bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PLASMA METABOLOMICS OF VIGOR TO FRAILTY AMONG OLDER BLACK AND WHITE MEN AND WOMEN
Authors: Marron Megan , Yao Shanshan , Shah Ravi , Murthy Venkatesh , Newman Anne
Published: December 2023

Older women and Black individuals are more likely to experience frailty. Metabolomics can provide a metabolic characterization of frailty that can help inform more effective interventions aimed at improving health, reducing disparities, and preventing frailty with aging. We sought to identify metabolites and pathways associated with vigor to frailty and determine whether these associations differed by gender and/or race among N=2189 older Black and White men and women from the Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) study. Fasting plasma metabolites were measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Vigor to frailty was based on weight change, physical activity, gait speed, grip strength, and energy level. We used linear regression of a single metabolite on vigor to frailty, adjusting for age, gender, race, study site, and multiple comparisons using a Bonferroni correction. Among 500 metabolites, 113 were associated with vigor to frailty (p< 0.0001). Associations between metabolites and vigor to frailty did not differ significantly by race and/or gender. Lower amino acids, glycerophospholipids, & sphingolipids and higher acylcarnitines, fatty acids, amino acid derivatives, carboximidic acids, benzenoids, nucleosides, organoheterocyclic compounds, carbohydrates, and trimethylamine oxide were associated with frailer scores. Pathway analyses identified the citrate cycle (p=0.00005), where higher levels of measured metabolites involved in the citrate cycle were associated with frailer scores. Daily calories and protein intake did not differ by vigor to frailty. Frailer Health ABC participants may have lower utilization of energy pathways, potentially a result of less efficient utilization of similar amounts of nutrients and energy demand than more vigorous participants.
IMPROVING COGNITIVE DECLINE FOR PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: A RCT ART THERAPY BASED ON THE ETC FRAMEWORK
Authors: Jeon Heesu J
Published: December 2023

Abstract This randomized controlled trial explored the impact of Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC)-based art therapy interventions for older adults with dementia living in a complex care home. The trial examined the efficacy of 10 art therapy intervention sessions over 4 months, comparing results with an active control group that participated in 10 art sessions. Pre- and post-assessments, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clock Drawing Test (CDT), and the Older People’s Quality of Life (OPQOL-Brief) questionnaires, were conducted. Results demonstrated that participants displayed similar visual expression elements, shared preferences for specific media types, and equivalent ETC-based intervention entry levels. In addition, participants in the experimental group showed significant increases in OPQOL-Brief scores. Finally, MMSE-Language scores demonstrated statistically significant increases in the experimental group and a decrease in the control group. The current study aligns with previous research demonstrating that art therapy can improve cognitive functioning and enhance the quality of life in older adults living with dementia. It expands on previous research by providing new insights into expressive and stylistic elements, ETC entry-level, and media preferences for engaging in artmaking. Keywords: Art therapy, dementia, older adults, Expressive Therapies Continuum, cognitive functioning, quality of life
REVOLUTIONIZING DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT: EFFECTS OF AN APP ENABLING PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA TO LEAD ACTIVITIES FOR PEERS
Authors: Skrajner Michael , Gorzelle Gregg , Zeisel John , Walker Drew
Published: December 2023

A Cluster Randomized Trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of an app that enables long-term care (LTC) residents with early-stage dementia to lead activities for their peers—i.e., other persons living with dementia (PLWD). A total of 72 PLWD completed the study, including 35 Control Group PLWD (Standard Programming) and 37 Experimental Group PLWD (Resident-Led Programming). Resident-Leaders exhibited 99% overall adherence to the steps required to lead activities and required minimal help from staff. A series of repeated measures ANCOVAs, controlling for Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, were conducted to examine proximal (immediate) and distal (longer-term) effects of the intervention. Regarding proximal effects, there were significantly greater increases from baseline to treatment in Constructive Engagement (p<.01), Passive Engagement (p<.01), and Pleasure (p<.01), as well as significantly greater decreases in Distracted Engagement (p<.01) and Passive Engagement (p<.01), for the Experimental Group, as compared to the Control Group. Regarding distal effects, there were no significant differences between trends observed by Control and Experimental Group residents from baseline to post-treatment for neuropsychiatric symptoms, agitation, depression, or quality of life. However, for a subsample of the Experimental Group (PLWD who resided in Assisted Living), there was a significant decrease in depressive symptoms (p<.05) and increase in quality of life (p<.01). Data suggest that this is a highly engaging intervention that enables PLWD to lead activities for their peers. The intervention has its greatest impact during the session, when positive forms of engagement/affect are increased, and negative forms of engagement are decreased.
THROUGH THEIR LENS: A PHOTOVOICE STUDY OF OLDER ADULTS’ EXPERIENCES OF ACCESSIBILITY AND AGING IN COMMUNITY
Authors: Lee Yeonjung , Migrino Lauren , Deloria Rochelle , Robertson Kurt
Published: December 2023

