bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Explore the Role of Abeta in Axonal Trafficking Deficits Induced by Alpha Synuclein in Parkinson Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Castro Alfredo 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Alpha synuclein (ASYN) is a neuronal protein that is observed in significant amounts in the brain and is encoded for by the SNCA gene, it functions as a regulator for the trafficking of synaptic vesicles. It has been noted that the buildup of alpha synuclein has been found in the form of Lewy bodies in studies involving patients with Parkinson’s diseases (PD). Gathering an understanding for the manner in which alpha synuclein affects the synaptic structure and the movement of axonal trafficking will help further our understanding towards the formation of Lewy bodies. Experimenting with the way in which ASYN affected the intervention of Abeta was important, to see the toxicity of Abeta in axonal trafficking. The PD and SynKO mouse models treated with Abeta both showed an effect on the anterograde moving speed of both the PD and SynKO neurons. Synaptic formation was examined, and it was found that ASYN had a large negative influence on the synapse formation in PD neurons. This was due to the significantly reduced colocalization that was found in the treated neurons. It was confirmed that ASYN caused neuronal atrophy through the over expression of GFP-ASYNWT wild type or the GFP-ASYNA53T. Comprehending ASYN effect on the axonal trafficking and the synaptic structure of PD neurons can help understand the mechanism that may be present which possibly stimulates Alzheimer’s Disease in PD patients.
Feasibility of combining noninvasive brain stimulation and personalized counseling to increase physical activity
Authors: Lo On-Yee (Amy) , Mulvey Connor , Lee Christine , Gagnon Margaret , Lipsitz Lewis , Manor Brad 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Few older adults meet recommended physical activity guidelines. Behavioral interventions may be more effective when combined with other modalities to promote activity. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) designed to increase the excitability of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) — a brain region subserving motivation and executive function — has the potential to augment behavioral interventions. We designed a randomized, double-blinded trial to examine the feasibility of combining personalized behavioral counseling and tDCS targeting the left dlPFC to improve physical activity and related outcomes in sedentary older adults living within the supportive housing. Participants wore a Fit-Bit throughout the study period. Baseline step counts were determined for two weeks, then participants completed four bi-weekly personalized counseling sessions over eight weeks. They were also randomized to receive 10 sessions of tDCS or sham stimulation over the two weeks after the baseline. Physical, cognitive, and patient-reported outcomes were assessed at baseline, after ten brain stimulation sessions, and after four behavioral sessions. 33 individuals were screened and 16 enrolled (age=80±7, 13 females). 13 participants completed the study, including 100% of study assessments, 99±5% of brain stimulation sessions, and 98±7% of behavioral sessions. Fit-Bit adherence rate was 93±13%. Daily step counts were 3197±1480 at baseline and 4722±2553 over the last two weeks of the intervention. While the study is ongoing and blinded, these preliminary results indicate that it is feasible to conduct a controlled study of tDCS combined with personalized behavioral counseling to increase physical activity in sedentary older adults living within supportive housing.
Hippocampal Knockout of p300 Affects Learning and Memory in Mice
Authors: Rector Chase , Wang Lin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Aging has been associated with cognitive decline, as seen in various learning and memory processes. Specifically, p300, a lysine acetyltransferase, has been shown to decrease with age, which could have an effect on cognition. In a series of behavioral tests, the effect of the knockout of p300 was studied in mice. In the water T maze test and the object recognition test, the results conveyed that the mice’s learning skills had not been impacted by the knockout of p300. But the water T maze test results further showed that the p300 knockout mice had a decline in their cognitive flexibility to new information. These findings suggest that the knockout of p300 has a negative impact on cognition. We expect that the overexpression of p300 in older mice will restore the cognition that might have been lost with aging.
It Takes a Village - Atypical Presentation Warrants Teamwork for Sepsis Care
Authors: Cranston Teresa , Bailey Nicole 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Sepsis, disproportionately, affects older adults due to an aging immune system and chronic illness. Older adults present atypically delaying diagnosis and intervention. This delay has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, with early detection and rapid treatment there can be a reduction in poor outcomes. It is key, that clinicians practice collaboration and communication when diagnosing & treating patients that may have a different presentation. Early detection, monitoring, and intervention are crucial to survival of the older septic patient. The Continuous Monitoring Unit (CMU) consists of RNs, who monitor telemetry, video, and the Sepsis BPA/Checklist 24 hours/7 days a week. These nurses evaluate all active ED and acute care BPA data points. With their specific training, they dismiss the irrelevant and align the significant data while looking for possible notes of infection. They do not act upon the BPA unless the patient meets criteria. If there is confirmation of the BPA, the nurse collaborates with the primary provider to initiate recommended sepsis care. Since the beginning of August 2021, the CMU RN is utilizing the Sepsis Checklist, a customized tool built into the EMR that allows the CMU nurse to monitor the key elements of the Sepsis Bundle and intervene concurrently to complete the CMS SEP1 recommendations. Recommendations are based on the Surviving Sepsis Campaign.
