Study Recruitment, Retention, and Adherence Among Chinese American Immigrants During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Chinese American immigrants have been underrepresented in health research partly due to challenges in recruitment. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to describe recruitment and retention strategies and report adherence in a 7-day observational physical activity study of Chinese American immigrants with prior gestational diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Foreign-born Chinese women aged 18-45 years, with a gestational diabetes index pregnancy of 0.5-5 years, who were not pregnant and had no current diabetes diagnosis were recruited. They wore an accelerometer for 7 consecutive days and completed an online survey. Multiple recruitment strategies were used: (a) culturally and linguistically tailored flyers, (b) social media platforms (e.g., WeChat [a popular Chinese platform] and Facebook), (c) near-peer recruitment and snowball sampling, and (d) a study website. Retention strategies included flexible scheduling and accommodation, rapid communications, and incentives. Adherence strategies included a paper diary and/or automated daily text reminders with a daily log for device wearing, daily email reminders for the online survey, close monitoring, and timely problem-solving. RESULTS: Participants were recruited from 17 states; 108 were enrolled from August 2020 to August 2021. There were 2,479 visits to the study webpage, 194 screening entries, and 149 inquiries about the study. Their mean age was 34.3 years, and the mean length of U.S. stay was 9.2 years. Despite community outreach, participants were mainly recruited from social media (e.g., WeChat). The majority were recruited via near-peer recruitment and snowball sampling. The retention rate was 96.3%; about 99% had valid actigraphy data, and 81.7% wore the device for 7 days. The majority of devices were successfully returned, and the majority completed the online survey on time. DISCUSSION: We demonstrated the feasibility of recruiting and retaining a geographically diverse sample of Chinese American immigrants with prior gestational diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recruiting Chinese immigrants via social media (e.g., WeChat) is a viable approach. Nonetheless, more inclusive recruitment strategies are needed to ensure broad representation from diverse socioeconomic groups of immigrants.

Feasibility and Acceptability of the Adherence Connection Counseling, Education, and Support (ACCESS) Proof of Concept: A Peer-Led, Mobile Health (mHealth) Cognitive Behavioral Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Adherence Intervention for HIV-Infected (HIV+) Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA).

Effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence strategies for HIV+ adolescents and young adults (AYA) are needed to prevent HIV-related morbidity, mortality, and onward transmission. In the Adherence Connection for Counseling, Education, and Support (ACCESS) pilot, an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design was used to develop and test a peer-led, mobile health (mHealth) cognitive behavioral ART adherence intervention. HIV+ AYA (ages 16-29 years) with unsuppressed plasma HIV RNA (HIV viral load) were eligible for this five-session intervention directed to improving ART adherence and HIV viral load. A total of 78 peer-led remote videoconferencing sessions (via WebEx) were delivered to 16 participants. High completion rates (97.5%) and client satisfaction scores (mean = 29.13 of 32; SD = 2.45) were observed. Self-reported ART adherence improved (32% increase in doses taken; 95th CI 11.2-53.3) with an annualized average rate of 47.5% (0.28 log10) reduction in HIV viral load. We established proof of concept for the ACCESS peer-led, mHealth cognitive behavioral ART adherence intervention, with promising adherence and virologic outcome data.

RESUMEN: Se necesitan estrategias efectivas de adherencia a la terapia antirretroviral (TAR) para adolescentes y adultos jóvenes (AAJ) VIH+ para prevenir la morbilidad, la mortalidad y las transmisiones futuras relacionadas con el VIH. En el proyecto piloto Adherence Connection for Counseling, Education, and Support (ACCESS), se utilizó un diseño exploratorio secuencial de métodos mixtos para desarrollar y testear una intervención de adherencia cognitiva conductual de salud móvil (mHealth) dirigida por pares a la TAR. AAJ VIH+ (de 16 a 29 años de edad) con ARN del VIH (carga viral del VIH) en plasma no suprimido fueron elegibles para esta intervención de cinco sesiones dirigida a mejorar la adherencia a la TAR y la carga viral del VIH. Se dictaron un total de 78 sesiones de videoconferencias remotas dirigidas por pares (a través de WebEx) a 16 participantes. Fueron observadas tasas altas de finalización (97.5%) y puntuaciones de satisfacción del cliente (media=29.13 de 32; SD=2.45). La adherencia autoinformada a la TAR mejoró (aumento del 32% en las dosis tomadas; IC del 95=11.2 a 53.3) con una tasa promedio anualizada de reducción en la carga viral del VIH del 47.5% (0.28 log 10). Establecimos una prueba de concepto para ACCESS, la intervención de adherencia a la TAR cognitivo conductual mHealth dirigida por pares, con datos prometedores sobre la adherencia y los resultados virológicos.

