bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A MEDIATOR BETWEEN RACE/ETHNICITY AND CHANGES IN COGNITION
Authors: Newsom Jason , Kroeck Mallory , Trubits Em , Saucedo Jennifer , Botoseneanu Anda , Allore Heather , Nagel Corey , Quiñones Ana 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Racial/ethnic disparities in the rate of cognitive decline in older age have been established. Studies also report differences in physical activity across racial/ethnic groups. We investigated whether racial/ethnic differences in changes in cognition over a 12-year period (2006-2018) were mediated by physical activity using data from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 16,777, mean baseline age = 66.0 years). Structural equation modeling was used to estimate a latent growth curve model of changes in cognitive scores (27-item TICS) and investigate whether the relationship of race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, non-Hispanic White) to change in cognition was mediated by physical activity after controlling for age, sex, education, marital status, personal wealth, and insurance coverage. Results indicated that Blacks engaged in significantly lower levels of physical activity than Whites (b = -.176, ♌ = -.123, p &lt; .001), but there were no differences between Hispanics and Whites (b = .028, ♌ = .017, ns). Physical activity significantly predicted higher initial cognitive scores (b = 5.205, ♌ = .610, p &lt; .001) and less decline in cognitive scores over time (b = 1.063, ♌ = .796, p &lt; .001). The indirect (mediational) effect for the Black vs. White comparison on changes in cognitive score was significant (b = .187, ♌ = .152, 95% CI [.135,.244]). These results provide important new information for understanding how physical activity, a modifiable lifestyle factor, may help explain racial/ethnic disparities in cognitive decline in middle and later life, suggesting greater need to reduce sedentary behavior and increase activity.
THE IMPACT OF LEISURE ACTIVITIES ON OLDER ADULTS’ COGNITIVE FUNCTION
Authors: Lee Jungjoo , Oh Seokmin , Rodriguez Miriam , Kim Junhyoung 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between types of leisure activities (i.e., Leisure-Time Physical Activity (LTPA), intellectually stimulating activities, and community-based activity and the cognitive functions of older adults. We extracted 3,767 samples from the 2020 Health and Retirement Study (n = 15,723). Cognitive functions: (a) memory was assessed by both immediate and delayed recall tests, b) working memory was measured by a subtraction-by-7 test, and (c) attention and processing speed was assessed by the counting back word test. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between types of leisure and cognitive functions. LTPA, intellectual leisure, and community-based leisure were significantly associated with improved memory function. The intellectual activity was significantly associated with improved working memory and improved attention and processing speed. This finding provides practical implications for healthcare providers and therapists to design and implement various types of leisure for older adults.
AGING IN PLACE FOR OLDER HOMELESS VETERANS LIVING IN VA SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
Authors: Maitra Medha , Brown Rebecca 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Aging in place, defined as the ability to live comfortably, safely, and independently in one’s own home and community, is a priority for many older adults and a growing focus of research and policy efforts. However, little is known about perspectives on and experiences of aging in place among the growing population of older adults with experiences of homelessness, whose perspectives may differ from adults in the general population. Using qualitative interviews with veterans living in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) apartments and focus groups with HUD-VASH staff members, we explored perspectives on and experiences of aging in place, including barriers and facilitators to aging in place in this setting.
EDITING CDKN1A AND RASD1 IN A CELL CULTURE SYSTEM
Authors: Vue Hope , Agrimson Kellie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As an individual ages, there is a higher incidence of cancer and infertility. Testicular germ cell cancer rates have been rising year after year. According to the American Cancer Society 1 of every 250 males will develop testicular cancer during their lifetime. In this research project, we aim to develop a molecular toolbox to analyze gene function in male germinal cells using a CRISPR/Cas9 cell culture system. This biotechnology allows for the targeted alteration and cutting of specific DNA strands. To achieve this, we will utilize cancer cell lines (SUSA and NT2/D1 testicular cancer cell lines) and knock out two genes of interest: cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1 (CDKN1A) and ras-related dexamethasone-induced 1 (RASD1). Our objective is to investigate the effects of gene knockout on cell proliferation. For this purpose, we designed primers and single-guide RNAs using bioinformatic databases: Benchling and Chop Chop. The tools we used were employed to amplify human genomic DNA and assess the effectiveness of the guide RNAs through in vitro cutting of our genes of interest, followed by gel electrophoresis observations. Based on the results obtained from these experiments, our next step is to electroporate the guide RNA and Cas9 complex to alter gene function in our cell culture system. Through a better understanding of gene function in testicular cancer cell lines, we hope to inform future therapeutic targets for both testicular cancer and age-related infertility.
