bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of single cell data as it relates to aging and longevity
Authors: Karagiannis Tanya , Dowrey Todd , Villacorta-Martin Carlos , Murphy George , Monti Stefano , Sebastiani Paola 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Age-related disability and diseases are known to be delayed in people living to 100 years or more. Changes in the immune system with age are known, including in cell type composition and gene expression differences. To further explore changes in extreme longevity subjects, we investigated peripheral blood immune system cell subpopulations across age and extreme longevity at a single cell resolution. We performed an integrative analysis of public scRNA-seq datasets to define consensus cell types of longevity and age, and classified cell types in our novel New England Centenarian Study dataset. We integrated these datasets together to investigate cell type specific differences at a composition and gene expression level. Our findings identified higher cell type diversity in extreme longevity subjects compared to younger age groups, but no significant difference among younger age groups demonstrating that overall composition differences are unique to longevity. We identified novel differences in myeloid and lymphocyte populations; Extreme longevity subjects have higher composition of CD14+ Monocytes, Natural Killer cells, and T gamma delta populations and lower composition of CD16+ Monocytes and dendritic populations. We characterized gene expression differences between extreme longevity and younger age groups and differences in aging across younger age groups. We found that extreme longevity cell type specific signatures overlapped with the aging signatures by at least 50%. We identified unique genes to extreme longevity that are enriched for pathways specific to immune activation and inflammation, suggesting a protective mechanism for centenarians through efficient activation and regulation of immune subpopulations in peripheral blood.
Experiencing a Natural Disaster Accelerates Aging of the Immune System
Authors: Watowich Marina , Chiou Kenneth , Montague Michael , Martínez Melween , Higham James , Brent Lauren , Platt Michael , Snyder-Mackler Noah 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Extreme adverse events such as natural disasters can accelerate disease progression and promote chronic inflammation. These phenotypes also increase in prevalence with age, suggesting that experiencing adversity might accelerate aging of the immune system. Adversity can induce persistent gene regulatory changes which may mechanistically explain the immune similarities between aging and adversity. To test how immune system aging is accelerated following a natural disaster, we measured the impact of Hurricane Maria on peripheral blood immune cell gene expression in a population of free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) from before (n=435) versus after (n=108) Hurricane Maria. Experiencing Hurricane Maria altered the expression of 260 genes (FDR&lt;10%), which were primarily involved in the inflammatory response. There was significant overlap in these hurricane-affected and age-associated genes with 40% (n=104) being associated with both the hurricane and aging, more than double the expected amount (Fisher’s Exact Test OR=3.7, p=4.06 x 10–21). The effects of the hurricane and aging on gene expression were also significantly correlated (rho=0.23, p=1.33 x 10-84), suggesting that they alter similar molecular pathways in the immune system. Further, we found that animals that experienced the hurricane had a gene expression profile that was, on average, 1.6 years older than animals that did not experience the hurricane (the equivalent of 6–7 years in a human lifespan, p=0.003). Together, our results provide some of the first evidence that extreme natural disasters mechanistically accelerates aging in the immune system.
Beneficial Effects of a Plasma Fraction on Inflammation and Synaptic Deficits for Age-Related Cognitive Disorders
Authors: Gallager Ian , Torres Jasmine , Alcantara-Lee Raniel , Thadani Chirag , Britton Rachel , Czirr Eva , Braithwaite Steven P , Kheifets Viktoria 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The process of aging is multifactorial, and therefore single agent interventions would be unlikely to attenuate the myriad pathologies associated with advancing age. Plasma contains many beneficial factors which have been shown in animal models to ameliorate multiple age-related deficits across varied organ systems, including the brain. We confirmed that human plasma from young (18-22-year-old) donors reverses age-related cognitive decline and enhances hippocampal neurogenesis and cell survival in aged immunocompromised mice, while plasma from aged individuals (62-68 years old) has detrimental effects in young mice. We examined PF in a high-fat diet (HFD) mouse model, a surrogate for a western diet, which expresses many characteristics of aging within the CNS in an accelerated manner: decreased cell proliferation, synaptic connectivity and increased inflammation compared to normal diet (NC) controls. We demonstrate that PF administration in HFD mice resulted in decreased brain inflammation, increased synaptic connectivity, improved neural progenitor cell survival, as well as amelioration of behavioral endpoints without impacting the underlying metabolic changes induced by HFD. In summary, we demonstrate that PF is a multifactorial and multimodal intervention for the treatment of global changes induced by the process of aging.
