bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COMPANIONSHIP TO ADDRESS QUALITY OF LIFE AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH SEVERE LONELINESS
Authors: McNamara Kelsey , Rudy Ellen 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Research indicates that loneliness is a powerful predictor of premature mortality. Less is known about those who experience “severe loneliness” and their responsiveness to companionship as a means to clinically improve. We sought to understand the epidemiology of a cohort of lonely older adults and the impact of companion care on severe loneliness and quality of life. Companion care was provided through Papa Inc., a national service that pairs older adults with “Papa Pals” who provide companionship and assistance with everyday tasks. Participants have free access if their Medicare Advantage plan offers it. The sample included adults ages 65+, active in Papa in 2021, and provided follow-up data (UCLA-3 Loneliness Scale; CDC's Healthy Days Measures) as of September 2021. Analysis utilized t-tests and Chi-square tests with significance set at p&lt; 0.05. A total of 2650 participants were identified as lonely at baseline, 435 were successfully contacted to collect complete follow-up data. Of the follow-up cohort, 22% were classified as severely lonely at baseline reporting mean UCLA score of 8, and 15 mentally and 14 physically unhealthy days on average. Of those severely lonely, 62% were female, 11% were ages 85+. Sixty percent of severely lonely participants experienced clinical improvements and moved to a lower category of loneliness (mean change in UCLA: –3.37) and reduced their unhealthy days (–6.20 mental; –2.09 physical). This real-world evidence suggests a companionship program can improve loneliness and quality of life among severely lonely older adults. Earlier interventions to prevent chronic loneliness should be explored.
THE ATTITUDES OF CHINESE AMERICAN FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF OLDER PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA TOWARD TUBE FEEDING
Authors: Pei Yaolin , Qi Xiang , Cong Zhen , Wu Bei 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The aim of this study is to examine the attitudes toward feeding in Chinese American dementia family caregivers. 53 Chinese American dementia caregivers were interviewed in 2021-2022. The survey included their anticipated decisions for tube feeding if their care recipients are at the end of life, goals of care, and knowledge of tube feeding. 32.7% of them would choose tube feeding for individuals with dementia at the end of life; however, 53.9% are confident that the patient would not choose tube feeding if patients are able to make decisions. 92.3% prepared to relieve pain and discomfort as much as possible. 42.3 % of them thought tube feeding are recommended to use if oral feeding difficulties arise. More than 60% thought tube feeding can improve survival and nutrition status. More education is needed for the decision-making regarding tube feeding at the end of life for Chinese American dementia caregivers.
SOCIAL CONNECTIONS AND HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS LIVING IN SUBSIDIZED HOUSING: LOCAL STAKEHOLDERS PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Bullock Avery , Gallo Joseph , Latkin Carl , Boyd Cynthia , Cudjoe Thomas 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Social isolation among older adults living in the United States is a major public health problem that disproportionately affects those living below the poverty line. Though decades of epidemiological studies have provided important insights on the impact of social isolation on health, there have been limited qualitative studies on the dynamics of social connections among older adults in subsidized housing. This study aims to advance our understanding of the perspectives of local stakeholders in the field of subsidized housing on the social connections of older adults and how to enhance social connection. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between July 2021 and October 2021 with local stakeholders in Baltimore’s subsidized housing community to better understand social connections among older adults. Stakeholders included, but were not limited to, the following positions: service coordinators, property managers, maintenance staff, and security guards. Interviews were imported and analyzed using NVIVO12 software and a qualitative content analytic approach. Preliminary themes identified included: barriers and facilitators of connection, engagement with family, and ideas about interventions. Mental and physical health challenges, access to and use of communications technology, and lack of transportation were barriers while food incentives, gift card giveaways, and resident champions were facilitators of social connection. Social isolation among older adults is an important concern among stakeholders in subsidized housing. To promote social connection in older adults, interventions must adopt a multi-pronged approach that addresses the barriers and leverage existing facilitators within subsidized housing communities.
