bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
STRESSOR VARIETY, SEVERITY, AND IRREGULARITY AND THEIR ASSOCIATIONS WITH DAILY MEMORY LAPSES
Authors: Calfee Kristin , Lee Soomi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Long-term negative impacts of chronic stress on memory has been well established; however day-to-day associations between stressors and memory have not been fully examined, with lack of understanding on specific manifestations of stressors that may degrade daily memory. This study conceptualized three patterns of daily stressors: variety, severity, and irregularity. Data came from 1,132 adults who participated in an 8-day diary study as part of the Midlife in the United States study. Participants reported 7 types of stressors (e.g., work-related, home-related, discrimination) they encountered, which was summed daily (variety). On days when a stressor was encountered, they reported how stressful it was (severity). Individual standard deviation of stressor severity across the week (irregularity) was also calculated. Memory lapses were reported with 9 items each day. Results from multi-level modeling revealed that, at the within-person level, participants reported more memory lapses on days when they had greater variety (B= 0.126, SE=0.014, p&lt;.001) or higher severity (B=0.071, SE=0.014, p&lt;.001) of stressors. At the between-person level, participants with greater variety (B=0.717, SE=0.052, p&lt;.001), higher severity (B= 0.168, SE= 0.031, p&lt;.001), or greater irregularity (B= 0.141, SE= 0.047, p=.003) of stressors reported more memory lapses on average. These results were found after controlling for sociodemographic and health covariates. These findings highlight that even short-term stress, particularly severe or inconsistent stress may have a negative impact on day-to-day memory. Potential differences between older (age 65+) and younger (below age 65) adults in the relationship between these daily stressors and memory lapses are currently being explored.
THE DYNAMIC AND RECIPROCAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERCEIVED DISCRIMINATION AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Amano Takashi , Jia Yuane , Redding-Raines Audrey 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Studies have suggested that perceived discrimination is a potentially modifiable risk factor for cognitive health in later life. However, there is a lack of focus in the literature on the changes and directionality of the relationship between these two constructs. This study, based on socioemotional selectivity theory, investigates the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between perceived discrimination and cognitive function in later life. Data were drawn from four waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018). We utilized a subsample of respondents who completed the psychosocial and lifestyle questionnaire in at least three waves. A total of 4,101 people who were 51 and older were included. Cognitive function was measured by the abbreviated version of the telephone interview for cognitive status (TICS-27). Perceived discrimination was measured using scores of the perceived everyday discrimination scale. Random intercept cross-lagged panel model (RI-CLPM) was utilized. Age was associated with lower perceived discrimination (b=-0.224, p&lt;.0001). While lower cognitive function was cross-sectionally associated with higher perceived discrimination in all racial/ethnic groups, higher everyday discrimination predicted subsequent lower cognitive function only among White respondents. The model fit statistics were favorable: CFI=0.968; SRMR=0.045. Results suggested that a decline in cognitive function may exacerbate perceived discrimination which may result in further reduction of cognitive function in general. Lifetime experience of discrimination was discussed as a possible source of the racial/ethnic variations in the relationship. Further study is needed to examine whether this relationship holds among people with cognitive impairment or dementia.
DISPARITIES AND TRENDS IN COMPREHENSIVE PAIN MANAGEMENT AMONG THE ADULT POPULATION IN THE POST-OPIOID EPIDEMIC
Authors: Spataro Sebastián , Candon Molly 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Chronic pain is an epidemic, but there are various therapies that are effective at treating it. Disparities in access to chronic back pain management are well documented. However, studies have largely focused on the gap in utilization between Black and White patients, and on the use opioid therapies. The extent of disparities in utilization for other groups and how disparities by demographics interact with socioeconomic characteristics, are unclear.

Methods
Using insurance claims from Optum Data, we identified patients who had chronic low back pain between 2010- 2020. We measured trends in pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies, disaggregating measures by sex, age, race/ethnicity, educational attainment, income, and parenthood. We estimated linear probability models to understand which demographic and socioeconomic characteristics were most predictive of utilization.

Results
There were large differences in the utilization of pharmacological and nonpharmacological pain care, with surprising findings. First, we found that Black patients were the most likely to be prescribed opioids, as well gabapentin, muscle relaxers, and NSAIDs, followed by White patients, Hispanics; Asians were the least likely to engage in pharmacological therapy. Linear probability models indicated that the largest predictor of pharmacological and nonpharmacological pain management was education and income.

Discussion
We document disparities in pain management, which point to important policy implications. Preferences of pain management warrant further attention, as our findings suggest that income and education are the largest driver. It could be that the time and out-of-pocket costs associated with nonpharmacological pain management reduce the likelihood that patients opt for these therapies.
