and oral health among older adults, future social policies and interventions to support oral health should target financially vulnerable older adults with poor psychological well-being.

Computationally inferred cell-type specific epigenome-wide DNA methylation analysis unveils distinct methylation patterns among immune cells for HIV infection in three cohorts

Zhang, X., Hu, Y., Vandenhoudt, R. E., Yan, C., Marconi, V. C., Cohen, M. H., Wang, Z., Justice, A. C., Aouizerat, B. E., & Xu, K. (2024). PLoS Pathogens, 20(3). 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012063
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Abstract
Background Epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) have identified CpG sites associated with HIV infection in blood cells in bulk, which offer limited knowledge of cell-type specific methylation patterns associated with HIV infection. In this study, we aim to identify differentially methylated CpG sites for HIV infection in immune cell types: CD4+ T-cells, CD8+ T-cells, B cells, Natural Killer (NK) cells, and monocytes. Methods Applying a computational deconvolution method, we performed a cell-type based EWAS for HIV infection in three independent cohorts (Ntotal = 1,382). DNA methylation in blood or in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was profiled by an array-based method and then deconvoluted by Tensor Composition Analysis (TCA). The TCA-computed CpG methylation in each cell type was first benchmarked by bisulfite DNA methylation capture sequencing in a subset of the samples. Cell-type EWAS of HIV infection was performed in each cohort separately and a meta-EWAS was conducted followed by gene set enrichment analysis. Results The meta-analysis unveiled a total of 2,021 cell-type unique significant CpG sites for five inferred cell types. Among these inferred cell-type unique CpG sites, the concordance rate in the three cohorts ranged from 96% to 100% in each cell type. Cell-type level meta-EWAS unveiled distinct patterns of HIV-associated differential CpG methylation, where 74% of CpG sites were unique to individual cell types (false discovery rate, FDR <0.05). CD4+ T-cells had the largest number of unique HIV-associated CpG sites (N = 1,624) compared to any other cell type. Genes harboring significant CpG sites are involved in immunity and HIV pathogenesis (e.g. CD4+ T-cells: NLRC5, CX3CR1, B cells: IFI44L, NK cells: IL12R, monocytes: IRF7), and in oncogenesis (e.g. CD4+ T-cells: BCL family, PRDM16, monocytes: PRDM16, PDCD1LG2). HIV-associated CpG sites were enriched among genes involved in HIV pathogenesis and oncogenesis that were enriched among interferon-α and -γ, TNF-α, inflammatory response, and apoptotic pathways. Conclusion Our findings uncovered computationally inferred cell-type specific modifications in the host epigenome for people with HIV that contribute to the growing body of evidence regarding HIV pathogenesis.

Construction of the Digital Health Equity-Focused Implementation Research Conceptual Model - Bridging the Divide Between Equity-focused Digital Health and Implementation Research

Groom, L. L., Schoenthaler, A. M., Mann, D. M., & Brody, A. A. (2024). PLOS Digital Health, 3(5). 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000509
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Abstract
Digital health implementations and investments continue to expand. As the reliance on digital health increases, it is imperative to implement technologies with inclusive and accessible approaches. A conceptual model can be used to guide equity-focused digital health implementations to improve suitability and uptake in diverse populations. The objective of this study is expand an implementation model with recommendations on the equitable implementation of new digital health technologies. The Digital Health Equity-Focused Implementation Research (DH-EquIR) conceptual model was developed based on a rigorous review of digital health implementation and health equity literature. The Equity-Focused Implementation Research for Health Programs (EquIR) model was used as a starting point and merged with digital equity and digital health implementation models. Existing theoretical frameworks and models were appraised as well as individual equity-sensitive implementation studies. Patient and program-related concepts related to digital equity, digital health implementation, and assessment of social/digital determinants of health were included. Sixty-two articles were analyzed to inform the adaption of the EquIR model for digital health. These articles included digital health equity models and frameworks, digital health implementation models and frameworks, research articles, guidelines, and concept analyses. Concepts were organized into EquIR conceptual groupings, including population health status, planning the program, designing the program, implementing the program, and equity-focused implementation outcomes. The adapted DH-EquIR conceptual model diagram was created as well as detailed tables displaying related equity concepts, evidence gaps in source articles, and analysis of existing equity-related models and tools. The DH-EquIR model serves to guide digital health developers and implementation specialists to promote the inclusion of health-equity planning in every phase of implementation. In addition, it can assist researchers and product developers to avoid repeating the mistakes that have led to inequities in the implementation of digital health across populations.

