Programming Support Research Articles

Caregiving for Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review of the Scientific Literature.

Caregiving processes and outcomes have been increasingly articulated in the cardiovascular literature, particularly in heart failure and coronary artery disease, but there has been no synthesis on caregiving for a patient with atrial fibrillation (AF). This review synthesized scientific evidence that describes caregiving in the context of AF, with the aim of informing future research priorities for AF caregiving or clinical approaches that may support these caregivers. Informed by PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a mixed methods systematic review with a data-based convergence design using a thematic synthesis approach. All studies that examined factors related to caregiving for patients with AF, either as a descriptive, predictor, or outcome variable, were included. After the search, data from thirteen studies were abstracted; half of the studies (53%) were of low to moderate quality. Changes to the family unit and feelings of uncertainty are common post-AF; a subset of caregivers struggle with mental health challenges, particularly those who are unwell themselves or those who provide several hours of care to patients with more advanced symptoms or limitations. Informational support for caregivers appears to be lacking but was desired to better adapt to the changes or consequences incurred from AF. This review complements findings from previous reviews conducted in other cardiovascular disease sub-groups. As there is still limited high-quality research on caregiving in an AF context, additional research is required to adequately inform supportive programming for caregivers of patients with AF, if indicated.

Peer Support Interventions for People With CKD: A Scoping Review

Formalized peer support is a promising approach for addressing the emotional and practical needs of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We aimed to systematically identify and summarize peer support interventions studied in individuals with CKD with or without kidney replacement therapy (KRT). We searched electronic databases and grey literature sources in March 2023. Studies of any design were eligible if they reported sufficient detail on peer support interventions and outcomes for adults with CKD with or without KRT and/or their caregivers. We extracted information on study and intervention characteristics and reported outcomes using established frameworks. We summarized quantitative data descriptively and qualitative data thematically. Our approach observed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews. We included 77 studies describing 56 unique peer support interventions. Most reports were program evaluations (39%) or randomized controlled trials (27%) published after 2013. Two thirds of interventions focused on in-centre hemodialysis or mixed CKD populations, and three quarters were integrated within a kidney care clinic or program. Whereas most peer interactions centered on informational support, few programs offered focused support in areas such as transplant navigation or dialysis modality selection. Only one third of outcomes were assessed against a comparator group, with results suggesting improvements in psychological health with peer support. Heterogeneity of included studies; lack of rigorous program evaluation. This review suggests recent growth in peer support programming with a variety of formats and delivery methods to address the diverse needs of people living with kidney disease. Notable gaps in peer support availability for transplant and home dialysis recipients and the lack of rigorous evaluations present opportunities to expand the reach and impact of peer support in the kidney care context.

Returning value from the All of Us research program to PhD-level nursing students using ChatGPT as programming support: results from a mixed-methods experimental feasibility study.

We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using ChatGPT as programming support for nursing PhD students conducting analyses using the All of Us Researcher Workbench. 9 students in a PhD-level nursing course were prospectively randomized into 2 groups who used ChatGPT for programming support on alternating assignments in the workbench. Students reported completion time, confidence, and qualitative reflections on barriers, resources used, and the learning process. The median completion time was shorter for novices and certain assignments using ChatGPT. In qualitative reflections, students reported ChatGPT helped generate and troubleshoot code and facilitated learning but was occasionally inaccurate. ChatGPT provided cognitive scaffolding that enabled students to move toward complex programming tasks using the All of Us Researcher Workbench but should be used in combination with other resources. Our findings support the feasibility of using ChatGPT to help PhD nursing students use the All of Us Researcher Workbench to pursue novel research directions.

Training, Supervising, and Supporting Summer Treatment Program Staff: Staff Perspectives on Essential Ingredients

ABSTRACT Background The Summer Treatment Program (STP) is a well-established and efficacious evidence-based treatment for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other behavioral concerns, where counselors and teachers implement a range of evidence-based practices (EBPs) across recreational and educational contexts. Objective The present study evaluates STP staff experiences with training, supervision, and their role in implementing the STP intervention, as well as how their experiences impact their future educational and career goals. Method Participants included 50 STP-Prekindergarten (STP-PreK) staff members (72.0% counselors, 14% lead counselors, 14% teachers) employed at two different sites over two summers. A subset of 14 STP-PreK staff members completed semi-structured follow-up interviews discussing training, supervision, job experience, and their future goals. Results Overall, with the training and supervision received, staff viewed the STP intervention elements as acceptable and easy to implement. Key factors staff highlighted in their learning process included the importance of a supportive environment, opportunities for hands-on learning with feedback, personal self-efficacy, and the role of supportive peers. Staff indicated working at the STP impacted both their use of EBPs and views on their career goals. Conclusions Recommendations for improving STP staff training, supervision, and experiences, as well as implications for future research on the training and supervision of the mental health workforce implementing EBPs with children with externalizing behavioral concerns, are discussed.