The objective of this research is to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of older adults in relation to aging in community and accessibility to social, physical, and community resources. Photovoice was used as the methodology for this study so that older adults could take pictures of people, places or things that might shed light on what is most important to them and their experiences of accessibility and aging in their respective community. Findings present qualitative themes with thirteen older adults in seven neighbourhoods in Calgary, Canada including planning for the future; convenient access to resources and services; importance of ethno-cultural supports and diversity; affordability; and importance of cultivating connection. These themes demonstrate that aging in place requires older adults to proactively anticipate and plan for the aging process. Moreover, aging in community for older adults means having access to physical resources that are convenient and in close proximity. Additionally, improving access to ethno-cultural resources and language supports enhances older adults’ sense of safety and belonging. Older adults highlight an importance of having a diverse group of community members encompassing different ages, ethno-cultural backgrounds, and ability levels. Affordable resources and supports are essential for older adults to maintain a fulfilling and independent lifestyle within their built and social environments. Lastly, older adults seek social connection and belonging, but limited access to social supports can lead to social isolation and disconnection from their community.
ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING RECOVERY IN HOME HEALTH PATIENTS WITH DIABETES
Authors: Webster-Dekker Katelyn , Lu Yvonne , Perkins Susan , Ellis Jennifer , Otis Laurie , Winton Rebecca , Hacker Eileen
Published: December 2023

Older adults with diabetes are at high risk for impairments in their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Home health (HH) services help patients regain their ability to perform ADLs after being hospitalized, but there may be disparities in degree of ADL improvement based on characteristics such as race/ethnicity. We aimed to identify factors associated with improvements in ADLs from the start of HH care to discharge in older adult (age ≥65) patients with diabetes receiving HH. This secondary analysis used Outcome and Assessment Information Set-D data collected between October 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022 in the Southern U.S by a HH agency. We used multiple linear regression to examine factors associated with improvement in ADL performance. The sample (n=1350) was 55% female and 76% White, with a mean age of 76.3 (SD 7.3). Ninety-seven percent of patients improved their ADL score from start of HH care to discharge. Black/African American race (b= -0.33) and having bowel incontinence or an ostomy (b= -0.51) were associated with less ADL improvement. Having a caregiver who needed training/support (b= 0.44) or was unlikely to provide assistance (b= 0.78), the presence of a surgical wound (b= 0.52), pain that interfered with activity (b= 0.46), confusion (b= 0.30), and better scores in prior functioning (b= 0.13) at the start of HH were associated with greater improvement in ADLs upon discharge from HH. These findings require further investigation, but indicate Black patients experienced disparities in ADL improvement which should be addressed.
RACIAL/ETHNIC DISPARITIES IN MARITAL STATUS AND LIVING ARRANGEMENT TRANSITIONS AMONG US OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Wang Xueqing , Zhang Xuezhixing , Zang Emma
Published: December 2023

US older adults’ family life, including marital status and living arrangement, has become increasingly complex and diverse in recent decades. However, there is limited understanding of the average duration each racial/ethnic group typically spends in different marital statuses and living arrangements during older ages. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study 1992-2018, this research note investigates the racial/ethnic differences in the expected years to be spent at age 50 in each of the marital statuses (i.e., married, divorced, widowed, and never married) and living arrangements (i.e., living alone, living with spouse, living with non-spouses only, and nursing home. At age 50, Whites spend significantly more time married compared to Blacks and Hispanics, primarily due to the latter spending longer years divorced or never-married. Regarding living arrangements, Whites also spend notably more time living with spouse than Blacks and Hispanics, with the latter spending more time living only with non-spouses. These findings suggest that Whites have a distinct advantage in maintaining a stable, two-person family structure in late adulthood, while Blacks and Hispanics are more likely to spend their later years without their spouses. These patterns have broad implications for understanding persistent social inequality in late adulthood.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FINANCIAL HARDSHIP AND MARKERS OF INFLAMMATION AMONG CANCER SURVIVORS
Authors: Surachman Agus , Yao Jingxin , DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann , Juon Hee-Soon
Published: December 2023

This study examined the cross-sectional association between financial hardship and inflammation markers among cancer survivors. Furthermore, we tested if financial hardship mediated the link between education and inflammation. We used data from 304 cancer survivors (Ages = 32-90, 51% female, 81% non-Hispanic white) in the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) wave 3 and Refresher Biomarker studies. Financial hardship was based on three domains: material (e.g., lower income to poverty line ratio), psychosocial (e.g., difficult paying bills), and behavioral (e.g., cut back on spending). We included interleukin-6 (IL-6) and c-reactive protein (CRP) as inflammation markers. Analyses were adjusted for confounders, including age, race/ethnicity, sex, marital status, body mass index (BMI), and smoking status. Analysis was conducted using the structural equation model framework. The second-order measurement model of financial hardship with three domains (material, psychosocial, and behavioral) in the first order showed a satisfactory model fit. Higher financial hardship was significantly associated with elevated CRP (Est = 0.14, SE = 0.06, p < .01) but not IL-6 (Est = -0.07, SE = 0.05, p = .13). Furthermore, financial hardship partially mediated the association between education and CRP (indirect effect: Est = -0.03, SE = 0.02, p < .05). Inflammation is a major biological pathway associated with socioeconomic disparities in long-term chronic health conditions among cancer survivors. Explicating socioeconomic conditions contributing to this disease process beyond traditional socioeconomic indicators are critical to identifying potential intervention areas to narrow the disparities.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CYSTATIN C- AND CREATININE-BASED EGFR AND ASSOCIATIONS WITH COGNITION IN THE CHS
Authors: Miller Lindsay , Potok O , Rifkin Dena , Longstreth William , Lopez Oscar , Ix Joachim
Published: December 2023

