bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
BLOOD-BASED BIOMARKER CHANGES IN A PHASE 2B TRIAL ASSESSING LOMECEL-B IN OLDER ADULTS WITH FRAILTY
Authors: Ramdas Kevin , Mehranfard Danial , Naioti Eric , Green Geoff , McClain-Moss Lisa , Gincel Dan , Hare Joshua , Oliva Anthony 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Aging frailty (AF) is a multidimensional geriatric syndrome that is characterized by physical and cognitive symptoms, increasing the vulnerability of affected older adults to adverse health outcomes. Mechanistically, a low-grade chronic inflammatory state (inflammaging), endothelial dysfunction, and decreased regenerative capacity are thought to be major contributors to AF pathophysiology. Lomecel-B is an allogenic medicinal signaling cell(MSC) formulation that can potentially ameliorate AF through pleiotropic mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory, pro-vascular, and pro-regenerative activities. We completed a Phase 2b randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial designed to assess Lomecel-B benefits for AF via change versus placebo in the six-minute walk test(6MWT), to assess the dose-response relationship, and to evaluate bioactivity via changes in blood-based biomarkers. Enrolled subjects were aged 70–85 years with mild-to-moderate AF, a reduced 6MWT of 200-400m, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α of ≥ 2.5pg/mL indicative of inflammaging. In total, 143 subjects received a single intravenous infusion of Lomecel-B at doses of 2.5 x 107 cells (25M, N=35), 5.0 x 107 cells (50M, N=30), 1.0 x 108 cells (100M, N=33), or 2.0 x 108 cells (200M, N=16), or placebo (N=29). Safety and efficacy assessments were performed at 1, 3, 6, and 9 months post-infusion. Increases in 6MWT and decreases in serum levels of the blood-based biomarker Soluble-Tie-2 were observed at 9 months in the Lomecel-B groups versus placebo. Notably, both observations were seen in a dose dependent fashion with 200M showing the highest effect. Based on the findings, a next-phase trial is being developed to advance this clinical program and will be presented.
POLYPHARMACY, FRAILTY, AND DISABILITY-FREE SURVIVAL IN COMMUNITY-DWELLING HEALTHY OLDER INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Ekram A R M Saifuddin , Woods Robyn , Ryan Joanne , Espinoza Sara , Gilmartin-Thomas Julia , Shah Raj , Nelson Mark , Ernst Michael 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Polypharmacy and frailty are two common geriatric syndromes. We examined the association between polypharmacy and frailty and if, together, they predicted disability-free survival (DFS), defined as time to the first event of dementia, persistent physical disability or death.

METHODS
We included 19,114 participants from the "ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly" (ASPREE) clinical trial. Polypharmacy was defined as regular, concomitant use of five or more prescription medications. Frailty was assessed using a modified Fried phenotype and a deficit accumulation frailty index (FI) of 66 items. The association between polypharmacy and frailty was assessed by multinomial logistic regression. In addition, Cox regression was used to determine the association between polypharmacy-exposed frailty and DFS.

RESULTS
Individuals with polypharmacy (vs. &lt; 5 medications) were 55% more likely to be pre-frail (Relative Risk Ratio or RRR: 1.55; 95%Confidence Interval or CI:1.44, 1.68) and three times more likely to be frail (RRR: 3.34; 95%CI: 2.64, 4.22) according to Fried phenotype. Frail individuals had a two-fold reduction in their survival free of dementia/disability (Hazard ratio or HR: 2.16; 95%CI: 1.56, 2.99), whereas frail individuals with polypharmacy had a four-fold reduction (HR: 4.24; 95%CI: 3.28, 5.47). Effect sizes were more prominent when frailty was assessed using the FI than when assessed by Fried phenotype.

CONCLUSION
Polypharmacy was significantly associated with pre-frailty/frailty. Polypharmacy-exposed pre-frailty/frailty increased the risk of death, dementia or physical disability among older adults. Addressing polypharmacy in older people could ameliorate the impact of frailty on individuals’ functional status, cognition and survival.
