bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COMING TOGETHER: HOW AFRICAN AMERICAN ADULT DAUGHTER ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS ARE NAVIGATING FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
Authors: Scott-Poe Deneisha , Dolbin-MacNab Megan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease currently impacts around 5.8 million Americans, with African Americans being two to three times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than their white counterparts. Most of these individuals are being cared for by their adult daughters. Previous research has explored African American women’s reports of less caregiver burden and strain, yet few studies have examined the impact of racial and gender oppression on how African American adult daughters approach caregiving. Guided by the theoretical perspective of intersectionality, the purpose of this qualitative study was to gain a deeper understanding of the family dynamics of 26 African American adult daughter caregivers and how the intersection of race, gender, and the history of care influences caregivers and their family relationships. To participate in the study, individuals had to at least be 18, be providing care for one year, and self-identify as African American and woman. Results of a constructivist grounded theory analysis revealed four major themes. The first was contextual stressors, which highlighted the unique sets of stressors that impacted caregiver mental health. The next theme was ideology about African American women and care, which emphasized the familial and personal beliefs about how women cared. The third theme, expectations placed on caregivers, highlighted the caregivers’ internalization of how women are supposed to care. The last theme, coming together, highlights how caregivers navigated their family relationships while providing care to their parents with Alzheimer’s disease. Implications for future research and systemic practice with African American adult daughter caregivers will be discussed.
DEVICE-MEASURED DAILY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA: CROSS-SECTIONAL RESULTS FROM THE HUNT STUDY
Authors: Sverdrup Karen , Mork Paul Jarle , Strand Bjørn Heine , Ernstsen Linda , Tangen Gro Gujord 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
To provide accurate estimations of physical activity (PA) in epidemiological research and population studies, the use of accelerometers has skyrocketed over the past decade. However, implementation of accelerometers to accurately estimate PA in people with dementia is lagging. This population-based, cross-sectional study aimed to quantify daily PA in people with dementia categorised by sex and dementia subtype, using data from the ≥70 years cohort in the fourth wave of the Norwegian Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT4 70+). Clinical experts diagnosed dementia and subtypes according to DSM-5 criteria. PA was measured with two tri-axial accelerometers on the lower back and thigh for seven consecutive days. PA types and postures were classified using a validated machine learning model and analysed as mean minutes per day (min/d). Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) was defined as walking, running, and cycling, and analysed as mean minutes per week (min/w). Of the 1894 participants diagnosed with dementia, 577 participants had valid PA data. These participants spent 231 min/d in total PA, most of which was in standing (187 min/d). Mean time in MVPA was 50 min/w and only 4.3% met PA recommendations (≥150min/w). Men spent more time in MVPA than women (p&lt; 0.001), whereas women spent more time standing (p=0.008). There were no differences between dementia subtypes in volume or intensity of PA. These results indicate that, in people with dementia, independent of dementia subtype and sex, there exists an enormous disadvantageous gap between performed PA and recommended levels of PA.
EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON HEALTH AMONG INFORMAL CAREGIVERS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DEMENTIA: A META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Ahn Sangwoo , Chung Misook , Crouter Scott 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Caregiving for individuals with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), negatively affects informal caregivers’ health. Our review aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of physical activity on physical and psychological health and well-being among informal caregivers of individuals with ADRD because no comprehensive evidence has been drawn so far. To identify appropriate randomized controlled trials, nine databases published by July 2023 were searched. Twelve studies were included (n = 1,163 total participants; mean age = 64 years), two of which were rated as strong in methodological quality, and one as weak with the other nine showing moderate quality. Meta-analysis was performed using STATA (18.0) with the standardized mean difference (SMD; Hedge’s g) used to calculate the effect size of interventions. Physical activity, consisting of walking, Tai Chi, or multicomponent activities (aerobic, strengthening, stretching, and/or balance activities), exerted beneficial effects on static balance as an element of physical health (SMD = 0.45; p &lt; 0.001) and psychological well-being as an element of well-being (SMD = 0.46; p &lt; 0.001), as well as general physical health (SMD = 0.41; p = 0.03) and well-being (SMD = 0.41; p &lt; 0.001) with moderate effect sizes. Health care providers may suggest informal caregivers engage in physical activity to improve physical and mental well-being, and further, potentially decrease some of the onerous aspects of caregiving. Given the limited number of studies in our review, future research is warranted to identify the optimal type and dose of physical activity for informal caregivers’ health.