The 18-month efficacy of an Intensive LifeStyle Modification Program (ILSM) to reduce type 2 diabetes risk among rural women: a cluster randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Many lifestyle interventions have demonstrated efficacy up to one-year follow-up, yet maintaining improvements at longer-term follow-up is a well-recognized worldwide challenge, especially in underserved areas. The purpose of this study is to compare the 18-month efficacy of an Intensive LifeStyle Modification Program to usual care in reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) among women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). METHODS: We conducted a two-arm, cluster randomized controlled trial among women with a history of GDM in China. A total of 16 towns (clusters) in two distinct rural areas in south-central China were randomly selected (8 towns per area) and assigned (1:1) to the intervention (Intensive LifeStyle Modification Program) or control (usual care) group with stratification in the two rural areas. The strategies for maintaining intervention effects were used (including setting recursive goals and providing a supportive environment, etc.) under the guidance of social cognitive theory. The primary outcome was a change in T2D risk; secondary outcomes included glycemic, weight-related, behavioral, and psychological variables. All outcomes were collected at baseline, 6, and 18 months. All participants entered the intention-to-treat analysis. Data were analyzed via generalized estimation equation models (accounting for clusters) at the individual level, with subgroup analysis included in the model. RESULTS: The sample included 320 women from 16 clusters (20 women per cluster). At 18 months, the intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in T2D risk score, fasting blood glucose, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, intention to eat low glycemic index food, perceived stress, quality of life in psychological and environmental domains, and social support over time (p < 0.05) based on the intention-to-treat analysis set. Subgroup analysis showed a significant interaction effect on T2D risk score in subgroups of different BMI, waist circumference, and blood glucose (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Over 18 months, the Intensive LifeStyle Modification Program reduced T2D risk among rural women with a history of GDM in China. Women who were overweight, had high abdominal adiposity, or had blood glucose intolerance benefited more from this intervention. This program serves as a potential diabetes prevention model for women with a history of GDM in low-resource settings worldwide. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered on Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1800015023) on 1st March 2018, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=25569.

The Impact of Blast Exposure-With or Without Traumatic Brain Injury-on Metabolic Abnormalities in Post-9/11 Veterans.

OBJECTIVE: The primary aim included explorations of: (1) the associations between the history of blast exposure (BE), close blast exposure (CBE), and blast-related traumatic brain injury (bTBI) and metabolic abnormality; and (2) the potential mediating effect of comorbid psychological and somatic conditions on these associations. The secondary aim explored the association of dose-response impact of BE, CBE, and bTBI and metabolic abnormality. SETTING: Data were collected by the Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders (TRACTS). PARTICIPANTS: Post-9/11 veterans from the TRACTS baseline sample who had conflict-zone deployment experience ( N = 734). DESIGN: Cross-sectional secondary data analysis. We computed relative risks (RRs) and 95% CI using modified Poisson regression. We quantified the impact of co-occurring psychological and somatic conditions on this association using mediation analyses. MAIN MEASURES: Exposures included BE (<100 m), CBE (<10 m), and bTBI. Metabolic abnormality outcomes included (1) overweight/obesity (defined by abnormal waist-hip ratio [WHR] and abnormal waist circumference [WC]); (2) glucose dysregulation; and (3) meeting criteria for cardiometabolic syndrome (defined by guidelines). RESULTS: The sample was majority male (91%) and White (68%), with a mean age of 34.6 years (SD = 8.99). Most participants had 1 or more BE (83%); 48% experienced 1 or more CBE. Overweight/obesity was highly prevalent in the sample (51% had abnormal WHR and 60% abnormal WC). There was no significant direct or indirect association between BE, CBE, and bTBI and metabolic abnormalities (RRs: 0.70-1.51; P 's > .05). CONCLUSION: Future research is needed to investigate the association of BE with metabolic abnormalities with larger, more targeted sample selection, and longer follow-up. Effective and sustainable weight management and metabolic health prevention interventions for this veteran cohort are needed.