The African American United Memory and Aging Project: AD Knowledge and Family History as It Relates to Cognition
Authors: Gamaldo Alyssa , Caban-Holt Allison , Brown-Hughes Travonia 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study explores the influence of Black adults’ Alzheimer’s disease (AD) knowledge and family history of AD on cognition. A sample of Black adults (n=66, age range=45-84) completed a computerized cognitive (CogState Brief) battery and surveys of AD knowledge, family history of AD diagnosis, and health. On the 14-item AD knowledge survey, participants correctly answered a mean of 10.80 (SD=1.50) items. Approximately, 56% reported a biological family member diagnosed with AD, of these 30% reported this being a mother or father. Linear regression models suggested no significant association between AD knowledge and cognitive performance. However, adults with a family member diagnosed with AD had worse visual learning accuracy even after adjusting for age, education, and income. Increased age was associated with worse processing speed, particularly in adults with a mother diagnosed with AD. These findings demonstrate the importance of examining the influence of family history on Black adults’ cognitive health.
Longitudinal Associations of Physical Touch with Loneliness among Older Adults
Authors: Brown Taylor , Giddens Reese , Wilson Stephanie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Older adults in the US face heightened risks for social disconnection, and the COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this crisis. Physical touch is a key dimension of social connection that uniquely predicts physical and mental health benefits. However, most studies have been limited by cross-sectional designs, and no prior work has examined the long-term effects of physical touch on loneliness. To investigate the prospective association between physical touch and loneliness among older adults, this study utilized data from 1626 older adults (Mean age = 68, range = 57-85) who participated in Waves 1 and 2 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP). Participants reported on their loneliness and physical contact with family and friends, as well as with pets, at both waves. Results revealed that more frequent physical contact with family and friends predicted larger decreases in loneliness over the subsequent five years (p&lt;.0001), controlling for age, race, gender, health conditions, marital status, frequency of social interaction, and baseline levels of loneliness. Physical contact with pets had no unique effect (p=.136). To further assess directionality, models tested whether lonelier people experienced decreased touch over time, and the effects were null (p&gt;.250). Taken together, this longitudinal study is the first to identify the unique contribution of human physical touch to prospective changes in loneliness, beyond the well-established effects of covariates, including social interaction frequency. Touch represents a compelling mechanism by which social isolation may lead to loneliness, which in turn raises risks for poor health and premature mortality.
Measuring Utility of VASS Elder Mistreatment Screener Within Community Dwelling U.S. Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Tuseth Natalie , Dong XinQi , Bergren Stephanie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Elder mistreatment (EM) is often underreported, making potential screening a valuable tool. There is limited literature on the screening utility, especially for minority populations. This abstract aims to study sensitivity and specificity of a commonly used 10-point EM screener compared to a detailed EM questionnaire among Chinese older adults. This study used data from a representative sample of 3,157 community-dwelling U.S. Chinese older adults 60+. Chi-squared test was conducted between VASS 10-questionare screener and EM measured by 56 items on psychological, physical and sexual mistreatment, caregiver neglect and financial exploitation subtypes. Sensitivity and specificity was calculated using the Bayes Theorem. In this sample, average age was 72 and 59% female. 637 (20.30%) reported any EM while 475 (15.14%) older adults screened positive for EM. Of participants reporting any EM, 365 (57.30%) did not screen positive for EM. The screener had a sensitivity of 42.70% and specificity of 91.88% for all EM subtypes. Gaps between reported EM and negative EM screener is smaller in psychological (sensitivity 72.85%, specificity 91.07%) and physical (sensitivity 63.64%, specificity 86.66%) EM subtypes, but much larger in financial exploitation (sensitivity 34.60%, specificity 86.85%) and neglect (sensitivity 14.11%, specificity 84.75%). The VASS screener demonstrates poor sensitivity but acceptable specificity rate for any EM. The screener showed better sensitivity and specificity for physical and psychological mistreatment, but performed worse for more common forms of mistreatment like financial exploitation and neglect. Modifying this screener may improve sensitivity and specificity in identifying EM.