UNRAVELING ALZHEIMER’S: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF BIOMARKER RESEARCH ADVANCES OVER THE PAST DECADE
Authors: Winters Emily , McCoy Tessa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) presents a formidable global health challenge, necessitating continuous advancements in biomarker research for enhanced diagnosis and management. This review, utilizing a methodology adapted from Arksey and O’Malley (2005) for scoping reviews, comprehensively assesses developments in AD biomarker research over the past decade. Through systematic searches of academic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, articles published between 2012 and the present were analyzed, focusing on keywords encompassing AD, biomarkers, imaging techniques, blood-based markers, and international collaborative initiatives. Key findings reveal significant progress across multiple fronts of AD biomarker research, including the refinement and validation of novel imaging techniques targeting amyloid-beta and tau proteins, such as positron emission tomography (PET) imaging tracers for tau pathology. Moreover, blood-based biomarkers have emerged as promising candidates for non-invasive AD detection and monitoring, with studies investigating proteins like amyloid-beta, tau, and neurofilament light chain. The integration of longitudinal studies and multimodal imaging approaches has provided deeper insights into dynamic biomarker changes throughout disease progression, while machine learning and data analytics have identified novel biomarker patterns and predictive models, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment strategies. International collaborative efforts, exemplified by initiatives like the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN), have fostered data sharing and large-scale biomarker studies, accelerating the pace of discovery and validation. In conclusion, this comprehensive assessment underscores significant strides in AD biomarker research, promising improved early detection, accurate diagnosis, and targeted therapeutic interventions, ultimately advancing patient outcomes and disease management.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN T CELL SUBSETS AND MORTALITY: FINDINGS FROM THE LONG LIFE FAMILY STUDY
Authors: Seshadri Gokul , Vivek Sithara , Wojczynski Mary , Kuipers Allison , Zmuda Joseph , Miljkovic Iva , Ukraintseva Svetlana , Thyagarajan Bharat 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Differences in T cell subsets are associated with higher mortality in the general population. We evaluated whether Long Life Family Study (LLFS) participants and their spouses differed from the general population regarding T cell distributions and their association with mortality. We measured 12 T cell subsets in 1647 LLFS offspring (60.77±8.19 years) and 550 spousal controls (61.08±8.57 years). We used a Cox proportional hazards model to evaluate the association between these T cell subsets and 4-year mortality after adjustment for age, sex, family relatedness and CMV seroprevalence. After age adjustment, LLFS offspring and spousal controls had higher levels of CD4+ naïve T cells (27.5% higher) and CD4+ effector memory cells (1600% higher) and lower levels of CD4+ central memory T cells (55% lower) as compared to the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The difference in CD4+ naïve T cells between those who were &lt; 55 years vs. those &gt; 85 years was 50% lower in LLFS offspring as compared to spousal controls (similar to the HRS controls) (p=0.05). The percentage of CD4+ effector memory cells was associated with increased mortality risk (HR:1.47; p=0.01) and CD4+ naïve T cells showed a borderline inverse association with 4 year mortality (HR: 0.72; p=0.06) in the combined sample of LLFS offspring and spousal controls. These results suggest that levels of T cell subsets are maintained at older ages in long lived families despite CMV exposure and the association between T cells and mortality is similar to what is observed in the general population.
DISTINCT CELL SUBTYPES WITHIN NAÏVE CD4 T CELLS COMPARTMENT SHAPE ITS AGING AND SENESCENCE
Authors: Kelly C J , Jeon Ashley , Rodriguez Jacob , Prosser Dina , Diegel Morgan , Burnaevskiy Nikolay 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Aging is a multifaceted process that manifests differently in various cell types and within the same cell type. Therefore, understanding age-related changes with single-cell resolution may illuminate the mechanistic details of tissue aging and offer targets for intervention. We utilized high-throughput single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze senescence-associated changes within the CD4 T cell compartment. First, we sequenced total human CD4 T cells from multiple donors, revealing that naïve CD4 T cells exhibited a less senescent state compared to memory cells. We focused on naïve CD4 T cells to determine if individual cells differ in expression of aging-associated markers. By sorting cells based on senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (B-gal) activity and applying scRNA-seq, we identified transcriptional signatures associated with more youthful and senescent states. Surprisingly, we discovered cells with lower B-gal expression comprised two distinct populations: one marked by high expression of HELIOS and low expression of SESN3, and another marked by high expression of BACH2 and low expression of TC2N. In comparison, 2 youthful subpopulation and senescence subpopulations differ in markers of immunological activation We then investigated if the composition of naive CD4 compartment changes with age, finding that the abundance of youthful subpopulations was reduced in the older donors’ CD4 populations. Thus, aging in the naïve CD4 compartment is associated with a shifted distribution between more youthful and more senescent cells. Moving forward, we will attempt to manipulate naïve CD4 T cells into a more youthful state by altering expression of the identified transcriptional signatures associated with youthful and senescent states.
