bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
LONGITUDINAL CHANGES IN PROTEOMIC BIOMARKERS IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Authors: Theeke Laurie , Liu Ying , Wang Silas , Navia R Osvaldo , Xiao Danqing , Xu Chun , Wang Kesheng 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) commonly co-occur in older adults. This correlation prompts an investigation into the potential shared risk factors linking AD and CVDs, and the potential direct causative role of cardiovascular risk factors in AD. The cohort comprised 566 older adults including 111 individuals with AD, 58 without AD, 383 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 410 with CVD and 156 without CVD from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). The multivariable linear mixed model (LMM) was used to investigate the associations of AD and CVD on longitudinal changes of 146 proteomic biomarkers (measured at baseline and 12-month follow-up), while adjusted for age, gender, education, racial groups, and APOE-ε4 alleles. The LMM showed that AD and CVD were associated with longitudinal changes in 48 and 46 proteomic biomarkers, respectively (p&lt; 0.05). Interestingly, both AD and CVD were associated with longitudinal changes in 14 proteomic biomarkers (A1Micro, ApoH, B2M, BNP, Complement C3, Cystatin C, KIM1, NGAL, PPP, TIM1, THP, TFF3, TM, and VEGF). Furthermore, the single biggest risk gene for sporadic AD, APOE-ε4 was associated with 22 proteomic biomarkers. Moreover, MCI and CVD were associated with 13 proteomic biomarkers (A1Micro, ApoD, AXL, BNP, Calcitonin, CD40, C-peptide, pM, PPP, THP, TNFR2, TTR, and VEGF), while MCI, CVD and APOE-ε4 were associated with four proteomic biomarkers (A1Micro, Calcitonin, THP, and TNFR2). This study provides valuable insights into the shared and distinct pathophysiological mechanisms at play, offering a stepping-stone towards a deeper comprehension of the interrelationship between AD and CVDs.
PLASMA BIOMARKERS FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND RELATED NEUROPATHOLOGY IN RELATION TO MCI AND DEMENTIA: THE ARIC STUDY
Authors: Sullivan Kevin , Blackshear Chad , Walker Keenan , Mielke Michelle , Windham B Gwen , Griswold Michael , Mosley Thomas , Palta Priya 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Blood-biomarkers for Alzheimer’s Disease and related neuropathological processes, including amyloidosis, tau deposition, and neurodegeneration, may revolutionize the monitoring of risk and progression of neurocognitive outcomes in older adults. At visit 5 (2011-13) of the ARIC study, a multi-center longitudinal cohort study, amyloid-beta (Aβ42:Aβ40), ptau-181, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light (NFL) were measured in plasma using an ultrasensitive single-molecule array (Simoa; Quanterix N4PE + p-tau-181 single-plex) in a sample of 1,711 participants (Age=76±5 years, 60% Female, 28% Black). Neurocognitive outcomes included adjudicated dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through 2019 for a median follow-up of 5.6 years. Multinomial logistic regressions estimated Relative Risk Ratios (RRR) of the four-category outcome of MCI (n=543), dementia (n=371), and death (n=59) vs. cognitively unimpaired (n=736) for each base(2) log-transformed biomarker, adjusted for age, sex, education, site-race, hypertension, diabetes, BMI, APOE, and eGFR. When estimates appeared similar for MCI and dementia, an additional analysis modeled RRR of a three-category outcome of combined MCI/dementia, death, and cognitively unimpaired. Higher plasma Aβ42:Aβ40 ratio was associated with lower MCI/dementia risk (RRR=0.48, 95%CI: 0.32,0.73). Higher levels of all other biomarkers were associated with higher risk of MCI [p-tau181 (RRR=1.57, 95%CI: 1.23,2.00); GFAP (RRR=1.31, 95%CI: 1.03,1.67); NFL (RRR=1.64, 95%CI: 1.26,2.13)] and dementia [p-tau181 (RRR=3.16, 95%CI: 2.43,4.11); GFAP (RRR=2.40, 95%CI: 1.80,3.20); NFL (RRR=3.62, 95%CI: 2.58,5.09)]. These results indicate blood-biomarkers representative of multiple neuropathological processes were strongly associated with both MCI and all-cause dementia outcomes, emphasizing their potential role as tools in risk identification, early diagnosis, and possibly guiding interventions.
