bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
IDENTIFICATION AND INVESTIGATION OF SENESCENT CELLS IN SKELETAL MUSCLE AGING
Authors: Zhang Xu , Habiballa Leena , Aversa Zaira , Ng Yan Er , Passos Joao , LeBrasseur Nathan 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Skeletal muscle aging is marked by the loss and atrophy of resident fibers, and the accumulation of functionally diverse cell types including fibroblasts, adipocytes, and immune cells. Senescent cells amass in multiple tissues with advancing age where they contribute to aging, chronic disease, and physical decline. The role of senescence in mediating muscle aging has become a popular and sometimes contentious topic. However, to date, this concept has not been methodically tested. In this study, we characterized the changes in cell abundance and, importantly, cell-specific transcriptional profiles with skeletal muscle aging using scRNAseq. Interestingly, we identified a small population of p16 positive fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) which, upon further investigation using immunohistochemical methods, were found to express other senescence markers. This subpopulation of FAPs did not exhibit elevation in p21 levels with age. Instead, terminally differentiated myofibers were the source of the p21 increase. Myofibers with high p21 expression exhibit a strong inflammatory phenotype, which includes activated p53 signaling pathways together with strong cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions. We further identified large amounts of cross-talk between different cell types, suggesting that senescent FAPs and myofibers could contribute to skeletal muscle aging in a paracrine manner. Importantly, these observations in mice were confirmed in human samples, suggesting the strong translational power of these findings.
C-REACTIVE PROTEIN AND BRAIN MORPHOLOGY
Authors: Pearce Rahul , Eyler Lisa , Bell Tyler , Elman Jeremy , Fennema-Notestine Christine , Hagler Donald , Franz Carol , Kremen William 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The process by which aging leads to increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is not entirely understood, but one hypothesized contributor is the occurrence of low-grade inflammation in older age. In this study, we examined how peripheral levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a measure of systemic inflammation, relate to brain structure and diffusion in a group of older adult men. After excluding twenty-seven participants for confounding medical conditions, we analyzed a final sample of 426 community-dwelling men from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging, who were assessed at average age 68 for plasma levels of CRP and underwent structural and diffusion brain imaging. Linear mixed models adjusting for family relatedness, age, medical morbidity, and BMI examined associations of CRP with whole brain volume, whole gray and white matter volumes, global fractional anisotropy (FA), and global mean diffusivity (MD). Higher CRP was related to lower whole brain volume (β = -.13, p = .006), including lower whole white matter volume (β = -.22, p &lt;.001) but not whole gray matter volume (p = .08). Higher CRP was related to lower global FA (β = -.51, p = .012) but not global MD (p = .203). Regionally, a relationship of higher CRP to lower FA was found in the anterior thalamic radiation (β = -.51, p = .010), which is implicated in a variety of higher order cognitive processes. These results suggest a link between peripheral inflammation and lower white matter integrity in older adult men, the implications of which for cognitive aging and dementia should be further explored.
NOVEL APPROACHES TO MINIMIZE SOCIAL ISOLATION AND MAXIMIZE PARTICIPATION IN OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Rodakowski Juleen , Rodakowski Juleen 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Older adults experiencing cognitive decline, including those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, are at-risk for social isolation and participation restrictions, especially given the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously examined research has primarily focused on reducing problematic behaviors and remediating cognition for individuals with cognitive impairments. In this symposium, we will discuss novel intervention approaches and under-studied aspects of lifestyle behaviors that minimize social isolation and maximize participation for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Information presented in this symposium is intended to inform future intervention research to achieve an optimal quality of life for those with cognitive impairments. The first presentation will describe an analysis of lifestyle behaviors and cognition in an older population. The second presentation will discuss the development of an intergenerational, active music intervention that is delivered virtually to individuals with dementia and their caregivers. The third presentation will describe the effects of an adaptive horseback riding program that is becoming increasingly prevalent and improves the quality of life of persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.