Correlates of viral suppression among sexual minority men and transgender women living with HIV in Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Sexual minority men (SMM) and transgender women in South Africa engage in HIV care at lower rates than other persons living with HIV and may experience population-specific barriers to HIV treatment and viral suppression (VS). As part of a pilot trial of an SMM-tailored peer navigation (PN) intervention in Ehlanzeni district, South Africa, we assessed factors associated with ART use and VS among SMM at trial enrolment. A total of 103 HIV-positive SMM and transgender women enrolled in the pilot trial. Data on clinical visits and ART adherence were self-reported. VS status was verified through laboratory analysis (<1000 copies/ml). We assessed correlates of VS at baseline using Poisson generalized linear model (GLM) with a log link function, including demographic, psychosocial, clinical, and behavioral indicators. Among participants, 52.4% reported ART use and only 42.2% of all participants had evidence of VS. Of the 49.5% who reported optimal engagement in HIV care (consistent clinic visits with pills never missed for ≥ 4 consecutive days) in the past 3-months, 56.0% were virally suppressed. In multivariable analysis, SMM were significantly more likely to be virally suppressed when they were ≥ 25 years of age (Adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] = 2.0, CI 95%:1.0-3.8); in a relationship but not living with partner, as compared to married, living together, or single (APR = 1.7, CI 95%:1.0-2.7), and optimally engaged in care (APR = 2.1, 95% CI:1.3-3.3). Findings indicate a need for targeted treatment and care support programming, especially for SMM and transgender women who are young and married/living with their partners to improve treatment outcomes among this population.

Remote Summer Research Program to Improve Opportunity and Mentorship for Underrepresented Students With Interest in Orthopaedic Surgery: 3-Year Experiences.

Medical students are challenged with a limited number of research opportunities to help prepare for an exceptionally competitive process for matching in an orthopaedic residency. The aim of this study was to assess the 3-year experience of our 8 to 10-week remote summer research program in support of underrepresented students with an interest in orthopaedic surgery. We received over 500 applications, and a total of 37 students (7.4%) participated in the program over the past 3 years. A total of 14 faculty mentors were matched with 1 or 2 students each. The research program delivered a curriculum including (1) research-related topics led by a content expert; (2) weekly faculty lectures discussing topics including orthopaedic conditions, diversity in orthopaedics, leadership, and work-life balance; and (3) a minimum of 8 weeks of mentorship experience with an assigned faculty and a peer mentor. Students and faculty were surveyed to measure skill progression, research productivity, and program satisfaction. Program participants represented a range of race/ethnic backgrounds and research experience levels. The cohort included a high rate of female (51%) and Black (35%) participants relative to representation of these groups in orthopaedic surgery. Postprogram surveys indicated that all participants improved their research skills, orthopaedic interest, and mentorship/networking skills. Most students (89%) stated that they were adequately matched to their faculty mentor. Most students (79%) indicated that they contributed to either manuscript or conference abstract as coauthors. The study findings suggest improved research skills, interest, and confidence to pursue orthopaedic residency and mentorship/networks in the field. Our long-term vision is to improve the accessibility and quality of mentorship for underrepresented students to foster an equitable pathway into the field of orthopaedic surgery.

Comparing the effect of two systems-level interventions on perinatal generalized anxiety disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms

BackgroundThe Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Program (MCPAP for Moms) and PRogram In Support of Moms (PRISM) are designed to help obstetric practices address perinatal depression. PRISM includes the statewide MCPAP for Moms program plus proactive implementation support. ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to understand the impact of these programs on perinatal Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms among individuals screening positive for depression. Study DesignWe conducted a secondary analysis of 2017–2022 data from a cluster randomized controlled trial of MCPAP for Moms vs. PRISM. We included participants completing a GAD or PTSD screen at baseline (n=254) with antenatal Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores ≥ 10. We assessed change in GAD and PTSD symptoms at from pregnancy (4 to <25 weeks Gestational Age (GA) or 32–40 weeks GA), to 4–12 weeks postpartum and 11–13 months postpartum. We conducted a difference-in-difference analysis to compare symptom change from pregnancy to postpartum. We used adjusted linear mixed models with repeated measures to examine the impact of MCPAP for Moms and PRISM on changes in the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) and the PTSD CheckList (PCL-C). Results: Mean GAD-7 scores decreased by 3.6 (MCPAP for Moms) and 6.3 (PRISM) points at from pregnancy to 4-12 weeks postpartum. Mean PCL-C scores decreased by 6.2 and 10.0 points, respectively, at 4–12 weeks postpartum among individuals screening positive on the GAD-7 (n=83) or PCL-C (n=58) in pregnancy. GAD-7 and PCL-C scores decreased among both groups at 11–13 months postpartum. These changes were clinically meaningful. PRISM conferred a statistically significant greater decrease (2.7 points) on the GAD-7 than MCPAP for Moms at 4–12 weeks postpartum. No differences were found between MCPAP for Moms and PRISM in PCL-C or GAD-7 change at 11–13 months, although both were associated with a reduction in GAD and PTSD symptoms at 4–12 weeks and 11-13 months postpartum. ConclusionBoth MCPAP for Moms and PRISM could help to improve symptoms for individuals experiencing co-occurring symptoms of depression, GAD, or PTSD. PRISM may confer additional benefit in the early postpartum period, although this difference was not clinically significant.

The paradoxes of U.S. graduate assistantships in education: navigating competing tensions and the impact of stress on graduate wellbeing

Purpose Graduate students employed in graduate teaching and research assistantship positions have a unique experience of the institution because of their status as student-employees. Graduate assistants (GAs) face specific challenges around their well-being as they navigate various relationships and environments throughout their educational trajectory. The purpose of this study is to examine the specific workplace challenges GAs experience and their overall effect on GA wellbeing. Design/methodology/approach This research study examines graduate assistant responses from 12 US research universities to the Faculty Survey of student Engagement for Graduate student Instructors survey. This study’s analysis examined the open-ended responses (n = 493) at the end of the survey that asked participants for additional comments regarding their departmental and/or institutional experiences. Three waves of coding were implemented by the authors to identify common themes and areas of concern on GA working conditions. Findings The findings led to the creation of a concept map on GA working conditions that include three main components: contextual factors, stress and well-being and competing tensions. Within each component are subthemes related to social identity, funding, campus climate, time and priority concerns and assistantship structure and support. The map demonstrates the enmeshed connection across areas. Practical implications Findings suggest institutional investments through programming, system-level changes and interpersonal support to improve GA working conditions and their well-being. Originality/value Research on GA experiences with working conditions and well-being in a US context is limited. This study is valuable because many graduate students who occupy graduate assistantships are asking for increased pay and benefits at their institution. Graduate assistantship labor organizing is occurring alongside institutions’ focus on improving health outcomes for graduate students.

Safe Spaces and Critical Places: Youth Programming and Community Support

In this article we explore the work of two after-school programs in Toronto, Ontario. Our Youth Success (OYS) is a community-based mentoring program dedicated to lowering the push-out rates of students of Spanish and/or Portuguese-speaking descent. In the Youth Speak Program (YSP), community activists use spoken word poetry and rapping as a vehicle for Black students to express their emotional lives. The data we present come from two separate studies which both used ethnographic approaches, focusing on observation and interviews with participants (Hammersley &amp; Atkinson, 2019). Using Critical Race Theory (CRT), we examine interview data on how the pedagogical relationships developed in these spaces promote the wellbeing of Latinx and Black youth beyond academic outcomes. We argue that these spaces provide insight into the transformative possibilities of critical pedagogies for the wellbeing and healing of communities who have long been marginalized from mainstream institutions.

System infection prevention in hospital networks – a SHEA research network survey