The difference (eGFRDiff) between cystatin C-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcys) and creatinine based eGFR (eGFRcr) has been shown to be associated with frailty and mortality, but its association with cognition is unclear. Among 4,764 adults aged ≥ 65 from the Cardiovascular Health Study, we analyzed eGFRDiff per 1-SD lower (18.6 mL/min/1.73m2). Cognitive function was evaluated annually using the Modified Mini Mental State Exam (3MS; range 0-100), and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST; range 0-90); higher scores mean better performance. We used linear regression for cross-sectional analyses, and mixed models for longitudinal analyses adjusted for demographic and clinical variables. The mean age was 72.2 ±, the mean eGFRDiff was 0.64, and mean follow-up was 4.4 ± years. eGFRDiff was not associated with 3MS at baseline. Each SD lower eGFRDiff at baseline was associated with a 0.82 [95% CI: -1.22, -0.42] lower DSST score. In longitudinal analyses each SD lower eGFRDiff was associated with a significant 0.06 [95% CI: -0.11, -0.01] faster decline in 3MS scores and a 0.04 [95% CI: -0.08, -0.01] faster decline in DSST scores over time. In older adults, we found that lower eGFRDiff was associated with lower cognitive scores at baseline, and associated with more rapid decline over time. This suggests that eGFRDiff could be used clinically as a laboratory-based screen to identify older adults in need for cognitive assessment.
PREDICTORS OF PHYSICAL FUNCTION DECLINE AMONG OLDER ADULTS RECEIVING HOME CARE NURSING: PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Yasaka Taisuke , Igarashi Ayumi , Fukui Chie , Inagaki Asa , Sumikawa Yuka , Takaoka Manami , Eltaybani Sameh , Yamamoto-Mitani Noriko
Published: December 2023

Older adults receiving home care nursing have certain health conditions and face continuous risk of declining physical functions. Identifying those at risk of functional decline based on these factors is essential for developing appropriate strategies for maintaining their conditions. This prospective cohort study in home care nursing agencies across Japan examined ADL decline incidence and its factors among clients aged ≥75. Data were collected from nurses in charge of clients using online questionnaires. Functional status was evaluated using the ADL Hierarchy (ADLH) score, ranging from 0 (independent) to 6 (dependent). A binary logistic regression examined the relationships between clients’ characteristics at baseline and ADLH score deterioration after 6 months, controlling for ADLH score at the baseline. Of the 715 clients analyzed, 31% had deteriorated ADLH scores between baseline and 6 months later. Older age (Adjusted odds ratio 1.04 [95% confidence interval 1.01–1.07]), having neurology diseases (2.23 [1.06–4.69]), use of home visiting physicians (1.54 [1.04–2.27]), falls with/without trauma in the previous 6 months (2.77 [1.41–5.44], 1.90 [1.11–3.25]), higher ADLH score at baseline (1.35 [1.18–1.56]), higher severity of dementia (1.23 [1.02–1.47]), occurring dyspnea in the previous 30 days (1.69 [1.05–2.71]), and having BMI lower than 18.5 (between 25 and 30 as a reference) (2.58 [1.12–5.94]) were associated with ADLH score deteriorations. The results suggest that inhibiting functional decline among older adults receiving home care nursing might be possible by optimizing the management of modifiable predictors such as frequent falls, dyspnea, and weight loss.
EPIDEMIOLOGY OF FALLS AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN THE COMMUNITY FROM THE HEALTH AND RETIREMENT STUDY
Authors: Quach Lien , Dugan Elizabeth , Nguyen Uyen-Sa , Burr Jeffrey
Published: December 2023

Many older adults experience falls that lead to adverse health consequences. The primary objective of this study is to estimate the associations between risk factors of falls and actual falls. The second objective is to identify whether race modifies these relationships. Panel data from the Health and Retirement Study from 2006-2012 were analyzed. The total sample size of community-dwelling adults age 65+ was 22,153, and respondents were observed at different time points. Independent variables included physiological characteristics and health, lifestyle indicators, social environment, and socio-economic status. At each time point, the outcome was the number of falls reported in the two years prior to the interview. Generalized Estimating Equations for negative binomial regression models adjusted for repeated measures were performed. The mean age of participants in 2006 was 74, and 38% experienced at least one fall every two years. For each additional chronic health condition, the fall risk increased by 13%. Vision impairment increased fall risk by 21%. Conversely, higher cognitive function was correlated with a 3% reduction in fall risk. Every unit increase in ADL limitations escalated fall risk by 17%. Loneliness increased fall risk by 12%. Both vigorous (12%) and moderate (13%) physical activities were linked to a decrease in fall risk. Notably, minority racial group status modified the interplay between loneliness and falls and also bolstered the relationship between vision impairment and fall frequency. Tailoring fall prevention programs to racial and ethnic minority older adults is essential to reduce health disparities at the population level.
USING COLLECTIVE IMPACT TO ASSESS HOME AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES WORKER TRAINING AND CREDENTIALING
Authors: Lane Sandi , Basrai Zavera , Yoon Caroline , Farnham Trish , Scales Kezia , Carson Erin , Boucher Nathan
Published: December 2023

