bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE HEALTH-RELATED TASKS PAID CAREGIVERS IN NEW YORK STATE PERFORM IN THE HOME
Authors: Reckrey Jennifer M , Tsui Emma , Morrison R S , Geduldig Emma , Stone Robyn , Ornstein Katherine , Federman Alex
Published: November 2019

Paid caregivers (e.g. home health aides, personal care attendants) are formally tasked with helping older adults with functional impairment meet their basic needs at home. This study used semi-structured interviews (n=30) with dyads of patients or their proxies and their paid caregivers in New York City to 1) understand the range of health-related tasks paid caregivers perform in the home and 2) determine if these tasks are taught in the New York State government’s Department of Health curricula. We found that patients, proxies, and paid caregivers all described that paid caregivers performed a wide range of health-related tasks that were often not a part of their formal training. Creating clear competencies for paid caregivers that reflect the full breadth of health-related tasks they may perform at home will help maximize the potentially positive impact of the paid caregiver workforce on the lives of patients living at home with functional impairment.
DEMENTIA CAREGIVING NEGATIVELY AFFECTS THE HEALTH OF CAREGIVER AND CARE RECIPIENT. CAREGIVING TRANSITIONS STUDY
Authors: Sheehan Orla C , Haley William E , Howard Virginia , Huang Jin , Rhodes J David , Roth David L
Published: November 2019

Dementia is one of the most common reasons for needing a caregiver (CG). Few studies have compared dementia and non-dementia caregivers who have transitioned into family caregiving roles. Participants in the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study who transitioned into a significant caregiving role were recruited to participate in the Caregiving Transitions Study (CTS). Of 11,483 REGARDS participants who were not caregivers at baseline, 1229 (11%) transitioned into a family caregiving role. Eligibility criteria were met by 251 and they were enrolled along with 251 demographically-matched noncaregiving controls. Enrolled caregivers are 65% female; 36% African American; 71.8 + 8.1 years of age; caring for a spouse/partner (51%), parent (25%), or another person (24%). 47% are caring for a person with dementia. Dementia CGs provide more hours of care per day (9.3 hours versus 6.7 hours), report being under more stress and twice as much strain as non-dementia CGs (p<0.03 for all). They feel more burdened by the care recipient’s treatment (p=0.01) and report that the burden leads to delays in the care recipient receiving medical care (p<0.007). Dementia CGs are more than twice as likely as non-caregivers to report that their caregiving makes them worse at taking care of their own health (33.9% versus 15.4%, p=0.003). This prospective, population-based study confirms previous cross-sectional findings from convenience samples on the greater care burden experienced by dementia caregivers and extends this work to new measures of treatment burden and treatment delay.
CONVERGENT AGING LOCI: PATHWAYS THAT TRANSCEND INDIVIDUAL DISEASES
Authors: Pilling Luke C , Ferrucci Luigi , Melzer David
Published: November 2019

Thousands of loci across the genome have been identified for specific diseases in genome-wide association studies (GWAS), yet very few are associated with lifespan itself. We hypothesized that specific biological pathways transcend individual diseases and affect health and lifespan more broadly. Using the published results for the most recent GWAS for 10 key age-related diseases (including coronary artery disease, type-2 diabetes, and several cancers) we identified 22 loci with a strong genetic association with at least three of the diseases. These multi-trait aging loci include known genes affecting multiple diverse health end points, such as CDKN2A/B (9p21.3) and APOE. There are also novel multi-trait genes including SH2B3 and CASC8, likely involved in hallmark pathways of aging biology, including telomere shortening and inflammation. Several of these loci involve trade-offs between chronic disease risk and cancer.
CAUSES OF FRAILTY: GENETIC ANALYSIS IN 164,000 UK BIOBANK PARTICIPANTS
Authors: Atkins Janice , Pilling Luke C , Williams Dylan , Jylhävä Juulia , Melzer David
Published: November 2019

Frailty is an important and common geriatric syndrome, yet the mechanisms are multifactorial and not well understood. The Frailty Index (FI) is based on the Rockwood Index for accumulation of deficits, and we aimed to use genetics to gain mechanistic insights for interventions to prevent and delay frailty in older people. We performed a genomewide association study in 60 to 70 year old UK Biobank participants of European descent (n=164,610). We identified 26 independent genetic signals at 24 loci associated with the FI. Several of these signals have previously been associated with traits such as cardiovascular disease, intelligence, and educational attainment, but 6 of the signals appear to be novel. We will also present the results of ongoing work both to identify causal risk factors for FI using Mendelian randomization methods, and replication and functional follow-up in the TwinGene cohort, at the meeting.
HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATE A REVISE-AND-RESUBMIT DECISION AND HANDLE REJECTIONS
Authors: Carr Deborah
Published: November 2019