Background: Hospitals are increasingly consolidating into networks and integrating infection prevention (IP) into system infection prevention programs (SIPP). Very little has been published about these programs. This survey sheds light on the current state of SIPPs. Methods: We used the survey generator Alchemer.com for setting up the questionnaire, and tested a beta version among peers. The final version was sent out to SHEA Research Network participants in August 2023. Raw data was compiled and analyzed. Results: Forty institutions responded (40/104, 38%), of which 25 (63%) had SIPPs. These SIPPS reported health systems with a median of 4.5 acute care hospitals (range, 1-33); 16 SIPPS reported a median of 2 critical access hospitals (range, 1-8); 4 SIPPs reported 1-3 LTACHs, and 6 SIPPS reported a median of 1.5 nursing homes. All except 3 (88%) contained an academic center; 48% (11/23) of the U.S. based programs operate in multiple states. Four programs have been in place &gt;20 years, four &lt; 2 years, and the remainder a median of 8 years (range, 2-18). Physician directors also have clinical (20/25, 80%), teaching (19/25, 76%), research (15/25, 60%), antimicrobial stewardship (8/25, 32%), quality (8/25, 32%), and/or patient safety (5/25, 20%) roles. Seventeen (68%) report having a written job description. Nineteen (76%) report having an infection preventionist in a system IP director role; only 7/25 (28%) have a dedicated system IP team that operates independent of individual hospitals. Sixteen (64%) report administrative support, 10/25 (40%) have a data manager/analyst, and 4/25 (16%) include IT expert or programmer support. 15/25 (60%) report having done a formal system-wide IP needs assessment. While 16/25 (64%) have some automation in HAI surveillance (predominantly using Bugsy [Epic] or Theradoc [Premier]), while only 5/25 (20%) run fully automated surveillance. 10/25 (40%) have implemented centralized surveillance. 12/25 (48%) have “system IP policies” that are hierarchically above individual site policies. The biggest challenges appear to be gaps in 1) clear governing structure, 2) communication, 3) consistent staffing, 4) data management support, and 5) dedicated, empowered IP expert FTEs. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first U.S. survey to explore present-day system infection prevention. In this sample of hospital networks, we found heterogeneity in the structure, staffing and resources for system IP with significant opportunities for improvement. In this era of healthcare consolidation, our findings highlight the urgent need to more clearly delineate and support system IP needs in order to enhance their functionality.

Effectiveness of Husbands' Support Exclusive Breastfeeding Facebook Programme During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The exclusive breastfeeding rate for six months in the Northeast region of Thailand has recently significantly decreased, in contrast to all other regions in Thailand. Facebook is widely used worldwide to enhance knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours that support breastfeeding. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a Facebook programme for husbands' support of exclusive breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic. We employed a quasi-experimental study design conducted from September 2020 to November 2021. Data were collected from two tertiary hospitals in Thailand, involving a total of 72 participants-36 in the experimental group and 36 in the control group. These participants were husbands of postpartum women admitted to the postpartum wards. Four research instrument were the demographic questionnaire, the Husband's EBF Knowledge, Husband's EBF Attitude, and Husband's EBF Behavior Questionnaires. Demographic data were analysed using frequency distribution, percentages, and the Chi-square test. The mean difference in husbands' exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) knowledge scores was analysed using an independent samples t-test. At baseline, there was no significant difference in husbands' exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) knowledge scores between the experimental and control groups (p = 0.82). By the 1st month, there was a significant difference in the mean scores of husbands' EBF knowledge between the two groups (p < 0.01). However, the mean score of attitude at 6-month (mean=108.03, SD=19.89) was higher than the mean score of behaviour at baseline (mean=101.81, SD=17.99), but it was not significant (p=0.40). In addition, the different score of behaviour among baseline (mean=65.86, SD=7.02) and 6-month (mean=68.58, SD=10.42) was not significant (p=0.24). The findings suggest that the Facebook programme is an effective platform for conveying exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) knowledge to husbands in Northeast Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Youth homeless shelter staff perceptions of a mobile recreation program

ABSTRACT Youth homelessness is a complex social issue and accounts for the fastest growing demographic of individuals living without a home. Though it is well established that recreation can support youth socially, physically, and emotionally, the community partner perspective is rarely incorporated. The purpose of this study was to incorporate the perspectives of supportive housing staff about the importance of a mobile recreation program in the lives of youth experiencing homelessness. Five participants participated in a group interview and a reflexive thematic analysis approach was utilized. The findings indicate that RoW filled a necessary gap in supportive programming; that RoW provided a context to support youth to become more comfortable participating in recreation; and that RoW offered a break from everyday stressors through encouraged play and self-expression. Findings suggest that the recreation program offered various opportunities for the youth to feel connected and to engage in meaningful activities.