FUNCTIONAL MRI TO PREDICT RECOVERY FROM DISORDERS OF CONSCIOUSNESS AFTER BRAIN INJURY
Authors: Rodriguez Bianca , Boivin Christopher , Fischer David 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Disorders of consciousness (DoC) following brain injury are challenging for families, who often decide about end-of-life care without a clear understanding of a patient’s recovery. This has special significance for older and geriatric populations, as they often rely on caregivers, proxies, and family members in making health and life decisions, and now face the added severity of decisions surrounding continuing treatment. In improving neuroprognostication, we hope to decrease this burden in aging-related decision-making. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has proved helpful in identifying brain activity in DoC with implications for recovery of consciousness, function, and quality of life. This project seeks to develop and implement a standardized fMRI protocol to best induce signals of consciousness in participants and predict the likelihood of neurologic recovery. From there, we will measure how the protocol contributes to an accurate outcome prediction following a DoC as compared to standard methods. The study will be conducted in the intensive care unit(s) of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; we anticipate having an initial analysis of results by Fall of 2023. The study will be enrolling and conducting fMRI’s with the device over one year under a randomized control trial. This study emphasizes improvements in the practice of neuroprognostication after stroke, anoxic brain injury following cardiac arrest, and other related conditions. The literature on these particular forms of traumatic brain injury and neuroprognostication remains limited, which is of disservice to older and geriatric populations who suffer these events at higher rates.
SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE CONCERNS AND 5-YEAR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TRAJECTORIES IN PARKINSON’S DISEASE
Authors: Luu Britney , Garcia Mary Ellen , Bangen Katherine , Galasko Douglas , Thomas Kelsey 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Subjective cognitive concerns (SCC) are often associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-related cognitive declines in cognitively unimpaired (CU) individuals. However, it is unknown whether the same is true for CU individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Therefore, this study examined relationships between SCC and 5-year neuropsychological trajectories in CU individuals with newly-diagnosed PD (mean age=60.45 years; 35.2% female) in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) cohort. Participants were classified as having SCC (n=52) or no SCC (n=204) based on participant or caregiver report for item 1 on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale, part 1. First, baseline cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers were examined by SCC group. Next, linear mixed effects models, adjusting for age, education, sex/gender, APOE genotype, psychiatric factors, and motor symptoms examined 5-year trajectories of individual neuropsychological measures by SCC status. Relative to participants without SCC, those with SCC had worse levels of CSF tau (p=.011), p-tau (p=.016), and p-tau/amyloid ratio (p=.003), but not amyloid or alpha synuclein. SCC was associated with faster rates of decline in learning (β=-.059, p=.018), memory (β=-.050, p=.035), and processing speed (β=-.052, p=.031), but not in semantic fluency, visuoperceptual abilities, working memory, or on a global cognition screening measure. Overall, SCC was associated with learning/memory and processing speed declines, but not other measures that may be more PD-specific (e.g., working memory, visuoperceptual). Given the elevated AD biomarkers, SCC may be particularly related to early changes due to co-occurring AD and PD pathology. Future work should investigate longitudinal AD and PD-related biomarker trajectories by SCC status.
THE DEVELOPMENTAL WINDOWS WHEN EXPOSURE TO ANTIBIOTICS INCREASES THE RISK OF EARLY ONSET COLORECTAL CANCER
Authors: Tomlin Nichelle , Jani Niti , Pena Marie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the US. About 50,000 people die from colorectal cancer each year. Early onset Colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is a colon and rectum cancer occurring in people under 50. There has been a decline in cases in people over 50 due to healthier lifestyle choices. However, in the last few decades there has been a steady increase in EOCRC cases, and we do not know why. The increase in EOCRC has paralleled the increased use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are especially important for fighting infections, but overuse has become an epidemic. Our study tested the hypothesis that exposure to antibiotics in early life causes dysbiosis and inflammation in the colon that can lead to an increased risk for EOCRC. To test the hypothesis a mice model was used. Female mice who have given birth are giving antibiotic treatment for 7 days, so the children are exposed to the antibiotics through their mother’s milk at an early age. The children are weaned from their mothers and at 5 weeks old they are given Azoyxmethane (AOM) treatment once a week for 6 weeks. Fecal pellets were collected before and after the AOM treatment of the kids and antibiotic treatment of the mother. The results show if given multiple dosages of amoxicillin there will be tumor burden in the proximal colon which can increase the risk for EOCRC.