Self-Management and Glycemic Targets in Adult Haitian Immigrants With Type 2 Diabetes: Research Protocol.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic condition affecting more than 34.2 million U.S. adults, and people of African descent have a disproportionate burden. Haitian immigrants' unique cultural and biological factors put them at elevated risk for T2D-related complications. Despite prior research highlighting the success of multimethod approaches to T2D self-management behaviors on glycemic targets, a dearth of studies have used these methods to improve diabetes self-management in this marginalized population. OBJECTIVES: This article describes a repeated-measures design protocol of a going study about self-management behaviors among adult Haitian immigrants with T2D and characterizing their barriers to T2D self-management. METHODS: We will enroll 100 Haitian immigrants aged 18-64 years who have lived with T2D for at least 1 year. Using multiple recruitment methods and Research Electronic Data Capture, subjective and objective data on T2D self-management practices, glucose variability via continuous glucose monitor, and a comprehensive view of physical activity via actigraphy are collected. RESULTS: Data analysis will follow a two-part approach mirroring the two primary study objectives. DISCUSSION: Findings from the study will guide the development and testing of a culturally tailored diabetes self-management education program that will contribute essential information about best practices for this population and break barriers that may impede research on unique individuals and subsequent effective self-management.

Determinants of elevated depressive symptoms in Chinese women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND: Pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have a higher risk of developing elevated depressive symptoms than women without GDM. The aim of this study was to investigate the sociodemographic (eg, location), clinical (eg, health care-seeking behaviors), and psychological (eg, active coping skills) factors associated with elevated depressive symptoms in Chinese women with GDM. METHODS: This was a secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional study among Chinese women with GDM. Data (n = 323) were collected in 2018 from two hospitals in Hunan Province in China. The Center for Epidemiological Survey Depression Scale was used, with a criterion score ≥20 indicative of clinically elevated depressive symptoms. Descriptive, bivariate, and multiple logistic regression analyses were completed. FINDINGS: The women had a mean age of 32.71 (SD = 5.17), and the majority were married (84.2%), college-educated (65.6%), and with Han ethnicity (89.8%). About 68% of women had elevated depressive symptoms. Women with higher active coping scores were less likely (OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.10-0.38) to have elevated depressive symptoms. Women from one geographical location (Changde) who had more emergency room visits had higher odds (OR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.88-5.10) of elevated depressive symptoms. DISCUSSION: There was a high co-occurrence of GDM and elevated depressive symptoms among pregnant women in our sample. Assessment for depressive symptoms in women with GDM is warranted. More research about increasing active coping skills may improve health outcomes in women with GDM.

The effects of acculturation and environment on lifestyle behaviors in Korean immigrants: the mediating role of acculturative stress and body image discrepancy.