Loss of Hypoxia Signaling Limits Physiologic and Muscle Adaptations to Aerobic Exercise in Aging
Authors: Endo Yori , Karvar Mehran , Zhang Yuteng , Olumi Shayan , Sinha Indranil 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
To assess the differential effects of exercise with age, Young (Y, 10-12 weeks) and Old (O, 23-25 months) mice were subjected to regimented treadmill running or no regimented exercise. Y, trained mice experienced a significant increase in maximal distance running, maximal speed of running, and lean muscle mass in comparison to age-matched, untrained controls. O mice did not improve significantly in any of these measures following training. Transcriptome analysis of gastrocnemius from Y mice demonstrated differential regulation of 120 genes with exercise. None of these genes were similarly regulated in the O group. Genes most upregulated following exercise in Y mice were direct targets of the hypoxia signaling pathway. Immunoblotting demonstrated that aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT), a critical regulator of hypoxia signaling, increased 3-fold with exercise in Y mice, but this increase was absent in O mice following exercise. To assess whether this loss of ARNT in O muscle impaired the exercise response, we generated a mouse with inducible, skeletal muscle-specific knockout of ARNT (ARNT muscle (m) KO). Following regimented exercise, ARNT mKO mice did not improve maximal distance running, maximal running speed, or lean muscle mass in comparison to untrained ARNT mKO mice. Littermate, age-matched ARNT wild type mice increased significantly in all of these measures following training. Administration of ML228, an ARNT agonist, increased maximal running distance and speed in response to exercise training in O mice. These results suggest that restoration of ARNT and hypoxia signaling may restore the physiologic response to exercise in aging.
The Protective Effects of Apigenin on Cognitive Function and The Brain Transcriptome in Old Mice
Authors: Cavalier Alyssa , Clayton Zachary , Hutton David , McEntee Cali , Seals Douglas , LaRocca Thomas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Age-related declines in cognitive function increase the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and dementia, but select nutraceuticals (bioactive plant compounds) may hold promise for protecting the brain and improving cognitive function with age. Apigenin is a flavonoid nutraceutical found in chamomile and reported to inhibit multiple hallmarks of aging; however, it has not been studied in the context of brain aging specifically. We treated young (6 mo) and old (27 mo) C57BL/6N mice with apigenin (0.5 mg/mL in 0.2% carboxymethylcellulose) or control (0.2% carboxymethylcellulose) drinking water for 6 weeks. Then, we assessed cognitive function and performed RNA-seq to characterize global transcriptomic changes and potential mechanisms of action in the brain. We observed impaired novel object recognition (NOR) test performance (an index of learning/memory) in old vs. young control mice (P&lt;0.0001), but old apigenin mice had ~3-fold higher NOR performance relative to old control mice (P=0.02). Transcriptomic analyses also showed age-associated gene expression changes related to immune function and inflammation, consistent with the established role of inflammation in brain aging. However, some of these key changes were reversed by apigenin. In fact, &gt;300 genes were differentially expressed in old apigenin-treated mice vs. old controls, and the biological processes linked with these differences were related to innate and adaptive immune function, and cytokine and chemokine regulation. We are performing protein/signaling pathway analyses to elucidate downstream cellular changes associated with apigenin treatment, but our current results suggest apigenin may be a promising nutraceutical candidate for preventing brain aging.
Fall Detection: Using Technology to Prevent Falls and Save Lives
Authors: Manning Lydia 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Companies, providers, and consumers alike are increasing the use of technology in almost every industry. This increase in usage occurs simultaneously in a technology marketplace characterized by rapid evolution in design and products. Recent years have witnessed the surge of various technological products and solutions in the age-tech marketplace, particularly in senior living and many related to fall detection and prevention interventions. Falls can have a widespread and significant impact on health, can be deadly, and often result in high costs for individuals and older adult living facilities. One out of four older adults fall each year. Findings from a pilot project illustrate the total incident count for a 12-month period. Findings demonstrate the importance of having a complete solution for falls and a fall detection solution in place in an assisted living environment. Ideal environments for residents, families, staff, and those working in the facility with regard to smart tech are considered. It is important to consider how can these solutions empower residents and afford people autonomy and safety through dignified technology.
Volunteering and Chronic Inflammation in Later Life: Is Sustained Volunteering Beneficial for Health?
Authors: Bell Mallory , Sauerteig Madison , Ferraro Kenneth 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Although research on the health benefits of volunteering has proliferated in recent decades, most studies have focused on whether or not a person volunteers or the monthly frequency of volunteering. This study examines whether sustained volunteering has health benefits above and beyond occasional or short-lived volunteering. To investigate the salubrious effects of volunteering, the present study considers sustained volunteering engagement in terms of both formal and informal volunteering. Using four waves of data from the Health and Retirement Study, we assess the influence of sustained volunteering on chronic inflammation, measured by C-reactive protein (CRP). Results reveal that sustained engagement in formal and informal volunteering is related to lower CRP concentration, but this association is partly mediated by adult health and socioeconomic factors. Although sustained volunteering is associated with lower levels of chronic inflammation, older adults who maintain their volunteering over time are a select category of adults, characterized by higher education and wealth and better health.
