bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Who’s in and Who’s Out? Selection Bias in Aging Research
Authors: Mayeda Elizabeth Rose , Hayes-Larson Eleanor , Banack Hailey 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Selection bias presents a major threat to both internal and external validity in aging research. “Selection bias” refers to sample selection processes that lead to statistical associations in the study sample that are biased estimates of causal effects in the population of interest. These processes can lead to: (1) results that do not generalize to the population of interest (threat to external validity) or (2) biased effect estimates (associations that do not represent causal effects for any population, including the people in the sample; a threat to internal validity). In this presentation, we give an overview of selection bias in aging research. We will describe processes that can give rise to selection bias, highlight why they are particularly pervasive in this field, and present several examples of selection bias in aging research. We end with a brief summary of strategies to prevent and correct for selection bias in aging research.
Meaning and Late-Life Vulnerability: A Philosophical Practice-Based Approach
Authors: Laceulle Hanne 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The quest for meaning constitutes one of the fundamental human existential motivations. At first glance, late life vulnerability appears to pose a threat to meaningfulness. Sources of meaning associated with certain activities or relations may seem less accessible once vulnerabilities, caused by social losses or diminishing health, start to dominate people’s daily life experience. On the other hand, some theorists have argued that it is particularly in the confrontation with our human vulnerability that the need for meaningfulness is most urgently felt. This paper presents a philosophical-conceptual exploration of meaning as a dynamic, context-dependent social practice. Contrasting theoretical approaches that analyse meaningfulness and/or meaninglessness in terms of the presence or absence of certain components or qualities, a practice-based approach enhances our sensivitity for concrete ways in which people manage to find or create meaning in situations of vulnerability, thereby integrating this vulnerability in their life narratives and sense of self.
Vitamin D Metabolites and the Gut Microbiome in Older Men
Authors: Kado Deborah , Thomas Robert , Jiang Lingjing , Adams John , Knight Rob , Orwoll Eric 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
We examined the bidirectional impact of vitamin D on the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome in 567 MrOS men. Vitamin D metabolites were measured using LC-MSMS and stool sub-operational taxonomic units defined from 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing data using Deblur and Greengenes 13.8. Men’s mean serum level of 25(OH)D was in the sufficient range. Faith’s Phylogenetic Diversity and non-redundant covariate analyses revealed that 1,25(OH)2D explained 5% of variance in α-diversity; the other non-redundant covariates of site, race, recent antibiotic and antidepressant use explained another 6%. In β-diversity analyses using unweighted UniFrac, 1,25(OH)2D was the strongest factor assessed, explaining 2%. Random forest plot analyses identified 12 taxa, 6 in the phylum Firmicutes, positively associated with either 1,25(OH)2D and/or [1,25(OH)2D/25(OH)D] activation ratio. Higher levels of the active 1,25(OH)2D, but not 25(OH)D, were associated with butyrate producing bacteria. Men with favorable vitamin D activation profiles also had greater gut microbial diversity.
Promoting Adherence to Exercise Prescription Using Mobile Health Technology: Lessons Learned from Older Adults
Authors: Zlatar Zvinka , Nebeker Camille 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
We will present the implementation approach used to evaluate a novel mobile health (mHealth) exercise intervention designed to improve older adult’s fitness and brain health. A randomized controlled trial design evaluated if the use of mHealth strategies improved walking speed in real world environments to help participants achieve current physical activity guidelines. Cognitively healthy older adults were randomized to a 12-week, unsupervised, exercise prescription condition or to a healthy aging education condition. Participants used a heart rate tracker programmed to provide haptic feedback when they fell outside of their prescribed heart rate target during an exercise session. Participant’s perceptions regarding the mHealth technology device, as well as their feedback regarding the privacy of their data when using mHealth devices will be presented. Recommendations to improve the design of future mHealth exercise trials will be discussed.