OBJECTIVES: Despite high rates of cardiometabolic diseases in Korean immigrants (KIs), little is known about cultural and environmental factors contributing to lifestyle behaviors. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the relationships among acculturation, environment, and lifestyle behaviors (dietary behavior, physical activity, and sedentary behavior) through culturally sensitive psychological mediators, body image discrepancy and acculturative stress in middle-aged KIs. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted. KIs aged 30-65 years were recruited online and at Korean community centers and churches in the Northeastern US Participants completed validated measures of dietary behavior (the Nutrition Subscale of the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP) II), physical activity (the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) - short form), and sedentary behavior (the Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire). Acculturative stress was measured by the Acculturative Stress Index and body image discrepancy was measured by the Stunkard Figure Rating Scale. Acculturation was defined as a latent variable measured by Korean and American orientation (Vancouver Index of Acculturation), age of immigration to the US, length of residency in the US, and English proficiency. Data were analyzed with structural equation modeling (SEM). RESULTS: The sample included 361 KIs (mean age = 41.77 ± 10.28 years, 48.1% female, and 46.4% overweight or obese). In the SEM model, acculturation had significant indirect effects on dietary behavior, physical activity, and sedentary behavior through body image discrepancy. Acculturative stress mediated the relationship between acculturation and sedentary behavior. Greater environmental support for physical activity and better healthy food accessibility were related to higher levels of physical activity and healthier dietary behavior, respectively. CONCLUSION: In our study, acculturation and environmental support for physical activity and healthy food simultaneously influenced KIs' lifestyle behaviors. Addressing an unhealthy body image and acculturative stress may be additional strategies for lifestyle intervention programs to prevent cardiometabolic diseases in KIs.

The 6-Month Efficacy of an Intensive Lifestyle Modification Program on Type 2 Diabetes Risk Among Rural Women with Prior Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an intensive lifestyle modification program tailored to rural Chinese women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus compared with usual care. In a cluster randomized controlled trial, 16 towns (clusters) in two distinct rural areas in China were randomly selected (8 towns per district); and 320 women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus were recruited from these towns. With stratification for the two study districts, eight towns (160 women) were randomly assigned to the intervention group of a tailored intensive lifestyle modification program and 8 towns (160 women) to the control group. Process measures were collected on attendance, engagement, fidelity, and satisfaction. Primary efficacy outcomes included glycemic and weight-related outcomes, while secondary efficacy outcomes were behavioral outcomes and type 2 diabetes risk score, which were collected at baseline, 3-month, and 6-month follow-up. Generalized estimation equations were used to analyze the data. High attendance (72% of sessions), engagement (67% of interactive activities and group discussions), fidelity (98%), and satisfaction (92%) with the tailored intensive lifestyle modification program were achieved. There were significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test 2 h, waist circumference, and type 2 diabetes risk score of participants in the intervention group compared to the control group (p < .05). There was no significant intervention effect on body mass index or behavioral outcomes (p > .05). In this study, we demonstrate the successful efficacy of an Intensive Lifestyle Modification Program in reducing type 2 diabetes risk among younger women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus. This tailored program delivered by local healthcare providers is a promising approach for diabetes prevention in rural China, reducing health disparities in rural communities about diabetes prevention. Registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000037956) on 3rd Jan 2018.

Effectiveness of a nurse-led mindfulness stress-reduction intervention on diabetes distress, diabetes self-management, and HbA1c levels among people with type 2 diabetes: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

People with diabetes frequently have elevated diabetes distress. Although mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) therapy has been shown effective in reducing diabetes distress, it has only been delivered by psychologists or a multidisciplinary team with an attrition rate of up to 39%, which limits its dissemination to a broader audience. This study was aimed to pilot evaluate the feasibility of a nurse-led MBSR therapy and explore its potential efficacy amongst people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 100 participants were randomly allocated either to the intervention group (nurse-led MBSR therapy + regular diabetes education) or the control group (regular diabetes education). Data on diabetes distress, diabetes self-efficacy, and diabetes self-management were collected at baseline, 8 and 12 weeks. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was collected at baseline and 12 weeks. A generalized estimating equation analysis for repeated measures was used to determine intervention and time effects. As predicted, the nurse-led MBSR therapy had a significant time-by-group interaction effect on diabetes distress total score (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.58-0.77, p < 0.001), diabetes self-efficacy (95% CI: -0.93 to -0.74, p < 0.001), diabetes self-management (95% CI: -10.80 to -7.83, p < 0.001), and HbA1c levels (95% CI: 0.04-1.14, p = 0.03) in the intervention group compared with the control group over 12 weeks. This is the first nurse-led MBSR therapy in a hospital setting that is feasible and has the potential to improve health outcomes. This approach may offer an innovative model to deliver MBSR therapy. A randomized controlled trial comparing the nurse-led MBSR plus usual diabetes education with usual diabetes education along with a mechanism to equalize intervention attention between the groups is indicated.

