DNA fragility at topologically associated domain boundaries is promoted by alternative DNA secondary structure and topoisomerase II activity.

CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) binding sites are hotspots of genome instability. Although many factors have been associated with CTCF binding site fragility, no study has integrated all fragility-related factors to understand the mechanism(s) of how they work together. Using an unbiased, genome-wide approach, we found that DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are enriched at strong, but not weak, CTCF binding sites in five human cell types. Energetically favorable alternative DNA secondary structures underlie strong CTCF binding sites. These structures coincided with the location of topoisomerase II (TOP2) cleavage complex, suggesting that DNA secondary structure acts as a recognition sequence for TOP2 binding and cleavage at CTCF binding sites. Furthermore, CTCF knockdown significantly increased DSBs at strong CTCF binding sites and at CTCF sites that are located at topologically associated domain (TAD) boundaries. TAD boundary-associated CTCF sites that lost CTCF upon knockdown displayed increased DSBs when compared to the gained sites, and those lost sites are overrepresented with G-quadruplexes, suggesting that the structures act as boundary insulators in the absence of CTCF, and contribute to increased DSBs. These results model how alternative DNA secondary structures facilitate recruitment of TOP2 to CTCF binding sites, providing mechanistic insight into DNA fragility at CTCF binding sites.

Developing a national implementation strategy to accelerate uptake of evidence-based family caregiver support in U.S. cancer centers.

OBJECTIVE: Characterize key factors and training needs of U.S. cancer centers in implementing family caregiver support services. METHODS: Sequential explanatory mixed methods design consisting of: (1) a national survey of clinicians and administrators from Commission-on-Cancer-accredited cancer centers (N = 238) on factors and training needed for establishing new caregiver programs and (2) qualitative interviews with a subsample of survey respondents (N = 30) to elicit feedback on survey findings and the outline of an implementation strategy to facilitate implementation of evidence-based family caregiver support (the Caregiver Support Accelerator). Survey data was tabulated using descriptive statistics and transcribed interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Top factors for developing new caregiver programs were that the program be: consistent with the cancer center's mission and strategic plan (87%), supported by clinic leadership (86.5%) and providers and staff (85.7%), and low cost or cost effective (84.9%). Top training needs were how to: train staff to implement programs (72.3%), obtain program materials (63.0%), and evaluate program outcomes (62.6%). Only 3.8% reported that no training was needed. Qualitative interviews yielded four main themes: (1) gaining leadership, clinician, and staff buy-in and support is essential; (2) cost and clinician burden are major factors to program implementation; (3) training should help with adapting and marketing programs to local context and culture; and (4) the Accelerator strategy is comprehensive and would benefit from key organizational partnerships and policy standards. CONCLUSION: Findings will be used to inform and refine the Accelerator implementation strategy to facilitate the adoption and growth of evidence-based cancer caregiver support in U.S. cancer centers.

Development of a sustainable diet index in US adults.

BACKGROUND: A transformation towards healthy diets through a sustainable food system is essential to enhance both human and planet health. Development of a valid, multidimensional, quantitative index of a sustainable diet would allow monitoring progress in the US population. We evaluated the content and construct validity of a sustainable diet index for US adults (SDI-US) based on data collected at the individual level. METHODS: The SDI-US, adapted from the SDI validated in the French population, was developed using data on US adults aged 20 years and older from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2007-2018 (n = 25,543). The index consisted of 4 sub-indices, made up of 12 indicators, corresponding to 4 dimensions of sustainable diets (nutritional quality, environmental impacts, affordability (economic), and ready-made product use behaviors (sociocultural)). A higher SDI-US score indicates greater alignment with sustainable diets (range: 4-20). Validation analyses were performed, including the assessment of the relevance of each indicator, correlations between individual indicators, sub-indices, and total SDI-US, differences in scores between sociodemographic subgroups, and associations with selected food groups in dietary guidelines, the alternative Mediterranean diet (aMed) score, and the EAT-Lancet diet score. RESULTS: Total SDI-US mean was 13.1 (standard error 0.04). The correlation between SDI-US and sub-indices ranged from 0.39 for the environmental sub-index to 0.61 for the economic sub-index (Pearson Correlation coefficient). The correlation between a modified SDI-US after removing each sub-index and the SDI-US ranged from 0.83 to 0.93. aMed scores and EAT-Lancet diet scores were significantly higher among adults in the highest SDI-US quintile compared to the lowest quintile (aMed: 4.6 vs. 3.2; EAT-Lancet diet score: 9.9 vs. 8.7 p < .0001 for both). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, content and construct validity of the SDI-US were acceptable. The SDI-US reflected the key features of sustainable diets by integrating four sub-indices, comparable to the SDI-France. The SDI-US can be used to assess alignment with sustainable diets in the US. Continued monitoring of US adults' diets using the SDI-US could help improve dietary sustainability.