POETRY AND UNCOVERING THE MYSTERY OF SOCIAL PROBLEMS: AN ARTS-BASED INQUIRY TO AGING CARE
Authors: Wu Heng , Szto Peter 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This research focuses on a current social welfare problem: unemployment and the loss of employer-based health insurance among non-elderly adults aged 18 to 64. The literature covers this social problem in terms of health status, access to medical care, employed versus unemployed working-age adults, mitigating the risks of unemployment, and loss of health insurance via the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). As good as the findings are, they are methodologically limited by looking at only half the story. This research asks a different question: how might the humanities and arts-based perspective address the social problem? It aims at answering why the employment status is related to health and health insurance. Chinese poetry has a long rich tradition of expressing insights about the inner life since antiquity to the present. These reflections include practice wisdom and keen observations on aging. This poster presents case findings on the use of Chinese poetics to inform aging care in the West. Each case provides discussions on why social welfare system comes up short to solve the problem and how the social welfare system can be effectively changed. Researchers use survey data to compliment Chinese poetic insights about employment status and insurance status to illustrate the correlation between respondents’ health status with versus without employment. Findings are hoped to interpret the role of family as a social unit where it consists in social welfare along with the speculative inquiry of poetry.
ESPO AND BUTLER-WILLIAMS SCIENTIFIC SYMPOSIUM: CAREER DEVELOPMENT TO PROMOTE DIVERSITY, DISCOVERY, AND AGING
Authors: Johnson Kalisha Bonds , Morgan Brianna , Jones Patricia 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The NIA’s Butler-Williams Scholars Program and GSA’s ESPO Section are united in providing career development opportunities in a manner that promotes leadership, diversity, and inclusivity. This year’s theme challenges our emerging scholars to embrace diversity and discovery while thinking—or rethinking—about the perspectives of older adults. Disparities in health associated with race/ethnicity, experience, sociocultural and socioeconomic factors, as well as access to and provision of health care are chief concerns of our aging population. GSA’s early career professionals and 2021 alumni of the prestigious NIA Butler-Williams Scholars Program address these issues. Dr. Matthew Farina will present on the importance of identifying life course pathways in understanding the lived experiences of older adults from underrepresented racial groups. Dr. Kacie Deters will discuss how both demographics and genetic factors contribute to cognitive performance. Dr. Mirna Arroyo-Miranda will present findings on social isolation and cognition in Hispanic/Latino older adults. The final speaker, Dr. Jamaine Davis will present on the genetic factors that may contribute to dementia in African American older adults. The featured talks by rising stars deepen our understanding of the influence of diversity and key discoveries so we can reimagine aging research.
MINNESOTA’S 2021 LGBTQ AGING NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Authors: Moone Rajean 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Every decade Minnesota embarked on a needs assessment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) older adults which has provided important insights into aging within these communities. In 2021, a research team replicated these past monumental studies into this Minnesota 2021 LGBTQ Aging Needs Assessment. 485 individuals responded to the survey, either online or by paper. Of those, 354 met the inclusion criteria and are included in the results. Like the 2012 study, LGBTQ older adults who participated in the study were more likely to be a caregiver than compared to the general population. At the same time they were less likely to have a caregiver and less likely to have children. Half of the participants experienced some form of discrimination and the vast majority more knew someone who experienced discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Positively, study participants were more likely to have completed a health care directive and more likely to volunteer than the general population. Possibly one of the most striking changes over the last two decades is that 85% of respondents were confident they would receive sensitive services. In 2012 only 18% and 2002 only 9% expressed the same confidence. In congruence with the past studies, the majority of respondents continue to desire LGBTQ welcoming senior services rather than LGBTQ segregated services.
VOLUNTEERING AND RISK OF HEART ATTACK IN LATER LIFE: THE MODERATING ROLE OF PURPOSE IN LIFE?
Authors: Bell Mallory , Ferraro Kenneth 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Background and Objectives
Although research on the health benefits of volunteering has proliferated in recent decades, most studies are cross-sectional, and none prospectively examine the relationship between volunteering engagement, purpose in life, and heart attack.

Research design and methods
This study uses seven waves of data (2006-2018) from the Health and Retirement study--a nationally representative survey of adults over age 50 (N=5,093). Event history analysis using Cox proportional hazards were used to examine if volunteering engagement in later life reduced the risk of first heart attack and if the effects of volunteering vary by level of purpose in life.