An unbelievable ordeal: The experiences of adult survivors treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

BACKGROUND: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a rescue treatment option for adult patients with severe cardiac dysfunction or respiratory failure. While short-term patient outcomes, such as in-hospital mortality and complications, have been widely described, little is known about the illness or recovery experience from the perspectives of survivors. Subjective reports of health are important indicators of the full, long-term impact of critical illness and treatment with ECMO on survivors' lives. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to describe the experiences and needs of adults treated with ECMO, from onset of illness symptoms through the process of survivorship. METHODS: This study was guided by the qualitative method of interpretive description. We conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with 16 adult survivors of ECMO who were treated at two participating regional ECMO centres in the northeast United States. Additional data were collected from demographic questionnaires, field notes, memos, and medical record review. Development of interview guides and data analysis were informed by the Family Management Style Framework. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis techniques. RESULTS: The sample (n = 16) included 75% male participants; ages ranged from 23 to 65 years. Duration from hospital discharge to interviews ranged from 11 to 90 (M = 54; standard deviation = 28) months. Survivors progressed through three stages: Trauma and Vulnerability, Resiliency and Recovery, and Survivorship. Participants described short- and long-term impacts of the ECMO experience: all experienced physical challenges, two-thirds had at least one psychological or cognitive difficulty, and 25% were unable to return to work. All were deeply influenced by their own specific contexts, family support, and interactions with healthcare providers. CONCLUSIONS: The ECMO experience is traumatic and complex. Recovery requires considerable time, perseverance, and support. Long-term sequelae include impairments in cognitive, mental, emotional, physical, and social health. Survivors could likely benefit from specialised posthospital health services that include integrated, comprehensive follow-up care.

Reflections on obesity-related health behaviors over time and suggestions for health promotion programs from African American women.

African American (AA) women have the highest rate of obesity in the United States. To date, there are mixed findings on AA women's perception on obesity and their perceived changes in health behaviors over time that may have contributed to obesity. Therefore, the aims of this current qualitative descriptive study were to explore: 1) AA women's perception on obesity and perceived changes in health behaviors related to obesity through their reflection on life; 2) AA women's perceived facilitators and barriers to maintaining healthy behaviors; and 3) AA women's suggestions for future health promotion programs to manage obesity. Semi-structured interviews with ended questions were conducted with 21 AA women. Luborsky's method for thematic analysis was used to analyze data. Three main themes with subthemes were identified. First main theme was the AA culture that served as a facilitator and barrier to maintaining healthy lifestyle from childhood to young adulthood. Second main theme was gradual changes in their healthy lifestyle due to social and physical environment from young adulthood to middle adulthood. Third main theme was AA women's various suggestions for future health promotion programs. This study found obesity to be a multifactorial phenomenon that is a result of complex interaction of culture, environment, and social networks. Therefore, clinicians need to address the issue of obesity from a holistic perspective for AA women to actively engage with their primary health care. Future health promotion programs should incorporate culturally tailored lifestyle components and increase knowledge on healthy lifestyle against obesity through community-based programs.

Mediating roles of psychological factors and physical and social environments between socioeconomic status and dietary behaviors among African Americans with overweight or obesity.

The study aim was to examine the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and dietary behaviors through psychological and environmental mediators among African Americans with overweight or obesity. We conducted a cross-sectional study in 225 African American men and women. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling with bootstrapping procedures. In the multiple mediation model, SES had a significant indirect effect on dietary behaviors through psychological and environmental factors (ß = -.27; p = .01; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.59--0.10), but it had no significant direct effect on dietary behaviors (ß = .06; p = .70; 95% CI = -0.21-0.39). SES had significant direct effects on psychological (ß = .52; p = .01; 95% CI = 0.31-0.77) and environmental factors (ß = -.40; p = .03; 95% CI = -0.53--0.25). Psychological (ß = -.31; p = .02; 95% CI = -0.68--0.04) and environmental factors (ß = .26; p = .01; 95% CI = 0.04-0.47) also showed significant direct effects on dietary behaviors. Thus, psychological and environmental factors mediated the relationship between SES and dietary behaviors in African Americans with overweight or obesity. Interventions that enhance psychological and environmental factors such as self-efficacy, perceived barriers to healthy eating, health perceptions, and physical and social environments may improve dietary behaviors among socioeconomically disadvantaged African Americans.