THE ROLE OF NURSES IN DISORDERS OF CONSCIOUSNESS: ​IMPLEMENTATION OF SENSORY STIMULATION IN THE NEURO-ICU
Authors: Mentor Rhoodjinie , Young Bethany , Coghlan Leah , Boivin Christopher , Fischer David 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In the Neuro Intensive Care Unit (Neuro-ICU), patients with Disorders of Consciousness (DoC) often experience sensory deprivation. DoC, resulting from brain damage, encompasses varying degrees of wakefulness and awareness, ranging from coma to vegetative state and minimally conscious state. Research highlights a concerning trend in the Neuro-ICU, where older adults with DoC are more susceptible to mortality compared to their younger counterparts. This study emphasizes the indispensable role of nurses in effectively managing DoC within the Neuro-ICU, particularly through the thoughtful application of sensory stimulation interventions. Sensory stimulation is a promising approach that engages patients’ various senses—touch, sight, sound, and smell, aiming to awaken awareness and cognitive responses in DoC patients. By fostering neural activity, sensory stimulation holds the potential to contribute to their recovery. Importantly, these techniques can be customized to each patient’s specific condition and responses, and nurses, due to their continuous patient interactions, are uniquely positioned to administer these interventions at the bedside. Recognizing this vital role, evidence-based strategies are proposed, encompassing thorough literature analysis, assessment of nurses’ attitudes, and exploration of potential interventions within the Neuro-ICU setting. This research highlights the significant impact nursing can have on elevating patient outcomes. It demonstrates how evidence-based interventions like sensory stimulation can be seamlessly woven into patient care, providing a valuable and holistic approach for individuals grappling with the intricate challenges presented by DoC.
UNDERSTANDING THE INTERPLAY OF BRAIN HEALTH, COGNITION, AND AUTONOMIC FUNCTION
Authors: Simms Evan , Wilson Sarah , Newman-Norlund Roger , Fridriksson Julius , Newman-Norlund Sarah 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Research in clinical populations focused on various age-related diseases report multi-system difficulties in autonomic regulation, motor performance, cognition, and brain health. My research investigated the relationship between brain health, chronological age, and cognition. To assess these domains, I cross analyzed Compass 31, MoCA, and Brain Age Technology. The study population included 158 participants, both healthy and unhealthy. The collected data evaluated the relationship between brain age disparity, chronological age, and autonomic function. Correlation analysis, regression modeling, and subgroup comparisons were employed to explore potential associations, age-related patterns, and autonomic function variations. The findings from this research study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between brain health, chronological age, and autonomic function. Age, White Matter Hyperintensities, Brain Age Gap, and Brain Age Variance demonstrate high significance when correlated with the MoCA total score. MoCA and all Compass 31 domains were found to be predictive of total white matter hyperintensity volume. This finding highlights a strong relationship between all three domains and suggests that when participants score high on both assessments, they should follow up with neuroimaging to discover potential brain damage. Future studies should identify risk factors for cognitive impairment and brain health that are also symptoms for autonomic dysregulation.
3-HK SUPPLEMENTATION INCREASES NICOTINATE PHOSPHORIBOSYLTRANSFERASE (NAPRT) EXPRESSION IN DROSOPHILA
Authors: Huang Qiao , Said Adam , Wu Yuqiong , Walston Jeremy , Westbrook Reyhan , Abadir Peter M 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The increasing prevalence of physical frailty and aging related diseases in older adults necessitates the development of novel biological strategies to slow age-related declines. In humans, tryptophan metabolism through the kynurenine pathway (KP), which produces the energy metabolite and cellular cofactor nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), has been linked to various aging-related diseases including metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases, and physical frailty. Elevated levels of KP metabolites, such as 3-hydroxykinurenine (3-HK), correlate negatively with lifespan and physical function. A profile of downstream KP metabolites in the serum of older adults showed that 3-HK was increased in frail compared to both non-frail and young subjects, and liver kynurenine/tryptophan ratio correlates negatively with maximum lifespan in twenty-six mammalian species. To comprehensively explore the effects of elevated cytotoxic KP metabolites, we fed DGRP_229 Drosophila males diet infused with 3-HK. We found that treatment with 3-HK reduced average lifespan by 17% (P&lt; 0.0001) compared against control. To elucidate the biological mechanisms of 3-HK treatment, we performed qRT-PCR on 11 genes involved in tryptophan metabolism. We found that treatment with 3-HK significantly decreased the expression of nicotinate phosphoribosyltransferase (Naprt) (P=0.0022), which plays an important role in NAD+ biosynthesis and protects against oxidative stress. Our findings indicate that some of the detrimental effects observed after 3-HK supplementation may be mediated by changes in NAD+ biosynthesis and highlight the potential feasibility of using NAD+ supplementation as an intervention method.