Time trends in positive gonorrhoea diagnoses at the Christchurch Sexual Health Service (2012-2022): a data audit study.

Background Gonorrhoea infections and antimicrobial resistance are rising in many countries, particularly among men who have sex with men, and an increasing proportion of infection is detected at extragenital sites. This study assessed trends in gonorrhoea diagnoses and antibiotic resistance at a sexual health service in New Zealand that followed national guidelines for specimen collection. Methods Routinely-collected data from Canterbury Health Laboratories of specimens taken at the Christchurch Sexual Health Service 2012-2022 were audited. Descriptive results included the number of patient testing events positive for gonorrhoea per year and site of infection (extragenital/urogenital). Annual test-positivity was calculated (number of positive patient testing events divided by total number of testing events) and the Cochran-Armitage Test for Trend was used to assess whether there was an association between test-positivity and year. Results Of 52,789 patient testing events, 1467 (2.8%) were positive for gonorrhoea (81% male). Half (49.3%) of people (57.9% of males, 12.2% of females) with a gonorrhoea infection had an extragenital infection in the absence of a urogenital infection. The number of extragenital infections increased at a faster rate than urogenital among males. Test-positivity increased from 1.3% in 2012 to 5.8% in 2022 (P Conclusions This study highlights the importance of extragenital sampling and maintaining bacterial culture methods for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The observation that gonorrhoea positivity rate and antimicrobial resistance rates are rising in New Zealand calls for urgent action.

Associations with unplanned repeat irrigation and debridement of native septic arthritis.

PURPOSE: To identify associations with unplanned repeat irrigation and debridement (I&D) after arthrotomy for native septic arthritis. METHODS: A retrospective review identified patients with native septic arthritis treated with open arthrotomies. The primary outcome was unplanned repeat I&D within 90 days. Associations evaluated for included comorbidities, ability to bear weight, fever, immunosuppressed status, purulence, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell count (synovial fluid and serum levels), and synovial fluid polymorphonuclear cell percentage (PMN%). RESULTS: There were 59 arthrotomies in 53 patients involving the knee (n = 32), shoulder (n = 10), elbow (n = 8), ankle (n = 6), and hip (n = 3). The median patient age was 52, and a 71.2% were male. An unplanned repeat I&D was required in 40.7% (n = 24). The median time to the second I&D was 4 days (interquartile range 3 to 9). On univariate analysis, unplanned repeat I&Ds were associated with fever (p = 0.03), purulence (p = 0.01), bacteria growth on cultures (p = 0.02), and the use of deep drains (p = 0.05). On multivariate analysis, the only variables that remained associated with unplanned repeat I&Ds were fever (odds ratio (OR) 5.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3, 23.6, p = 0.02) and purulence (OR 5.3, CI 1.1, 24.4, p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: An unplanned repeat I&D was required in 40.7% of patients and was associated with fever and purulence. These findings highlight the difficulty of controlling these infections and support the need for future research into better methods of management. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic, Level III.

Needs of persons living with ALS at home and their family caregivers: A scoping review.

INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Most persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) live at home with support of family caregivers, with escalating complexity of care over the trajectory of the disease requiring resources and support to mitigate negative physical, social, and emotional outcomes. METHODS: This scoping review identifies the home health/home care needs of persons with ALS and their caregivers as a basis for creating a home health medical standard. We used the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) to examine studies describing home care needs published between 2011 and 2021. RESULTS: Our search yielded 481 articles, of which 44 were included with a total of 3592 (9-273) participants. Most studies used a cross-sectional design and 20 (45%) were rated as high quality. We grouped the needs identified as emotional/psychological, assistive devices and technology, information and education, and human resources and professional services. Most studies demonstrated persistent unmet needs and that available interventions were helpful while needs generally were not met proactively, despite the predictable trajectory. DISCUSSION: This review describes biopsychosocial and equipment interventions over the trajectory of ALS with implications for anticipatory planning by clinicians, as well as policy for coverage of necessary services and supports. Interdisciplinary expert teams could develop consensus around needs across the trajectory and recommended services and supports. To make knowledge more accessible, encourage availability of services, and clarify the need for coverage of services, we aim to develop an expert consensus-based ALS home health medical standard guidance document in collaboration with the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.

Perinatal health effects of herbicides exposures in the United States: the Heartland Study, a Midwestern birth cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The objective of the Heartland Study is to address major knowledge gaps concerning the health effects of herbicides on maternal and infant health. To achieve this goal, a two-phased, prospective longitudinal cohort study is being conducted. Phase 1 is designed to evaluate associations between biomarkers of herbicide concentration and pregnancy/childbirth outcomes. Phase 2 is designed to evaluate potential associations between herbicide biomarkers and early childhood neurological development. METHODS: People (target enrollment of 2,000) who are seeking prenatal care, are ages 18 or older, and are ≤ 20 + 6 weeks gestation will be eligible for recruitment. The Heartland Study will utilize a combination of questionnaire data and biospecimen collections to meet the study objectives. One prenatal urine and buccal sample will be collected per trimester to assess the impact of herbicide concentration levels on pregnancy outcomes. Infant buccal specimens will be collected post-delivery. All questionnaires will be collected by trained study staff and clinic staff will remain blinded to all individual level research data. All data will be stored in a secure REDCap database. Hospitals in the agriculturally intensive states in the Midwestern region will be recruited as study sites. Currently participating clinical sites include Indiana University School of Medicine- affiliated Hospitals in Indianapolis, Indiana; Franciscan Health Center in Indianapolis, Indiana; Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. An anticipated 30% of the total enrollment will be recruited from rural areas to evaluate herbicide concentrations among those pregnant people residing in the rural Midwest. Perinatal outcomes (e.g. birth outcomes, preterm birth, preeclampsia, etc.) will be extracted by trained study teams and analyzed for their relationship to herbicide concentration levels using appropriate multivariable models. DISCUSSION: Though decades of study have shown that environmental chemicals may have important impacts on the health of parents and infants, there is a paucity of prospective longitudinal data on reproductive impacts of herbicides. The recent, rapid increases in herbicide use across agricultural regions of the United States necessitate further research into the human health effects of these chemicals, particularly in pregnant people. The Heartland Study provides an invaluable opportunity to evaluate health impacts of herbicides during pregnancy and beyond. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05492708 with initial registration and release 05 August, 2022.

Diverse demands and resources among racially/ethnically diverse caregivers.