Inflammation and Cognitive Functioning in Older Adults: The Role of Gender and Obesity
Authors: Noss Melody Moloci , Millwood Summer , Kuhlman Kate 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Systemic inflammation is associated with steeper cognitive decline over time. Identifying potential moderators of inflammation is crucial for understanding inflammation’s contribution to abnormal cognitive decline. This study examined whether inflammation predicted changes in cognitive functioning over time and explored the moderating effects of sex and BMI on this association. Data was collected from a longitudinal nationally representative data set. (Health & Retirement Study). C-reactive protein (CRP) and global cognitive functioning assessments were collected from the 2006/2008 and 2010/2012 waves. Participants, n= 7,483, Age =71.39 years (SD = 9.24) , 60.2% female, were categorized into groups based on BMI (i.e. normal, overweight, and obese). Sex and BMI significantly moderated the association between increased hs-CRP and lower cognitive functioning, b = -.22 (SE = .09), p = .017. Women with high BMI exhibit twice the risk of low cognitive functioning, b = -.49 (SE = .07), p &lt; .0001, compared to men with high BMI, b = -.21 (SE = .08), p = .01. Men with normal BMI exhibited twice the risk of low cognitive functioning, b = -.49 (SE = .08), p &lt; .0001, compared to women with normal BMI, b = -.24 (SE = .06), p = .0001. Inflammation and BMI are modifiable factors that may prevent or slow -down abnormal cognitive decline. Understanding the potentially sex-dependent role of adipose tissue in the impact of inflammation on cognitive function may be critical to understanding the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment late in life as well as identifying efficacious intervention targets.
Longitudinal Association of Executive Function and Balance in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Blackwood Jennifer , Amini Reza , Conti Gerry , Hanses Quinn , Taylor Rebekah , Naimi Rachelle , Fayyad Deena 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Declines in Executive Function (EF) are associated with balance in community-dwelling older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). While this has been examined in cross-sectional studies, no longitudinal studies describe change over time. The purpose of this study was to examine how performance on the components of the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) are associated with EF in community-dwelling older adults who transition into MCI. This secondary data analysis employed eight years of data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study dataset (2011 – 2018) with 1,225 participants in all eight waves (balanced). EF was measured with the Clock Drawing Test and SPPB balance tests included side-by-side, semi-tandem, full tandem, and single leg stance with eyes open or closed. Longitudinal ordered logistic regression was used to examine associations between each balance measure and EF while controlling for comorbidity, function, depression, gender, age, and ethnicity. EF was significantly associated with tandem, semi-tandem, and single leg stance after controlling for covariates. One point increase in SPPB can reduce the risk of EF impairment by 8.2% (Odds Ratio (OR)=0.918, p&lt;0.001). Among SPPB components, semi-tandem (OR=0.468) and side-by-side (OR=0.472) were the strongest predictors of EF impairment. Declines in both EF and balance performance occurred over an eight-year period in adults. This may reflect common neural processes shared between the cognitive and motor areas of the central nervous system. Best practice suggests screening both balance (tandem, semi-tandem, or single leg stance) and EF in the clinical assessment of community-dwelling older adults.
Comparing Working Memory and Verbal Learning in Older Adult Musicians and Non-musicians
Authors: Galloway Caroline , Strong Jessica 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Previous research suggests that learning or playing an instrument may benefit working memory and executive functioning. The literature also suggests vocal training or singing ability may increase proficiency in verbal learning and working memory. Despite the benefits of musical training, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Older adult participants (N=38, Mean age =70.2) provided their music training history and completed a cognitive test battery. Musicians were either instrumentalists and/or vocalists (N=24) or non-musicians (N=14). Independent t test analyses were run with the current modest sample size to compare scores in basic and complex attention and working memory (Digit Span Forward (DSF) and Digit Span Backwards (DSB, and Digit Span Sequencing (DSS)), and verbal learning and memory (California Verbal Learning Test-3 (CVLT)). Results found that musicians/singers had higher scores compared to non-musicians on DSS (t(32)= -1.96, Cohen’s d =.72, p =.058) and on CVLT delayed raw scores(t(32)= -1.98, Cohen’s d=.71, p=.056), both with a medium-large effect size. There were no significant differences found between musicians and non-musicians in DSF and DSB or on CVLT immediate recall/learning. The results suggest that musical training, either instrumental or vocal, may contribute to working memory and verbal memory in older adults. Both the Digit Span task and CVLT rely heavily on executive functioning ability, which may act as a mechanism or mediator between instrumental and vocal training and scores on these cognitive tasks.