EMPLOYING PHOTOVOICE TO MAP ADOLESCENT LIFE TRAJECTORIES AMID MATERNAL YOUNG-ONSET DEMENTIA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Tang Xueting , Wang Junqiao , Wu Bei , Cui Xiaoyan , Wang Jing 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The impact of parental dementia on family dynamics and roles can be substantial, presenting notable challenges for their offspring. Research concerning the life trajectory of adolescents having parents diagnosed with Young-Onset Dementia (YOD) remains limited. This study employs a combination of semi-structured interviews and photovoice through life course lens to delve into the experiences of an adolescent (Alice), exploring how her mother’s condition shapes her life journey and providing novel insights for the development of supportive services. Over a three-month period, Alice captures daily-life moments through photography and selects meaningful photos for sharing. Regular bi-weekly sessions are dedicated to photo-sharing, during which these chosen photos are regarded as pivotal subjects for in-depth exploration in subsequent interview sessions. This approach facilitates gaining insight into her life experience from a nuanced perspective. Thematic analysis reveals four key themes: Firstly, the adaptation of her future ambitions in response to her mother’s condition and increased family responsibilities, resulting in a curtailment of her educational and career prospects; secondly, building a stronger connection with her father and collaborating in shouldering responsibilities. Thirdly, her mother’s prolonged absence during critical phases of personal development impacts her understanding of interpersonal interactions and relationships, prompting a pressing need to establish empathetic connections with others; and lastly, the emergence of Alice’s distinct self-identity and resilience shaped by her unique experiences. These findings underscore the importance of establishing a family-centered support system that addresses the emotional, social, and educational challenges faced by adolescents like Alice as they navigate complex family circumstances.
SOCIAL BRIDGING NETWORKS AND COGNITIVE AGING AMONG OLDER ADULTS: ORIGINS IN SOCIAL CONTEXTS, ROLES, AND ACTIVITIES
Authors: Perry Brea , Peng Siyun , Krendl Anne 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
There is a strong link between social connectedness and cognitive aging, with recent research pointing to social bridging being a primary underlying mechanism. Social bridging may provide cognitive enrichment through interactions with expansive, heterogeneous, and loosely interconnected social networks of weaker, peripheral ties. Drawing on egocentric social network data and cognitive assessments of 436 older adults from the Social Networks and Alzheimer’s Disease (SNAD) study, this paper explores where social bridging networks come from. We used multivariate regression to examine whether a latent social bridging factor comprised of six structural variables (network size, density, effective size, diversity, strength of weakest tie, and sole bridging status) was associated with cognitive function and social conditions. Results indicate that social bridging is significantly associated with global cognitive function (B= 0.19; p&lt;.0001), verbal memory (B=0.26; p&lt;.0001), and episodic memory (B=0.21; p&lt;.0001), consistent with prior studies. Older adults who are women (b=0.40; p&lt;.001) and have more years of education (b=0.05; p&lt;.05) have more access to social bridging. Among community and housing characteristics, only perceived community integration is significantly correlated with higher bridging (b=0.22; p&lt;.05). With respect to social roles, being currently married (b=0.39; p&lt;.001) and being a volunteer (b=0.58; p&lt;.0001) were positively associated with bridging, while being a veteran predicted lower bridging (b=-0.86; p&lt;.0001). Among indicators of social engagement, only number of contacts in one’s phone (in 100’s) was associated with bridging (b=.16; p&lt;.0001). Findings provide insight into social roles and activities that can be leveraged to expand bridging and improve cognitive aging outcomes.
STRESSORS & COPING STRATEGIES OF ADMINISTRATORS IN CHINESE FAITH-BASED DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES
Authors: Jiang Lin , Hodge David , Bonifas Robin , Sun Fei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objectives
Identifying and meeting the spiritual needs of older adults is a central component of holistic service provision. China has more older adults than any other nation, yet a paucity of research exists on the spiritual needs of Chinese older adults. The purpose of this study was to identify: 1) common spiritual needs among Chinese nursing home residents, including the needs of residents with dementia, 2) the process staff use to identify these needs when residents are unable to verbalize them, and 3) the strategies staff use implement to meet the identified needs.