OBJECTIVES: The family caregiver population in the US is growing in conjunction with greater numbers of older adults with serious illness and complex care needs, and is becoming increasingly diverse. This study described and compared resources, demands, and health outcomes among diverse family caregivers by race/ethnicity. DESIGN: This study was a cross-sectional secondary analysis of nationally representative data collected for Black/African-American, Asian American & Pacific Islander, Latino/Hispanic and non-Latino/Hispanic white caregivers (n = 2,010) in the Home Alone Revisited Study. We described available resources (e.g. income, paid help, social support) and demands (e.g. medical/nursing task performance) by racial/ethnic group. Using survey-weighted logistic regression, we examined relationships of resources and demands with caregiver outcomes (i.e. heath status; strain; depressive symptoms) by race-ethnicity controlling for socio-demographic variables. RESULTS: Distribution of resources and demands was similar by race/ethnicity, except for higher income for non-Latino/Hispanic white caregivers. Nearly half assisted with personal care (47.5%) or medical/nursing tasks (49.7%). Higher social support and satisfaction with social relationships was associated with positive health outcomes regardless of race/ethnicity, while income was consistently associated with positive health outcomes only for non-Latino/Hispanic white caregivers. Medical/nursing task performance was significantly associated with negative health outcomes for Asian American & Pacific Islanders in multivariable models. DISCUSSION: Many caregiving demands and tasks are similar by race/ethnicity and represent considerable investment of time, energy and care. Differences in the effects of resources and demands by race/ethnicity should be explored in future research as they may have implications for assessment and planning of culturally and linguistically appropriate interventions.

The substrate import mechanism of the human serotonin transporter.

The serotonin transporter (SERT) initiates the reuptake of extracellular serotonin in the synapse to terminate neurotransmission. The cryogenic electron microscopy structures of SERT bound to ibogaine and the physiological substrate serotonin resolved in different states have provided a glimpse of the functional conformations at atomistic resolution. However, the conformational dynamics and structural transitions to intermediate states are not fully understood. Furthermore, the molecular basis of how serotonin is recognized and transported remains unclear. In this study, we performed unbiased microsecond-long simulations of the human SERT to investigate the structural dynamics to various intermediate states and elucidated the complete substrate import pathway. Using Markov state models, we characterized a sequential order of conformational-driven ion-coupled substrate binding and transport events and calculated the free energy barriers of conformation transitions associated with the import mechanism. We find that the transition from the occluded to inward-facing state is the rate-limiting step for substrate import and that the substrate decreases the free energy barriers to achieve the inward-facing state. Our study provides insights on the molecular basis of dynamics-driven ion-substrate recognition and transport of SERT that can serve as a model for other closely related neurotransmitter transporters.

Association between increasing agricultural use of 2,4-D and population biomarkers of exposure: findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001-2014.

BACKGROUND: 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is one of the most extensively used herbicides in the United States. In 2012, 2,4-D was the most widely used herbicide in non-agricultural settings and the fifth most heavily applied pesticide in the US agricultural sector. The objective of this study was to examine trends in 2,4-D urinary biomarker concentrations to determine whether increases in 2,4-D application in agriculture are associated with increases in biomonitoring levels of urine 2,4-D. METHODS: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with available urine 2,4-D biomarker measurements from survey cycles between 2001 and 2014 were utilized. Urine 2,4-D values were dichotomized using the highest limit of detection (LOD) across all cycles (0.40 µg/L or 0.4 ppb). Agricultural use of 2,4-D was estimated by compiling publicly available federal and private pesticide application data. Logistic regression models adjusted for confounders were fitted to evaluate the association between agricultural use of 2,4-D and urine 2,4-D level above the dichotomization threshold. RESULTS: Of the 14,395 participants included in the study, 4681 (32.5%) had urine 2,4-D levels above the dichotomization threshold. The frequency of participants with high 2,4-D levels increased significantly (p < .0001), from a low of 17.1% in 2001-2002 to a high of 39.6% in 2011-2012. The adjusted odds of high urinary 2,4-D concentrations associated with 2,4-D agricultural use (per ten million pounds applied) was 2.268 (95% CI: 1.709, 3.009). Children ages 6-11 years (n = 2288) had 2.1 times higher odds of having high 2,4-D urinary concentrations compared to participants aged 20-59 years. Women of childbearing age (age 20-44 years) (n = 2172) had 1.85 times higher odds than men of the same age. CONCLUSIONS: Agricultural use of 2,4-D has increased substantially from a low point in 2002 and it is predicted to increase further in the coming decade. Because increasing use is likely to increase population level exposures, the associations seen here between 2,4-D crop application and biomonitoring levels require focused biomonitoring and epidemiological evaluation to determine the extent to which rising use and exposures cause adverse health outcomes among vulnerable populations (particularly children and women of childbearing age) and highly exposed individuals (farmers, other herbicide applicators, and their families).