WITHIN- AND BETWEEN-PERSON EFFECTS OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH FAMILY AND NEIGHBORS ON WELL-BEING
Authors: Takayama Midori , Ishioka Yoshiko , Sugawara Ikuko 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Good health and positive social relationships are significant resources in well-being. However, little is known about how intrapersonal changes and interpersonal differences in health and social relationships are associated with well-being in later life. This study aimed to examine within- and between-person effects of physical health and social relationships with family, friends, and neighbors (social support and companionship) on well-being. We analyzed longitudinal data from a representative sample of older Japanese adults aged 74 to 86 years (N=1388). The results from multilevel models showed that decline in health (intrapersonal changes) was associated with lower well-being. Nevertheless, there was the interaction effect of social relationships with family and neighbors (between-person differences) in the relationship between health and well-being change. Among participants with lower social support from family and neighbors, the negative association between decline of health and well-being was stronger. Conversely, participants with higher social support reported higher well-being regardless of physical health change. Contrastingly, among participants with higher companionship with family and neighbors, participants reported higher well-being at the time of maintaining or increasing physical health. For participants with lower companionship, health change was not associated with well-being. These findings suggest social support has a preventive effect on well-being in the face of declining health, while companionship has a facilitative impact on well-being in good health. The results also suggest relationships with neighbors as well as family play an important role in well-being in very late life.
IMPACT OF BEHAVIORAL ACTIVATION ON COMORBID DEPRESSION AND TYPE 2 DIABETES IN LOW-INCOME ADULTS
Authors: Griffith Christopher , Feliciano Leilani 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Older age is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and depression risk increases with comorbid illnesses such as T2DM. Older adults with depression have increased risk of developing somatic symptoms and decreased interest in activities, which impacts diabetes self-care. This makes depression an important target for treatment alongside T2DM. Behavioral activation (BA) is a therapeutic intervention shown to be effective in the treatment of moderate to severe depression. The current study examined the utility of brief BA treatment (once weekly for 4 weeks) across older adults aged 60-80, middle-aged adults aged 45-59, and younger adults aged 18-44. Fifty-six adults with diabetes participated in an in-home diabetes management program with BA to treat depression in low-income adults. Participants completed weekly measures of well-being and depressive symptoms. Two mixed-subjects analyses of variance (3 x 2 ANOVAs) found that BA was significantly effective at improving subjective well-being, F (1, 53) = 38.24, p &lt; .001, ηp2 = .42, and reducing depressive symptoms, F (1, 38) = 27.25, p &lt; .001, ηp2 = .42, but found no interaction effects between either age group and well-being or depressive symptoms (p = .173 and .302, respectively). Results indicate that BA is effective for treating depression in adults with comorbid T2DM regardless of age, making it a useful therapeutic tool for both the high number of older adults with T2DM and their younger counterparts. Further research should examine other outcomes (diabetes management) to evaluate the full extent of BA’s effectiveness.
DECISION-AID INTERVENTIONS TO SUPPORT DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS' DECISION-MAKING ABOUT FEEDING OPTIONS
Authors: Qi Xiang , Pei Yaolin , Schulman-Green Dena , Hu Mengyao , Wang Kaipeng , Wu Bei 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
We sought to provide an overview of the literature on decision aid interventions for family caregivers of older adults with advanced dementia regarding decision-making around tube feeding. The process was guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework. Six publications reporting on four unique decision aid interventions were included. All the interventions targeted caregivers of older adults with advanced dementia. Three of decision aids were culturally adapted from existing ones. The Ottawa Decision Support Framework and the International Patient Decision Aid Standards Framework were used in these studies. Interventions aimed to improve decision-making regarding tube feeding for caregivers through static delivery methods. Caregivers rated these decisions as helpful and acceptable. Reduction in decisional conflict and increase in knowledge were consistently found among dementia caregivers, but no intervention effects were found on preferences for use of tube feeding. Culturally adapted decision aids effectively improve decision-making regarding tube feeding among the target population.
LEVERAGING THE NDUFS4-/- MOUSE AS A PLATFORM FOR TESTING LONGEVITY INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Bitto Alessandro , Tobey Cara , Sharma Ayush , Grillo Anthony , Kaeberlein Matt 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of biological aging, as well as the driving factor for mitochondrial diseases. Up to 30% of mitochondrial disorders are due to mutations affecting the activity of Complex I in the electron transport chain. Loss of the Complex I subunit Ndufs4 recapitulates symptoms of Leigh Syndrome, a pediatric mitochondrial disease, in mouse. Ndufs4-/- mice suffer developmental delays, early onset of neurological symptoms and extremely reduced lifespan. Several studies have now shown that Ndufs4-/- mice are exquisitely responsive to treatments and interventions of interest in the biology of aging, such as rapamycin, NAD+ precursors, reduced oxygen tension, alpha-keto-glutarate precursors, and the antidiabetic drug acarbose. These results point to common mechanisms underlying both aging and mitochondrial disorders. To put this hypothesis to the test, we show that Ndufs4-/- mice are responsive to a wide range of longevity interventions previously tested in worms, mice, and by the National Institute on Aging’s Intervention Testing Program. These observations support the hypothesis that mitochondrial and metabolic dysfunction induced by Complex I deficiency may be a key component of biological aging as well as mitochondrial disease. Furthermore, we propose that the Ndufs4-/- mice provide an affordable testing ground for candidate longevity interventions.