Anyone who has ever submitted a manuscript to a peer-review journal has experienced rejection. Rejection can be demoralizing, for emerging and senior scholars alike, but is especially so for those on the job market and tenure-track. This presentation will explain the manuscript review process and suggest strategies for addressing decisions that include: (1) rejection without peer review (desk reject); (2) revise and resubmit invitations; and (3) rejection after peer review. Fixable problems (e.g., editorial, conceptual, minor methodological issues) will be distinguished from non-fixable problems (e.g., small sample size, flawed design). Advice will focus on how to successfully revise and resubmit a manuscript; how to write an effective revision memo; how to develop a “plan B” for a rejected article; and how to manage the emotional sting of rejection.
ASSESSING NUTRITIONAL RISK IN ADULT DAY SERVICES: UTILITY OF THE DETERMINE CHECKLIST
Authors: Jarrott Shannon E
Published: November 2019

Older adults attending adult day services (ADS) often possess risk factors for malnutrition, such as chronic disease, physical disability, and cognitive impairment. We explored the utility of administering to ADS participants the DETERMINE Checklist - a measure of nutritional status. Among eleven participants (M age=77.3 years), 82% (n = 9) presented high nutritional risk. The three most common risk factors were: difficulty shopping, cooking, and/or feeding themselves (100%), making health-related dietary changes (63.7%), and taking three or more daily medications (63.7%). Our preliminary findings indicate that ADS participants may be at moderate-high risk of malnutrition; however, the DETERMINE Checklist may require modification for an ADS population. For example, the checklist may be more reliable if completed jointly by a participant and informal caregiver. We present recommendations for adaptions based on our pilot data as well as implications for ADS staff and clinicians.
BARRIERS TO VILLAGE MEMBERSHIP AMONG MINORITY SENIORS
Authors: Graham Carrie , Tseng Winston
Published: November 2019

Villages are a relatively new consumer-driven model that promotes aging in place for community-dwelling seniors. Villages promote social engagement, civic engagement, member-to-member-support, and collectively bargain for services of their members. Members report improved social support and more confidence aging in their own homes. Currently, there are over 200 operational villages nationwide and the model is proliferating rapidly. Most Villages members are white, well-educated, and well resourced. Researchers at UC Berkeley conducted 6 focus groups with Latino, African American and Asian seniors (N=58) who have not joined Villages in their regions. Focus group findings describe a lack of awareness of the Village model among underrepresented groups; and barriers to membership including the cost of membership, lack of language inclusion, and lack of diversity. The national anti-immigrant discourse emerged as a barrier to membership for non-white seniors. Participants describe how Villages could make programmatic changes to attract a more diverse membership.
UTILIZING PRINCIPLES OF LIFESPAN DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY TO EXAMINE RESILIENCE TO ADVERSITY
Authors: Infurna Frank J
Published: November 2019

Lifespan developmental psychology has many guiding principles. My past, current, and future research has been influenced by the lifespan developmental principles of multidimensionality and multidirectionality and the premise that development is not entirely bound to chronological age, but to historical-, contextual-, non-normative event-, pathology- and mortality-related processes. The first part of my talk will discuss ways I have utilized these principles in my research examining individual’s ability to be resilient to diverse types of adversities (cancer diagnosis, unemployment, and bereavement) and resources they are drawing on to promote more positive outcomes, such as social support. The second part of my talk will focus on future research directions that aim to advance the conceptual and methodological significance of this research. Future directions include explicitly studying individuals in midlife, inclusion of outcomes beyond that of mental health and well-being, such as character strengths, and longitudinal research designs that assess people more frequently.
POLICY SERIES: OLDER AMERICANS ACT: REAUTHORIZATION PROCESS AND OUTCOMES
Authors: Lindberg Brian W , D’Antonio Patricia M
Published: November 2019

The Older Americans Act (OAA) reauthorization looks like the perfect bipartisan bill supporting older adults to move forward in 2019. This session provides an DC-insiders look at the process and outcomes, including analysis of proposed revisions to the law, and the roles of the House, Senate, and the Administration. Key players in the process make up the panel and will share their insights and predications on the Act’s future.
THE AGING NETWORK AND THE OAA REAUTHORIZATION
Authors: Gotwals Amy
Published: November 2019

Area Agencies on Aging and the aging network are the key service organizers and providers across the nation. This session will address the goals of the aging network for the OAA reauthorization and the trends and innovations in community-based service delivery.
PERCEIVED MENTAL FATIGABILITY: NOVEL INSIGHTS INTO SOCIOBEHAVIORAL CORRELATES AND HERITABILITY
Authors: Glynn Nancy W , Simonsick Eleanor M
Published: November 2019