A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN REPARATION COMMISSION’S REPARATIONS PLAN FOR OLDER BLACK AMERICANS
Authors: Brown Jocelyn 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This policy content analysis critically examined the National African American Reparations Commission’s (NAARC) 10-Point Plan for Reparations. As the first comprehensive plan for reparations, the latest revision has gained attention for its potential to rectify socioeconomic inequality. However, the degree to which the plan addresses the nuanced challenges faced by older Black Americans (e.g., higher rates of poverty) is unclear. Therefore, the objectives of this analysis were to: a.) assess the plan’s potential to reduce inequality among older Black Americans, and b.) evaluate its capacity to address inequality over the life course and subsequent generations. Before the qualitative analysis began, a coding scheme was developed surrounding cumulative disadvantage theory. For example, codes addressing economic disparities, healthcare barriers, and intergenerational wealth transfer were developed. From there, the 12-page document was deductively coded by the author using this scheme. The findings suggest that the NAARC’s 2023 revision is considerably comprehensive, providing strategies to address socioeconomic inequality on structural levels (e.g., funds for entrepreneurial development, criminal justice reform). Even so, the plan needs work to fully address the needs of today’s older Black adults. To maximize the plan’s impact on older Black Americans, the NAARC could incorporate long-term care provisions, family-centered support systems, and long-term services and supports. This analysis has significant implications for the NAARC’s plan and continued fight for reparations. To maximize its impact on older Black Americans and promote intergenerational equity, policymakers should consider inclusive provisions for a demographic most directly haunted by the legacies of slavery and Jim Crow.
A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF A DIGITAL FALL PREVENTION EXERCISE PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH INCREASED FALL RISK
Authors: Farrell Shannon , Bajdek Nicole , Dishaw Mary , Garabedian Pamela , Williams Alisha , Hachen Naomi , Reid Kieran , Latham Nancy 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Falls are a significant public health problem; one third of individuals aged 65 years or older fall each year. Strength and balance exercises reduce fall risk, but most older adults are inactive. Individuals at risk of falls need clear guidance to ensure exercises performed at home are safe and provide adequate challenge. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate the experiences and perceptions of older adults with increased fall risk enrolled in a 3-month digitally delivered home-based fall prevention exercise program (DFP). Semi-structured interviews were conducted by an interview specialist on a sample of 16 participants (81% female, age 77.3±5.8 years). Interviews were transcribed, imported, and coded into Dedoose, a tool for qualitative analysis. Codes were refined with each interview and themes were generated from the final codes. Three themes were identified: adherence to a home-based digitally delivered fall prevention exercise program, impact of fall prevention exercises on activities of daily living (ADL), and benefits of home-balance exercises. Participants attributed adherence to the home exercise program with minimal in-person visits. Participants reported fear of falling increased as they aged; upon completion, participants felt reduced fear of falling in their ADL. Balance exercises were the most appealing due to the level of difficulty and motivation to improve balance. Participants recommended changes to improve the DFP exercise program, with majority wanting to continue the program. This qualitative analysis provides guidance to health professionals about the acceptability and recommended changes for a digitally delivered home fall prevention exercise program.
A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT AND OLDER ADULT REFLECTIONS ON AN ORAL HISTORY PROJECT
Authors: Moriello Gabriele , Ehlman Katie , Ligon Mary 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Interaction between generations is diminishing as extended family members live further apart and as neighborhoods, communities, and institutions become increasingly age-segregated. Fostering intergenerational contact can benefit both parties involved. The aim of this qualitative study was to develop a deeper understanding of the meaning of participating in an intergenerational oral history project using a phenomenological approach. Undergraduate students (n=21) interviewed a family member or friend in three, 45-60-minute sessions. After the last interview, each older adult/student pair met to share what the project meant to them. Audio recordings of these final reflections were analyzed using a thematic analysis process. Five themes emerged: Reflection, Learning, Meaningful Connections, Evoked Emotions, and Advice. To the surprise of the researchers, the five themes were common to both students and older adults. The subthemes, however, differed between groups within three of the themes (reflection, learning, and advice). Consistent with previous research, findings support that participating in an oral history project is beneficial for both parties. This study adds to the literature by revealing that both older adults and students reflected on their lives. Older adults tended to accept their lives (or not) after reflecting. Both groups learned as a result of this project and the project evoked emotions. Theoretical study implications include that engaging in reminiscence supports psychological development in late-life, according to Erikson’s model. Further, congruent with Mezirow’s theory of transformative learning, the experience challenged participants to consider how telling and/or hearing a life story fits or did not fit with prior thoughts.