SHORT CHAIN FATTY ACID CONCENTRATIONS ASSOCIATE WITH PLATELET MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION AND MAY MEDIATE SEX-DIFFERENCES IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Skoglund Eva Marts , Mahapatra Gargi , Molina Anthony 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Some studies have reported that mitochondrial function can differ by sex; however, the metabolic pathways that mediate sex differences remain unclear. Our recent studies demonstrate that mitochondrial function, measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and platelets, differ by sex in adults, 55 years of age and older. In a lipidomic analysis of PBMCs and platelets collected from the same participants, we assessed concentrations for 10 short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), namely, acetate, propionate, isovalerate, valerate, butyrate, isobutyrate, 3-methylvalerate, 4-methylvalerate, 2-methylbutyrate, and caproate. T-tests comparing SCFA concentrations between males and females revealed sex differences in both PBMCs and platelets. Specifically, SCFA concentrations were significantly higher in platelets obtained from males compared to females. Analysis of metabolic pathways involved in the metabolism of these SCFAs revealed that FA biosynthesis, pyruvate metabolism, glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis pathways are significantly affected in both sexes. Further analysis revealed a greater impact of SCFAs in males than females. To test the impact of SCFAs on mitochondrial bioenergetics, we examined correlations between SCFA concentrations and mitochondrial bioenergetic parameters assessed by respirometry. In both PBMCs and platelets, bioenergetic parameters were correlated with acetate, 3-methylvalerate, 4-methylvalerate, and caproate concentrations. In platelets, SCFAs significantly negatively correlated with basal respiration, ATP-linked respiration, and fatty-acid oxidation (FAO). Similar negative correlations were also observed in PBMCs. Our study indicates that sex-dependent differences in mitochondrial bioenergetics are related to sex specific differences in SCFA concentrations. Future studies are needed to determine if differences in SCFA can underlie differences in mitochondrial function between men and women.
SRF ISOFORMS DIFFERENTIALLY IMPACT MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION AND AGING
Authors: Sharma Shakshi , Zhang Xiaomin , Azhar Gohar , Wei Jeanne Y 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Serum response factor (SRF) is a highly conserved widely expressed transcription factor that plays a key role in regulating a number of muscle specific genes in various tissues, including cardiac and skeletal muscles. Alternative splicing (AS) of SRF generates multiple mRNA transcripts and protein isoforms. The SRF isoforms are critical in regulation of SRF target genes and increases in the human heart with advancing age. We cloned novel isoforms SRF-Δ3 and SRF- Δ345 from human tissues and studied their effect on mitochondrial function. Three SRF isoforms (Wild Type, Δ-3, Δ-345) were subcloned into expression vectors. Muscle cell line C2C12 was transfected with SRF-empty vector, SRF-WT, SRF-Δ3, and SRF-Δ345, respectively. Gene expression was determined by RT-PCR and Western blotting. The mitochondrial function was determined by the SeahorseXFe96 analyzer. SRF-Δ3 and SRF- Δ345 significantly reduced the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and glycolysis (ECAR) in C2C12 cells as compared to SRF-WT. The protein and gene expression of PGC-1α, PGC-1β, MFN 1, MFN 2, Fis1 and Opa1 were also differentially impacted by SRF isoforms. Further, the SRF isoforms significantly impact the protein expression of mitochondrial electron chain complex OXPHOS (I-IV) proteins, thus affecting mitochondrial function. These findings showed the potential effects of the SRF isoforms on mitochondrial function, which might affect cellular senescence and aging.
VOTER OPINIONS ON BRAIN HEALTH AND EARLY DETECTION OF DEMENTIA IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Authors: Barragan Noel , Reyes Mariana , DiCamillo Mark , Kuo Tony 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The burden of dementia continues to expand as the population ages. To address this growing public health problem, the local health department in Los Angeles County (LAC) launched its Healthy Brain LA initiative to encourage individuals and communities to prioritize brain health as a strategy for reducing the risk and impact of dementia. To better understand local perceptions about dementia and to inform the initiative’s efforts, public health partnered with the Berkely IGS Poll to survey LAC voters on key topics related to brain health. The online poll was administered in January 2024 via email invitations sent out to stratified random samples of registered voters in the county; 1,775 respondents competed the survey. Of the total sample, 16% indicated they currently help with care for an adult with memory problems. Overall, 70% reported being somewhat or very worried about the possibility of developing dementia. A majority (84%) agreed they could take steps to improve their brain health and reduce their risk of dementia. Notably, only 13% reported having ever discussed ways to prevent dementia with their doctor. Nearly two-thirds (62%) strongly agreed that they would want to receive a dementia diagnosis as early as possible. There is increasing value in approaching dementia through a public health prevention lens, emphasizing risk reduction and early detection as strategies for addressing this condition. Poll results offer important insights into potential ways in which public health can help activate public engagement and health system involvement in dementia prevention, care and support.