Older adults and people living with disabilities receive home- and community-based services (HCBS) from approximately 120,000 often poorly paid and inadequately supported direct care workers in North Carolina (NC). The demand for these workers is increasing rapidly, with NC projected to add almost 23,000 new direct care jobs from 2020 to 2030. With the goal of optimizing the workforce pipeline to prepare for the high need for HCBS across NC, we conducted a Medicaid-funded landscape analysis of direct care training/credentialing using Collective Impact (CI). CI is used for diverse collaborations through forming a common agenda, shared measurement, mutually reinforcing activities, continuous communication, and “backbone” support (dedicated coordination team). Engaging with lived experiences is crucial in CI as it leads to sustainable decision-making informed by those affected by policy change. With input from long-term services and support agencies, licensing bodies, advocates, and those with lived experience, we characterized NC HCBS training/credentialing landscape, generating a first-of-its-kind comprehensive crosswalk resource for the state. Findings reveal the complexity of training/requirements, limited portability, lack of flexibility, and a need for more person-centered and relational core competencies. In addition, funding and incentives for additional training are lacking, which limits opportunities for professional development and career advancement. CI is an effective method to analyze direct care worker training/credentialing, it allowing researchers to harness the wisdom of community partners and incorporate lived experiences of the people most impacted by potential policy changes - workers, HCBS recipients, and families.
A TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTED FALL PREVENTION INTERVENTION FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Demiris George , Hodgson Nancy , Richmond Therese , Skubic Marjorie , Sefcik Justine , Harrison Sean
Published: December 2023

Falls and fall-related injuries are significant public health issues for adults 65 years of age and older. Over a third of older adults (OA) fall each year and 10-20% of falls result in serious injuries. Cognitive impairment has been identified as a leading risk factor with over 60% of OA living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) falling annually. Housing conditions are also a risk factor for falls. We have developed Sense4Safety, a technology-enhanced intervention that includes multiple components: 1) in-home assessment and action; 2) education and regular communication with a coach; 3) passive monitoring facilitated by depth sensors in the home; and 4) alerts. The goal of this study was to access the feasibility of Sense4Safety and its acceptability. We recruited 10 low-income OA with MCI; each participant received the intervention for 3 months. All participants completed all study procedures. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores which provide an objective assessment of lower extremity functioning based on clinical experts’ observation showed high correlation to the sensor system assessment (r=0.94, p< 0.01). Two fall alerts were generated during the study period that triggered a timely response. Participants and their family members found the intervention to provide peace of mind and empower OA to proactively address changes in fall risk through exercise and home modifications. The combination of passive sensing and personalized coaching offers an innovative ecological approach to continuously assess functional mobility and gait in the home and captures changes that provide an early warning for fall risk.
ADVANCING TECHNOLOGY OF A GROUP MUSIC INTERVENTION FOR PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA: FINDINGS FORM A FOCUS GROUP STUDY
Authors: Orsulic-Jeras Silvia , Gorzelle Gregg , Skrajner Michael , Powers Sara , Nicolay Sarah
Published: December 2023

The benefits of using music to engage persons living with dementia (PLWD) are widely reported in the literature Music can elicit memories and positive feelings as well as decrease anxiety and agitation in PLWD. Moreover, conducting music interventions in a group setting has been shown to increase social interaction, produce positive mood, and promote feelings of belonging. This paper discusses the adaptation and technological development of a group music intervention for persons living in the mild to moderate stages of dementia, Making Connections through Music (MCTM). Originally, MCTM was comprised of 6 individually themed sessions containing songs and corresponding discussion prompts; materials such as handheld instruments, photos, and props were used to elicit engagement and increase socialization among group members. Session leaders, older adult volunteers, were trained to provide the experience by offering the necessary structure and support PLWD need for successful participation. This paper will focus on the technological adaptation of the original MCTM intervention. Prototypes of a tablet application and online training course for volunteers were evaluated across seven focus groups with LTC staff (n=25) and older adult volunteers (n=25). Results from focus groups demonstrated 95% of volunteers and 100% of staff were satisfied with both the tablet app and training course. Acceptability and feasibility findings will be presented. Discussion also will highlight the implementation of this program within senior centers, adult day, and residential care as well as next steps in technological advancement of this intervention and associated training.
NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS’ INFLUENCE ON RESPONSIVE BEHAVIOUR, WORK-RELATED STRESS, BURNOUT, AND TURNOVER INTENTION
Authors: Chi Peggy , Wagg Adrian , Verderber Stephen , Falenchuk Olesya , Berta Whitney
Published: December 2023