Fatigue, a common patient-reported outcome, is a unique risk factor associated with both cognitive and physical function. Perceived mental fatigability, a self-report measure of cognitive fatigue anchored to activities of fixed intensity and duration, eliminates self-pacing bias, and therefore is a more sensitive measure of the degree to which cognitive tiredness limits activity. Higher perceived mental fatigability has been associated with functional decline and lower grey matter brain volumes in older adults. We developed the Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale (PFS), a self-administered, 10-item tool to assess perceived physical and mental fatigability across a range of activities, which is widely used internationally. We previously validated the PFS physical subscale. Using a large multicenter international cohort, the Long Life Family Study, we will present the validation of the PFS mental subscale, examine its epidemiology, and explore genetic and socio-behavioral factors associated with perceived mental fatigability in older adults. Specifically, Ms. Renner will share the results of the validation of the PFS mental subscale; Ms. Meinhardt will present heritability and prevalence of higher perceived mental fatigability across age strata and sex; and Ms. Gmelin will consider the link between stress and coping styles on perceived mental fatigability. Further, using a smaller methodological study, the Developmental Epidemiologic Cohort Study, Ms. Graves will explore whether diurnal patterns of physical activity using accelerometry differ in older adults with higher versus lower perceived mental fatigability. Dr. Simonisick, our Discussant, will critically review the presentations and share future directions to inform potential interventions aimed at lowering perceived mental fatigability.
EPIGENETIC AND METABOLIC REGULATION OF AGING
Authors: Brunet Anne
Published: November 2019

Aging is accompanied by a decline in the regenerative potential of most tissues. The mammalian brain contains regenerative neurogenic niches composed of neural stem cells (NSCs), neural progenitors, and other cells, including microglia, and endothelial cells. Neurogenic niches become less functional with increasing age. This deterioration could underlie cognitive and sensory restriction with age, although the exact age at which it occurs is still debated in humans. How the neurogenic niche changes during aging, and whether new cell types arise in older individuals, is not known. Our lab has embarked on a global characterization of the neurogenic niche during aging. This work provides a global understanding of the old neurogenic niche and suggests possible cause for NSC decline during aging. Results from these studies could open new avenues to counter age-related decline in the neurogenic niche and brain aging.
THE ROLE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT IN ADVANCE CARE PLANNING AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Gaines Brittany E , Boerner Kathrin , Kim Kyungmin , Moorman Sara
Published: November 2019

Little is known about how environmental context shapes individuals’ advance care planning (ACP). We combined ACP information from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study with county-level characteristics from the Area Health Resource File, Dartmouth Atlas, and US Census. Multilevel logistic regression models showed that local sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., rurality, racial/ethnic makeup, age composition, and prevalence of one-person households) and healthcare characteristics (e.g., number of hospice agencies, Medicare reimbursement rates) were related to rates of ACP. Additionally, the following environmental factors were moderated by both individual household income and educational attainment, Medicare physician reimbursement rate, racial/ethnic makeup, age composition, median household income, rurality, and the number of hospice agencies. These findings suggest that the environmental context of an individual’s residence can impact their engagement in ACP. Evidence from this study may be used to target areas for, and guide the design of, effective intervention strategies to help increase ACP at an environmental level.
FAMILY CAREGIVERS’ ADVANCE CARE PLANNING FOR COGNITIVELY IMPAIRED OLDER ADULTS: SERVICE PROVIDERS’ PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Noh Hyunjin , Aladeokin Temilade A
Published: November 2019

An increasing number of family caregivers face challenges of advance care planning (ACP) for their cognitively impaired older adults. The purpose of this study was to understand service providers’ views of ACP knowledge and needs among such family caregivers. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 10 service providers who serve older adults and their family caregivers in community settings of West Alabama. Individual, face-to-face interviews were conducted guided by a semi-structured questionnaire, asking about their experiences with and views of family caregivers’ ACP for their older adults. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed several findings: family caregivers’ lack of knowledge about ACP and end-of-life care, discomfort in end-of-life discussions, uncertainty about their older adult’s end-of-life preferences, frustration with the surrogate decision-making role, family conflicts in ACP process, and logistical barriers to access ACP resources. Tailored services should be developed to address these barriers to promote ACP among this population.
TOOLS FROM OUR APPLIED GERONTOLOGY TOOLBOX: FLIPPING MINDSETS AND PROPELLING INNOVATION
Authors: Anunsen Roger A , Anunsen Roger , Abushakrah Jan
Published: November 2019

PCC’s associate degree program has long embraced an applied approach to gerontology education through its career pathway model. This model incorporates a rock-solid theoretical base, experiential learning, and skill-development, all grounded in the foundational, interactional and contextual AGHE Gerontology Competencies. The Competencies infuse all our courses, our five certificates and our degree to effectively prepare graduates for their next step, whether a transfer a specialized career. Our toolbox includes robust, wrap-around supports that include empowering advising and career planning, intentional internships, mentoring, networking opportunities, and our newest tool, The Flipping Mindsets Project. We will demonstrate how these evidence-based approaches provide students the knowledge, skills and confidence propelled by a positive mindset, to go boldly into any field of aging as innovators within existing jobs and programs or as ground-breaking entrepreneurs.
WORKFORCE TRAINING FOR MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER ADULTS: THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY COLLEGES
Authors: Cummins Phyllis
Published: November 2019

In recent years, occupational changes have become increasingly common for mid-and later-life (MLL) workers. The aging population in the U.S. has resulted in increased opportunities in health-related related occupations and many MLLs seeking to re-career choose these professions. Because of their convenient locations and open access policies, community colleges are an ideal educational setting for MLLs to seek training. This presentation will discuss the results of a research project funded by the U.S. Department of Education that included focus groups and key informant interviews at community colleges in Ohio. More specifically, we will discuss reasons MLL students enroll at a community college, their process for choosing a program of study, services that are important to successful completion, and barriers they face. Finally, we will discuss policies and practices that can improve MLL student outcomes.
UNDERSTANDING AND MEETING THE NEEDS OF RESIDENTS IN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES: A MULTIDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Hanratty Barbara , Spilsbury Karen
Published: November 2019