A PORTABLE TECHNOLOGY-BASED BALANCE ASSESSMENT PREDICTS FALL RISKS IN LOW-INCOME COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Trahan Evette , Komalasari Renata , Thiamwong Ladda 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Despite strong evidence on the association between balance performance and fall risks, there is a need for further studies among racially diverse low-income communities. Sixty-two healthy, low-income community-dwelling older adults (mean 74.11, SD: 6.34, 61-88 years old) in Central Florida were recruited and administered the BTrackS Balance Tracking System (BBS) for measuring balance performance. BBS is a postural sway-based balance performance assessment, where participants were guided to stand still on the BBS plate with hands on hips and eyes closed for about 1-2 minutes. Fall risk was assessed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s twelve-item self-assessment checklist, Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries (STEADI). About 58% of participants were African Americans, completed high school (54.8%), lived alone (67.7%), and earned just enough financially (54.8%). The simple regression results indicated that the model explained 14.9% of the variance (R2=.149, F (1,60) = 10.47, p =.002). Higher BBS scores (β = .100, p =.002) were significantly associated with higher fall risk scores. As older adults had reduced balance, their fall risks increased. The findings of this study confirmed the benefits of using a combination of a simple fall risk checklist and a portable assessment technology in enhancing the accessibility of balance and fall risk screening. Furthermore, a technology-based balance performance assessment is key in tailoring fall interventions for older adults with poor balance.
A SCOPING REVIEW OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH IN CHARLES BONNET SYNDROME RESEARCH
Authors: Strong Joe , Amano Takashi , Hoàng Isabella , Amaza Hannatu , Tilsen Rachel 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a neurological condition featuring pseudohallucinations that affects previously sighted individuals, many of whom are older adults. The CBS literature primarily concerns prevalence estimates, neurological studies, and experiences of people living with the condition; it is not clear what is known concerning social determinants of health (SDoH). We conducted a scoping review guided by Healthy People 2030 SDoH categories including Economic Stability, Education Access & Quality, Health Care Access & Quality, Neighbourhood & Built Environment, and Social & Community Context. Research articles included in this study represent 5 countries on 5 different continents. Sample size ranged from 5 to 88 across all included studies (M = 40.25, Median = 33). Two studies did not report enough info to extract mean age; Mean of mean age across the remaining 6 studies is 63.25 (Range: 27.8-79.47). Across the 8 included articles, 9 different SDoH variables were identified, representing 4 of the 5 Healthy People 2030 SDoH categories, with the exception of Health Care Access & Quality. All studies reported age and gender, most reported education (n = 6, 75%) and living arrangement (n = 5, 62.5%), and half (n = 4) reported marital status. Few studies, however, reported race (n = 2, 25%), loneliness/social life (n = 2, 25%), occupational status (n = 1, 12.5%), and living environment (n = 1, 12.5%). This study highlights the need for expanded inclusion of SDoH variables in CBS research to fill gaps in the knowledge base in this understudied condition.