Natural environments in healthcare design are thought to promote health. However, its empirical research in long-term care (LTC) has been limited; the degree of rigor is mixed, focusing on older adults with little research on professional caregivers. This study examined the relationships between the natural environment and the mental health and well-being of older adults 65+ living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (residents) and of their professional caregivers in LTC homes using a rigorously developed survey to standardize an approach to the evaluation of natural environments for these population groups. A cross-sectional, multiphase mixed method study was conducted that included a scoping review (n=137), a Delphi panel (n=24 experts), cognitive debriefing interviews (n=33), psychometric evaluations (n=83 LTC home areas), and multilevel modeling and regression analyses (n=1599 residents; n=563 professional caregivers). A conceptual framework on the natural environment in healthcare was developed, which informed the development of the Natural Environment Survey for Long-Term Care. This survey evaluates 1) the design of natural environments, 2) residents’ usage of and exposure to natural environments, and 3) professional caregivers’ usage of, exposure to, and perception of natural environments. Unlocked doors to outdoor spaces, outdoor activities, and indoor activities were significantly associated with residents’ responsive behavior in secure home areas (i.e., locked access and egress). Usage of and exposure to the natural environment during breaks and leisure were associated with their professional caregivers’ work-related stress, burnout, and turnover intention in secure and non-secure home areas. These findings have potential utility for decision-makers transforming LTC.
THE ASSOCIATION OF AIR POLLUTION AND CLIMATE FACTORS WITH DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG OLDER MEXICAN AMERICAN ADULTS
Authors: Saab Diane , Cantu Phillip , Downer Brian , Markides Kyriakos , Milani Sadaf
Published: December 2023

Air pollution, drought, and extreme heat are associated with elevated depressive symptoms. Older Mexican American adults experience high levels of depressive symptoms compared to other demographic groups, but little is known about the role of environmental factors in depressive symptoms for this population. Mexican American adults are resilient to the harmful health effects of socioeconomic disadvantage, but it is unclear if this resilience extends to air pollution and climate change. This study uses data from the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly (H-EPESE) linked to air pollution and climate data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to assess the association of air pollution (PM2.5 and ozone) and climate factors (drought and extreme heat) with elevated depressive symptoms. We used data from the 2005 H-EPESE which includes Mexican American adults aged 75 and older. We used generalized estimation equations to test the association between air pollution and climate factors and depressive symptoms, adjusting for sociodemographic and health characteristics. Our sample (n=1,699) was 62.0% female with a mean age of 81.6 (standard deviation: 5.0). About 19% of participants reported elevated depressive symptoms. PM2.5 concentration was associated with higher odds of depressive symptoms (odds ratio: 1.11; 95% confidence interval: 1.04, 1.19). Ozone concentration, drought, and extreme heat were not associated with depressive symptoms. Our results suggest PM2.5 is a risk factor for elevated depressive symptoms. It is unclear if older Mexican American adults are resilient to the effects of environmental risk factors relative to other demographic groups.
A MECHANISM OF ACTION OF HUMAN-ORIGIN PROBIOTIC COCKTAIL IN ATTENUATING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE PATHOLOGY
Authors: Prajapati Santosh Kumar , Wang Shaohua , Mishra Sidharth , Jain Shalini , Yadav Hariom
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a detrimental public health problem affecting millions of older adults in the USA alone, with no or limited treatment options. Emerging evidence indicates the pivotal role of gut microbiota in AD pathology, but mechanisms remain largely unknown. Also, microbiome modulators like probiotics are proven beneficial in preventing AD with little understanding of their mechanisms. Therefore, we investigated how a microbiota metabolite-short-chain free fatty acid receptor-2 (FFAR2) signaling in the intestine affects AD pathology in brain using intestinal FFAR2 knock-out APP/PS-1 mice; as well as determined if a human-origin-probiotic cocktail exhibits its actions via FFAR2 signaling. We measured changes in the microbiome, permeability in gut and blood-brain barriers (BBB), neuroinflammation, AD pathology, and cognitive behaviors. Results showed, the mice lacking FFAR2 in their intestine exacerbated AD pathology by developing abnormal changes in gut microbiome and intestinal permeability, which in turn promotes permeability in BBB and neuroinflammation. It’s also promoting microglia activation linked with increased Aβ accumulation and cognitive decline. It’s interesting to note that probiotic cocktail feeding reversed these abnormalities in AD mouse models. Further, this probiotic cocktail showed its mechanism in both FFAR2-dependent and independent manner. Overall, our findings indicate that the microbiome sensing mechanism FFAR2 signaling participates in regulating the gut-brain in AD pathology, and a human-origin probiotic cocktail improves the abnormal changes in the microbiome-intestinal & BBB permeability-neuroinflammation axis to ameliorate AD pathology. Thus, FFAR2 agonism and probiotic therapy can be viable options to prevent/ delay the risk of AD progression in older adults.
Evaluating the Dyadic Benefits of Early-Phase Behavioral Interventions: An Exemplar Using Data From Couples Living With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Lyons Karen S , Russell Luke T , Bonds Johnson Kalisha , Brewster Glenna S , Carter Julie H , Miller Lyndsey M
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives

There are a growing number of early-phase (i.e., Stage I, NIH Stage Model) interventions targeted at family care dyads navigating chronic health conditions in older adults. Currently, the benefits of these interventions are often evaluated for older adults and their family care partners separately, even when controlling for interdependence. Without understanding the benefits (and potential harms) for dyads as a whole, understanding of program impact is incomplete. Moreover, few health behavior interventions involving dyads include relational measures to ensure no unintended consequences for the dyad or account for within-dyad pretest risk level.

