bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PRACTICE EFFECTS ON BRAIN EFFICIENCY OF WALKING IN AGING AND NEUROLOGICAL DISEASE
Authors: Holtzer Roee , Izzetoglu Meltem 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Evidence provides support for using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to quantify brain activations, notably in the pre-frontal cortex (PFC), under different walking conditions. Dual-tasks that involve walking impose additional demands on attention resources relative to the single tasks, and Studies using fNIRS revealed increased HbO2 in the PFC in Dual-Task-Walk (DTW) compared to Single-Task-Walk (STW) conditions in several populations. Burst measurement within session, which involves repeated administration of the same task, affords evaluation of short-term practice effects on changes in walking performance and the efficiency of its underlying neural activation. Here, we examined the effects of task (STW vs. DTW) and burst measurement (three counter-balanced repeated trials of each task condition) on walking performance and fNIRS-derived HbO2 in the PFC in older adults with multiple sclerosis (n=80, %female=65%, mean age=64ys) and controls (n=79, %female=65, mean age=69ys). Participants were enrolled in an ongoing cohort study designed to determine cognitive and brain predictors of locomotion in older adults with MS. Results from linear mixed effects models (LMEMs) revealed: 1) higher fNIRS-derived HbO2 in DTW compared to STW (p&lt;.01). 2) fNIRS-derived HbO2 levels declined over repeated trials, notably in DTW (p&lt;.01). 3) gait velocity was slower in DTW compared to STW (p&lt;.01). 4) gait velocity improved over repeated trials (p&lt;.01). The combination of decline in fNIRS-derived HbO2 levels and faster walking over repeated trials under DTW suggests more efficient usage of brain resources to support attention-demanding locomotion in aging and neurological disease.
HETEROGENEITY OF PREFRONTAL CORTICAL ACTIVITY DURING WALKING AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Baillargeon Emma , Huppert Theodore , Rosano Caterina , Rosso Andrea 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Higher prefrontal cortical (PFC) activity during simple walking may indicate neural compensation for impaired gait automaticity. On average, older adults have higher PFC activity during walking than younger adults, but the heterogeneity amongst older adults is understudied. We examined PFC activity during simple and dual-task walking in adults aged 65+ (n=173, mean age=72, 62% female). Participants walked quietly and while reciting every-other-letter of the alphabet (dual-task; 4 repsx15 meters). Change in PFC activity from standing was estimated using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. We grouped participants with significantly increased, significantly decreased, or no change in PFC activity from standing to simple walking (t-test, alpha=0.05). We tested for group differences in PFC activity change from simple to dual-task walking, task performance (gait speed, rate of correct letters), age, and cognitive function (trail-making A/B). PFC activity increased from standing to walking in 52 (30%), decreased in 21 (12%), and did not change in 100 (58%) participants. Those who reduced PFC activity from standing to simple walking (vs no change or increased, respectively) walked faster (mean+/-SD=1.12+/-0.17 vs 1.00+/-0.17 0.99+/-0.18m/s; both p=0.014) and had a greater increase in PFC activity from simple to dual-task walking (t-stat=1.96+/-2.2 vs 0.49+/-1.53 vs -0.26+/-1.43; p=0.008, p=0.0006). Those who increased PFC activity from standing to simple walking had a smaller PFC change (vs no change) from simple to dual-task walking (p=0.005). Age, alphabet performance, and cognitive function did not differ across groups. Differences in PFC activity during simple walking may contribute to differences in task performance and capacity for walking challenges.
A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN INITIATIVE TO ENGAGE EMPLOYERS AS ADVOCATES TO SUPPORT WORKING CAREGIVERS
Authors: Meyer Kylie , Zachmeyer Morgan , Paccione Jane , Smith Christina , Cardenas Cynthia , Teran Dianne , Zernial Carol 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Approximately 62% of family caregivers to older adults living with a chronic illness or disability are employed. Nearly 6 in 10 caregivers report that caregiving has affected their employment in the last year, such as by requiring them to turn down a promotion, reduce work hours, or leave the workforce. Loss of employment income affects caregivers’ immediate and long-term financial well-being. To help family caregivers balance employment and caregiving and promote their long-term financial security, in 2021, the Successfully Living and Aging in San Antonio Caregiver/Socialization Workgroup developed a 5-part discussion series to encourage local employers to consider how to better support employees who are caregivers. The series was attended by 75 individuals representing 34 organizations. During initial discussions, attendees identified the importance of institutional culture in affecting workplace policies around caregiving. To help promote supportive workplace cultures, in the third discussion session, participants used a modified nominal group technique to co-develop a 10-point pledge that employers can use support employees who are caregivers. In this presentation, the authors will describe the development of the pledge. Further, we contextualize this initiative in terms of the Shilton Model of Policy Advocacy. By integrating employers into discussions about supporting employees who are caregivers, this local initiative provides an example of how communities can incorporate employers as stakeholder advocates to support policies to help family caregivers remain in the workplace. This work is particularly valuable to advance policy recommendations to promote caregiver financial well-being within the 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers.