Correlates of dangerous firearm storage among a representative sample of firearm owners across nine states

Moceri-Brooks, J., Paruk, J., Semenza, D., & Anestis, M. D. (2024). Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 54(6), 1113-1122. 10.1111/sltb.13116
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Objective: To identify demographic and behavioral correlates of dangerous firearm storage (i.e., unlocked and loaded) among firearm owners in nine states. Methods: Online survey data from the probability-based sample were collected using Ipsos Knowledge Panel. Participants were adults residing in nine states across the United States (n = 7785). Results: Nearly one third of the firearm owners within the sample stored at least one of their firearms unlocked and loaded. Greater threat sensitivity was associated with dangerous firearm storage. Established firearm owners who purchased an additional firearm during the firearm purchasing surge (2020–2021) had increased odds of storing at least one firearm unlocked and loaded. Those who had direct exposure to firearm violence and those whose primary reason for having a firearm at home was protection also had increased odds of storing at least one firearm unlocked and loaded. Conclusions: The results contribute to the literature on firearm storage tendencies, highlighting correlates of dangerous firearm storage within the home related to perceptions of threat and direct experiences with firearm violence. Implications include the need for broad public education on the value of secure storage targeted toward to those who have an elevated perception of danger and have been personally exposed to firearm violence.

Cough

Meadows-Oliver, M. (2024). In The Family Nurse Practitioner (pp. 41-43). Wiley. 10.1002/9781119603238.ch2.5
Abstract
Abstract
This chapter presents a case of a 7-month-old infant who is presented to the primary care office with complaints of cough for 2 days and “breathing heavy” since morning. She has had a fever for 2 days. Her maximum temperature at home was 101°F (rectal). She also has a runny nose. Her mother has tried an over-the-counter cough medicine without much relief. The chapter also provides essential guidance and information for understanding how to diagnose and manage this case. This includes differential diagnosis and a series of critical thinking questions ideal for the family nurse practitioner.

Creating effective teams and valuing patient-centered care to change culture and improve equity on labor and delivery: a qualitative study

White Vangompel, E., Verma, S., Wator, C., Carlock, F., Lyndon, A., Borders, A., & Holl, J. (2024). BMC Health Services Research, 24(1). 10.1186/s12913-024-12108-3
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Abstract
Background: Efforts to reduce cesarean birth overuse have had varied success. De-implementation strategies that incorporate change to organizational characteristics (i.e. culture) can improve adoption and sustainability. This study aimed to identify culture change strategies used by hospitals that achieved significant and sustained cesarean reduction and eliminated racial disparities in cesarean birth. Methods: Hospitals in California and Florida that (1) engaged in quality initiatives to reduce cesarean births; (2) demonstrated at least a 5% cesarean birth reduction; and (3) sustained the reduction for 18 months after participation were invited to participate. Hospitals that reduced also cesarean racial disparity were prioritized for recruitment. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were performed with leaders, obstetricians, family physicians, midwives, and nurses providing intrapartum care. Reflexive thematic analysis and values coding were used. Results: 35 participants from 6 hospitals (3 in California, 3 in Florida) participated in interviews or focus groups. Nurse-focused strategies included: leadership demonstrating support for proactive labor support (e.g., Spinning Babies, comfort measures, nursing time at bedside); enhanced communication through inter-disciplinary team huddles; clear delineation of roles; and a chain of command that assured nurses could advocate for their patients freely and without retribution. Physician-focused strategies included regular and publicly visible feedback delivered by trusted messengers, drawing attention to successful vaginal births, and highlighting the contributions of labor support. A theme of hiring/retaining for “fit” was articulated at all hospitals, most notably, the hospital that eliminated their cesarean birth racial disparity, where “fit” was conceptualized as empathy, humanism, and a desire to meet community needs. Conclusions: This study identified specific de-implementation strategies for hospitals to change implementation context, namely culture, to achieve and sustain reduction of cesarean birth. Hospitals looking to sustain culture change should adapt strategies to align with existing clinician values, change attitudes through sharing successful vaginal births, and modify beliefs through education from trusted messengers. Strategies to reduce racial disparities should emphasize designing teams that are aware of and prioritize community needs, including hiring staff from the local community, and partnering with community-based organizations.