Results
Results reveal that volunteering, and doing so at a low time commitment, reduces the risk of first heart attack in later life. Additionally, the effect of volunteering varies by sense of purpose in life, such that volunteers with a strong sense of purpose in life had the lowest risk of heart attack. Implications: The findings of this study will inform public health and policy interventions dedicated to extending and improving later life health.
TIME-VARYING ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SOCIAL INTERACTION MODALITY AND POSITIVE AFFECT DURING TIMES OF CHALLENGE
Authors: Broen Tiana , Choi Yoonseok , Pauly Theresa , Garza Elizabeth Zambrano , Gerstorf Denis , Hoppmann Christiane 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic compromised psychological wellbeing, especially given public health guidance that restricted social contact. Engaging in daily social interactions is especially important for maintaining wellbeing, and virtual interactions may be a surrogate for face-to-face interactions when in-person contact is not possible. Embracing the idea that virtual communication may facilitate social connectedness, this project seeks to better understand the potential of virtual social interactions for supporting wellbeing. Using repeated-daily-life-assessments from an adult lifespan sample (N=164, Mage=42.53 years), we examined how number of virtual and face-to-face social interactions were associated with positive affect in individuals’ daily lives. We expected that face-to-face interactions would have a stronger relationship with positive affect than virtual social interactions, but that engaging in virtual interactions would be positively related to affect during these unprecedented times. In line with our hypotheses, number of daily in-person (r(812)=0.14, p&lt;.001) and total number of social interactions (r(812)=0.14, p&lt;.001) were associated with higher positive affect at the bivariate level; number of daily virtual social interactions showed a positive trend with affect (r(812)=0.06, p=.07). Multilevel models including quantity of face-to-face and virtual interactions indicate that only face-to-face interactions were associated with concurrent elevations in positive affect (b=0.58, p=.03) and overall higher positive affect (b=0.72, p&lt;.001). Future analyses will examine whether social interactions involving close ties are more powerful drivers of positive affect than distal ties, whether everyday closeness to others mediates the relationship between social interaction modality and positive affect, and we will unpack age as a moderator in these relationships.
ATIP LEVELS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH LESS AMYLOID-Β BURDEN IN POSTMORTEM BRAINS OF OLDER ADULTS WITH ALZHEIMER’S DEMENTIA
Authors: Cosarderelioglu Caglar , Plaza-Rodriguez Alma , Iglesias Pablo , Talbot C Conover , Foster D Brian , Cole Robert N , Walston Jeremy , Abadir Peter M 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Angiotensin system, aging, and Alzheimer's disease are tightly linked. Of the brain angiotensin receptors, the subtype 2 receptor (AT2R) is relatively less studied. Canonically, the AT2R functions through nitric oxide release, and its activation has been linked to vasodilatation and neurite outgrowth as well as anti-inflammation. How AT2R signals is not known, however, an AT2R-binding protein (ATIP) has been recently described. Controversies exist on the link between ATIP and AT2R functions. Here, we describe the development of the first non-antibody based ultra-sensitive and specific quantitative mass spectrometry assay for ATIP. Using a technique that permits targeted analysis of multiple peptides across multiple samples in a single mass spectrometry run, known as TOMAHAQ, we have identified specific human tryptic peptides that permit quantification of ATIP abundance. We have used this method to quantify ATIP in postmortem frontal cortex samples of older adults (n= 60) with Alzheimer’s dementia (AD). We correlated levels of ATIP to brain RAS receptors, and biomarkers of AD pathogenesis including oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction as well as amyloid-β, and tau burden. Our results show that ATIP expression (ANLKNPQIMYLEQELESLK sequence of ATIP) is positively correlated with neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) (p = 0.009, r = 0.337). Furthermore, expression of ATIP is negatively correlated with amyloid-β load in several brain regions including hippocampus (p= 0.014, r= -0.317), entorhinal cortex (p= 0.010, r= -0.331), frontal cortex (p= 0.023, r= -0.294), and overall (p= 0.004, r= -0.365). These results highlight a potential protective role for ATIP in Alzheimer’s disease.