HOW WILL AGE INCLUSIVITY SURVIVE IN AN ERA OF ANTI-DEI INITIATIVES?
Authors: Bradley Dana , Allen Laura 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
For the first time, we have five different generations in the workplace in the United States. Generational diversity in the office is a trend that is not only expected to continue, but it is expected to grow. In that same vein, as companies continue to evolve in the way they work, it will be vital for organizations to understand, embrace and establish a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy in an ongoing effort to help employees of all ages feel like they are respected, valued, understood and belong in their workplace. Recent state court decisions and administrative decisions by governors suggest that DEI strategy implementations may be limited in some states. This paper explores the evolution of age inclusivity as part of DEI policies and practices. Grounded in the work of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, advocates have expanded their work to address ageism and ableism and ensure that society reflects persons’ lives as they age. We reviewed state-level court and administrative decisions regarding DEI initiatives across the US in 2021-23. While findings rarely note age, language in these decisions is written broadly so that outcome is unclear which subsequent court decisions. Our analysis concludes with “best practices” from the corporate sector and higher education, which emphasize systems where people on either end of the age spectrum have a more precise connection point to the decision-makers, each other, and conversations around the age at work. These strategies offer a cautious pathway forward in the US.
CATALYZING DEMENTIA CARE THROUGH THE LEARNING HEALTH SYSTEM AND CONSUMER HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Wolff Jennifer , Powell Danielle 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
To advance care for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), real-world health system effectiveness research must actively engage those affected to understand what works, for whom, in what setting, and for how long – an agenda central to Learning Health System principles. The spread of consumer health information technology affords new opportunities to support ADRD caregivers within health care delivery. Patient portals allow patients to view test results and sections of their electronic medical record, perform health management tasks (e.g., scheduling visits, billing, filling prescriptions), access educational materials, and communicate with clinicians using secure messaging. Many care delivery organizations allow patients to share access to their portal account by registering a “care partner” to have their own identity credentials (login/password). Through shared access, patients may select whether and who electronically interacts with clinicians on their behalf, thus, respecting patient preferences while supporting care partners with timely information about patient health and treatments, and a mechanism to electronically navigate health system demands. Little is now known about electronic information sharing preferences and practices of persons with ADRD and their caregivers, the feasibility of deploying novel interventions, or existing initiatives through consumer health information technologies to better support ADRD care and management. This symposium presents early results from projects seeking to increase evidence regarding the role and use of consumer health information technology in ADRD care and management by examining the existing landscape of patient portal use in the context of dementia care from a large integrated academic health system.
THE MEDICARE ANNUAL WELLNESS VISIT: POTENTIAL FOR EMBEDDED INTEGRATION OF THE PATIENT AND FAMILY PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Powell Danielle , Wu M J , Gleason Kelly , Nothelle Stephanie , Oh Esther , Reed Nicholas , Wolff Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Patient portals are secure online platforms that provide an opportunity for patients to actively participate in their care by viewing their health information, messaging with clinicians, and completing health risk assessments, like the Medicare Annual Wellness visit (AWV). Using electronic medical record and patient portal (MyChart) data (October 3, 2021-October 2, 2022) from a large integrated academic medical center, we examine uptake of the AWV among Medicare beneficiaries 65+ years with 2 or more primary care visits. We then examine whether responses to the AWV health risk assessment differ by whether patients are registered for and actively use the patient portal. Among 11,378 eligible beneficiaries, 7,194 had an AWV billed (62% female, 69% White, 8.7% dementia, 78% patient portal users). Among those billed, 98% answered at least 1 health risk assessment question +/- 30 days of billing, and 76% completed questions related to all risk assessment themes. Nearly 8 in 10 (79.6%) older adults who completed the AWV were patient portal users. While highly active overall, completion of the AWV and health risk assessment was higher for active patient portal users. Compared to non-active portal users, active users were less likely to report difficulty with ADLs, transportation, chores, mobility issues, vision concerns, living alone, and seeing a dentist. Evaluation of billed AWV alone does not fully characterize completion and care provided for the preventive care visit. Systematic incorporation of the patient portal may aid in integration and dissemination of preventive care.