Long-term care facilities play a vital role in the care of older people. Across the world, service providers face common challenges to the delivery of high quality care to residents. Rising levels of morbidity and dependency, recruiting and retaining a skilled workforce, and separation from mainstream services are some of the issues that make this one of the most precarious care sectors. In this symposium, we will consider the evidence underlying some of these challenges, along with current and possible future service responses. The first presentation will look at factors that increase the risk of transition to dependency in the Newcastle 85+ cohort study. This is followed by an analysis of trends over time in health, morbidity and disability in the UK care home population, drawing on data from three later life cohorts. Having considered the characteristics and needs of residents, the next presentations move onto care services. Findings will be presented from a mixed methods study on the relationship between care home staffing and quality of care, followed by a study of the organisation of primary care for long term care facilities. This session will end by looking to the future, with findings from rapid syntheses of international evidence on technology, and evaluation methods, in animated format. Together, these presentations will enhance our understanding of the relationships between the needs of residents in long-term care facilities, demands on service providers and quality of care. We aim to stimulate debate and discussion on future directions for research and practice.
ORGANIZING PRIMARY CARE FOR RESIDENTS IN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES: A MULTI-METHOD APPROACH
Authors: Hanratty Barbara , Brittain Katie , Stocker Rachel , Spilsbury Karen
Published: November 2019

This multi-method research explores the challenges family practitioners and long-term care facilities face when they work together. It seeks to understand how different responses to these challenges may influence the delivery of care. Whilst different services have their own values, aims, structures and processes, all are contending with constrained resources and frequent organisational change. Our findings from a large qualitative study and analysis of routine health data are organised around the micro (individual), meso (organisational) and macro (system) factors that influence the organisation and delivery of resident care. In this presentation, we draw out the interplay between these levels, and how each shapes and is shaped by the changing demands and nature of care. This presentation will bring new insights into primary care for long-term care facilities, through the perspectives of those who experience and provide care in that setting.
PROMOTING HEALTHY AGING THROUGH PRAGMATIC CLINICAL TRIALS
Authors: Chodosh Joshua , Cadogan Mary P , Martin Jennifer L
Published: November 2019

Promoting healthy aging does not end when people enter skilled nursing facilities (SNF) where the demands for clinical and psychosocial care are likely to be greatest. Many chronic conditions present opportunities for better SNF care and thus, healthier aging. Such conditions cannot wait for the often-long path to discovery that is typical of most traditional randomized controlled clinical trials. Conversely, pragmatic clinical trials are real-world investigations that offer the possibility of immediate benefit while answering important research questions. Depression and disrupted sleep are two examples of treatable conditions with opportunities for immediate benefit through pragmatic trials and applied best practices. How best to support best-practice integration has received increasing attention but identifying the most effective strategies continues to evolve. We report two different SNF-mentorship models utilizing Minimum Data Set (MDS) data for depression and environmental (noise-level) data for disrupted sleep, which have supported better SNF practices and presumably, healthier aging.
BARRIERS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS FOR SUFFICIENT ACADEMIC RESEARCH ON HOME MODIFICATION FOR OLDER ADULTS IN CHINA
Authors: Yan Mengzhao
Published: November 2019

Home modification has been perceived as an effective method to make current dwelling units more age-friendly and improve the well-being of older adults. In China, a country with an increasing number of older adults, home modification research is still in its infancy. By typing “适老化改造” (home modification for older adults) as a keyword for the theme of articles in China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), the most authoritative and comprehensive database for academic publication in China, only 158 related papers are found to be published until the end of 2017, among which the first was published in 2009. With an aim to determine the current state of home modification research in older adults and to determine what could be done to facilitate sufficient research on this topic, the present study conducted a systematical review of the 158 papers about home modification for older adults published in China between 2009 and 2017. Based on the systematical review, the present paper identifies four barriers to conducting this line of research and puts forward six practical suggestions for future research studies in this area so as to contribute to building age-friendly dwellings and promoting age-friendly China.
DETERIORATING HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS AND CORTISOL: LONGITUDINAL EVIDENCE FROM THE MIDUS STUDY
Authors: Allen Julie Ober
Published: November 2019