“THERE IS A SHORTAGE AND MISUSE OF TERTIARY NURSING”: PERSPECTIVES OF NURSING ASSISTANTS IN ACUTE CARE
Authors: Wagner Jennifer , Miller Vivian , Maziarz Lauren , Burek Melissa , Bell Julia , Perry Kaley 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The primary role of nursing assistants (CNAs) in the acute care setting is to provide direct care to patients. As frontline workers, they are often the first to report changes in condition to the licensed staff. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an increased employment need for nurse aides over the next ten years. However, the annual rate of nurse aide turnover is over 120 percent. A study conducted in 2015 by Brady suggests that there is a 36% turnover rate nationwide in acute care. Guided by a socio-ecological model, qualitative findings from 17 nurse aides (N=17) reveal interpersonal factors, such as relationships with others at the workplace and relationships with patients, as impacting turnover. Institutional and Community factors were also found to impact turnover, including staffing levels, resources, education, and compensation. Informed by the interview findings, a quantitative study was created. CNAs (N=230) from a variety of health care settings participated. Twenty-five percent were from the acute care system (N=56). More than seventy percent (N= 40) have considered leaving their employment. The top two reasons were pay (N=15) and to pursue other things (N=9). The top two work challenges were providing direct care to bariatric patients (N=28) and not enough supplies (N=13). The favorite part of working in acute care is getting to know the patients (N=26). Little research has been conducted on the turnover of CNAs in the acute care setting. CNAs are vital to caring for patients in the acute care system.
ADDRESSING BARRIERS TO A FULL RANGE OF EVIDENCE-BASED OBESITY CARE FOR OLDER ADULTS: A GSA ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION
Authors: Batsis John , Lofton Jason , Pendrey Anna , Starr Kathryn Porter , Pettis Jennifer , Tracy Karen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Obesity is identified as a chronic disease by the American Medical Association and several professional societies such as the American College of Cardiology, the American Heart Association, The Obesity Society, and the American Gastroenterological Association. These organizations have all established clinical guidelines on caring for individuals with obesity and overweight. However, there is a critical lack of appropriate and individualized treatment strategies for older adults with obesity. To address this issue, in June 2023 The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) convened 15 multidisciplinary leaders in a roundtable discussion on Addressing Barriers to Accessing a Full Range of Evidence-Based Obesity Care Options by Older Adults. Roundtable participants identified how to overcome obesity/overweight perceptions, communicate appropriately with older adults about their body size, address cultural differences in obesity care, provide care in conjunction with common comorbidities that are faced by older adults, collaborate with an interprofessional team to care for older adults with obesity, overcome barriers to implementation of lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, incorporate medical and surgical interventions, and align needs of older adults with community resources. This poster will illustrate key findings from this roundtable discussion.
ADOPTING A STRENGTH-BASED, PERSON-CENTERED RISK ASSESSMENT CLINICAL DECISION SUPPORT TOOL: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Authors: MacLeod Heather , Provencher Véronique , Kessler Dorothy , Egan Mary , Giroux Dominique , Kergoat Marie-Jeanne , Krystina Lewis , Nathalie Veillette 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Most older adults want to age in place even if changes in their health results in home safety concerns. A consistent approach to assessing both the physical and psychological risks associated with the decision to remain at home is lacking. The Living with Risk: Decision Support Approach (LwR:DSA) is a recently validated innovative clinical tool that supports a balanced, systematic and person-centered assessment of risks, by analyzing their negative and positive consequences. The aim of this mixed-method study was to understand the barriers and facilitators to using the LwR:DSA during usual care to determine how best to support widespread adoption. Twenty-two hospital- and community-based clinicians used the LwR:DSA for eight weeks. Individual interviews were performed to document the factors that hindered and helped the use of the LwR:DSA in their clinical setting. The interviews were analyzed using Qualitative Description and the positive impact of using the LwR:DSA emerged as one of the facilitator themes. The participants described that using the LwR:DSA in practice improved their clinical decision making, communication and their ability to provide person-centered care. More specifically, the LwR:DSA 1) helped the clinicians understand the risk level and the context, causes, and consequences of the safety concern; 2) guided them to co-create with the older adult, agreeable recommendations to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes; 3) decreased clinician discomfort and 4) supported authentic conversations with the older adult. Understanding the benefits of using the LwR:DSA provides key information for clinicians by challenging the status quo of their current practice.
ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND DECREASED SERUM Α-KLOTHO, AN ANTI-AGING HORMONE, LEVELS AMONG US ADULT PARTICIPANTS
Authors: Fromm Dylan , Zhu Jianmin , Kim Wonjun , Wei Yudan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
The Klotho protein is widely accepted to be a prominent anti-aging biomarker for health and longevity. The relationship between alcohol intake and serum levels of soluble ɑ-Klotho is not well understood.