INTEGRATIVE MULTI-OMICS ANALYSIS REVEALS THE CRITICAL ROLE OF PBXIP1 GENE IN AGING-RELATED ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Authors: Liu Zuyun , Zhang Jingyun , Sun Xiaoyi 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, and its strongest risk factor is aging. A few studies have explored the relationship between aging and AD, while the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We assembled data cross multi-omics (i.e., epigenetics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, based on frozen tissues from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) and neuropathological and clinical traits from the Religious Orders Study and Rush Memory and Aging Project (ROSMAP). Aging was assessed using six epigenetic clocks (including Horvath clock, Hannum clock, Levine clock, Horvathskin clock, Lin clock, and Cortical clock) that capture mortality risk in literature. After accounting for age, we first identified a gene module (including 263 genes) that was related to most epigenetic clocks (e.g., P=3.61×10−5 for Levine clock) and three neuropathological traits of AD (i.e., β-amyloid, Tau tangles, and tangle density). Interestingly, among 20 key genes with top intramodular connectivity of the module, PBXIP1 was the only one that was significantly associated with all three neuropathological traits of AD at the protein level after Bonferroni correction. Furthermore, PBXIP1 was associated with clinical diagnosis of AD in both ROSMAP and two independent datasets. The results suggest the critical role of PBXIP1 in aging-related AD and support the potential and feasibility of using multi-omics data to investigate mechanisms of complex diseases. However, more validations in different populations and experiments in vitro and in vivo are required in the future.
SPATIALLY RESOLVED MAPPING OF CELL-SPECIFIC SENESCENT PROFILES IN AGING MOUSE BRAIN
Authors: Carver Chase , Schafer Marissa 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Cellular senescence is a conserved mechanism of aging characterized by cell cycle arrest and secretion of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype comprised of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, proteases, and growth factors that disrupt cellular homeostasis by promoting sterile inflammation and aberrant tissue remodeling. Tissue microenvironment, induction mechanism, and duration since senescence onset contribute to senescent cell heterogeneity, making identification challenging. Senescent cell contribution to age-related cognitive decline suggests that the hippocampus may be a key brain region for uncovering functional identities of senescence. Therefore, our goal is to contextually and spatially map senescent cells in comparison of cell-type specific morphological, transcriptional, and functional features that distinguish them among highly-ordered brain microenvironments. GeoMx Digital Spatial profiling was used to investigate cell identity and senescence markers in the aging brain to develop transcriptomic profiles from 22-24-month old mice. We also adapted Imaging Mass Cytometry with a curated panel of antibody-labeled proteins in fixed brain sections. We observed that senescent-like phenotypes of cells from myeloid and non-myeloid origin accumulate in the hippocampus and cortex, whereas CD45+ immune cells primarily accumulate in the white matter regions, in close proximity to microglia and GAL3+ cells. We profiled differences in ramified and ameboid microglia, in comparison of young and old mice, with emphasis on the chemotactic microenvironment involving activation of inflammatory signals. These advanced, multi-plex imaging modalities enable in-depth characterization of senescent cell features in the aging brain. Beyond morphological profiling, we demonstrate enhanced resolution and detection of individualized senescence in the aging brain.