TOWARD A NEUROECOLOGICAL MODEL OF FINANCIAL CAPACITY AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Barnett Michael , Van Vleet Samuel , Prentice Kailee , Wurm Annika , Bass Danica , Mejia Yenifer Morales , Dube Jeanné , Van Vleet Samuel 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
In recent decades, technology has changed how individuals interact with their money and with each other. A combination of financial vulnerability and low technological literacy puts many older adults at risk for identity theft, fraud, and financial exploitation. We reviewed the literature on financial capacity, financial exploitation, and digital literacy. Extant models and measures of financial capacity among older adults emphasize numeracy and basic functional skills, such as writing checks and counting change; these may not reflect the digital nature of contemporary financial activity. We propose the neuroecological model of financial capacity among older adults. This function-led model contends that financial capacity consists of neurocognitive abilities to make sound financial decisions in a complex environment, to use technology to monitor and carry out financial activities, and the ability to protect personal information and guard against fraud. This points to a need for more ecologically valid measures of financial capacity and vulnerability to financial exploitation that addresses the role of technology in everyday financial activities.
LEARN, PLAN, DO: PUBLIC HEALTH PLANNING TO ADDRESS DEMENTIA AND CAREGIVING
Authors: Sands Talyah , Shah Priya , Donnellan Kelsey , Holt Heidi 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
To respond to growing rates of dementia, as well as emerging scientific evidence, there is an urgent need for states to leverage public health strategies to reduce the risk of dementia, promote early detection, and prevent avoidable health issues related to dementia as well as systematically support dementia caregiving. The BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act passed into law on December 31, 2018. The law is designed to promote implementation of CDC’s Healthy Brain Initiative State and Local Public Health Partnerships to Address Dementia: The 2018-2023 Road Map Series and the Healthy Brain Initiative Road Map for Indian Country. Its goal is to create jurisdiction infrastructure and promote planning and action to address dementia across the life-course. With support from CDC, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials developed an e-learning module to guide public health departments on engaging partners in jurisdiction planning on dementia. The module aligns with the Healthy Brain Initiative Road Map and offers approaches to operationalize health equity throughout its resources. During this session, presenters will overview the module contents and detail the process developed to help jurisdictions assess their dementia and caregiving needs, prioritize actions from the Road Map, and create an action plan. They will also share examples of state planning efforts. Participants will learn how to get started with their own planning process using the tools offered in the module and examples from other states. This presentation complements Tools to Support Needs Assessments on Dementia, Cognitive Health, and Caregiving, abstract ID 1226183.
THE IMPACT OF A FACILITATED DISCUSSION SERIES IN IMPROVING DEMENTIA CAREGIVER STRESS, RESILIENCY, AND WELL-BEING
Authors: Bonifas Robin , Cohen Wendy 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Emotional stress stemming from the complex grief associated with dementia care takes a greater toll on a family caregiver’s health than the physical effort of providing care. Finding Meaning and Hope, a 10-week workshop for caregivers of persons with dementia designed to promote understanding of grief and teach self-care concepts that mitigate stress. Each session features a video of a dementia care expert sharing strategies, followed by a facilitator-led discussion. Home practice activities help caregivers incorporate focal self-care strategies into their lives. This evaluation research assessed the association between workshop participation and caregiver outcomes in stress and well-being. 208 caregivers, 83 percent age 60 and older, completed the workshops between 2019 and 2021. Two standardized instruments were administered before and after workshop participation: the 12-item Caregiver Self-Assessment Questionnaire (American Medical Association, 2015) and the 11-item Sense of Competence Questionnaire (Vernooij-Dassen, 2008). Multivariate Linear Regression was used to assess factors associated with participant outcomes. Participation in more than half the sessions had a positive impact on stress management, emotional well-being, and coping, but fewer gains were made by caregivers with health limitations and those who began the workshops with lower emotional well-being ( F = 15.923, p &lt; .001). Given that family caregivers’ mental and emotional health has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (Czeisler et al. 2020), strategies to manage stress and bolster well-being are vital in enabling them to continue care provision when isolation may exacerbate the challenges they encounter. Finding Meaning and Hope offers a promising approach.