Methods
In this study, we explored this relationship in a nationally representative sample of US adults. A total of 3970 male and female adults aged 40-79 years from the 2013-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were analyzed using multiple general linear models. Participants were classified as non-drinkers, light drinkers (consumed on average &lt; 4 drinks in males and &lt; 3 drinks in females per day), and heavy drinkers (consumed on average ≥4 drinks in males and ≥3 drinks in females per day), according to a national guideline.

Results
Significantly decreased serum ɑ-Klotho levels were found in both light drinkers and heavy drinkers, with the weighted geometric mean of 785.18 pg/mL (p = 0.0007) in light drinkers and 750.96 pg/mL (p = &lt;.0001) in heavy drinkers, compared to that in non-drinkers (827.19 pg/mL). After adjusting for covariates, light drinking was associated with a 3.66% (p = 0.0081) decrease in serum ɑ-Klotho levels, and heavy drinking with an 8.07% decrease (p = &lt;.0001) in ɑ-Klotho levels, as compared with non-alcohol drinking. Similarly, binge drinking was also associated in a 5.22% (p = &lt;.0001) decrease in serum ɑ-Klotho, compared to non-binge drinking.

Conclusion
This study demonstrates a significantly inverse relationship between alcohol consumption and serum ɑ-Klotho levels in middle-aged and older adults. Prospective studies are warranted to elucidate these interactions.
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE RISK REDUCTION HEALTH COACHING: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Zanjani Faika , Battle Brian , Richardson Joann 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Recent guidelines point to lifestyle change as a tool for decreasing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk. To address the limited practice of AD risk reduction and the greater AD prevalence in minority groups, this study aimed to explore the feasibility of a community-level lifestyle intervention targeting high-risk groups. Diverse older adults (60+) living in the Richmond, VA local area, with incomes below $12,000/year and managing diabetes/cardiovascular disease were offered weekly lifestyle telephone-health coaching for 12-weeks in 2019-2020 (Phase 1). The health coaching sessions provided AD lifestyle risk reduction education and goal setting/planning. The intervention sample (n=40, mean age 68 years (range: 60-76 years)) was 90% African American/Black (n=36), 45% males (n=18). Thereafter 2021-2022, n=37 individuals in the same area were recruited as a comparison group and not given health coaching (Phase 2), mean age 65.5 years (range: 57-83 years) was 92% African American/Black (n=34), 50% males (n=18). Demographic differences across groups, indicated that the intervention group was more likely to live alone (p&lt;.01). Repeated measures intervention effects were seen for cognitive ability, indicating greater gains in the intervention group (p&lt;.01). Significant difference score effects indicated greater cognitive ability (p&lt;.01) and physical activity (p&lt;.001) gains in the intervention group; with less physical activity gains (p&lt;.02) for subjective cognitive decline group. This preliminary work creates the impetus for future large-scale AD risk reduction investigations to improve modifiable risk among diverse older adults. Our positive trends in AD risk reduction support the feasibility of telephone-based health coaching AD risk reduction interventions.
AN INTERACTION EFFECT OF INTERNET USE AND SOCIAL PARTICIPATION ON LITERACY ABOUT FRAILTY IN OLDER JAPANESE
Authors: Fujiwara Natsumi , Akagi Yuya , Yoshida Hiroko , Kamide Kei , Koetaka Hanayo , Kido Michiko , Li Yaya , Kabayama Mai 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to analyze the age difference of the interaction effect of internet use and social participation on literacy about frailty in older Japanese.

Methods
Data were collected from community-dwelling older adults aged 65-89 years randomly selected from residential registration by self-reported postal questionnaires (n=5005, response rate 49.0%). We asked them about their background, whether they use the internet to obtain health information, and whether they know the term of frailty（know what it meant / don’t know what it means but have heard of it or never heard of it and don’t know）.Logistic regression stratified by age (65-74 and 75-89 years) was used to evaluate the association of literacy about frailty with internet use and social participation adjusted for gender,education, frailty status, physical activity. The interaction between internet use and social participation on literacy about frailty was also assessed.