Various mental and physical health conditions common among older adults have been linked to cortisol dysregulation (i.e., blunting of daily cortisol patterns) in predominantly cross-sectional studies. Researchers have suggested that cortisol dysregulation interferes with regulatory functions throughout the body and brain, disrupting multiple biological systems, and contributing to the development or progression of negative health outcomes over time. Prospective studies are needed to investigate the causal direction of cortisol dysregulation and poor health outcomes. This study examined whether diurnal cortisol patterns predicted subsequent health deterioration using longitudinal data from the National Survey of Midlife in the US (MIDUS). Analysis was restricted to 1,336 participants who provided salivary cortisol (4 samples/day for 4 days) and health data in MIDUS II (2004-2009) and updated health data in MIDUS III (2013-2014) (mean age=56, 45% male, 94% White). We simultaneous modeled multiple measures of diurnal cortisol patterns and their relationships to changes in mental (depressive symptomology) and physical (self-rated physical health, functional limitations, and number of new chronic health conditions) health from MIDUS II to III. All indicators of physical health deterioration were associated with cortisol, though not all measures demonstrated relationships in the expected direction. Mental health change over time was unrelated to cortisol. Older age was also associated with increased functional limitations and more new chronic conditions but improvements in mental health over time. Findings suggest that diurnal cortisol patterns contribute to physical health deterioration over time, independent of age-related decline, but not mental health changes in later life.
MEDICAL CANNABIS USE: EXPLORING THE PERCEPTIONS AND EXPERIENCES OF OLDER ADULTS WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Authors: Manning Lydia K , Bouchard Lauren M
Published: November 2019

The past decade has witnessed an increased interest in the therapeutic properties of cannabis, and a growing body of research illustrates the varied uses of cannabis-based medicines for diverse symptoms, syndromes, disorder and both acute and chronic conditions, many of which are associated with advanced age (Lucas et. al, 2016). While the use of medical cannabis is on the rise in the older adult population (Kaskie et. al, 2017), more research is needed to advance the discourse on medical cannabis. With this study, we investigate older adult’s perceptions and experiences of medical cannabis use to treat and/or manage chronic conditions, specifically as a substitute for prescription drugs. Our findings suggest that older adults are open to medical cannabis as an alternative to pharmaceutical. Additionally, narratives revealed that users are hopeful that medical cannabis will provide relief with regard to the management of symptoms and relief of pain. Participants discussed their awareness and ability to manage issues related to stigma both from their primary care providers as well as family and friends. Furthermore, older adults described the frustrations with a lack of education, awareness, and support with dosing. Findings are presented as an interpretation of the participants’ perceptions of their medical cannabis use. Implications for putting medical cannabis use into everyday practice as well as policy implications are considered.
A QUALITATIVE REVIEW OF OLDER ADULT PERSPECTIVES ON HEALTHY AGING IN THE CIRCUMPOLAR NORTH
Authors: Howell Britteny M , Peterson Jennifer R
Published: November 2019

Cross-cultural research has shown marked variation in health outcomes across the world’s older adult populations. Indeed, older adults in the Circumpolar North experience a variety of health disparities. Because aging is a biological process rooted in sociocultural context, there exists great variation in the ways older adults define and experience healthy, or “successful,” aging in their communities. The aim of this analysis was to synthesize qualitative research among older residents (aged 50+ years) in the Circumpolar North to identify a definition of healthy aging common in the region. The Circumpolar North is defined as the Arctic and subarctic regions of Canada, Finland, Denmark, Greenland & the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States. A thorough review was conducted across a variety of academic search databases for peer-reviewed, qualitative studies conducted among community-dwelling older adults. The search strategy initially identified 194 articles; 22 articles met the inclusion criteria. Included studies were coded and analyzed using Grounded Theory to examine underlying themes of healthy aging in the Circumpolar North. The findings reveal the importance older adults place on incorporating social, environmental, and personal resilience factors into multidimensional models of healthy aging. This research also highlights the need for increased translational research with populations in the Circumpolar North that are under-represented in the gerontological literature.
MEASURING SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS IN OLDER POPULATIONS: A SCOPING REVIEW AND INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Spiers Gemma F , Hanratty Barbara , Matthews Fiona E , Moffatt E , Kingston A
Published: November 2019

Socioeconomic status (SES) is often measured using indicators that are less relevant to older populations. Building on earlier debates about these issues, an up-to-date, critical review of contemporary evidence and approaches is needed. A key question is how these challenges might vary between countries and different socio-cultural contexts. An international systematic scoping review was undertaken to a) identify which measures of SES have been used in studies of older adults’ health, healthcare utilization and social care utilization, and b) critically appraise the application and validity of these measures in older populations. Systematic searches were conducted in five databases (Medline, Scopus, EMBASE, PsychInfo, Web of Science and Health Management Information Consortium) in May 2018. Studies were eligible if they reported data about the relationship between a measure of SES and self-rated health, healthcare use or social care use for people aged 60+ years, and were published after 2000 in a high-income country (as defined by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development). Sixty-two studies across seventeen countries were included. Measures used included: education (n=41), income (n=37), subjective SES (n=8), occupational or employment (n=10), area deprivation (n=10), combined wealth (n=7), home ownership (n=13), and housing conditions (n=2). A minority (n=7) used a range of proxy variables. The challenges of applying these measures to older populations will be considered. Attention is given to how these challenges may differ by country, whilst considering the added complexities of age, gender and socio-cultural context. Implications for future research on older adults’ health inequalities are discussed.
AIR QUALITY AND WELL-BEING AMONG MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER ADULTS IN EAST ASIA
Authors: Yamashita Takashi , Kim Giyeon , Liu Darren , Bardo Anthony R
Published: November 2019