SOCIAL CONNECTIVITY IS ASSOCIATED WITH INCREASED PERFORMANCE ON MEDIAL TEMPORAL LOBE FUNCTION IN OLDER AFRICAN AMERICANS
Authors: Tan Genesis , Osiecka Zuzanna , Fausto Bernadette , Esiaka Darlingtina , Gluck Mark 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Research links social connectivity to cognitive function in older adults. However, many of the studies relating social connectivity to cognitive function focused on global cognition—orientation/attention, memory, verbal fluency, language, and visuospatial ability domains. In this study, we aimed to assess the association of social connectivity with generalization, a domain of cognition which relies on hippocampal function, in a population of older African Americans residing in the Greater Newark area. Specifically, we examined the impact of social connectivity on generalization using sensitive measures that tap into medial temporal lobe (MTL) function. Participants (N = 74; M = 73.84) from an ongoing study, Pathways to Healthy Aging in African Americans—a Rutgers University-Newark community partnership fostered over 16 years of community engagement, health education, and public service—responded to measures of cognitive function, social network, social engagement, mental health, and demographic details. Also, they completed a task-based functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Results showed that marital status was negatively associated with MTL function, with those that are either single, divorced, or separated outperforming those that are married. Similarly, depressive symptoms had a negative association with MTL function. Further, the linear combination of social network variables and covariates significantly predicted MTL function. Our findings illuminate the benefits of social connectivity and resources on cognitive skills, and amplify the need to study the brain in the social context.
POLICIES AND PERSPECTIVES AROUND SEXUAL ACTIVITIES AMONG RESIDENTS WITH COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT OR DEMENTIA IN LTC
Authors: Jeong Mijin , Jen Sarah 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Many older adults remain sexually interested and active in later life. However, little is known about how sexual policies and practices in skilled-nursing facilities (SNF) address sexual activities of residents with cognitive impairment and dementia. This study seeks to identify the current sexual policies and staff’s perspectives related to residents with cognitive impairment or dementia in SNFs in Kansas. Online surveys and mailed surveys were distributed to administrators from all 364 SNFs in Kansas in June 2020. 60 long-term care facilities (16.5%) answered the survey. Of 60 survey respondents, 22 facilities (36.7%) have a policy addressing sexual expression and 19 of those policies (94.7%) address issues related to cognitive impairment, competency, or dementia. 77.4% had trained their staff on the impact on sexual expression for those with cognitive impairment or dementia once or more than once during the past year. 73.3% of administrators stated that their staff would respond differently to sexual expression among individuals with dementia or cognitive impairment compared to other residents, often noting issues related to consent and capacity. 55.2% reported any sexual expression among residents with dementia within the past year. Findings indicated that there is a lack of overall sexual policies, but those that exist are likely to address residents with cognitive impairment or dementia. Although there is evidence of training and attention to issues related to sexual expression in individuals with dementia or cognitive impairment, there is a need for further efforts to establish practice norms and policies around more complex or nuanced situations.