Factors associated with diabetes distress among adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

AIMS: To describe the specific domains of diabetes distress and factors associated with these domains. BACKGROUND: Diabetes distress is a common problem but not well recognised in adolescents by healthcare providers or adolescents themselves. There is insufficient evidence on how specific domains of diabetes distress exist in adolescents, making it challenging to select precise components to alleviate diabetes stress. DESIGN: A quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study. METHODS: Data were collected on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, diabetes distress, perceived stress, self-efficacy and diabetes self-management using established questionnaires. Multivariate linear regression was conducted to examine the associations between specific factors and four domains in diabetes distress. STROBE checklist was used as the guideline for this study. RESULTS: A total of 100 adolescents with type 1 diabetes aged 12 to 18 years participated in this study. Adolescents experienced the highest levels of distress in the regimen-related distress [2.41 (SD =0.82)] and physician-related distress [2.40 (SD =0.80)] domains. Older age, female gender, more diabetes problem-solving and higher levels of perceived stress were associated with higher regimen-related distress (ß = 0.21 ~ 0.45, p < 0.05). Older age, female gender, a lower degree of endorsement of relevant diabetes-related goals and higher levels of perceived stress were associated with higher physician-related distress (ß = -0.29 ~ 0.34, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes distress was reported more on regimen-related and physician-related domains among adolescents with type 1 diabetes in China, associating with older age, female, increased perceived stress and poor diabetes-related problem-solving. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Nurses need to screen the specific domains of diabetes distress among adolescents with type 1 diabetes, especially for the older adolescents and girls. This study highlighted the importance of incorporating diabetes-related problem-solving support and stress management strategies into diabetes management for adolescents with type 1 diabetes, which could help relieve diabetes distress.

Family Caregiver Support of Patient Self-Management During Chronic, Life-Limiting Illness: A Qualitative Metasynthesis.

Family caregivers play an integral role in supporting patient self-management, yet how they perform this role is unclear. We conducted a qualitative metasynthesis of family caregivers' processes to support patient self-management of chronic, life-limiting illness and factors affecting their support. Methods included a systematic literature search, quality appraisal of articles, data abstraction, and data synthesis to produce novel themes. Thirty articles met inclusion criteria, representing 935 international family caregivers aged 18 to 89 years caring for patients with various health conditions. Three themes characterized family caregivers' processes to support patient self-management: "Focusing on the Patient's Illness Needs," "Activating Resources to Support Oneself as the Family Caregiver," and "Supporting a Patient Living with a Chronic, Life-Limiting Illness." Factors affecting family caregivers' support included Personal Characteristics, Health Status, Resources, Environmental Characteristics, and the Health Care System. The family caregiver role in supporting patient self-management is multidimensional, encompassing three processes of care and influenced by multiple factors.