There is a well-established link between air quality, an important component of one’s local living environment, and well-being. However, the link between well-being and air quality is largely based on findings from western nations, and evidence from East Asia (where air pollution is a major challenge) is scant. Thus, the present study sheds much needed light on the association between well-being and air quality in four East Asian countries (i.e., China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan). Data for this study were drawn from the internationally representative 2010 East Asian Social Survey Health Module. The sample was limited to middle-age and older adults (i.e., 50 years and older) to account for differential exposure across the life course (N = 4,052). Linear regression models with robust standard error estimation and full information maximum likelihood were used to examine associations between four well-being indicators (self-rated health, SF-12 physical health and mental health, and happiness) and self-reported air quality. Results showed that air quality was negatively associated with well-being across East Asian nations --- with self-rated health in Japan (b = -0.09, p < 0.05) and Taiwan (b = -0.14, p < 0.05); physical health in Japan (b = -0.96, p < 0.05); mental health in China (b = -1.05, p < 0.05) and Japan (b = -1.49 , p < 0.05); and happiness in China (b = -0.07, p < 0.05). Possible explanations underlying these distinct national patterns and strategies to enhance well-being through environmental and behavioral interventions are discussed.
THE OLDER POPULATION LIVING WITH AND PROVIDING CARE TO GRANDCHILDREN, BY NATIVITY: 2013-2017
Authors: Ahmed Bashiruddin , Roberts Andrew , Spence Matthew , He Wan , Walker Laquitta
Published: November 2019

The rapid growth of the older population in the United States combined with changing living arrangements, marital status, and employment, increases the importance of multi-generational ties for the well-being of families. The U.S. Census Bureau’s earlier reports on grandparents living with grandchildren mostly focused on the background characteristics of all grandparents without classifying them by nativity. This study expands on the research by presenting data for both native- and foreign-born grandparents aged 60 and older who live with and provide care to their grandchildren under 18. Data for this study come from the 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-year estimates. Among native-born grandparents living with grandchildren, the majority were females, aged 60-69, White alone, non-Hispanic or Latino, married, high school graduate or higher, had no disability, lived in a household that was owned, uninsured, not in labor force, and not in poverty. The foreign-born grandparents were similar in most characteristics except for race component and educational attainment. Key findings include: • Among total older population, 14.3 percent of the foreign-born lived with grandchildren, compared with 4.1 percent of the native-born. • Among co-resident grandparents, the native-born (36 percent) were more likely to be caregivers, compared with the foreign-born (14 percent). • The proportions of co-resident grandparents widely vary by race and Hispanic origin. • Among grandparent caregivers, over 50 percent had been responsible for grandchildren for 5 years or more, while 14 percent for less than a year. • Both native- and foreign-born grandparents show declining patterns of care-giving by age.
Women Living With Osteoporosis: A Meta-Synthesis
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Chan Valerie
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

The experiences and needs of individuals with osteoporosis, especially among women, are poorly understood. This meta-synthesis aimed to examine the experiences and needs of women living with osteoporosis.

Research Design and Methods

Six databases were searched for qualitative studies from each database’s inception to July 18, 2019. Qualitative data were meta-summarized, then meta-synthesized.

Results

A total of 2,781 studies were obtained, and 2,768 studies were screened after the removal of 13 duplicates. Two thousand seven hundred and sixty studies failed to meet the eligibility criteria, resulting in the inclusion of eight studies in this meta-synthesis. Three themes emerged: (a) physical and psychological consequences of living with osteoporosis, (b) coping strategies to “live better” with osteoporosis, and (c) sources of support and support needs.

Discussion and Implications

Women living with osteoporosis experienced negative physical and psychological consequences that led to changes in their lives, particularly in their relationships. They adopted various coping strategies such as acceptance and engaging in doing things that they loved. They expressed support needs such as educational and self-help groups that may help them to cope better. As the included studies were only from the West, more studies from geographically diverse backgrounds such as the Middle East and Asia are required to explore the experiences and needs of women living with osteoporosis. Theory-based health services that incorporate active coping strategies such as self-seeking behaviors should be designed to create awareness about osteoporosis to assist such women in maintaining their independence and overall well-being to age gracefully.
Supplemental methionine exerted chemical form-dependent effects on antioxidant status, inflammation-related gene expression, and fatty acid profiles of broiler chicks raised at high ambient temperature1
Authors: Liu Guanchen , Magnuson Andrew D , Sun Tao , Tolba Samar A , Starkey Charles , Whelan Rose , Lei Xin Gen
Published: November 2019