CORRELATIONS BETWEEN OLDER PATIENTS’ FIRST COVID-19 VACCINATION TIMING AND MEDICATION ADHERENCE
Authors: Marano Thomas , Smith-ray Renae , Jones Clifford , Sivakolunthuvel Balamurugan , Schultz Linda , Taitel Michael , Leung Kevin 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Medication adherence and COVID-19 vaccinations are both essential to improving health outcomes and avoiding hospitalizations. When vaccines first became available in early 2021, the CDC recommended prompt vaccination for patients age 65-and-over. Vaccine hesitant older adults are among those at the highest risk for severe outcomes from a COVID-19 infection. A retrospective study was conducted using prescription and vaccine claims data from a pharmacy chain. Patients were included if they: 1) were age 65+ as of 1/1/21; 2) had at least two prescriptions of RAS antagonists, non-insulin anti-diabetics, or statins (in 2021); and 3) received at least two doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine between 1/1/21 and 9/21/21. Patients were then split into two evenly-distributed groups based on the number of days into 2021 when they received their first vaccine dose. The outcome was the proportion of optimally adherent patients (PDC ≥ 80%) by condition as of 12/31/21. Two-proportion z-tests were performed comparing the adherent proportions of the “earlier to vaccinate” group versus the “later to vaccinate” group as of 12/31/21. Age groups analyzed were “65-74” and “75+”. The proportion of adherent patients as of 12/31/21 in the “Earlier to Vaccinate” group is higher than those in the “Later to Vaccinate” group for all three adherence metrics by 4.4% (65 to 74) and 2.2% (75+, p=0.00108*) for Diabetes, by 5.1% and 2.6% for Hypertension, and by 6.0% and 3.9% for Statins (*all other p&lt; 0.00001). The timeliness of a patient’s first COVID-19 vaccination dose was predictive of medication adherence in 2021.
TRIPLE MALADY: OLDER PERSONS WITH MENTAL ILLNESSES AND COVID- 19: INSIGHTS FROM A PSYCHOGERIATRIC CLINIC IN NIGERIA
Authors: Omobowale Olubukola , Elugbadebo Olufisayo , Oyinlola Oluwagbemiga 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Background
Older persons with mental illnesses have been differentially affected by COVID-19 because of reduced access to routine health care, the adverse social impacts of the preventive strategies, and inadequate knowledge of the ongoing COVID -19 pandemic.Adequate knowledge is crucial to ensuring adherence to the right preventive practices among older persons.

Methods
A hospital-based comparative study was conducted among older persons attending the Psychogeriatric and Healthy Ageing clinics of the Geriatric Centre, University College Hospital, Ibadan. Data were gathered with a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire and SPSS version 23 was used to analyze the data. The level of significance was set at 5%.

Results
A total of 390 respondents aged 60 and above were sampled in the two groups: 195 with a psychiatric diagnosis (PD) and 195 with a non-psychiatric diagnosis (nPD). Their mean age was PD: 72.2 (±7.4) years and nPD: 71.0 (±8.0) years. About 14.9% had dementia and mild cognitive impairment; 14.6% psychotic disorders; 13.8% mood disorders and 6.6% anxiety and somatoform disorders. The majority were aware of the ongoing pandemic (PD: 95.9%; nPD: 96.4%). The use of facemask (PD: 89.7%; nPD: 86.7%) was the commonest preventive practice. Male gender (OR:2.09, CI; 1.14-3.86, p= 0.018) and education (OR: 5.10, CI; 1.15-22.67, p= 0.032) were predictors among PD and nPD respectively.

Conclusion
Older persons with psychiatric diagnoses have gaps in their knowledge of COVID-19 compared to those without symptoms. Health education about the ongoing pandemic and prevention programs targeting the older population with mental illnesses would be beneficial.