Quality of Life and Wellbeing in Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Byrnes Mary , Dillaway Heather , Aaron Bryan , Heximer Alisha , Valbuena Valeria , Corriere Matthew , Osborne Nicholas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a vascular condition disproportionately affecting adults &gt; 60 and the leading cause of disability for adults &gt; 50. Because PAD is marked by severe leg pain and sometimes lower extremity amputation, quality of life (QOL) and wellbeing may be compromised however, we understand little about these constructs in this population. Furthermore, surgical care providers lack a comprehensive understanding of how individuals think about wellbeing and what is important to individuals during surgical care. We conducted a qualitative photographic elicitation study (n = 60) in one academic multidisciplinary PAD clinic to understand specific aspects of QOL of older individuals with PAD. Guided by interpretive description, a methodology pioneered in nursing, we analyzed data within and across five clinical symptom severity categories to examine for QOL constructs, impact on everyday life, understanding of disease, and desired treatment. Results demonstrate that individuals do not fully understand PAD diagnosis or its implications (e.g., “[I] have never heard of it. Do I have that?”). Disease-specific knowledge was prevalent among patients experiencing lower extremity amputation but those suffering from wounds or gangrene had limited understanding. Furthermore, patients’ descriptions of QOL conflicted with the conceptualization of QOL in clinical practice and research. That is, many participants describe QOL based on activities they are capable of performing despite limitations. Results demonstrate the need for integrating gerontological knowledge into clinical care to improve quality of care for older adults.
Representation of Older Adults in COVID-Related Newspaper Coverage
Authors: Jeong Mijin , Jen Sarah , Kang Hyun , Riquino Michael , Goldberg Jaime 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Based on clinical and epidemiological evidence, COVID-19 infection can occur in people of all ages; however, the media typically focuses its attention on the vulnerability of older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses. This study aims to explore the representation of older adults during the first month of the pandemic in the U.S. by comparing the narratives of older adults and younger adults in national media sources. A systematic search identified 115 articles published in four major newspapers in the U.S. included USA Today, The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and The Washington Post between March 11 and April 10, 2020 in which older adults and younger adults were quoted on topics related to the intersection of COVID-19 and aging. Quotes were inductively reviewed using thematic content analysis. In 115 articles, there were 265 quotes from older adults (n=104, 39%) and younger adults (n=161, 61%). When comparing patterns that were common or distinctive between older and younger individuals quoted, three key themes emerged: 1) impacts of COVID-19 on older adults and resulting vulnerability, 2) debated perspectives over the value of older adults’ lives, and 3) a counternarrative of resiliency among older adults. This study provides the opportunity to understand how the pandemic may impact representations of older adults and findings emphasize the importance of voice among older adults to combat ageist messaging and promote counternarratives to assumptions of vulnerability. Also, it suggests for policymakers and practitioners to insight into how the representation of older adults is disseminated by media.
Safety and Tolerability of an Ad26.RSV.preF-based Vaccine in a Phase 2b Study in Older Adults
Authors: Falsey Ann , Williams Kristi , Gymnopoulou Efi , Bart Stephan , Ervin John , De Paepe Els , Heijnen Esther , Comeaux Christy 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may cause severe lower respiratory tract disease in older adults and there is currently no approved vaccine. We assessed the safety and reactogenicity of an Ad26.RSV.preF-based vaccine in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2b proof-of-concept trial in adults aged ≥65 years (CYPRESS; NCT03982199). Prior to the RSV season, participants were randomized 1:1 to receive an Ad26.RSV.preF-based vaccine or placebo. Solicited adverse events (AEs; fatigue, headache, nausea, myalgia, fever, injection site reactions) and unsolicited AEs were assessed from time of vaccination to Day 8 and Day 29, respectively, in a safety subset of 695 participants (vaccine, n=348; placebo, n=347). All participants were followed for serious AEs (SAEs) until the end of the RSV season or 6 months after vaccination, whichever occurred later. A total of 5728 participants were randomized and received vaccine or placebo (n=2891 in each group). In the safety subset, the frequency of solicited AEs and Grade ≥3 solicited AEs was 51.4% and 3.2% in the vaccine group and 20.2% and 0.6% in the placebo group, respectively. The most frequent solicited AEs in the vaccine group were fatigue, myalgia, headache, and injection site pain/tenderness. The rates of unsolicited AEs and Grade ≥3 unsolicited AEs were similar between the vaccine (16.7% and 1.7%) and placebo (14.4% and 1.4%) groups. In the overall study population, the rate of SAEs was similar between groups (vaccine, 4.6%; placebo, 4.7%); none were considered related to the vaccine. The Ad26.RSV.preF-based vaccine was safe and well tolerated in adults aged ≥65 years.