HOST-MICROBE METABOLIC INTERACTIONS IN DISEASE AND AGING
Authors: Li Xiaoling 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As a key mediator of environmental influences on cellular functions, metabolism is crucial for cellular adaptation to the environment. Perturbations of metabolic homeostasis by various environmental factors, including diet and lifestyle, are associated with numerous metabolic diseases and contribute to acceleration of aging. To understand how metabolism mediates environmental regulation of cellular functions and how disruption of metabolic homeostasis contributes to pathogenesis of diseases and aging, we have been focused on a nutrient-sensing pathway consisting of NAD+, SIRT1, the most conserved mammalian NAD+-dependent protein deacetylase/deacylase, and protein acylations. Employing genetically modified mice and cultured cells as model systems, we have recently shown that NAD+ and SIRT1 are key mediators of host-microbe metabolic interactions. On one hand, host NAD metabolism is regulated by gut microbiota. On the other hand, SIRT1 age-dependently modulates gut microbiota through regulation of intestinal bile acid metabolism and Paneth cell activation. Furthermore, we identified SIRT1 as a key regulator of methionine metabolism in embryonic stem cells and developing embryos, thereby modulating their sensitivity to methionine restriction, a dietary regimen that protects against metabolic diseases and aging. Intriguingly, we recently demonstrated that dietary methionine restriction impairs anti-tumor immunity through interaction with gut-microbiota. Together, our findings uncover an important role of the NAD+-SIRT1 axis in mediating host-microbe metabolic interactions that influence disease and aging.
THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA GSA STUDENT CHAPTER AND MULTICAMPUS COORDINATION AND COLLABORATION
Authors: Kleszynski Keith 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The University of Oklahoma is a public university system comprised of a main campus in Norman, Oklahoma, a health sciences campus in Oklahoma City, a campus in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as well as robust online education programming. The University of Oklahoma GSA Student Chapter launched in late 2022 and is open to student membership from all campuses within the University of Oklahoma system. Student membership recruitment is facilitated by a team of inter-professional faculty whom seek to engage any learner on any campus with an interested in gerontology in its broadest sense. The University of Oklahoma GSA Student Chapter utilizes an umbrella and sub-committee structure to maintain governance. This structure is a result of inter-disciplinary collaboration across campuses, colleges, and among faculty and is replicable in university settings with multiple campuses and diverse sets of learners.
INTEGRATING PRACTITIONER KNOWLEDGE INTO AN ALGORITHM TO IDENTIFY CASES FOR REVIEW BY AN ADULT MALTREATMENT MDT
Authors: Thayer Erin , Martinez Julia , Mars Lori , Gassoumis Zach 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Case review multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) bring together professionals from health, social service, and justice systems to address complex cases of elder abuse, neglect, self-neglect, and maltreatment of younger adults with disability or vulnerability. MDTs are a promising intervention, but MDTs nationwide face challenges identifying cases for review. In partnership with San Francisco Adult Protective Services (APS), we developed an algorithm-driven process to systematically identify APS cases that appear appropriate for MDT review. To construct the algorithm, a retrospective analysis of APS case data was augmented by insights received during six listening sessions held with 48 study partners (MDT members and APS staff). These sessions gauged perspectives on cases’ suitability for MDT review. Listening session transcripts were coded using constant comparative analysis, revealing themes of Client, Case Details, and Service Utilization Patterns. Client included physical or cognitive impairment, high-risk of abuse or other harms, need for assistance from multiple service systems, and limited motivation to make changes. Case Details referred to aspects of the abuse such as concurrent self-neglect, client protectiveness of the suspected abuser, client denial of the abuse, and limited evidence of criminal conduct. Service Utilization Patterns were recurrence within APS, attempting multiple solutions, inability to provide services, and referral by medical professionals, fire departments, or paramedics. These topics guided the inclusion of variables in the project’s algorithms. This mixed-methods approach provides an example of community-engaged research being applied to develop knowledge and guide the practice of service delivery for vulnerable older adults and other victims of adult maltreatment.
THE EFFECT OF MENTAL HEALTH ON DETROIT RESIDENCE IN OLDER ADULTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Vaughn Ivana , Yaphe Sean , Sundaresan Lakshmi , Freedman Jonathan , Weinberg Samuel Jesse , Lamerato Lois , Budzynska Katarzyna 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had a tremendous impact on global experience of anxiety and depression. Due to social isolation and quarantine, older adults faced unique challenges that disproportionately increase their risk for health outcomes. The purpose of this retrospective study was to examine the relationship between Detroit versus non-Detroit residence and incident mental health disorders. The patient population included older adults (age 65 and older) from a large metropolitan urban health system with patient encounters between December 2018 - June 2021. The primary predictor, Detroit metropolitan status, was based on zip code. Outcome variables, incident depression, anxiety, and composite mental health disorders, were based on screening measures (PHQ-2, PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores), ICD diagnosis, medical prescriptions, and behavioral health referrals. Fully adjusted logistic regression analysis derived odds ratios of incident outcomes in Detroit versus non-Detroit patients. A total of 5,300 older adult patients were included in this study. Older adults residing in Detroit had significantly reduced odds of incident anxiety compared to non-Detroit residents (OR:0.45; 95%CI:0.26,0.75, p=0.003). Incident depression and composite mental health outcomes also showed protective effects in Detroit patients; however, these outcomes were not statistically significant. Overall, patients residing in Detroit had 55% decreased odds of developing anxiety during the pandemic. Additional research should explore facilitators and barriers to mental health diagnoses during the COVID-19 pandemic for older adults in an urban setting.