Research Design and Methods

We used secondary data from a quasi-experimental trial involving 39 couples in which 1 member of the dyad was living with Parkinson’s disease as an exemplar demonstration of 3 proposed approaches: an above-zero approach, a pretest risk status approach, and an expanded pattern analysis matrix approach.

Results

Approaches provided evidence for dyadic benefits of the intervention compared to the wait-list comparison condition, but carried different assumptions that did not always categorize dyads similarly.

Discussion and Implications

Implications of using each approach and selecting different benchmarks for defining success are discussed. The descriptive approaches proposed, provide a rationale for more intentional evaluation of small-sample, early-phase dyadic interventions.
Rigidity, Tensegrity, and Reconstruction of Polytopes Under Metric Constraints
Authors: Winter Martin
Published: December 2023

We conjecture that a convex polytope is uniquely determined up to isometry by its edge-graph, edge lengths and the collection of distances of its vertices to some arbitrary interior point, across all dimensions and all combinatorial types. We conjecture even stronger that for two polytopes $P\subset {\mathbb {R}}^{d}$ and $Q\subset {\mathbb {R}}^{e}$ with the same edge-graph it is not possible that $Q$ has longer edges than $P$ while also having smaller vertex-point distances. We develop techniques to attack these questions and we verify them in three relevant special cases: $P$ and $Q$ are centrally symmetric, $Q$ is a slight perturbation of $P$, and $P$ and $Q$ are combinatorially equivalent. In the first two cases the statements stay true if we replace $Q$ by some graph embedding $q:V(G_{P})\to {\mathbb {R}}^{e}$ of the edge-graph $G_{P}$ of $P$, which can be interpreted as local resp. universal rigidity of certain tensegrity frameworks. We also establish that a polytope is uniquely determined up to affine equivalence by its edge-graph, edge lengths and the Wachspress coordinates of an arbitrary interior point. We close with a broad overview of related and subsequent questions.
Concomitant Administration of Ad26.RSV.preF/RSV preF Protein Vaccine and High-Dose Influenza Vaccine in Adults 65 Years and Older: A Noninferiority Trial
Authors: Widagdo Widagdo , Bastian Arangassery Rosemary , Jastorff Archana M , Scheys Ilse , De Paepe Els , Comeaux Christy A , Ligtenberg Nynke , Callendret Benoit , Heijnen Esther
Published: December 2023

Background

Since influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) carry significant burden in older adults with overlapping seasonality, vaccines for both pathogens would ideally be coadministered in this population. Here we evaluate the immunogenicity and safety of concomitant administration of Ad26.RSV.preF/RSV preF protein and high-dose seasonal influenza vaccine (Fluzone-HD) in adults ≥65 years old.

Methods

Participants were randomized 1:1 to the Coadministration or Control group. The Coadministration group received concomitant Ad26.RSV.preF/RSV preF protein and Fluzone-HD on day 1 and placebo on day 29, while the Control group received Fluzone-HD and placebo on day 1 and Ad26.RSV.preF/RSV preF protein on day 29. Influenza hemagglutination-inhibiting and RSV preF–binding antibody titers were measured postvaccination and tested for noninferiority between both groups. Safety data were collected throughout the study and analyzed descriptively.

Results

Coadministered Ad26.RSV.preF/RSV preF protein and Fluzone-HD vaccines induced noninferior immune responses compared to each vaccine administered alone. Seroconversion and seroprotection rates against influenza were similar between groups. Both vaccines remained well tolerated upon concomitant administration.

Conclusions

Coadministration of Ad26.RSV.preF/RSV preF protein and Fluzone-HD showed an acceptable safety profile and did not hamper the immunogenicity of either vaccine, thus supporting that both vaccines can be concomitantly administered in adults ≥65 years old.
Episodic Cost of Lower Respiratory Tract Illness due to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Among US Infants During the First Year of Life
Authors: Averin Ahuva , Law Amy , Shea Kimberly , Atwood Mark , Munjal Iona , Weycker Derek
Published: December 2023