Ageism in HIV Research
Authors: Taylor Tonya 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Sex and sexuality are important determinants of health and wellbeing across the life course. The desire and capacity for sexual intimacy and pleasure among older adults are neglected areas of research due to ageist assumptions that they no longer engage in sexual activity. These assumptions are most pronounced in HIV research, where we aggressively studied intimate details of sexual behaviors of people living with HIV until they became “old.” Interest in the sexual behaviors among older adults with HIV has waned in HIV prevention, suggesting an inherent ageism within the field. We will discuss emerging new HIV and STI risks for older adults, declining trends in gerosexuality funding, HIV media campaigns targeted for older adults, and new evidence that suggest that interventions that engage older adults with HIV in conversations about sexual health, menopause, and erectile dysfunction may be an effective strategy for promoting overall successful aging
The Background and Rationale Behind the Establishment of the First AIDS and the Elderly GSA Interest Group
Authors: Tepper Lynn 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Although HIV became known during the decade of the 1980’s, it was not until 1987 that the WHO launched the Global Program on AIDS to raise awareness, generate evidence-based policies, and provide technical and financial support to conduct research, promote NGO participation, and promote the rights of people living with HIV. It was then also that robust educational and prevention initiatives began to take place. At this time, a Columbia University study, led by Dr. Lynn Tepper, a gerontologist, initiated a study to see if the older population fully understood the disease and the practice of prevention behaviors, as they were not a specific target for AIDS education and prevention. This led to the establishment of the AIDS and the Elderly Interest Group, sponsored by GSA, in an attempt to know more about the impact of AIDS in the older population. Part of a symposium sponsored by the HIV, AIDS and Older Adults Interest Group.
Evidence-Based Exercise Interventions and Fitness Technologies for Older Adults With Intact or Impaired Cognition
Authors: Heyn Patricia , Andersen Stacy , Boot Walter 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Effective exercise training and regular physical activity (PA) practice are important for healthy aging and are key modalities for chronic disease management. Approaches that enhance exercise prescriptions and adherence for older adults should be innovative and based on evidence. Thus, the exercise prescription should be tailored accordingly to the person’s health status, functional capacity, and living arrangements. To properly achieve the desirable health outcomes, the PA should be performed at higher intensity, greater frequency, and longer duration. National PA Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity and at least two days of muscle-strengthening activities per week. Each prescribed modality (aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility/stretching exercises, and balance training) has unique benefits. Therefore, it is critical to investigate and integrate novel techniques and tools to ensure adherence to the recommended PA guidelines. One of the presentations in this symposium, will highlight the research that has been evaluating for the last 15 years the effectiveness of the exercise randomized trial for older adults with/out cognitive impairments. The second presentation will introduce a novel technology paradigm designed to improve guidelines for exercise training as well as our understanding of how technology may motivate exercise behavior for older adults. The last presentation will discuss the design and methodological flaws that impact the outcomes of the exercise intervention by addressing the interpretations of non-findings and key factors affecting the desirable outcomes.
Geographic Disparities in County-Level Prevalence of Alzheimer’s Disease Across the United States
Authors: Fowler Mackenzie , Crowe Michael , Kennedy Richard 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
While national and state estimates of the prevalence and incidence of AD are available, estimates across finer geographic regions offer an opportunity to tailor programs to the needs of the local population. Previously, we estimated prevalence and incidence of AD at the county level across the continental United States and found that estimated prevalence of AD varied more than threefold across counties, predominantly in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States. We also observed “islands” of low AD within regions with high AD, and vice versa. We update these findings by examining changes in projected prevalence of AD over time, and comparing projected prevalence of AD to prevalence of AD diagnoses in Medicare. We also examine regional variation in provider specialty patterns and racial differences across counties as possible explanatory factors. Understanding small-area geographic disparities in prevalence will be critical for addressing practice variation in the prevention and diagnosis of dementia.
Geriatrics Clinic Primary Care: Screening for Mental Health and Psychological Flexibility
Authors: Scicolone Monica 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
At baseline assessment, average level of symptoms for both depression (M = 3.75) and anxiety are low (M = 1.65). OLS regression analyses at baseline revealed psychological inflexibility (β = .474, p &lt; .001) and anxiety symptoms (β = .334, p &lt; .001) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms, and psychological inflexibility (β = .331, p = .002) and depression symptoms (β = .381, p &lt; .001) were significantly associated with anxiety symptoms. These associations remained at year two in data collection. As of March 2019, there are 88 individuals with time two data for depressive symptoms (M = 2.99), and 79 individuals with time two data for anxiety symptoms (M = 1.34). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed that neither mean scores for depression nor anxiety changed significantly from time one to time two. As data collection continues into year three, multilevel modeling will be used to analyze longitudinal data. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Mental Health Practice and Aging Interest Group.