The MD-BK-means Construction Method for Library Reader Portraits

Due to the rapid development of internet technology, knowledge acquisition has become more convenient and efficient in network operations. University libraries serve as important resources for readers to acquire knowledge, and online resources and services in libraries have become the main direction for readers to acquire knowledge at present. Research the use of binary K-means clustering algorithm and library reader portrait technology to optimize the design of the reader portrait module and construct a multidimensional and multi perspective reader feature system. Reuse Spark programming language and support vector machine to perform computational processing on reader profile data to ensure accurate segmentation of the dataset. Finally, three datasets were used to test the accuracy and efficiency of the algorithm. The experimental comparison shows that the mining and precision segmentation of parallel SVM on the dataset are 93.20%, 85.16%, and 79.35% on the sample set, respectively, in order to optimize the mining performance of the data. The MD multi view binary K-means algorithm has a total Mahalanobis distance of 3.543, 5.268, and 22.385 on the sample dataset, respectively, to demonstrate its superiority in clustering performance. Therefore, the multi view binary K-means algorithm based on Mahalanobis distance has high advantages in reader portrait technology design, and provides technical support and theoretical reference for library reader portrait technology.

Training of Resin Keychain Making Based on Local Wisdom for Supporting Independent Entrepreneurship Program of Independent Campus

The community service activity was carried out based on the results of a needs survey for community service implementation, which has been distributed to active students from various academic and vocational programs of Chemistry Education program in South Kalimantan. The need analysis survey results showed that students are already aware of the independent curriculum, but many of them are still unaware of the independent entrepreneurship program. In addition, students also hope for entrepreneurship training, such as keychain making training. The method used in the community service is the introduction to resin materials and training in making resin keychains. The training activities were conducted in the integrated laboratory of Universitas Islam Negeri Antasari with a total of 60 participants. The results obtained from this community service are that students acquire new skills in making resin keychains, which can be used as products for entrepreneurship. The pretest showed that initially the participants' insight did not know and recognize resin and catalyst materials, and the result of the posttest showed that the participants were able to be creative by using dried flowers, leaves, and grass typical of the surrounding area to produce beautiful resin key chains.

Propagation of plane waves at the initially stressed surface of an orthotropic nonlocal rotating half space under dual-phase-lag model

PurposeThe purpose of the current manuscript is to investigate the reflection of plane waves in a rotating, two-dimensional homogeneous, initially stressed, nonlocal orthotropic thermoelastic solid half-space based on dual-phase-lag model.Design/methodology/approachThe reflection phenomenon has been utilized to study the effects of initial stress, rotation and nonlocal parameter on the amplitude ratios. During the reflection phenomenon three coupled waves, namely quasi displacement primary wave (qP), quasi thermal wave (qT) and quasi displacement secondary wave (qSV) have been observed in the medium, propagating with distinct velocities. After imposing the suitable boundary conditions, amplitude and energy ratios of the reflected waves are obtained in explicit form.FindingsWith the support of MATLAB programming, the amplitude ratios and energy ratios are plotted graphically to display the effects of rotation, initial stress and nonlocal parameters. Moreover, the impact of anisotropy and phase lags is also observed on the reflection coefficients of the propagating waves.Originality/valueIn the current work, we have considered rotation and nonlocality parameters in an initially stressed orthotropic thermoelastic half-space, which is lacking in the published literature in this field. The introduction of these parameters in a nonlocal orthotropic thermoelastic medium provides a more realistic model for these studies. The present work is valuable for the analysis of orthotropic thermoelastic problems involving rotation, initial stress and nonlocality parameters.

Literature Review : Strategies for Using Digital Marketing to Improve MSME Performance in Supporting SDGs Programs

The current global phenomenon shows a rapid increase in the adoption of digital technology, which has changed various aspects of life, including the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector. This study aims to examine effective digital marketing strategies to improve MSME performance in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Program. The novelty of this research lies in a holistic approach that integrates various aspects of digital marketing, in the context of SDGs implementation. The urgency of this research is driven by the urgent need for MSMEs to remain competitive and relevant in the digital era, as well as the crucial role in the national economy and the achievement of SDGs goals. The method used in this study is Systematic Literature Review (SLR) by collecting relevant previous research through publish or perish Then analyze the article and crucify related to keywords. The results show that the use of appropriate digital marketing can help MSMEs contribute more effectively to the achievement of SDGs, especially in terms of poverty alleviation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. The implications of this research emphasize the importance of policy support and continuous training for MSMEs in utilizing digital technology, as well as collaboration between the public and private sectors to accelerate the digital transformation of MSMEs.