Results
Results showed that in both age groups, the interaction revealed that a combination of social participation and internet use was associated with a high literacy about frailty (65-74 years: OR=1.64,95%CI=1.28-2.11; 75-89 years: OR=1.92,95%CI=1.45-2.56). Only in the 75-89 age group, Internet use alone without social participation was significantly associated with a high literacy about frailty (OR=1.60,95%CI=1.12-2.30).

Conclusion
Our findings suggest that internet use may be beneficial for improving literacy about frailty especially for the elderly over 75 years old, however, social participation should also be taken into consideration for those. Longitudinal research is needed.
ARE RURAL OLDER VETERANS SATISFIED WITH VIRTUAL COMPREHENSIVE GERIATRIC ASSESSMENTS?
Authors: Sawyer Linda , Keller Hallie , Howell Teresa , Cervantes Maria , Dunlap Janette , Cigolle Christine , Sullivan Dennis 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Rural older Veterans (ROV) have limited access to comprehensive geriatric assessments (CGA). VA Video Connect (VVC) can potentially overcome this access barrier. A standardized process was developed and piloted, to conduct CGAs by VVC. It was found to be feasible and facilitated access to CGAs. The purpose of this study was to assess ROVs’ satisfaction with CGA via VVC. The team developed a 10-item questionnaire with good face and content validity to assess satisfaction with the CGA and process. All ROVs who completed a CGA via VVC were telephoned. They were asked to rate each item on a Likert scale. Caregivers were allowed to assist but the final answer came from Veteran themselves. The results are summarized as percentage of respondents who “agree” or “strongly agree”. ROVs also provided comments. Of the 79 ROVs who completed the CGA via VVC, 63 OVs completed the questionnaire. Most were white (82.8%) males (95.4%), with mean(±SD) age 75.7(±6.5). Most felt it was easy to communicate with the providers (95.2%) and understood the information they were given (98.4%). Most felt comfortable using the technology (75.8%) and that the visit was private enough (96.8%). Although many commented they would prefer in-person visits, most agreed that they would do virtual visits again if offered (71.4%). Overall, they “agreed that they would not change anything about the CGA process (95.2%). The results suggest that ROVs were satisfied with CGA via VVC. More research is needed to determine the outcomes, benefits, and limitations of CGAs performed by VVC.
ASSESSING MODERATED MEDIATION IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SYMPTOM COUNTS, FALLS, AND HEALTH OUTCOMES
Authors: McKay Michelle , Brace Margaret 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Almost half of older adults experience multiple symptoms that limit function and increase the risk for falls. The study aimed to determine if the relationship between symptoms (pain, endurance, weakness, balance, depression/anxiety) and outcomes (hospitalization, residential care, activity limitations, wellbeing, and mortality) are mediated by falls and whether symptoms further moderate outcomes of falls. Data from community-dwelling older adults (≥ 65 years, n=4921) enrolled in the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) 2015 cohort were used for analysis. Symptoms were categorized by symptom count (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, ≥5). Using generalized structural equation modeling, 2015 symptom counts were modeled to predict 2016 falls, 2016 health outcomes, and 2017 mortality. Falls partially mediated the association between symptoms in one year and outcomes the following year for all except residential care. In addition, the effect of falls on hospitalization is significantly moderated by symptoms (interaction of symptoms and fall OR=.89, robust SE=.045, p=.025). This dampening effect indicates that the overall effect of falls on hospitalization (OR=2.19, robust SE=.36, p&lt;.001) is stronger at the lower levels of symptom count and weaker at the higher levels of symptom count. When there are ≥5 symptom present, there is no significant difference between the predicted probability of hospitalization for those who have not experienced a fall (.31, 95%CI: .28 to .34) and those who have fallen (.36, 95%CI: .31 to .41). Understanding the complex relationship between symptoms, falls, and outcomes can assist with developing interventions for symptom management and fall prevention.