Structural Racism is Associated with Assisted Living Location
Authors: Smith Lindsey , Carder Paula , Thomas Kali , Baker Robin , Wallace Neal 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Our objective was to measure the association between structural racism, a previously unmeasured but theoretically causal factor, and assisted living communities (ALCs) location as fewer ALCs are located in counties with a greater percentage of the population reported as Black (PPB). We used a recently developed measure of structural racism—the racial opportunity gap (ROG), which compares the economic mobility of Black and White people who grew up in the same area with parents who had similar incomes. We estimated a multilevel mixed-effects bivariate regression model to examine the factors contributing to the presence of ALC. We relied on state and county random effects. The likelihood of an assisted living being located in a census tract in 2019 was significantly positively associated with the percent of the population over the age of 65 (OR=150.1573, p=&lt;0.001), the PPB (OR=2.9916, p=0.004), and higher median incomes (OR=1.0, p=&lt;0.001). In contrast, rurality (OR=0.5656, p=&lt;0.001), unemployment rates (OR=0.0288, p=&lt;0.001), and census tracts that have a high PPB in addition to a high county ROG (OR=.0058, p=0.0137) are all associated with a lesser likelihood of an ALC. The interaction coefficient between the ROG and PPB reverses the previously documented negative association between the PPB and ALC presence. This result empirically supports the premise that structural racism, not population race alone, is a negative determinant of where an ALC is located within a county.
Developing Synergistic Relationships between Age-Friendly Universities and Age-Friendly Communities
Authors: Montepare Joann , Rogers Wendy 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative was designed to support the Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (WHO, 2018) and offers a range of opportunities for institutions of higher education to help communities adapt to their new age-diverse social structures as a result of shifting age demographics. In turn, age-friendly community partnerships are helping to fuel campus efforts to advance age-inclusivity through education, research, and community engagement. At present over 70 institutions have joined the AFU global network, as more campuses prepare to become age-friendly partners. In this collaborative symposium (Directors of Aging Centers and AFU Interest Groups), campus leaders will describe synergistic relationships between their age-friendly campus efforts and the age-friendly efforts of their neighboring communities. Montepare (Lasell University) will provide an overview of the AFU initiative and its set of 10 principles, and make the case that campuses and communities are necessary partners for creating and developing age-friendly efforts. Demonstrating this assertion, Pastor and Rogers (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) will describe linkages between their community and campus initiatives, including developing a Panel of Elders, television programming for older adults, and hosting joint events. Black and Andel (University of South Florida) will discuss the intersection between the AFU principles and the processes undertaken by age-friendly communities. Revell and Viveiros (University of Massachusetts Dartmouth) will show how campus collaborations with nearby communities are instrumental in sustaining age-friendly efforts, especially during a pandemic.
Successful Aging: Memory and Smart technology implications.
Authors: Mendoza-Ruvalcaba Neyda Ma , Arias-Merino Elva Dolores , Vázquez Núnez Karla Patricia , Rodriguez Marlene Alvarado 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The cognitive functioning as a general measure, is a criterion commonly used to define and operationalize successful aging(SA). The aim of this study is to analyze the specific role of memory (objective and subjective) and its relationship with the use of smart technology (ST) and SA.(Project-Conacyt-256589) Population based, random sample included n=453 community-dwelling older adults 60-years and older (mean age=72.51,SD=8.11 years,59.4%women). Memory was assessed through working memory(Digit Span Backward WAIS-IV), episodic memory, metamemory(self-report), subjective memory, and learning potential(RAVLT). SA was operationalized as no important disease, no disability, physical functioning, cognitive functioning, and being actively engaged. Participants were asked if they use cellphone, computer, or tablet. Pearson′s correlation test and linear regression models were performed. In total 11.2% were successful agers.53.6% used cellphone,14% computer,8% tablet, 44.1% any devise.Results show significant correlation between SA and subjective memory, learning potential and the use of ST. Results of the multiple regression analysis emerged on a significant model using the entered method:F=26.05,p&gt;.000, explaining 21.4% of the variance of SA. Although objective memory measurements were no significant for SA, all memory measurements were related to the use of ST. Knowledge generated by this study reveals the specific role of the metamemory on the SA, underlining the relevance of subjectivity on aging. We need to reflect about the limitations of older adults to access to a digital world in order to achieve a SA.
Age-Friendly Universities (AFU): Necessary Partners for Age-Friendly Communities
Authors: Montepare Joann 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The pioneering Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative, endorsed in 2016 by GSA’s Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), calls for institutions of higher education to respond to shifting demographics and the needs of aging populations through more age-friendly campus programs, practices, and partnerships. The case will be made that AFU institutions can also play vital roles in helping neighboring communities develop, launch, assess, and sustain their age-friendly efforts through research and related endeavors that engage students and faculty. In addition, AFU campus-community partnerships can play a critical role in breaking down age-segregation that fuels ageism, building intergenerational connections, and increasing aging literacy among rising community members - all of which are necessary steps for building age-friendly communities.