Methods
To perform this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 administrators of faith-based nursing homes, representing facilities that may be disproportionately likely to have residents with dementia. The nursing homes spanned 14 Chinese provinces. Interviews were conducted in the study participants’ native language, translated into English, and analyzed using a constant comparative methodology to identify themes.

Results
Analysis produced five interrelated themes regarding older adults’ spiritual needs, which included the need to: express their faith, receive love and care, have contact with their children, interact with others, and participate in activities. Regarding For residents with dementia who are unable to verbalize their concerns, staff used two strategies to identify spiritual needs: careful observation, and communication with family members. To address the identified needs, staff drew from local resources and attempted to personalize services whenever possible.

Discussion
The findings offer guidance to individuals providing holistic care that addresses Chinese older adults’ spiritual needs.
THE QUALITY OF DAY SCALE AND THE LIVING WELL INVENTORY: TWO NEW MEASURES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEMENTIA AND CAREGIVERS
Authors: Molony Sheila , Fazio Sam , VanHaitsma Kimberly , Feinn Rich , Zimmerman Sheryl 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Differences in adaptive strategies used by individuals living with dementia have the potential to impact wellbeing. Two new measures were developed using human-centered design to capture daily adaptive strategies and outcomes. The Living Well Inventory for Dementia (LWI-D) and the Quality of Day Scale (QODS) capture important aspects of wellbeing that illuminate options for care and support. Purpose: To provide results from the initial evaluation of the LWI-D and the QODS for face validity, content validity and user acceptability.

Methods
Acceptability and feasibility testing was conducted with a sample of 17 community-dwelling individuals with early stage dementia (MOCA scores 12-30). After measure optimization, a second pilot test was conducted with 30 dyads (persons living with dementia and family caregivers) in community and residential settings.

Results
Persons with dementia can use and accurately interpret the QODS, preferring a version with graphic icons. Of the 31 items on the development version of the LWI-D, 17 items were acceptable, meaningful, and easily answered. Additional items yielded meaningful qualitative responses but needed minor revision. Some participants disliked the Likert-type response format, and new administration guidelines were used for the second pilot. Additional outcomes include convergent validity between the LWI-D and the QODS with measures of positive affect-balance, quality of life and wellbeing.