Heterogeneity of Aging: Implications for Team Care and Team Science
Authors: Kuchel George , Fortinsky Richard , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Increasing heterogeneity with aging is a deeply held belief in gerontology often used to combat generalizations and ageist stereotypes regarding older adults. Nevertheless, the vast majority of published studies do not report or discuss variability in their findings with aging, instead focusing on average differences between age groups. Yet, when data diversity is examined, most studies do find increased heterogeneity with aging across all domains – biological, immunological, behavioral, social, clinical, and population. Although heterogeneity has been described across the aging literature, including most GSA journals, little or no effort has been made to define and better understand the very nature of heterogeneity as a conserved feature of aging evident across all of its varied dimensions. It is well established that multidisciplinary team-based approaches are essential to clinical care of older adults, to research efforts in aging, and to the training of future generations of scientists, clinicians, educators and others in the aging field. Over the last 75 years, GSA has been a leading and unique vehicle for the development of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborations involving its six membership sections. This symposium will provide a unique opportunity to begin a multidisciplinary dialogue designed to engage the broader GSA community in determining shared, as well as distinct, features of heterogeneity as they are manifested in terms of biology, immunology, behavioral and social considerations, and clinical and population issues, with ultimate impact on health policy and practice.
Urban-Rural Mental Health Disparities in China: The Neighborhood Effects
Authors: Han Chengming 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
This paper intended to explore the neighborhood effects on mental health disparities of urban and rural residents in Mainland China. Data were drawn from the CHARLS baseline (2011). The sample included 450 neighborhoods, with 3907 urban residents and 13,391 rural residents older than 45 years old. Multilevel model was used to determine the neighborhoods’ effects and individual effects on depressive symptom scores (CES-D). Independent variables included social activities, health status, and demographic characteristics. The result reveals three context effects of urban-rural neighborhoods: first, people living in urban communities reported better physical health, higher educational levels, and lower depressive symptoms than their rural counterparts. Second, people living in urban communities are more engaged in social activities than people living in rural villages. Third, the urban neighborhoods present more variations in depressive symptoms and social activities than the rural neighborhoods.
Long-Term Adherence to Physical Activity Among Older Veterans
Authors: Brown Candace 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The benefits of physical activity (PA) are well-established and it is recommended that older adults achieve at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity PA and strengthening activities weekly. However, only 54.0% and 23.2% of older adults achieve these recommendations for endurance and strengthening (respectively), and 48% dropout within the first 6-months. Most PA research focuses on the 6-month initiation phase leaving a gap regarding long-term adherence. We explored predictors of long-term adherence (&gt;2-years) to PA from 97participants at 6-month follow-up and yearly surveys. Variables examined included age, race, gender, body mass index (BMI), and self-reported comorbidities, symptoms, physical function, and barrier-specific self-efficacy scale (α-level 0.05). Lower BMI (29.1±5.1 versus 31.6±6.5, p=0.047) and higher self-efficacy to overcome environmental barriers (p=0.016) and social isolation (p=0.05) were associated with long-term adherence. Self-efficacy to overcome environmental and social barriers should be addressed to promote long-term adherence to exercise among older adults
Introducing the ENHANCE (Enhancing Neurocognitive Health, Abilities, Networks, & Community Engagement) Center
Authors: Boot Walter , Czaja Sara , Rogers Wendy , Charness Neil 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Cognitive impairment (CI) refers to changes in cognition that result in difficulties remembering, learning new things, concentrating, making decisions important to everyday life, responding to environmental demands, or understanding social cues, and these difficulties can result in disability (limiting one or more major life activities). Existing and emerging technology applications hold promise for providing everyday support for older adults with CI, promoting independence and community living. However, these solutions will only be viable if they consider the needs, preferences, and abilities of older adults experiencing cognitive impairment. This talk introduces a new center, funded by the National Institute on Disability, Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), with the aim of supporting older adults with CI (MCI, CI as a result of traumatic brain injury or stroke) through adaptive and individualized technology solutions.
Maxwell A. Pollack Award Presentation and Lecture
Authors: Harootyan Bob 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The lecture will feature an address by the2019 Pollack Award recipient, Karen Lincoln, PhD, FGSA of the University of Southern California. The2020 Pollack Award recipient is Karl Pillemer, PhD, FGSA. The Maxwell A. Pollack Award for Productive Aging Award recognizes instances of practice informed by research and analysis, research that has directly improved policy or practice, and distinction in bridging the worlds of research and practice. Supported by The New York Community Trust.
How Covid Flipped the Classroom: Learning from the Next Generation of Gerontologists
Authors: Carter Mary 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Covid laid bare the structural inequities and systemic challenges facing LTC, both in terms of risk and neglect. Lost in the daily tally of new cases and mortality rates are the stories of essential workers who have neither degree nor stature in the field, yet who fulfill an awesome responsibility—caring for older adults no longer visible behind locked doors. Suddenly, these full-time students and part-time workers found themselves employed in one of the most dangerous occupations in the country—providing direct care in nursing homes and assisted living communities. This award lecture highlights their voices and lessons learned.