Delirium in psychiatric settings: risk factors and assessment tools in patients with psychiatric illness: a scoping review

Huang, C., Wu, B., Chen, H., Tao, H., Wei, Z., Su, L., & Wang, L. (2024). BMC Nursing, 23(1). 10.1186/s12912-024-02121-6
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Delirium is a common disorder affecting patients’ psychiatric illness, characterized by a high rate of underdiagnosis, misdiagnosis, and high risks. However, previous studies frequently excluded patients with psychiatric illness, leading to limited knowledge about risk factors and optimal assessment tools for delirium in psychiatric settings. Objectives: The scoping review was carried out to (1) identify the risk factors associated with delirium in patients with psychiatric illness; (2) synthesize the performance of assessment tools for detecting delirium in patients with psychiatric illness in psychiatric settings. Design: Scoping review. Data sources: PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched to identify primary studies on delirium in psychiatric settings from inception to Dec 2023 inclusive. Two independent reviewers screened eligible studies against inclusion criteria. A narrative synthesis of the included studies was conducted. Results: A final set of 36 articles meeting the inclusion criteria, two main themes were extracted: risk factors associated with delirium in patients with psychiatric illness and assessment tools for detecting delirium in psychiatric settings. The risk factors associated with delirium primarily included advanced age, physical comorbid, types of psychiatric illness, antipsychotics, anticholinergic drug, Electroconvulsive therapy, and the combination of lithium and Electroconvulsive therapy. Delirium Rating Scale-Revised-98, Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale, and Delirium Diagnostic Tool-Provisional might be valuable for delirium assessment in patients with psychiatric illness in psychiatric settings. Conclusions: Delirium diagnosis in psychiatric settings is complex due to the overlapping clinical manifestations between psychiatric illness and delirium, as well as their potential co-occurrence. It is imperative to understand the risk factors and assessment methods related to delirium in this population to address diagnostic delays, establish effective prevention and screening strategies. Future research should focus on designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions that target modifiable risk factors, to prevent and manage delirium in patients with psychiatric illness.

Dementia-literate informal caregivers: An evolutionary concept analysis

Fernandez Cajavilca, M., & Sadarangani, T. (2024). Nursing Outlook, 72(5). 10.1016/j.outlook.2024.102224
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Previous concept analyses have not conceptualized an evidence-based definition of the concept of dementia literacy. Methods: Rodger's evolutionary method was used to conceptualize dementia literacy among informal caregivers of persons living with dementia (PLWD) in the United States. A comprehensive search across four databases and a thorough review process resulted in 22 relevant articles between 2011 and 2023. Discussion: Dementia literacy is defined as the ability to acquire dementia-related knowledge to inform decision-making, self-identify gaps in caregiving support, and secure access to necessary resources to enable long-term care, all while maintaining relationships with an interdisciplinary team of specialized providers. Conclusion: The nursing profession can promote dementia literacy by recognizing the needs of racial and ethnic groups, the complexity of culture and language, and being mindful of potential implicit bias toward informal caregivers who are working diligently to be prepared and proactive for PLWD.