Black nurse scientists and the undeniable role of historically Black colleges and universities.

The pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racism highlighted health inequities that have existed for decades among Black communities. Nurses are positioned to address these health inequities through innovative ideas and research. More specifically, Black nurses, because of their shared lived experience, understand sociostructural factors underpinning health inequities and how to best engage with Black communities. However, only 8% of Black nurses make up the overall nursing workforce and far fewer are nurse scientists. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) can offer critically important options for success in addressing the dearth of Black nurse scientists working across sectors and contributing to rich academic milieu, informing innovative national policy, and creating impactful practice. We discuss challenges and strategies to promoting research careers at HBCUs to attract Black nurse scientists as the next leaders in health inequities research.

Determinants of lower-extremity injury severity and recovery in U.S. High School Soccer Players.

Lower-extremity injuries are common among soccer players, yet few studies have attempted to identify determinants of lower-extremity injury severity and recovery within this group. We aim to identify determinants of lower-extremity injury severity and recovery among high school (HS) soccer players in the US. We used soccer-related injury observations recorded within the NATION-SP during 2011/12-2013/14. Odds of a season-ending game-related injury were higher than a season-ending practice-related injury (Adj. OR = 2.64, 95% CI = [1.39, 5.01]). Gender, setting, and playing surface emerged as significant determinants of any time loss following lower-extremity injuries in multivariable logistic regression models, and multivariable random effects Poisson regression models also revealed significant differences in recovery durations across levels of these variables for "similarly severe" injuries. Findings suggest that gender, injury setting, playing surface contribute to injury corollaries differently. Similar multi-method approaches are needed to identify determinants of injury severity and recovery in this group.

Description of the updated nutrition calculation of the Oxford WebQ questionnaire and comparison with the previous version among 207,144 participants in UK Biobank.

PURPOSE: The Oxford WebQ is a web-based 24-h dietary assessment method which has been used in UK Biobank and other large prospective studies. The food composition table used to calculate nutrient intakes has recently been replaced with the UK Nutrient Databank, which has food composition data closer in time to when participants completed the questionnaire, and new dietary variables were incorporated. Here we describe the updated version of the Oxford WebQ questionnaire nutrient calculation, and compare nutrient intakes with the previous version used. METHODS: 207,144 UK Biobank participants completed ≥ 1 Oxford WebQs, and means and standard deviations of nutrient intakes were averaged for all completed 24-h dietary assessments. Spearman correlations and weighted kappa statistics were used to compare the re-classification and agreement of nutrient intakes between the two versions. RESULTS: 35 new nutrients were incorporated in the updated version. Compared to the previous version, most nutrients were very similar in the updated version except for a few nutrients which showed a difference of > 10%: lower with the new version for trans-fat (- 20%), and vitamin C (- 15%), but higher for retinol (+ 42%), vitamin D (+ 26%) and vitamin E (+ 20%). Most participants were in the same (> 60%) or adjacent (> 90%) quintile of intake for the two versions. Except for trans-fat (r = 0.58, κ = 0.42), very high correlations were found between the nutrients calculated using the two versions (r > 0.79 and κ > 0.60). CONCLUSION: Small absolute differences in nutrient intakes were observed between the two versions, and the ranking of individuals was minimally affected, except for trans-fat.

Describing a new food group classification system for UK biobank: analysis of food groups and sources of macro- and micronutrients in 208,200 participants.