DEVELOPMENT OF A MOBILE INTERVENTION TO SUPPORT HEALTHY EATING IN PERSON WITH CO-OCCURRING FRAILTY AND DEMENTIA
Authors: Zaslavsky Oleg , Wu Kuan-Ching , Chien Shao-Yun , Domoto-Reilly Kimiko 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
New behavioral solutions are needed to improve health in persons with co-occurring frailty and dementia. Using dementia-specific principles of human-centered design, we developed a mobile intervention that includes a patient-facing app and clinician interface to promote a Mediterranean-style eating plan in this population. Our design processes were as follows. We first solicited iterative input from experts in dementia, accessible design, and technology concerning language, cognitive load, and overall accessibility needs in persons with early dementia. Next, we recruited seven people with mild dementia and their partners for interviews, experience sampling, and usability studies. Our primary findings were: 1) participants have basic knowledge of healthy eating tenets and want to learn more; 2) participants are unaware of anything specific to improve in their diet; 3) participants value simple meals with few ingredients; 4) participants strongly rely on physical cookbooks. Based on the results, we developed a high-fidelity prototype of the patient-facing mobile app, divided into tasks: 1) First time onboarding; 2) Setting the first dietary goal; 3) Finding a recipe; 4) Filter/sort for recipes; 5) Food tracking tool; 6) Mastering a dietary goal and starting a new one; 7) Reviewing progress. The resultant product was iterated in usability studies and informed a final prototype for further testing. In parallel, a web-based clinician interface was developed through individual interviews, a survey of potential end-users (n=24), and two rounds of usability studies (n=3 in each round). The online clinician product features these interactive modules: dashboard, tracking manager, patient portal, and individual patient page
ACCEPTABILITY OF ANIMATRONIC PETS AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING VETERANS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA AND THEIR CAREGIVERS
Authors: Harris Melissa , Alcorn Edwin , Davagnino Judith 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Animatronic pets can improve psychosocial outcomes among older adults, but little is known about in-home use by Veterans living with dementia and the perceptions of informal caregivers regarding these tools. This quality improvement project examined the usability and acceptability of animatronic pets by community dwelling Veterans living with dementia from the perspective of informal caregivers. Usability and acceptability were examined through a structured telephone interview with 17 caregivers. Usability was operationalized as frequency of: pet use by the Veteran (1=Not at all, 4=Daily or all of the time), and reminders provided by caregivers (1=Not at all, 4=Daily or all of the time). Acceptability was defined as perceived benefit (measured using an acceptability tool; 0= Not at all, 2=A great deal beneficial) and satisfaction (measured using acceptability tool with close and open-ended response items) as reported by caregivers. Results indicated high usability (71% of Veterans used the pet daily with reminders provided by 30% of caregivers) and acceptability (Benefit: (M=1.5/2, SD=0.7); Satisfaction: 94% of caregivers would continue to encourage use of the animatronic pet by the Veteran and recommend one to others). Open-ended responses suggest that they may be less satisfying to those who lost a real pet or did not have an affinity for pets earlier in life. Animatronic pets can be used with minimal assistance by Veterans with dementia and are acceptable to informal caregivers. As VA initiatives support provision of these pets, additional research is needed to examine their broader impact on Veterans living with dementia specifically.
IMPROVING HOME-CARE SERVICES FOR HIGH-RISK OLDER ADULTS USING PEER-LED VIDEO VISITS TO HOME
Authors: Lamba Shiv , Garcia Sandra , Bast Elizabeth , Penney Lauren , Palacio Ana , Madera Sonia , Intrator Orna , Dang Stuti 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Older Veterans at high-risk for institutionalization often require home- and community-based services (HCBS). Yet, current HCBS delivery often fails to meet the needs of high-risk Veterans due to decreased veteran engagement in outpatient programs and limited HCBS capacity. A promising approach to address these gaps is the use of Veteran-Peers to make home-visits. Peer-2-PACT is a peer-led needs-assessment intervention for high-risk older veterans. Two trained peers conducted a checklist-guided virtual and/or in-person home-assessment to identify unmet needs and home-safety concerns. Veterans with access, acceptance and ability for video-capable technology were offered video-visits. We report on the feasibility of video home-visits in this high-risk group, and the experience of the video-visits using the visit-data and interviews with peers.Eight of 27 Peer-2-PACT Veterans successfully completed initial video-visit to home. The video-visit participants (n=8) were age 74±9; Non-Hispanic Black (50%); males (100%), compared to initial in-person home-visit participants (n=19), age 75.3±10.8; Non-Hispanic Black (47%); males (89%). The commonest needs identified during video-home-visits were home-safety devices 5(62.5%), housing assistance 4(50%), and medication refills 2(25%). Peers report that identifying veterans suitable for video-visits was challenging. During video-visits, depth-perception by peers is limited and sometimes needed in-person follow-up. Main advantages of video-visits was ability to identify unmet needs, engage veterans, provide care during COVID, and tele-present to remote clinicians. Preliminary data suggest that peer-conducted video home-visits is a feasible way to identify unmet needs in some high-risk older adults. This is particularly important improve care of Veterans who live at a distance from the facility.