Aging in place among adults with traumatic personal experiences and the community’s role: A scoping review
Authors: Danielson Ramona , Ray-Degges Susan 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
We propose that trauma history is important context for understanding the adaptive capacity of aging adults to achieve a suitable person-environment fit. We conducted a scoping review using bibliographic databases to identify studies focused on aging in place, vulnerability and traumatic personal experiences, and aging adults’ maladaptive behaviors. Our review showed little research directly exploring the connection between trauma-related needs and aging in place and limited research about the community’s role in supporting those needs. Literature about the impacts of trauma revealed that trauma could stem from adverse childhood experiences (e.g., abuse, neglect, household dysfunction) and adult adverse experiences (e.g., domestic violence, substance use disorder, military trauma). Adults who have experienced trauma may have increased physiological (e.g., sensory sensitivities) and psychological (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder) conditions. Sensory sensitivities in the home environment—including sounds (e.g., air conditioners), air quality (e.g., pollutants), and lighting (e.g., flickering lights)—can substantially decrease quality-of-life. Strong emotional reactions can make interpersonal relationships, such as those with a landlord or neighbors, difficult and increase the likelihood of eviction. Aging adults with trauma histories also experience greater poverty rates, increasing the likelihood of substandard housing (e.g., mold, rats). Because the housing environment is a significant aspect of overall well-being, challenges to aging in place for adults with trauma histories warrants further research, as does the role of community supports in mitigating housing-related stressors. Examples may include trauma-informed approaches in universal design, the availability of safe affordable housing, community education, and funding for intermediaries who can support aging adults.
Acarbose suppresses symptoms of mitochondrial disease in a mouse model of Leigh Syndrome
Authors: Bitto Alessandro , Grillo Anthony , Kaeberlein Matt 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are pathologies characterized by impairment in mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also a hallmark of the aging process. Rapamycin, a drug that increases lifespan and reduces the incidence of age-related pathologies in multiple models, increases survival and reduces the impact of neurological symptoms in a mouse model lacking the complex I subunit Ndufs4. Here we show that acarbose, another drug that extends lifespan in mice, suppresses symptoms of disease and improves survival of Ndufs4-/- mice. Unlike rapamycin, acarbose rescues disease phenotypes independently of mTOR inhibition. Furthermore, rapamycin and acarbose have additive effects on clasping and maximum lifespan in Ndufs4-/- mice. Acarbose rescues mitochondrial disease independently of glycolytic flux and Sirt3 activity by potentially remodeling the microbiome. This study provides the first evidence that the microbiome may rescue severe mitochondrial disease and proof of principle that biological aging and mitochondrial disorders are driven by common mechanisms.
Pick Your Poison Carefully: How Alcohol Consumption and Serum Biomarkers Influence Body Fat – A UK Biobank Study
Authors: Larsen Brittany , Klinedinst Brandon , Le Scott , Pappas Colleen , Meier Nathan , Lim Ye-Lim , Wolf Tovah , Willette Auriel 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Aging is characterized by physiological alterations in body composition, such as increased visceral adiposity accumulation and bone loss. Alcohol consumption is thought to partially drive these associations, but findings have been mixed. To clarify inconsistent findings, different types of alcohol--beer, liquor, and wine--may show different association patterns with body composition. Our longitudinal U.K. Biobank study leveraged 1,874 White British participants (aged 40-79 years; 58.9% male). Participants self-reported demographic, alcohol and dietary consumption patterns, and lifestyle factors using a touchscreen questionnaire. Anthropometrics and serum for proteomics were collected and body composition was obtained via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Structural equation modeling was used to probe direct and indirect associations between adiposity and bone, alcohol types, and cardiometabolic biomarkers. Over a mean duration of four years, greater consumption of beer and liquor were significantly associated with more visceral adiposity (β=.069, p&lt;.001 and β=.014, p&lt;.001, respectively); these associations were driven by dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. In contrast, greater red wine consumption predicted less adipose mass (β=-.023, p&lt;.001), and this association was mediated by reduced inflammation and higher high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol. White wine consumption did not influence visceral adiposity but did predict greater bone mineral density (BMD) (β=.051, p=.003). Taken together, these data suggest that beer and liquor may drive the “empty calorie” hypothesis related to adipogenesis, while red wine may be protective due to anti-inflammatory and eulipidemic effects. Furthermore, white wine may benefit bone mineral density in older adults.