Music Engagement and Episodic Memory among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A National Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Rouse Hillary , Hueluer Gizem , Torres Mia , Du Yan , Conner Kyaien , Meng Hongdao 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Recent research suggests that engagement with particular activities, such as music, can influence age-related changes in episodic memory. However, it is unclear whether, and to what, extent music engagement is associated with the trajectory of episodic memory. The objective of this study is to examine how passive (i.e., listening to music) and/or active (i.e., singing or playing an instrument) music engagement influences episodic memory over a period of 12 years. Secondary data analysis of a sample (N=5095) of cognitively healthy adults from the Health and Retirement Study were used for this study. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the independent effect of different levels of music engagement (i.e., low, medium, and high) on changes in performance on episodic memory tasks, while controlling for confounding factors. Compared to those with low engagement (i.e., neither listening nor singing/ playing an instrument), respondents who reported being engaged at the medium (i.e., either listening or singing/ playing an instrument) or high (i.e., both listening and singing/ playing an instrument) level performed 0.24 (p=0.003) and 0.52 (p&lt;0.001) points better, respectively. We found evidence that music engagement attenuated the decline in episodic memory. The findings suggest that music engagement may be a protective factor against aged-related decline in episodic memory. Therefore, music engagement may offer a promising non-pharmacological intervention for dementia risk mitigation among community-living middle-aged and older adults. Future research should examine whether interventions to increase music engagement can affect the trajectories of aged-related decline in cognition in this large and growing population.
Relationship of Cannabis Use With Immediate, Delayed, and Working Memory: The Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Maynard Madison , Paulson Daniel , Dunn Michael , Dvorak Robert 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Past research has examined relationship between cannabis use and cognition among adolescents and young adults, but less is known about older adults despite rapidly increasing recreational and therapeutic cannabis use by this demographic. These relationships were explored cross-sectionally using data from the 2018 wave of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Dependent variables included immediate and delayed memory (10-item word list) and working memory (serial sevens; range 0-5). Cannabis use was categorized as non-user (n=886), past-user (n=334), current moderate (&lt;52 uses/year; n=36), and current heavy (52+ uses/year; n=92). Mean age was 67.59 years (range: 50-98, SD=10.76). The sample was predominantly female (59%), and Caucasian (67%). Uncontrolled analyses found that cannabis use group was associated with immediate memory (F=6.14, p&lt;.001), delayed memory (F=3.75, p=.01), and working memory (F=6.91, p&lt;.001). Analyses controlled for gender, education, age, and race found that cannabis use group was no longer associated with delayed memory (F=1.74, p=.16) or working memory (F=1.66, p=.17); however, cannabis use was associated with immediate memory (F=3.75, p=.01) in controlled analyses. Current heavy users’ (M=4.94, SE=.16) immediate memory worse than that of both non-users (M=5.48, SE=.06) and past users (M=5.49, SE=.09; p&lt;.05 for both). Gender, education, age, and race significantly associated with immediate, delayed, and working memory, respectively (p&lt;.05 for all). In conclusion, relative deficits in immediate memory, but not delayed memory or working memory, were associated with current heavy cannabis use among older adults. In combination with other findings, these results may inform development of safe-use guidelines for older adults.
The Relationship between Religiosity and Cognitive Function among Chinese Older Adults in Chicago
Authors: Egierd Jacob Koppel , Bergren Stephanie , Lanza Lisa , Dytchwald Dana , Dong XinQi 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Evidence suggests religiosity may be related to cognitive decline in older adults living in the US and China. However, the relationship between religiosity and cognitive function has not been tested in a Chinese community in the US. Immigration and isolation often cause diasporas to differ from communities where they currently reside and their origin. This study aims to determine the relationship between religiosity, cognitive function, and demographic attributes in a sample of older Chinese adults age 60 to 105 living in the Chicago area (N = 3157). Regression analysis showed participation in organized religion significantly predicted higher global cognitive function (β = 0.031, p &lt; 0.001, N = 3051). Of all cognitive function measures including episodic memory (East Boston Memory Immediate and Delayed Recall Test), perceptual speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test), working memory (Digit Backwards Test), cognitive impairment (Mini Mental State Examination), and a composite measure of (global cognition), the importance of religion only significantly predicted greater working memory capacity (β = 0.045, p = 0.003, N = 3058). Practicing religion at home had a nonsignificant relationship with all measures of cognitive function. All analyses controlled for the following covariates: gender, education, income, number of children, marital status, and health insurance coverage status. Findings suggest that among aspects of religiosity, organized religious involvement may have a positive association with higher cognitive function. Future research should explore between-population differences in the relationships of social factors, religiosity, and cognition function to determine what practices can best benefit older adults in various communities.