A study of 2 health care claims databases (commercial, Medicaid) was undertaken to estimate the episodic cost of lower respiratory tract illness due to respiratory syncytial virus among infants aged <12 months overall, by age, and by birth gestational age. Among commercial-insured infants, mean costs were $28 812 for hospitalized episodes, $2575 for emergency department episodes, and $336 for outpatient clinic episodes. Costs were highest among infants aged <1 month and infants with a gestational age ≤32 weeks and were comparable among Medicaid-insured infants, albeit somewhat lower. The cost of lower respiratory tract illness due to respiratory syncytial virus during the acute phase of illness is high, especially among the youngest infants and those born premature.
Metatranscriptomic data mining together with microfluidic card uncovered the potential pathogens and seasonal RNA viral ecology in a drinking water source
Authors: Shen Lixin , Zhang Ziqiang , Wang Rui , Wu Shuang , Wang Yongjie , Fu Songzhe
Published: December 2023

Aims

Despite metatranscriptomics becoming an emerging tool for pathogen surveillance, very little is known about the feasibility of this approach for understanding the fate of human-derived pathogens in drinking water sources.

Methods and results

We conducted multiplexed microfluidic cards and metatranscriptomic sequencing of the drinking water source in a border city of North Korea in four seasons. Microfluidic card detected norovirus, hepatitis B virus (HBV), enterovirus, and Vibrio cholerae in the water. Phylogenetic analyses showed that environmental-derived sequences from norovirus GII.17, genotype C of HBV, and coxsackievirus A6 (CA6) were genetically related to the local clinical isolates. Meanwhile, metatranscriptomic assembly suggested that several bacterial pathogens, including Acinetobacter johnsonii and V. cholerae might be prevalent in the studied region. Metatranscriptomic analysis recovered 349 species-level groups with substantial viral diversity without detection of norovirus, HBV, and CA6. Seasonally distinct virus communities were also found. Specifically, 126, 73, 126, and 457 types of viruses were identified in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. The viromes were dominated by the Pisuviricota phylum, including members from Marnaviridae, Dicistroviridae, Luteoviridae, Potyviridae, Picornaviridae, Astroviridae, and Picobirnaviridae families. Further phylogenetic analyses of RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) sequences showed a diverse set of picorna-like viruses associated with shellfish, of which several novel picorna-like viruses were also identified. Additionally, potential animal pathogens, including infectious bronchitis virus, Bat dicibavirus, Bat nodavirus, Bat picornavirus 2, infectious bursal disease virus, and Macrobrachium rosenbergii nodavirus were also identified.

Conclusions

Our data illustrate the divergence between microfluidic cards and metatranscriptomics, highlighting that the combination of both methods facilitates the source tracking of human viruses in challenging settings without sufficient clinical surveillance.
Preliminary comparative genomics analysis among Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii complex necessitates a reassessment of precise species associated with mastitis
Authors: Huang Ying , Song Ming-Hui , Li Shun-Guang , Yu Shen Hong- , Qu Ping-Hua , Zhang Dao-Feng
Published: December 2023

Aims

This study aimed to characterize the first complete genome of Corynebacterium parakroppenstedtii and clarify the evolutionary relationship in the Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii complex (CKC) by using comparative genomics analysis.

Methods and results

The genome of isolate yu01 from a breast specimen was sequenced, and 35 CKC genomes were collected. Analysis of 16S rRNA, rpoB, and fusA suggested ambiguous identification, whereas ANI analysis assigned isolate yu01 as Coryne. parakroppenstedtii. The fourth genospecies “Corynebacterium aliikroppenstedtii” was identified in CKC. Comparative genomics analysis suggested that the genomic arrangement in CKC was highly conserved. A total of 43 potential virulence genes and 79 species-specific genes were detected. Most genome-based phylogenetic analysis were incapable of resolving the interspecific evolutionary relationships among CKCs. A total of 20 core genes were found to be distinguishable in CKC.

Conclusions

This study suggested the limited divergence and unavailability of normal single gene-based identification in CKC and questioned the precise species of strains associated with mastitis, identified as Coryne. kroppenstedtii in previous studies. The 20 genes showed potential to enhance the methods for the identification and epidemiological investigation of CKC.
Revision of the Chinese freshwater crab genus Tenuipotamon Dai, 1990 (Decapoda: Brachyura: Potamidae), with the description of a new genus from southwestern China
Authors: Shi Boyang , Yeo Darren C J , Sun Hongying
Published: December 2023

The taxonomy of the potamiscine freshwater crab genus Tenuipotamon Dai, 1990, which contains seven species, is revised. According to a concurrent molecular phylogenetic study, Tenuipotamon is paraphyletic, and is composed of two lineages. In this study, Tenuipotamon sensu stricto is restricted to its type species, T. purpura Dai, 1990, while a new genus, Pusillamongen. nov., is established to accommodate the remaining six species placed previously in Tenuipotamon sensu stricto (T. baishuiense Chen, 1993, T. huaningense Dai & Bo, 1994, T. panxiense Chen, 1993, T. tonghaiense Chen, 1993, T. xinpingense Chen, 1993, and T. yuxiense Chen, 1993). Diagnoses are provided for the two genera, which are both endemic to the topographically complex Hengduan Mountains Region of southwestern China.
When Language Matters
Authors: Packard Grant , Li Yang , Berger Jonah
Published: December 2023