PURPOSE: The UK Biobank study collected detailed dietary data using a web-based self-administered 24 h assessment tool, the Oxford WebQ. We aimed to describe a comprehensive food grouping system for this questionnaire and to report dietary intakes and key sources of selected nutrients by sex and education. METHODS: Participants with at least one valid 24-h questionnaire were included (n = 208,200). Dietary data were grouped based on the presence of nutrients as well as culinary use, processing, and plant/animal origin. For each food group, we calculated the contribution to energy intake, key macronutrients, and micronutrients. We also identified the top contributors to energy intake, free sugars and saturated fat by sex and education. RESULTS: From the 93 food groups, the top five contributors to energy intake (in descending order) were: desserts/cakes/pastries; white bread; white pasta/rice; bananas/other fruit; semi-skimmed milk. Wine, beer, and fruit juices were the top beverage contributors to overall energy intake. Biscuits, and desserts/cakes/pastries were the highest contributors to free sugars, total fat, and saturated fat intakes, but also contributed to the calcium and iron intakes. Top contributors to energy, saturated fat, and free sugars were broadly similar by sex and education category, with small differences in average nutrient intakes across the population. CONCLUSION: This new food classification system will support the growing interest in the associations between food groups and health outcomes and the development of food-based dietary guidelines. Food group variables will be available to all users of the UK Biobank WebQ questionnaire.

Experiences of augmented arm rehabilitation including supported self-management after stroke: a qualitative investigation.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the experiences of stroke survivors and their carers of augmented arm rehabilitation including supported self-management in terms of its acceptability, appropriateness and relevance. DESIGN: A qualitative design, nested within a larger, multi-centre randomized controlled feasibility trial that compared augmented arm rehabilitation starting at three or nine weeks after stroke, with usual care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants in both augmented arm rehabilitation groups. Normalization Process Theory was used to inform the topic guide and map the findings. Framework analysis was applied. SETTING: Interviews were conducted in stroke survivors' homes, at Glasgow Caledonian University and in hospital. PARTICIPANTS: 17 stroke survivors and five carers were interviewed after completion of augmented arm rehabilitation. INTERVENTION: Evidence-based augmented arm rehabilitation (27 additional hours over six weeks), including therapist-led sessions and supported self-management. RESULTS: Three main themes were identified: (1) acceptability of the intervention (2) supported self-management and (3) coping with the intervention. All stroke survivors coped well with the intensity of the augmented arm rehabilitation programme. The majority of stroke survivors engaged in supported self-management and implemented activities into their daily routine. However, the findings suggest that some stroke survivors (male >70 years) had difficulties with self-management, needing a higher level of support. CONCLUSION: Augmented arm rehabilitation commencing within nine weeks post stroke was reported to be well tolerated. The findings suggested that supported self-management seemed acceptable and appropriate to those who saw the relevance of the rehabilitation activities for their daily lives, and embedded them into their daily routines.

Fatal Cerebral Vasospasm following a Haemophilus influenzae Meningitis in a Young Child with Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the successful implementation of Haemophilus influenzae vaccination, invasive serotypes still lead to a fatal infection. We recently cared for a patient with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) and H. influenzae meningitis and septicemia complicated by vasospasm. Vasospasm caused by Haemophilus central nervous system infection has not been previously reported. CASE PRESENTATION: A 34-month-old patient with a recent VPS presented with H. influenzae meningitis and sepsis. Despite the explant of hardware, followed by maximum medical management, the patient developed stroke due to severe vasospasm, which led to diffused anoxic brain injury. CONCLUSIONS: We aim to alert for the possible critical condition caused by H. influenzae. It is essential to treat the underlying illness, despite the presence of a VPS. Surgical implant tends to be overlooked by other subspecialists. Being vaccinated to H. influenzae does not protect from different subtypes like non-typeable H. influenzae. The cause of vasospasm remains unclear.

Technical Note: Volumetric computed tomography for radiotherapy simulation and treatment planning.