This study was to explore metabolic effects of two forms and concentrations of supplemental methionine in grower and finisher diets for broiler chickens raised at high temperature. Male Cornish cockerel chicks (total = 360, day-old) were divided into four groups (10 pens/treatment, 9 chicks/pen) and fed with 100% or 130% required methionine in the diets as DL-methionine (DL-MET) or 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)butanoate (HMTBA). The room was maintained at 4 to 13 °C above the suggested thermoneutral temperature. The higher concentration of both DL-MET and HMTBA enhanced (P < 0.05) hepatic GSH concentrations of the growers and plasma ferric reducing ability of the finishers. The DL-MET-fed growers had greater (P < 0.05%) muscle GSH and hepatic unsaturated fatty acid concentrations than those fed HMTBA. Expression of inflammation-related genes in the liver of finishers was affected (P < 0.05) by interaction effects of the methionine form and concentration. In conclusion, effects of the extra methionine supplementation on the high ambient temperature-related metabolic responses of broilers varied with their age and(or) tissue and the methionine form.
In vitro antifungal activity of luliconazole against nondermatophytic moulds
Authors: Maeda Jun , Koga Hiroyasu , Yuasa Kou , Neki Daisuke , Nanjoh Yasuko , Inagaki Katsuhiro , Reangchainam Sutthirat , Kampirapap Kowit , Makimura Koichi , Harada Kazutoshi , Tsuboi Ryoji
Published: November 2019

In vitro antifungal activity of luliconazole against nondermatophytic moulds causing superficial infections was compared with that of five classes of 12 topical and systemic drugs. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the drugs against the genera of Neoscytalidium, Fusarium, Aspergillus, Scedosporium, and Alternaria was measured via modified microdilution method. In results, the nondermatophytic moulds were found to be less susceptible to drugs to which Neoscytalidium spp. and Fusarium spp. were typically drug resistant. However, luliconazole was effective against all the genera tested, including afore-mentioned two species, and had the lowest MICs among the drugs tested.
Active galactic nuclei winds as the origin of the H2 emission excess in nearby galaxies
Authors: Riffel Rogemar A , Zakamska Nadia L , Riffel Rogério
Published: November 2019

In most galaxies, the fluxes of rotational H2 lines strongly correlate with star formation diagnostics [such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)], suggesting that H2 emission from warm molecular gas is a minor by-product of star formation. We analyse the optical properties of a sample of 309 nearby galaxies derived from a parent sample of 2015 objects observed with the Spitzer Space Telescope. We find a correlation between the [O i]λ6300 emission-line flux and kinematics and the H2 S(3) 9.665 $\mu\mathrm{ m}$/PAH 11.3  $\mu\mathrm{ m}$. The [O i]λ6300 kinematics in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) cannot be explained only by gas motions due to the gravitational potential of their host galaxies, suggesting that AGN-driven outflows are important to the observed kinematics. While H2 excess also correlates with the fluxes and kinematics of ionized gas (probed by [O iii]), the correlation with [O i] is much stronger, suggesting that H2 and [O i] emissions probe the same phase or tightly coupled phases of the wind. We conclude that the excess of H2 emission seen in AGNs is produced by shocks due to AGN-driven outflows and in the same clouds that produce the [O i] emission. Our results provide an indirect detection of neutral and molecular winds and suggest a new way to select galaxies that likely host molecular outflows. Further ground- and space-based spatially resolved observations of different phases of the molecular gas (cold, warm, and hot) are necessary to test our new selection method.
ATIM-02. A NEW SOURCE OF NEOANTIGENS FOR PEDIATRIC AND ADULT BRAIN CANCER VACCINES
Authors: Albert Johnston Stephen , Peterson Milene , Diehnelt Chris , Shen Luhui
Published: November 2019

The paucity of mutations in pediatric and adult brain tumors has limited the ability to design therapeutic personal cancer vaccines. However, we have discovered that, in contrast to mutations in DNA, RNA is a rich source of frameshift neoantigens produced by mis-splicing of exons or indels from transcription through micro satellites. We have found that in GBM there are an average of 4000 such FS neoantigens per patient and in DIPG an average of at least 500 FS neoantigens/patient. Approximately 20% of these neoantigens are frequently recurrent across different patients. This has allowed us to design pre-synthesized vaccines for each tumor type. The vaccines consist of 20 -30 FS epitopes that are predicted to be present in at least 20% of all patient’s tumor. Each patient would have a 90% chance of having at least 50% of the peptides in their tumor. This type of “FAST” vaccine is much less expensive than a personal vaccine, any patient could be treated and there would be no delay in producing the vaccine. We have directly compared the efficacy of a FAST and personal vaccines in a mouse model of breast cancer. We find that both approaches have comparable protection though there are some interesting differences. We suggest that FAST vaccines may be a useful approach to developing therapeutic vaccines for brain cancers. We also demonstrate that an array of the 400K possible FS neoantigen peptides can be used to assay which neoantigens the patient has developed antibodies to. This array was useful in discovering the FAST vaccine components and could also be used to determine the pre-existing overlap of a FAST vaccine with the patient’s immune response.
ATIM-05. A PHASE I STUDY TARGETING NEWLY DIAGNOSED GLIOBLASTOMA WITH ANTI-CD3 × ANTI-EGFR BISPECIFIC ANTIBODY ARMED T CELLS (EGFR BATS) IN COMBINATION WITH RADIATION AND TEMOZOLOMIDE
Authors: Fadul Camilo , Kim Jungeun , Thakur Archana , Purow Benjamin , Lopes Maria-Beatriz , Schiff David , Kassay-McAllister Jessica , Donahue Joseph , Liu Qin , Lum Lawrence
Published: November 2019