BENEFITS OF FINDING THE SILVER LINING: SECONDARY CONTROL PROTECTS WELL-BEING DURING PANDEMIC FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS
Authors: Pierce Matthew , Duggan Katherine , Klepacz Laura , Hamm Jeremy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Although secondary control beliefs (e.g., “all clouds have a silver lining”) reflect a psychological resource that can protect wellbeing, little is known about the potential benefits of dynamic shifts in secondary control in response to socioeconomic losses of any type, including financial hardships. Our study examined whether within-person shifts in secondary control predicted corresponding shifts in well-being and whether this relationship became pronounced during periods of financial hardship in a pandemic. We analyzed data from the 2-year NDSU National COVID Study that collected 5 waves of data from a representative sample of U.S. adults aged 18-80 (n=292). Preliminary multilevel models assessed how shifts in secondary control predicted corresponding shifts in mental health (perceived stress, depressive symptoms), hedonic wellbeing (positive and negative affect), and eudemonic well-being (personal growth, meaning in life). Our main multilevel models examined whether these within-person relationships were moderated by shifts in an inability to pay for one’s needs (a self-report of financial hardship) while controlling for age, sex, education, income, and between-person secondary control and financial hardship. Within-person increases in secondary control predicted increased well-being across all outcome variables (bs=|0.11-0.23|, ps&lt; 0.01). Financial hardship moderated the relationship of secondary control on perceived stress and personal growth (bs=|0.14-0.24|, ps&lt; 0.05), such that increases in secondary control had pronounced benefits on occasions when individuals were unable to pay for their needs. These findings provide evidence that secondary control may exhibit dynamic shifts in responses to socioeconomic losses and that increases may have pronounced benefits during periods of financial hardship.
DID COVID-19 INCREASE ICT USE AMONG MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER JAPANESE?
Authors: Katagiri Keiko 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is permeating all facets of contemporary life, offering unprecedented convenience. Nonetheless, the digital schism is becoming increasingly pronounced, particularly among the older demographic. Instances where traditional social engagements are hindered, such as the inability to operate ATMs without ICT proficiency, may render older adults socially precarious. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, digital interactions supplanted face-to-face engagements. This study aims to scrutinize the surge in ICT adoption among middle-aged and older Japanese adults during the pandemic. An internet survey targeting individuals aged 50-69 residing in the Tokyo and Osaka metropolitan areas was conducted in March 2021. Participants exhibited a notable escalation in smartphone, tablet, personal computer, and WiFi utilization by 26.2%, 14.5%, 21.6%, and 24.3%, respectively. Moreover, 3.5%, 6.5%, 7.9%, and 34.8% of respondents commenced utilizing audio, images, videos, and online platforms, respectively, during the pandemic. Subsequently, multiple regression analyses were performed to discern factors influencing the adoption of these technologies. Participants manifested heightened usage of devices they were already familiar with. Furthermore, favorable evaluation of internet utility, female gender, non-employment status, and initiation of audiovisual media usage during the pandemic were positively associated with increased utilization of the aforementioned ICT devices. In conclusion, COVID-19 has played a pivotal role in mitigating the digital schism. Subsequent research endeavors should explore strategies to bolster middle-aged ICT engagement in the post-pandemic landscape.
CROSS-CULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN RECRUITING OLDER ADULTS IN DESIGN RESEARCH ACTIVITIES: INSIGHTS FROM CHINA AND THE UK
Authors: Sun Tongxin , Liu Yuanyuan , Zhang Qiong , Jiang Jiabei , Xiong Xueying , Wen Juncheng , Corner Lynne , Jeung Jihong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Engaging older adults in the design process of products and services is essential for enhancing accessibility, usability, and the overall impact of human-centered design research focused on aging populations. Achieving successful recruitment of older adults is pivotal for their meaningful participation. Yet, the post-pandemic landscape has brought significant challenges in engaging and recruiting this demographic, underscoring the complexity of meeting their emotional, social, and cognitive needs during the recruitment phase. Furthermore, existing research predominantly concentrates on recruitment within health intervention and clinical studies, offering limited insight into effective recruitment strategies in design research across diverse socio-cultural and economic settings. Our research employed mixed-methods studies in China and the UK, incorporating surveys, interviews, and researcher immersion to investigate cross-cultural differences in recruiting older adults. We explored their attitudes, needs, and preferences, revealing the significance of treating the recruitment process as a service provided to prospective older participants. Our findings identify key socio-cultural factors—including personal identity, regional context, value systems, technology adoption, and social networks—that influence older adults’ experiences during recruitment. The reconfiguration of these factors may be required to design recruitment services and improve the participation experience. This research offers insights into cross-cultural strategies for effectively engaging and recruiting older adults in design research. By highlighting the importance of inclusivity and diversity, our work contributes to the advancement of human-centered design practices, ensuring they resonate more profoundly with aging populations.