PURPOSE: For lung and liver tumors requiring radiotherapy, motion artifacts are common in 4D-CT images due to the small axial field-of-view (aFOV) of conventional CT scanners. This may negatively impact contouring and dose calculation accuracy and could lead to a geographic miss during treatment. Recent advancements in volumetric CT (vCT) enable an aFOV up to 160 mm in a single rotation, which may reduce motion artifacts. However, the impact of large aFOV on CT number required for dose calculation needs to be evaluated before clinical implementation. The objective of this study was to determine the utility of a 256-slice vCT scanner for 4D-CT simulation by evaluating image quality and generating relative electron density (RED) curves. METHODS: Images were acquired on a 256-slice GE Revolution CT scanner with 40 mm, 80 mm, 120 mm, 140 mm, and 160 mm aFOV. Image quality was assessed by evaluating CT number linearity, uniformity, noise, and low-contrast resolution. The relationship between each quality metric and aFOV was assessed. RESULTS: CT number linearity, uniformity, noise, and low-contrast resolution were within the expected range for each image set, except CT number in Teflon and Delrin, which were underestimated. Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ) showed that the CT number for Teflon (ρ = 1.0, p = 0.02), Delrin (ρ = 1.0, p = 0.02), and air (ρ = 1.0, p = 0.02) was significantly related to aFOV, while all other measurements were not. The measured deviations from expected values were not clinically significant. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that vCT can be used for CT simulation for radiation treatment planning.

Using a GPS Watch to Characterize Life-Space Mobility in Dementia: A Dyadic Case Study.

Persons with dementia (PWD) often experience difficulty navigating their environments and performing out-of-home activities. Life-space mobility (LSM) is an effective way of assessing functional levels and independence. We present a dyadic case study to explore the feasibility of using a global positioning system (GPS) watch to measure LSM of a Latino PWD. Methods included travel diary, LSM questionnaire, and qualitative interviews in addition to the GPS-based mobility characterization. GPS data indicated that the PWD made outdoor trips regularly and was active socially, with day-to-day variations. Caregiver and PWD interviews revealed contextual information about mobility patterns captured by other methods. The dyad had positive perceptions of the GPS watch for tracking health and activities. This study demonstrated a use for wearable location tracking technology to support accurate LSM assessment in dementia that can inform nursing practice, policy, and research to promote well-being and delay functional deterioration in PWD. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47(10), 15-22.].

Stakeholder Voices: Interpreting Caregiving Research and Designing Next Steps.

Stakeholder engagement can enhance interpretation of research findings and promote meaningful dissemination into policy and practice. Several organizations dedicated to understanding the needs of diverse older adults and family caregivers and advancing practice and policy to improve their health came together in a series of discussions. More than 120 participants, including family/friend caregivers and their advocates and leaders and researchers from public and private organizations, generated an action agenda for those engaged with family caregivers in service delivery, research, and policy across three virtual sessions. Although there are common experiences and demands for caregivers, the meanings of these experiences are shaped by a cultural context, and the intersectionality of caregiver experiences by age, race/ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, immigrant status, and other factors bring into focus the diversity of life and caregiving experience. This heterogeneity of experience crystalizes the importance of assuring the caregiver is at the center, and that design for programs, research, and policy recognize the importance of understanding caregivers and their unique needs before pre-supposing solutions. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47(9), 5-12.].

Increasing Skin-to-Skin in a Level IV NICU: A Quality Improvement Project.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of a bundled intervention on the number of skin-to-skin ("kangaroo care") events occurring in a level IV NICU. DESIGN: A quality improvement effort centering around the introduction of an intervention bundle intended to safely increase the rate of skin-to-skin holding. Rates of unplanned extubations were recorded as a balancing measure to estimate safety. SAMPLE: All infants admitted to the NICU from December 2017 through September 2019 were included. The "preintervention" period was the 6 months prior to the initiation of the intervention bundle (December 2017-May 2018). RESULTS: The absolute number of skin-to-skin holds increased from the preintervention phase (range 7-28 holds/month, median 11 holds/month) to the postintervention phase (range 16-100 holds/month, median 55 holds/month). The total unplanned extubations showed no significant change between the preintervention and postintervention periods.