Text analysis is increasingly used for consumer and marketing insight. But while work has shed light on what firms should say to customers, when to say those things (e.g., within an advertisement or sales interaction) is less clear. Service employees, for example, could adopt a certain speaking style at a conversation's start, end, or throughout. When might specific language features be beneficial? This article introduces a novel approach to address this question. To demonstrate its potential, we apply it to warm and competent language. Prior research suggests that an affective (i.e., warm) speaking approach leads customers to think employees are less competent, so a cognitive (competent) style should be prioritized. In contrast, our theorizing, analysis of hundreds of real service conversations from two firms across thousands of conversational moments (N = 23,958), and four experiments (total N = 1,589) offer a more nuanced perspective. Customers are more satisfied when employees use both cognitive and affective language but at separate, specific times. Ancillary analyses show how this method can be applied to other language features. Taken together, this work offers a method to explore when language matters, sheds new light on the warmth/competence trade-off, and highlights ways to improve the customer experience.
High-throughput field phenotyping reveals that selection in breeding has affected the phenology and temperature response of wheat in the stem elongation phase
Authors: Roth Lukas , Kronenberg Lukas , Aasen Helge , Walter Achim , Hartung Jens , van Eeuwijk Fred , Piepho Hans-Peter , Hund Andreas
Published: December 2023

Crop growth and phenology are driven by seasonal changes in environmental variables, with temperature as one important factor. However, knowledge about genotype-specific temperature response and its influence on phenology is limited. Such information is fundamental to improve crop models and adapt selection strategies. We measured the increase in height of 352 European winter wheat varieties in 4 years to quantify phenology, and fitted an asymptotic temperature response model. The model used hourly fluctuations in temperature to parameterize the base temperature (Tmin), the temperature optimum (rmax), and the steepness (lrc) of growth responses. Our results show that higher Tmin and lrc relate to an earlier start and end of stem elongation. A higher rmax relates to an increased final height. Both final height and rmax decreased for varieties originating from the continental east of Europe towards the maritime west. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) indicated a quantitative inheritance and a large degree of independence among loci. Nevertheless, genomic prediction accuracies (GBLUPs) for Tmin and lrc were low (r≤0.32) compared with other traits (r≥0.59). As well as known, major genes related to vernalization, photoperiod, or dwarfing, the GWAS indicated additional, as yet unknown loci that dominate the temperature response.
The gender pay gap in medicine: evidence from Britain
Authors: Jones Melanie , Kaya Ezgi
Published: December 2023

This study quantifies the drivers of the gender pay gap among medical doctors in the British public sector, both at the mean and across the earnings distribution. We make comparisons to private sector doctors, as well as to other public sector health professionals and find that the substantial 22% hourly gender pay gap among public sector doctors, which is predominately unexplained by personal and work-related characteristics, is far larger than in these comparator occupations. Our evidence suggests sector–occupation-specific drivers of gender pay inequality among public sector doctors, which are particularly pronounced at the top end of the wage distribution.
Primary Canalicular MALT Lymphoma Masquerading as Chronic Canaliculitis
Authors: Reding Monia , Nolan Ryan , Mudie Lucy I. , Shetlar Debra J. , Yen Michael T.
Published: December 2023

A 67-year-old female presented with chronic canaliculitis and underwent canalicular marsupialization. During the procedure, a fleshy mass was found in the canaliculus, which was excised completely and sent to pathology. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of extranodal marginal zone mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. The patient underwent staging with positron emission tomography/CT scan, which did not show any hypermetabolic foci elsewhere in the body, so the patient elected to undergo close observation without further treatment. At 12 months of follow-up, the patient has remained disease-free.
Generating Informed Consent Documents Related to Blepharoplasty Using ChatGPT
Authors: Shiraishi Makoto , Tomioka Yoko , Miyakuni Ami , Moriwaki Yuta , Yang Rui , Oba Jun , Okazaki Mutsumi
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to demonstrate the performance of the popular artificial intelligence (AI) language model, Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) (OpenAI, San Francisco, CA, U.S.A.), in generating the informed consent (IC) document of blepharoplasty.

Methods:

A total of 2 prompts were provided to ChatGPT to generate IC documents. Four board-certified plastic surgeons and 4 nonmedical staff members evaluated the AI-generated IC documents and the original IC document currently used in the clinical setting. They assessed these documents in terms of accuracy, informativeness, and accessibility.

Results:

Among board-certified plastic surgeons, the initial AI-generated IC document scored significantly lower than the original IC document in accuracy (p < 0.001), informativeness (p = 0.005), and accessibility (p = 0.021), while the revised AI-generated IC document scored lower compared with the original document in accuracy (p = 0.03) and accessibility (p = 0.021). Among nonmedical staff members, no statistical significance of 2 AI-generated IC documents was observed compared with the original document in terms of accuracy, informativeness, and accessibility.

Conclusions:

The results showed that current ChatGPT cannot be used as a distinct patient education resource. However, it has the potential to make better IC documents when improving the professional terminology. This AI technology will eventually transform ophthalmic plastic surgery healthcare systematics by enhancing patient education and decision-making via IC documents.