Conclusion
The LWI-D and the QODS are rigorously developed promising measures that warrant further testing and may enhance the ability to a) identify strengths in living well with dementia and b) identify and test news interventions to bolster care and support.
A SYSTEMS APPROACH ON THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL RACISM AND CLIMATE CHANGE ON RESIDENTS OF VINE CITY IN ATLANTA GA
Authors: Mayfield Kellie , Akintola Kehinde , Foley Sophia , Willis Angelique , Cook Miranda 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
There are three interlocking factors impacting the health of older-adults. First is food access, the ecologies of their community and the systems they interact with. In the community of this study the local grocery store closed limiting food access. The ecology of the environment is a heat island; which leads to the incidence of higher mortality amongst other health effects. The interacting systems are the economy, ageism, classism, racism, and, sexism. This conceptual model encapsulates the environment impacting one community of older adults in Atlanta, GA from a mixed methods study employing survey and photoelicitation with the purpose of examining the facilitators and barriers to healthy eating by senior-center clients served by Open Hand Atlanta; a meals and nutrition education provider. Descriptive statistics showed food insecurity to be double that of older adults statewide (19%), 7.9 % reporting consuming at least 5 cups of fruit and vegetables per day, and participants were mostly black women (79 %) . Additionally, residents also live in a community where a portion has been deemed a toxic Superfund site because of elevated levels of lead in soil. The model, therefore, contributes to a comprehensive understanding of how the health of older adults is impacted by a multitude of systems and climate change. It can be used as a guide for other communities, community-dwelling older adults, and older-adult service providers. Furthermore, this model illustrates the systems impacting the health of older southern adults.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOR HURRICANES AMONG NURSING HOMES IN TEXAS
Authors: Downer Brian , Holland Alexandra , Kang Yejin , Lacy Briana , Xu Huiwen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Hurricanes are a major threat to nursing homes along the Texas Gulf Coast, and climate change will increase inland nursing homes’ risk of catastrophic winds and flooding. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses twenty-five regulations to assess nursing homes’ emergency preparedness. This study compares the prevalence of any deficiencies in emergency preparedness regulations between Texas nursing homes in coastal and non-coastal counties. We also investigate the risk of future flood and wind events for nursing homes in non-coastal counties with any emergency preparedness deficiencies. Information for emergency preparedness deficiencies came from CMS inspection surveys. We used data from the First Street Foundation for the percentage of properties in a census tract with severe-extreme risk of flooding and damaging winds in 30 years. We used quartiles to define our highest risk categories as the census tracts with &gt;7% of properties with severe-extreme risk for flooding and &gt;50% with severe-extreme risk for damaging winds. The final sample included 1,153 nursing homes. The percentage of nursing homes with any deficiencies was significantly higher in non-coastal (13.9%) than coastal (8.7%) counties. This difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for ownership type, overall rating, and number of beds (OR=0.57, 95% CI=0.33-0.94). Among the 131 non-coastal nursing homes with any emergency preparedness deficiencies, 21.4% and 12.2% were in the highest risk categories for future flood and wind damage. Texas nursing homes, especially those in non-coastal counties, must be aware of their increasing hurricane risk and prepare to keep residents safe.
SUPPORTING A MOTHER WITH DEMENTIA WHO MISTREATED ME: CAREGIVING EXPERIENCES OF STRAINED MOTHER-DAUGHTER DYADS
Authors: Nemec Mary , Girling Laura 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Providing care to an aging parent is a normative expectation within most modern societies. Research steadily demonstrates that around two-thirds of caregivers are women, and over one-third of dementia caregivers are adult daughters. Often there is an assumption of natural attachment between mother and daughter—unconditional loyalty and permanent availability. However, overlooked in the literature is the notion that some adult daughters struggle with caregiving decisions regarding a parent with whom they have been maltreated. To date, little research has focused on dementia caregiving dynamics within strained mother-daughter dyads. To address this knowledge gap, data were drawn from the Aging at Home Alone with Alzheimer’s Disease study, an interview-based protocol with a purported sample of 120 community dwelling persons with dementia and their study partner. Thematic analyses were conducted on the subsample of daughters and their mothers with dementia (n=10) who reported a history of maltreatment (e.g., childhood neglect, childhood abuse). Thematic analyses were conducted on all case material for the subsample (e.g., interview data, case notes). Findings indicate four overarching themes: 1. Begrudging caregiving, 2. Fragmentary support, 3. Resurfacing childhood trauma, and 4. Post-traumatic growth and forgiveness. These themes stress the importance of how childhood maltreatment can shape emotional bonds early in life and affect dementia caregiving trajectories. Findings will be discussed in relation to support recommendations for caregiving dyads with a history of parental maltreatment.
