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Editor's note: This is the 12th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice—from research design to data interpretation. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204. This article, one in a series on clinical research by nurses, explores the rich tradition of interpretive qualitative research practices, including phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, and case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Editor's note: This is the 10th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice—from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the authors. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204. This article, one in a series on clinical research by nurses, reviews the use of diagnostic and screening tests and tools in nursing research and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Editor's note: This is the ninth article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice—from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the authors. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204. This article—one in a series on clinical research by nurses—discusses the alignment of research goals with secondary data sources, explores sources of publicly available secondary data that might be of interest to nurse researchers, and outlines the costs and benefits of using secondary data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Associations have been found between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MTHFR gene and cognitive outcomes in cancer survivors. Prior research has demonstrated that the presence of MTHFR SNPs (rs1801131 and rs1801133) in survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) corresponds to impairments in attention and executive functioning. The current study examines the associations between rs1801131 and/or rs1801133 SNPs and cognitive performance in long-term survivors of medulloblastoma. Procedure: Eighteen pediatric medulloblastoma survivors, on average 12.42 years post-diagnosis, completed the Digit Span Forward, Digit Span Backward, California Verbal Learning Test Trial 1, and Auditory Consonant Trigrams tests. MTHFR SNPs were detected using whole genome sequencing data and custom scripts within R software. Results: Survivors with a rs1801131 SNP performed significantly worse on Digit Span Backward than survivors without this SNP exhibiting a large effect (p = 0.049; d = 0.95). Survivors with a rs1801131 SNP performed worse on Digit Span Forward (d = 0.478) and the CVLT Trial 1 (d = 0.417) with medium effect sizes. In contrast to rs1801131, relationships were not identified between a rs1801133 SNP and these performance measures. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate the potential links between MTHFR SNPs and cognitive outcomes following treatment in brain tumor survivors. The current findings establish a novel relationship between rs1801131 and working memory in medulloblastoma. Increases in homocysteine levels and oxidative damage from radiation may lead to adverse long-term outcomes. This establishes the need to look beyond leukemia and methotrexate treatment to consider the risk of MTHFR SNPs for medulloblastoma survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Editor's note: This is the eighth article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice—from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the authors. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: On April 1, 2017, California Proposition 56 (Prop 56) was implemented, increasing the excise tax on cigarettes by $2/pack. This study compares the association of Prop 56 with smoking prevalence and smoking intensity across racial/ethnic groups, further examining distinctions across income subgroups within each racial/ethnic group.Aims and Methods: The study used pooled cross-sectional data from the 2012-2018 California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. We examined two outcomes: current smoking prevalence and smoking intensity conditional on current smoking. A two-part econometric model was used to estimate the association of Prop 56 with smoking prevalence and intensity using multiple logistic regression and multiple linear regression, respectively. The two-part model was run separately for all adults (full sample) and each racial/ethnic group. Within each racial/ethnic group, we ran stratified analyses by income subgroups.Results: The results indicated that Prop 56 was negatively associated with smoking prevalence among full sample, Hispanic, White, and African American adults and negatively associated with smoking intensity among full sample and White smokers. Stratified analyses by race/ethnicity and income showed that Prop 56 was negatively associated with smoking prevalence among low-income full sample and White adults and among middle-income smokers in the full, Hispanic, White, African American, and Asian samples. Prop 56 was negatively associated with smoking intensity among middle-income Hispanic and high-income White smokers. The association between Prop 56 and smoking intensity was positive among high-income African American smokers.Conclusion: Prop 56 was associated with a reduction in smoking prevalence across multiple racial/ethnic groups, particularly within the low- and middle-income subgroups.Implications: Our findings indicate that the reduction in smoking prevalence immediately following the implementation of Prop 56 tobacco tax increase was significant across a variety racial/ethnic groups, particularly low- and middle-income subgroups. We found differential responses in smoking prevalence across income groups among Whites but not among racial/ethnic minorities. We found no evidence of any significance association between Proposition 56 and smoking intensity among minorities and economically vulnerable populations, except for middle-income Hispanics. Researchers, policy makers, and advocates should consider the additional merits of targeted, community-based, noneconomic tobacco control interventions in reaching low- and middle-income groups within racial/ethnic minorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Non‐Hispanic African Americans (African Americans) smoke fewer cigarettes per day (CPD) and are more likely to be non‐daily smokers than non‐Hispanic whites (whites). Little is known about how changes in cigarette prices might contribute to these differences. This study aimed to measure the price‐responsiveness of smoking participation, non‐daily smoking among current smokers and smoking intensity among daily or non‐daily smokers for African Americans and compare the price‐responsiveness estimates with