School-aged children with type 1 diabetes benefit more from a coping skills training program than adolescents in China: 12-month outcomes of a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Managing type 1 diabetes can be challenging, especially for youth, so there is a need for effective interventions to help youth live with diabetes. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of a coping skills training (CST) program for Chinese youth with type 1 diabetes and to explore whether the efficacy of the program was different for school-aged children than for adolescents with type 1 diabetes. METHODS: A total of 100 youth with type 1 diabetes aged 8 to 20 years were randomly placed in either an intervention group (CST + standard care [SC]) or a control group (SC). Data were collected at baseline, 6-month, and 12-month follow-ups on primary outcomes of perceived stress, coping, and self-efficacy and secondary outcomes of diabetes self-management, quality of life, and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). A generalized estimating equation analysis for repeated measures was used to determine the program effects and differential effects by age group. RESULTS: The CST program had no significant effect on primary or secondary outcomes over 12 months. However, there was a significant increase in positive coping (P < .001), self-efficacy (P = .017), diabetes problem-solving and goals of diabetes self-management (P = .007, P = .001), and quality of life (P = .016) of school-aged children in the intervention group compared with the control group. There were no significant differences in primary or secondary outcomes between the intervention group and the control group (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The CST program was effective for school-aged children, improving psychosocial and diabetes self-management outcomes. Further research is needed to develop programs that improve outcomes in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Adherence Self-Management and the Influence of Contextual Factors Among Emerging Adults With Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

BACKGROUND: Maintaining adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a significant challenge for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected racial and ethnic minority adolescents and young adults (youth). Given the consequences of suboptimal ART adherence, there is a pressing need for an expanded understanding of adherence behavior in this cohort. OBJECTIVES: As part of an exploratory sequential, mixed-methods study, we used qualitative inquiry to explore adherence information, motivation, and behavioral skills among HIV-infected racial and ethnic minority youth. Our secondary aim was to gain an understanding of the contextual factors surrounding adherence behavior. METHODS: The information-motivation-behavioral skills model (IMB model) was applied to identify the conceptual determinants of adherence behavior in our target population, along with attention to emergent themes. In-depth, individual, semistructured interviews, including open-ended questions with probes, were conducted with a convenience sample of HIV-infected racial and ethnic minority youth (ages 16-29 years), receiving ART and with evidence of virologic failure (i.e., detectable HIV viral load). New participants were interviewed until information redundancy was reached. Qualitative interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Atlas.ti (v8). Directed content analysis was performed to generate categories and broad themes. Coding was initially conceptually driven (IMB model) and shifted to a data-driven approach, allowing for the discovery of key contextual factors that influence adherence behavior in this population. Methodological rigor was ensured by member checks, an audit trail, thick descriptive data, and triangulation of data sources. RESULTS: Twenty racial and ethnic minority participants (mean age = 24.3 years, 55.0% male) completed interviews. We found adherence information was understood in relation to HIV biomarkers; adherence motivation and behavioral skills were influenced by stigma and social context. We identified five primary themes regarding ART self-management: (a) emerging adulthood with a chronic illness, (b) stigma and disclosure concerns, (c) support systems and support deficits, (d) mental and behavioral health risks and challenges, and (e) mode of HIV transmission and perceptions of power and control. DISCUSSION: Key constructs of the IMB model were applicable to participating HIV-infected youth yet did not fully explain the essence of adherence behavior. As such, we recommend expansion of current adherence models and frameworks to include known contextual factors associated with ART self-management among HIV-infected racial and ethnic minority youth.

Perceptions and experiences of living with type 1 diabetes among Latino adolescents and parents with limited English proficiency.

We explored perceptions and experiences of living with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) among U.S. Latino adolescents (age 12-19 years) with T1DM and parents with limited English proficiency. We used a qualitative descriptive approach with semi-structured interviews of adolescents together with their parents. Interview data were reviewed, coded, and combined into themes about participant experiences with T1DM. Twenty-four adolescents (mean age: 15.4 years) and 23 parents participated. Analysis resulted in three themes: (a) Understanding and adapting to T1DM (i.e., initial fear and misunderstandings of T1DM; adolescents' reflections on living with a chronic health condition); (b) Coming to terms with social and environmental influences on T1DM self-management (i.e., T1DM as disruptive to school and social activities; dealing with stigma and judgments related to diabetes); and, (c) Integrating T1DM self-management expectations with components of Latino cultures (i.e., orientation toward family well-being; parent concerns about cultural preferences that influence food choices, positive influence of spirituality and religiousness; parental views of their current health care in comparison to that available in their place of birth). Adolescents and their parents reported experiences that are universal to adolescents with T1DM in addition to challenges that are unique to Latinos. Efforts aimed at improving T1DM self-management during adolescence with this population need to be tailored to meet the unique social and cultural contexts and delivered in a culturally and linguistically congruent manner.