ADDRESSING THE COMPLEX DRIVING NEEDS OF AN AGING POPULATION: THE RISE OF AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES
Authors: Carr David , Devos Hannes , Akinwuntan Abiodun , Babulal Ganesh 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Eighty-eight million Americans will be age 65 or older by 2050 and 25% of all drivers will be ≥ 65 years old. Technology has the potential to address some issues such as the inability to drive in advanced age. We postulate that continuing to drive with the use of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and/or maintaining social connectedness with the use of autonomous vehicles (AVs) have the potential to slow down or reduce the impact of age-related diseases and enhance social mobility. ADAS are electronic technologies that assist drivers in safely operating a vehicle by detecting crash risk stimuli and reducing driver error. Older drivers’ willingness to use ADAS depends on individual perceived usefulness, safety, ease-of-learning, and anxiety. Based on the SAE levels of automation (0-5) , level 3-5 AVs can detect, evaluate, and respond to the vehicle environment without human involvement. Still, ADAS and AV technology cannot completely supplant all human driving and it cannot independently determine crash risk and safety. Comprehensive studies are needed to prove the effectiveness of ADAS in reducing crash risk among older drivers, especially those who are most vulnerable. In addition, AV manufacturers need to take into account the requirements and needs of providing this type of mobility service to older adults, especially those with chronic neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. If these technologies are eventually shown to be safe and embraced by older adults, they have the potential to delay driving cessation, prolong quality of life and maintain social connectedness.
DETERMINATION OF OPTIMAL VIBRATION DOSE TO TREAT PARKINSON’S DISEASE GAIT SYMPTOMS: A CLINICAL TRIAL
Authors: Pretzer-Aboff Ingrid , Elswick R K , Gouelle Arnaud , Helm Noah , Blackwell GinaMari , Cloud Leslie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Most people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) will experience gait problems. Previous studies demonstrated improved gait and balance after vibration stimulation was applied to the feet of PD patients. However, not all study participants showed improvement, perhaps due to sub-optimal vibration stimulus. Thus far, the optimal frequency and amplitude of vibration for mitigating gait dysfunction in PD have yet to be systematically explored. The PDVibe2TM (Resonate Forward LLC, DE) delivered vibration to the feet of 26 people with PD gait disturbances. We hypothesized that a global frequency, amplitude, and minimum duration of vibration therapy is required to improve gait. This was a phase Ib trial to identify optimal vibration parameters. Thirteen participants were recruited at Hoehn & Yahr (H&Y) stage II and 13 participants at stage III. Each group was randomly assigned to different frequency and amplitude settings prescribed by the central composite design methodology. Each participant received vibration for 18 minutes per walking session, for eight sessions spread over one week. Results showed an optimal dose response to treatment for frequency and amplitude of vibration based on the Functional Ambulation Performance score for stages II and III. In the H&Y stage II group, outcomes were stabilized after the 4th treatment. This stabilization was not seen in stage III participants. Global frequency and vibration amplitudes have been identified for treating PD gait disorders. Patients with more advanced Parkinson’s disease may require a longer duration of therapy.
STATIN USE REDUCES ALL-CAUSE MORTALITY IN NURSING HOME RESIDENTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Gellert Paul , O’Sullivan Julie L , Kohl Raphael , Lech Sonia , Romanescu Laura , Schuster Johanna , Kuhlmey Adelheid , Yasar Sevil 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Statins are recommended for the prevention of primary and secondary cardio and cerebrovascular events. However, little is known about the benefits of statin therapy in older adults with dementia. Therefore, this retrospective cohort study aims to investigate the association between statin use and all-cause mortality using health insurance claims data of nursing home residents with and also without dementia.

Methods
Time-variant Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association of statin use with all-cause mortality and adjusted for potential confounders.

Results
Overall, N=326,669 individuals were included in the analysis (mean [SD] age 84.02 [8.45] years; 74% women). During a mean observation period of 2.42 years (SD=1.59), a total of 239,321 deaths occurred. The fully adjusted models showed that participants with dementia statin users compared to non-users had a 20% lower risk for all-cause mortality (HR 1.20; 95%CI: 1.19–1.22, p&lt;.001). In a subanalysis, similar trends remained within those with history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) (HR 1.22; 95%CI: 1.21–1.24, p&lt;.001) and without ASCVD disease (HR 1.12; 95%CI: 1.09–1.16, p&lt;.001); and when stratifying by dementia type, Vascular dementia (VaD) (HR 1.27; 95%CI: 1.22-1.32, p&lt; 0.001) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (HR 1.19; 95%CI: 1.13-1.26, p&lt; 0.001). Trends remained similar when stratifying by statin intensity, age, nursing home care level required, and sex.

Conclusion
Our study demonstrates the benefits of statin therapy in highly vulnerable nursing home residents with dementia. This contributes to filling the knowledge gap regarding the harms and benefits of statin therapy in older adults.