A NURSING HOME–BASED COVID-19-ONLY REHAB PROGRAM: VARIABLES RELATED TO SUCCESSFUL COMMUNITY DISCHARGE
Authors: Burack Orah , Reinhardt Joann , Mak Wingyun , Spinner Ruth 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Many COVID-19 patients continue to test positive for COVID-19 beyond the typical quarantine period. Persistent positive testing complicated hospital discharges to nursing home (NH) based rehabilitation facilities when (in May 2020) New York State (NYS) required a negative COVID result prior to NH admissions. To meet the needs of medically stable persistent positive patients, NYS approved 19 NHs as COVID-only facilities (COF). These facilities provided rehabilitation services and allowed hospitals to regain critical space for incoming acute care patients. In the present study we describe the (1) establishment of a 100 bed COF, (2) patients admitted to the COF and care provided, and (3) predictors of successful discharge to the community.Information on the establishment of the COF was obtained from interviews with NH leadership and clinical staff. Patient, treatment, and outcome data were obtained from the NH’s electronic health record. Of 319 COF admissions over four months, 54% were female and the mean age was 80 years (SD=10.56). 51% had cognitive impairment and the mean number of comorbidities was 6.75 (SD=2.47). All patients received physical and occupational therapy while 37% received speech therapy. Medical treatment included: anticoagulants (52%), oxygen (37%), antibiotics (35%), inhaler/nebulizers (31%), and oral steroids (15%). 59% of COF stays resulted in successful community discharges. This outcome was more likely for patients who had fewer comorbidities, less speech therapy, and did not require antibiotics. Implications for COVID care as well as leveraging NH potential during crisis will be discussed.
REIMAGINING END OF LIFE: ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES TO SERIOUS ILLNESS CARE CONVERSATIONS
Authors: Berry-Stoelzle Maresi , Ortiz Cristina , Trepanier Jessica , Murray Sarah , Steffen Melissa , Alexander Bruce , Steffensmeier Kenda Stewart 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Serious illness care conversations are intended to document and protect patients’ medical treatment wishes. In the outpatient management of chronic diseases, it has been difficult to pinpoint ideal timing for these conversations. The goal of this project is to analyze current practice within a VA health care system for identifying and referring veterans for palliative care services in the last years of life. To develop a targeted intervention, we relied on different forms of information to identify life events which should trigger a goals of care conversation, possibly even a formal palliative care referral. This study describes how we operationalized knowledge gained from: 1) Veteran community members via a project-dedicated engagement panel, 2) semi-structured interviews with providers, and 3) review of patients’ clinic notes written by clinicians during the last 5 years of life. Tapping into the knowledge and experience of multiple parties provided nuance and complexity to our approach to intervention development. From the Veteran community member engagement panel, we learned that trusting relationships were essential. Providers emphasized that having enough time during appointments and timing of the conversation during a patient’s disease trajectory were important. Finally, chart review indicated a need for broaching serious illness conversations early and throughout the duration of their care. The goal of an earlier intervention is to engage veterans when they are medically stable and prior to prolonged hospitalization. These findings structured our ongoing intervention that focuses on identifying and reaching out to Veterans with serious illnesses.
DOES THE MICROBIOME INFLUENCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF DEMENTIA IN OLDER ADULTS?
Authors: Tesema Naomi , Wroblewski Kristen , Pinto Jayant , McClintock Martha 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Some data implicate microbes in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). Whether the use of antibiotics predisposes to ADRD remains unknown. To investigate the relationship between antibiotics and subsequent cognitive function, we analyzed data from a longitudinal, nationally representative sample of older US adults (N=2,906, the National Social Life, Health and Aging Project). The use of antibiotic medications was collected by home interview at baseline. Five years later, cognition was assessed using a survey adapted version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Additionally, ADRD status was measured by a report of a physician’s diagnosis (self or proxy). The association between baseline antibiotic use and an interval dementia diagnosis/MoCA scores was tested using multivariate logistic regression, controlling for age, sex, race and ethnicity, education, co-morbidities (modified Charlson Comorbidity Index), and cognition at baseline (Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire). Older US adults who used antibiotics had lower MoCA-SA scores at 5-year follow-up (OR=3.94, 95% CI= 1.79-8.66). However, the use of antibiotics did not predict a subsequent diagnosis of dementia (OR=1.48, 95% CI= 0.44-4.95). Thus, antibiotic use may cause deleterious effects on cognitive function, but does not appear to have a clinical impact in terms of diagnosis of dementia. Further study of the role of microbes and drugs that modulate them may be useful in understanding ADRD.