those for whites. Design Analysis of data from the 2009–14 National Adult Tobacco Surveys and cigarette price data from the Tax Burden on Tobacco report. Setting: United States. Participants: A total of 19 232 African American and 197 939 white adults aged 18+. Measurements We used a three‐part econometric model of cigarette demand to estimate the price‐responsiveness of smoking participation, daily versus non‐daily smoking and smoking intensity. The model controlled for secular variation, state‐level anti‐smoking sentiment and smoke‐free air laws and socio‐demographics. Findings In 2009–14, 20.2% of African Americans and 17.7% of whites identified as current smokers; 70.2% of African American smokers and 81.4% of white smokers smoked daily. The price elasticity of smoking participation was significant for whites at −0.16 [95% confidence interval (CI) = –0.23, –0.09], indicating that a 10% increase in prices would reduce smoking participation by 1.6%, but not statistically significant for African Americans, and this racial/ethnic differential price responsiveness was not statistically significant. The price elasticity of smoking intensity was statistically significant for African American daily smokers at −0.29 (95% CI = −0.42, –0.16), but not statistically significant for white daily smokers, and this racial/ethnic differential price‐responsiveness was statistically significant. The price elasticity of daily versus non‐daily smoking among current smokers, and the price elasticity of smoking intensity among non‐daily smokers were not statistically significant for either racial/ethnic group. Conclusion: In the United States, cigarette price increases may have stronger effects on decreasing daily smokers' consumption among African Americans than among non‐Hispanic whites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the Measurement in Nursing Research. Topics discussed include quantitative research examines associations between research variables as measured through numerical analysis, where study effects (outcomes) are analyzed using statistical technique; and Qualitative research explores research questions through an analysis of nonnumerical data sources and reports outcomes as themes or concepts that describe a phenomenon or experience.

The article focuses on how nurses need to know about types of probability and nonprobability sampling. Topics include the researchers attempt to align the study sample with the target population on as many characteristics as possible, and the methodology influences how well the study represents the target population, and thereby affects the generalizability of the study.

Introduction: This study examined the effects of cigarette price on intention to quit, quit attempts, and successful cessation among African American smokers in the United States and explored whether price effects differed by income level and menthol use status. Price effects were further compared to White counterparts.Methods: We used pooled cross-sectional data from 2006 to 2007 and 2010 to 2011 Tobacco Use Supplements to the Current Population Survey to analyze 4213 African American recent active smokers. Three dependent variables were examined: any quit attempts in the past 12 months, successful cessation for at least 3 months, and intention to quit in the next 6 months. For each dependent variable, separate multiple logistic regression models were estimated to determine the impact of cigarette prices.Results: There was no indication that price was associated with quit attempts or successful cessation, but price was positively associated with increased odds of intending to quit among African American smokers (p < .001). In contrast, prices were positively associated with intention to quit and quit attempts for White smokers. The association between price and intention to quit was significantly positive for African American low-income and menthol smokers but was not statistically significant for African American high-income and non-menthol smokers. There was no evidence of a price effect on quit attempts and successful cessation for each subgroup of African Americans.Conclusions: Tobacco tax policy alone may not be enough to increase quit attempts or successful cessation among African Americans. Community-based cessation programs tailored toward African American smokers, especially low-income menthol smokers, are needed.Implications: The results revealed that, among African American smokers, particularly among low-income and menthol smoking African American smokers, price appears to be positively associated with intention to quit; nevertheless, this deterrent effect does not appear to translate to actualized quit attempts or successful cessation. Increasing cigarette prices as a standalone policy may not be independently effective in increasing quit attempts and successful cessation within the African American community. Community-based cessation interventions tailored for African Americans are needed to help further translate desired cessation into actualized quit attempts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To compare the association of California Proposition 56 (Prop 56), which increased the cigarette tax by $2 per pack beginning on April 1, 2017, with smoking behavior among low- and high-income adults. Methods. Drawing on a sample of 17 206 low-income and 21 324 high-income adults aged 21 years or older from the 2012 to 2018 California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, we explored 2 outcomes: current smoking prevalence and smoking intensity (average number of cigarettes per day among current smokers). For each income group, we estimated a multivariable logistic regression to analyze the association of Prop 56 with smoking prevalence and a multivariable linear regression to analyze the association of Prop 56 with smoking intensity. Results. Although we observed no association between smoking intensity and Prop 56, we found a statistically significant decline in smoking prevalence among low-income adults following Prop 56. No such association was found among the high-income group. Conclusions. Given that low-income Californians smoke cigarettes at greater rates than those with higher incomes, our results provide evidence that Prop 56 is likely to reduce income disparities in cigarette smoking in California. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Resin-based composites are known to elute leachables that include unincorporated starting materials. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of common dental monomers and initiators on Streptococcus mutans biofilm metabolic activity and biomass. Methods S. mutans biofilms were inoculated in the presence of bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate (BisGMA), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), camphorquinone (CQ), and ethyl 4-(dimethylamino)benzoate (4E) at 0.01 μg/mL up to 500 μg/mL, depending on the aqueous solubility of each chemical. Biofilms were evaluated at 4 h and 24 h for pH ( n = 3–8), biomass via crystal violet ( n = 12), metabolic activity via tetrazolium salt ( n = 12), and membrane permeability for selected concentrations via confocal microscopy ( n = 6). Parametric and non-parametric statistics were applied. Results 500 μg/mL TEGDMA reduced 24 h metabolic activity but not biomass, similar to prior results with leachables from undercured BisGMA-TEGDMA polymers. 50 μg/mL BisGMA reduced biofilm biomass and activity, slightly delayed the pH drop, and decreased the number of cells with intact membranes. 100 μg/mL CQ delayed the pH drop and metabolic activity at 4 h but then significantly increased the 24 h metabolic activity. 4E had no effect up to 10 μg/mL. Significance Monomers and initiators that leach from resin composites affect oral bacterial biofilm growth in opposite ways. Leachables, which can be released for extended periods of time, have the potential to alter oral biofilm biomass and activity and should be considered in developing and evaluating new dental materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Editor's note: This is the 19th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to be used as a resource for nurses to understand the concepts and principles essential to research. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Editor's note: This is the 18th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to be used as a resource for nurses to understand the concepts and principles essential to research. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Previous research quantifying the relationship between tobacco use and food insecurity has focused on cigarette smoking. E-cigarette use has become popular in recent years. Drawing on large, population-based survey data, this study augments the previous research, considering the association of e-cigarette use with food insecurity among low-income adults., Methods: We analysed data from the California Health Interview Survey in 2014-2019. The study sample consisted of 25 948 respondents aged 18-64 who lived in low-income (<200% of the Federal Poverty Level) households. Multivariable logistic regression models were estimated to examine the associations of e-cigarette use as well as dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes with food insecurity., Results: Of California low-income adults, 6.4% identified as current e-cigarette users (3.0% dual users of e-cigarettes and cigarettes, and 3.4% sole e-cigarette users) and 43.0% reported food insecurity. After controlling for confounding factors, food insecurity was significantly more likely to be reported among current e-cigarette users (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.67; 95% CI 1.25 to 2.23) compared with never e-cigarette users, and among dual users (AOR=2.21; 95% CI 1.63 to 3.00), current sole e-cigarette users (AOR=1.66; 95% CI 1.15 to 2.40), and current sole cigarette smokers (AOR=1.46; 95% CI 1.22 to 1.76) compared with never tobacco users. The odds of food insecurity among dual users were significantly greater than sole cigarette smokers but not statistically different from sole e-cigarette users., Conclusions: Using e-cigarette is an associated risk factor for food insecurity among low-income adults. Dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes has a significantly greater risk of food insecurity compared with smoking cigarettes alone., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2023. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Editor's note: This is the 16th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to be used as a resource for nurses to understand the concepts and principles essential to research. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Editor's note: This is the 15th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to be used as a resource for nurses to understand the concepts and principles essential to research. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Editor's note: This is the 11th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the authors. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204., (Copyright © 2022 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Editor's note: This is the fourth article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the authors. To see all the articles in the series, go to http://links.lww.com/AJN/A204., (Copyright © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Editor's note: This is the third article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice-from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the author., (Copyright © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the impact of cigarette prices on adult smoking for four US racial/ethnic groups: whites, African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics., Methods: We analysed pooled cross-sectional data from the 2006/2007 and 2010/2011 Tobacco Use Supplement to the Current Population Survey (n=339 921 adults aged 18+) and cigarette price data from the Tax Burden on Tobacco. Using a two-part econometric model of cigarette demand that controlled for sociodemographic characteristics, state-level antismoking sentiment, local-level smoke-free air laws and monthly indicator, we estimated for each racial/ethnic group the price elasticities of smoking participation, smoking intensity and total demand for cigarettes., Results: Smoking prevalence for whites, African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics during the study period was 18.3%, 16.1%, 8.2% and 11.3%, respectively. The price elasticity of smoking participation was statistically significant for whites, African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics at -0.26, -0.10, -0.42 and -0.11, respectively. The price elasticity of smoking intensity was statistically significant among whites (-0.22) and African-Americans (-0.17). Overall, the total price elasticity of cigarette demand was statistically significant for all racial/ethnic groups: 0.48 for whites, -0.27 for African-Americans, -0.22 for Asians and -0.15 for Hispanics., Conclusions: Our results suggest that raising cigarette prices, such as via tobacco tax increases, would result in reduced cigarette consumption for all racial/ethnic groups. The magnitude of the effect and the impact on cessation and reduced smoking intensity differ across these groups., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.)