Feasibility and acceptability of intensive, real-time biobehavioral data collection using ecological momentary assessment, salivary biomarkers, and accelerometers among middle-aged African Americans.

Perceived racial discrimination is linked to unhealthy behaviors and stress-related morbidities. A compelling body of research indicates that perceived racial discrimination may contribute to health disparities among African Americans (AAs). The purposes of this study were to describe the study protocol including data collection procedures and study measures and to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of intensive biobehavioral data collection using ecological momentary assessment (EMA), salivary biomarkers, and accelerometers over 7 days among middle-aged AAs with a goal of understanding the relationships between perceived racial discrimination and biobehavioral responses to stress. Twelve AA men and women participated in the feasibility/acceptability study. They completed surveys, anthropometrics, and received in-person training in EMA and saliva sample collection at baseline. Participants were asked to respond to the random prompt text message-based EMA five times a day, wear an accelerometer daily for 7 days, and to self-collect saliva samples four times a day for 4 consecutive days. The EMA surveys included perceived racial discrimination, affective states, lifestyle behaviors, and social and physical contexts. The mean EMA response rate was 82.8%. All participants collected saliva samples four times a day for 4 consecutive days. About 83% of participants wore the accelerometer on the hip 6 out of 7 days. Despite the perception that the intensive nature of assessments would result in high participant burden, the acceptability of the study procedures was uniformly favorable.

Adaptation and Feasibility Testing of a Coping Skills Training Program for Chinese Youth with Type 1 Diabetes.

PURPOSE: To adapt an evidence-based coping skills training program to the cultural context and healthcare system for youth with T1D in China, and to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the modified program. DESIGN AND METHODS: A multiphase process was used based on a heuristic framework for program modification. This included information gathering, preliminary adaptation, and feasibility evaluation. RESULTS: In Stage 1, the coping skills training protocol was translated and evaluated for relevance by the stakeholders (youth diagnosed with T1D, parents, and healthcare providers). Recommendations for revisions and culturally relevant scenarios were identified. In Stage 2, the program was adapted for youth with a wider age range. Scenarios and logistics of the program were changed, and a session on blood glucose management was added to enhance cultural relevance. In Stage 3, the feasibility of the modified program was evaluated with 15 youth participants diagnosed with T1D (mean age: 13.88 years). Problem-solving coping and the self-efficacy of the youth improved over time (p < .05). High attendance, engagement, and satisfaction were achieved. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The CST-China program has the potential to provide Chinese youth with T1D an interactive and engaging program to improve health outcomes. The adaptation process of a CST program can provide a reference for pediatric nurses to develop programs which are culturally relevant, acceptable to stakeholders, and aligned with the healthcare system in China. CONCLUSIONS: A coping skills training program was systematically adapted and aligned to the healthcare system in China, with evidence of feasibility and acceptability in Chinese youth with T1D.

Risk Factors of Obesity in Veterans of Recent Conflicts: Need for Diabetes Prevention.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To identify factors associated with obesity in veterans of the recent, Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and Operation New Dawn (OND) war conflicts. RECENT FINDINGS: Over 44% OEF/OIF/OND veterans are obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2), which exceeds the national obesity prevalence rate of 39% in people younger than 45. Obesity increases morbidity, risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D), and mortality as well as decreases quality of life. A scoping review method was used to identify factors associated with obesity in young veterans. Military exposures, such as multiple deployments and exposure to combat, contribute to challenges in re-integration to civilian life in all veterans. Factors that contribute to increased risk for obesity include changes in eating patterns/eating disorders, changes in physical activity, physical disability, and psychological comorbidity. These conditions can contribute to a rapid weight gain trajectory, changes in metabolism, and obesity. Young veterans face considerable challenges related to obesity risk. Further research is needed to better understand young veterans' experiences and health needs in order to adapt or expand existing programs and improve access, engagement, and metabolic outcomes in this vulnerable population.