Intersections of trauma and grief: Navigating multilayered terrain in music therapy to support youth through bereavement

Experiencing the death of a loved one as a young person is challenging in its own right, and underlying trauma can complicate one’s bereavement. With little available research exploring the intersections of trauma and grief, this paper aims to provide a foundational understanding of how trauma contexts and histories manifest in music therapy bereavement support programming for young people. Theoretical models that are culturally grounded, resource-oriented, and adopting an ecological, multisystemic lens are presented. The impacts of interpersonal trauma, trauma from systemic oppression, collective trauma, and intergenerational trauma are explored within the context of bereavement support. Diverse music therapy approaches to support the various trauma and grief intersections are shared. Lastly, reflection questions to support a culturally humble practice are offered for those committed to providing meaningful and socially conscious support for youth who have experienced trauma and loss. Given the high prevalence of trauma and death experiences among young people, all music therapists, regardless of clinical setting, would benefit from being trauma- and bereavement-informed.

Meaningful Healthcare and Social Service Access for Homeless Populations: Generating Alliances Through Theories of Therapeutic Landscape

ABSTRACT Poor health can both facilitate and be facilitated by homelessness. The desire for serious illness care to occur at home and increased attention to home-and-community-based health services prompts consideration of how the therapeutic nature of place can shape patient-centered care for those who live outside of traditional housing. Three key concepts from therapeutic landscape are illustrated by findings from an empirical, grounded theory study (RASCAL-UP) of a mobile palliative care provider for the homeless: (1) healing pilgrimages and migrations; (2) place-based therapeutic networks; (3) spaces of care and control. Through application of therapeutic landscape theory, health workers can better comprehend the healthcare decisions and goals of people experiencing homelessness. Applications of therapeutic landscape theory can guide healthcare professionals toward equitable care planning and support programming and policy to enhance care options for homeless populations.

Exploring pathways to successful aging among older black lesbians and sexual minority women: A focus on life satisfaction and intersectional factors

Purpose Satisfaction with life is a core aspect of successful aging, which is influenced by a broad range of factors, including health, socioeconomic status, and social relationships. Black lesbians experience various social challenges, including racism, sexism, ageism, and heterosexualism, that may present as deterrents to aging successfully. To develop better policies and programs in support of successful aging among all adults, an understanding of the unique components associated with their intersecting identities must be explored. This study was carried out to gain a better understanding of how Black lesbians and other Black sexual minority women (BSMW) view successful aging within the context of life satisfaction. Methods Inferential statistics were used to determine relationships between satisfaction with life (SWLS-3) and selected independent variables. Backward stepwise regression was conducted to ascertain significant relationships of the study outcome variable. Results The respondents were 118 Black lesbians and other BSMW aged 50 and above. Independent t-tests showed that those living with a partner had a significantly higher SWLS-3. Backwards stepwise regression indicated the predictor variables for higher rates of SWLS-3 to be harmony in life, annual household income, and provider sensitivity/cultural competence to their patient being Black. Conclusion This study provides insight on factors increasing and diminishing satisfaction with life for aging Black lesbians and other BSMW. Future research should replicate this study with a more diverse and nationally representative sample, especially given the study limitations of having recruited a highly educated sample during a global pandemic.

Association of perinatal depression and postpartum contraception intent, choice, and actual use

ObjectivesDepression is common during pregnancy and the year following childbirth (the perinatal period). This study assessed the association of depressive symptoms and contraception decisions in perinatal individuals. Study designWe conducted a secondary analysis using data from the PRogram in Support of Moms (PRISM) study, a cluster randomized controlled trial of active interventions which aimed to address perinatal depression. This analysis included 191 individuals aged 18–45 who screened positive for depression on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS, score ≥10) during pregnancy or up to 3 months postpartum. We assessed contraception intent and method choice at 1–3 months postpartum. At 5–7 months postpartum, we assessed contraceptive method used and EPDS depression scores. We used logistic regressions to examine the relationship between depression and contraceptive use/method. ResultsAt 1–3 months postpartum, the majority of participants (76.4%) expressed an intention to use contraception. Of those, over half (53.4%) indicated a preference for higher effectiveness contraception methods. Participants with persistent depression symptoms (positive EPDS) at 5–7 months were significantly less likely to report using higher effectiveness contraceptive methods (aOR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.11–0.70) compared to those without. Among participants with persistent depressive symptoms, 21.1% reported using a contraception method of lower effectiveness than had originally intended. ConclusionPerinatal individuals with persistent depressive symptoms at 5–7 months postpartum reported greater use of less-effective contraception methods than originally planned. ImplicationsWe found associations between perinatal depression and use of less effective contraception use. Provider discussions regarding contraception planning is important, particularly in those with perinatal depression symptoms.