ASSESSING BIDIRECTIONAL LONGITUDINAL ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SOCIAL RESOURCES AND COGNITIVE DECLINE IN LATE LIFE
Authors: Zhang Yun , Clouston Sean , Scott Stacey , Smith Dylan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objectives
To better understand bidirectional longitudinal relationships between social networks and cognitive decline. Method: We examined nine waves of data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (2011-2019). Our primary outcome was global cognition, consisting of a summation of scores on episodic memory, orientation, and executive function tests. Social network measures included measures of social participation, number and type of social ties, attributes of network alter, and neighborhood markers of social cohesion and disorder. We applied linear mixed models to study associations between time-invariant measures of social cohesion and disorder with cognitive decline over time. We employed dual-outcomes mixed models to examine the bidirectional linkages between time-varying measures of social network structures and cognitive decline. Result: Eligible participants (N = 7,325) were included at baseline and followed for an average of 4.86±3.22 years/waves. Having more friend-ties and a higher percentage of college graduates within a social network at baseline were associated with slower declines in global cognition and episodic memory. Additionally, higher global cognition at baseline was associated with smaller reductions in social network size. Less disorientation at baseline was associated with a slower decline in social participation. Social cohesion and environmental disorder were not associated with cognitive decline.

Conclusion
Social networks may improve cognitive health but are also vulnerable to declining orientation. Results suggest that bidirectional longitudinal relationships link social network structure with cognitive decline and inform our understanding of the framework of associations between diverse aspects of social resources and cognitive decline in a longitudinal setting.
OLFACTORY DYSFUNCTION AND DEPRESSION TRAJECTORIES IN COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Kamath Vidyulata , Jiang Kening , Manning Kevin , Mackin R , Walker Keenan , Brenowitz Willa , Simonsick Eleanor , Deal Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Olfactory dysfunction has been linked with all-cause mortality and neurodegenerative disease risk, though less is known about the association between olfaction and late-life depression (LLD). We examined the relationship between baseline olfactory performance and incident significant depressive symptoms and longitudinal depression trajectories in well-functioning older adults from the Health, Aging, and Body Composition study. Older adults (n=2,125, age 71-82, 51% women, 37% Black) completed an odor identification task at Year 3 (our study baseline). Cognitive assessments and depressive symptoms were ascertained across multiple visits over 8 years. We employed discrete time complementary log-log models, group-based trajectory models and multivariable-adjusted multinomial logistic regression to assess the relationship between baseline olfaction and incident depression and longitudinal depression trajectories. Mediation analysis assessed the influence of cognition on these relationships. Individuals with lower olfaction had increased risk of developing significant depressive symptoms at follow-up (hazard ratio [HR]=1.04, 95% CI:1.00, 1.08). Of the three longitudinal depression score patterns identified (stable low, stable moderate, stable high), poorer olfaction was associated with a 6% higher risk of membership in the stable moderate (relative risk ratio [RRR]=1.06, 95% CI:1.02, 1.10) and stable high (RRR=1.06, 95% CI:1.00, 1.12) groups, compared to the stable low group. Poor cognitive status only partially mediated the relationship between olfaction and incident depression severity. Suboptimal olfaction may serve as a prognostic indicator of vulnerability for development of LLD. These findings underscore the need for a greater understanding of olfaction in LLD and the demographic, cognitive and biological factors that influence these relationships over time.
TEACHING IN THE TUNDRA: LESSONS LEARNED AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE
Authors: Howell Britteny , Rosich Rosellen , Easley Mikki 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
UAA is an open-enrollment, public university of about 12,000 students. The gerontology minor was formed in 2005 as a result of the Geriatric Education Center (GEC). However, the loss of the GEC and most gerontology faculty, coupled with low student enrollment in the minor, led to its deactivation in 2014. Since then, several new faculty have been hired with an interest in gerontology. The Gerontology Faculty Workgroup, instituted by the GEC, remains active and the university now has 4 new courses on aging, including a geriatric Interprofessional Education (IPE) course. This forward momentum in recent years has led to the development of a new Occupational Endorsement Certificate program in gerontology. Training the future workforce and working professionals, the new program is poised to be more sustainable than a minor. In this presentation, we share details of past challenges and current successes within the College of Health.