Overcoming the highly immunosuppressive glioblastoma (GBM) microenvironment is critical to successful immunotherapy. In a recently-launched phase I trial we are examining the safety and feasibility of a novel adoptive cell immunotherapy platform, activated T cells (ATC) with anti-CD3 X anti-EGFR bispecific antibody (EGFR BATs), for patients with newly-diagnosed GBM. Autologous T cells obtained before radiation and chemotherapy are expanded and activated, becoming cytotoxic T lymphocytes. We postulate that these activated T cells armed with bispecific antibody will enhance the response to radiation/temozolomide and potentially increase trafficking to the GBM microenvironment. In a 3 + 3 design dose-escalation trial, we will determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of three dose tiers of EGFR BATs (80, 120 and 160 billion cells divided in eight infusions) in combination with radiation/temozolomide in patients with newly-diagnosed GBM. Patients undergo leukapheresis prior to initiating radiation/temozolomide. Patients receive EGFR BATs on days 14 and 21 after finishing concurrent RT/ temozolomide and on day 21 of six cycles of adjuvant temozolomide. We are measuring peripheral blood immune response before and after immunotherapy and correlating the results with patient characteristics and clinical outcomes. The first four patients have been treated at the first dose tier (80 billion cells) without any dose-limiting toxicity. Updated safety and feasibility results on the patients in the first two dose tiers will be presented, as well as immune monitoring studies, imaging studies, and clinical outcomes.
ATIM-10. CLINICAL PREDICTORS OF RESPONSE FOR RECURRENT/REFRACTORY GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME (GBM) AND ANAPLASTIC ASTROCYTOMA (AA, WHO GRADE III) PATIENTS TREATED WITH THE ANTI-TGFß2 RNA THERAPEUTIC OT-101
Authors: Qazi Sanjive , Nam David , Hwang Larn , Trieu Vuong , Uckun Fatih
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

OT-101 is a first-in-class αTGF-ß2 RNA therapeutic and exhibits significant single-agent activity in patients with recurrent/refractory (R/R) GBM and AA. Here we report significant predictors of best overall response (BOR = CR, PR, stable disease >6 months) and improved OS for R/R GBM and AA patients after treatment with OT-101 on the Phase II study NCT00431561.

METHODS

A generalized linear model (GLM; Binomial distribution, logit function link function) was fitted to explore several clinical parameters as potential predictors for BOR. The parametric survival model fitted the time to death using linear regression to predict improved OS. The best fit model was chosen utilizing both Akaike information criterion (AIC) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) from assessing Weibull, lognormal, exponential, Fréchet, and loglogistic distributions of the survival probabilities (JMP 10.02, SAS, Cary NC).

RESULTS

In both models, time from last chemo-/radiation therapy, time from first diagnosis and baseline hematological measurements (ALC, ANC and WBC) were removed from the model as they lacked significant predictive value. The final GLM (chi-square value = 39.7, df = 12, P< 0.0001) and OS (chi-square value = 56.0, df = 12, P< 0.0001) models contained 7 predictor variables measured in 67 evaluable patients: Baseline Karnofsky performance scale (KPS) score; composition of previous therapy; cancer subtype; steroid use; total OT-101 dose; age; and baseline 3D tumor volume for the target lesion. Three significant predictors were identified: Baseline KPS score (P[BOR] = 0.011; P[OS] = 0.0004), cancer subtype (P[BOR] = 0.017, P[OS] = 0.036) and steroid use (P[BOR] = 0.0067, P[OS] = 0.0022).

CONCLUSION

Being an AA patient rather than a GBM patient, having a higher baseline KPS score, receiving either no steroids or short-term steroids during management of AE are associated with BOR and improved OS for R/R GBM/AA patients treated with OT-101 as a single agent.
ATIM-12. AVELUMAB IN NEWLY DIAGNOSED GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME-THE SEJ STUDY
Authors: Jacques Francois , Nicholas Garth , Lorimer Ian , Sikatifoko Victorine , Dumais Nathalie
Published: November 2019

INTRODUCTION

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) has well documented systemic and local immunosuppressive mechanisms to escape immune surveillance. GBM tumor cells as well as the microglia within it have a high PD-L1 surface expression which may make it susceptible to anti-PD-L1 antagonism and ADCC with avelumab therapy. Combining immunotherapy to other chemotherapeutic agents have proven benefical in certain cancers. A clinical trial looking at adding avelumab to standard therapy in patients with newly diagnosed GBM is indicated.

METHODS

This is a single center, phase 2, open label study of avelumab 10 mg/kg Q2W for 156 weeks duration in patients receiving standard therapy for newly diagnosed GBM. Thirty patients will be entered into the study within 3 weeks of completing combined radiotherapy/temozolomide. Here we will report the results our second interim analysis when the first 20 patients will have completed 52 weeks or an end of study event which will occur in 10–2019.

RESULTS

The results will be presented at the meeting