LOSS OF HYPOXIA SIGNALING IMPAIRS RESPONSE TO AEROBIC EXERCISE IN AGED MICE
Authors: Sinha Indranil , Endo Yori , Karvar Mehran 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
To assess the differential effects of exercise with age, Young (Y, 10-12 weeks) and Old (O, 23-25 months) mice were subjected to regimented treadmill running or no regimented exercise. Y, trained mice experienced a significant increase in maximal distance running, maximal speed of running, and lean muscle mass in comparison to age-matched, untrained controls. O mice did not improve significantly in any of these measures following training. Transcriptome analysis of gastrocnemius from Y mice demonstrated differential regulation of 120 genes with exercise. None of these genes were similarly regulated in the O group. Genes most upregulated following exercise in Y mice were direct targets of the hypoxia signaling pathway. Immunoblotting demonstrated that aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT), a critical regulator of hypoxia signaling, increased 3-fold with exercise in Y mice, but this increase was absent in O mice following exercise. To assess whether this loss of ARNT in O muscle impaired the exercise response, we generated a mouse with inducible, skeletal muscle-specific knockout of ARNT (ARNT muscle (m) KO). Following regimented exercise, ARNT mKO mice did not improve maximal distance running, maximal running speed, or lean muscle mass in comparison to untrained ARNT mKO mice. Littermate, age-matched ARNT wild type mice increased significantly in all of these measures following training. Administration of ML228, an ARNT agonist, increased maximal running distance and speed in response to exercise training in O mice. These results suggest that restoration of ARNT and hypoxia signaling may restore the physiologic response to exercise in aging.
SINGLE-CELL ANALYSIS OF SKELETAL MUSCLE MACROPHAGES REVEALS AGE-ASSOCIATED FUNCTIONAL SUBPOPULATIONS
Authors: Cui Chang-Yi , Krasniewski Linda , Chakraborty Papiya , Mazan-Mamczarz Krystyna , Ferrucci Luigi , Gorospe Myriam 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Tissue-resident macrophages represent a group of highly responsive innate immune cells that acquire diverse functions by polarizing towards distinct subpopulations. The subpopulations of macrophages that reside in skeletal muscle (SKM) and their changes during aging are poorly characterized. By single-cell transcriptomic analysis with unsupervised clustering, we found eleven distinct macrophage clusters in male mouse SKM with enriched gene expression programs linked to reparative, proinflammatory, phagocytotic, proliferative, and senescence-associated functions. Using a complementary classification, membrane markers LYVE1 and MHCII identified four macrophage subgroups: LYVE1-/MHCIIhi (M1-like, classically activated), LYVE1+/MHCIIlo (M2-like, alternatively activated), and two new subgroups, LYVE1+/MHCIIhi and LYVE1-/MHCIIlo. Notably, one new subgroup, LYVE1+/MHCIIhi, had traits of both M2 and M1 macrophages, while the other new subgroup, LYVE1-/MHCIIlo, displayed strong phagocytotic capacity. Flow cytometric analysis validated the presence of the four macrophage subgroups in SKM, and found that LYVE1- macrophages were more abundant than LYVE1+ macrophages in old SKM. A striking increase in proinflammatory markers (S100a8 and S100a9 mRNAs) and senescence-related markers (Gpnmb and Spp1 mRNAs) was evident in macrophage clusters from older mice. In sum, we have identified dynamically polarized SKM macrophages and propose that specific macrophage subpopulations contribute to the proinflammatory and senescent traits of old SKM.
CARDIOVASCULAR CONSEQUENCES OF COVID-19 INFECTION IN OLDER ADULTS WITH A HISTORY OF HEART FAILURE
Authors: Beatriz Claudia , Ocasio Marcano , Crawford Andrew , Parianos Mary , Stukova Marina , Wong Alan , Zadeh Ali Vaeli , Collado Elias , Larned Joshua 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 frequently affects the cardiovascular system. Advanced age and pre-existing heart failure HF are considered risk factors for a poor prognosis. However, the cardiovascular consequences of COVID-19 in older adults with a history of HF have not been clearly depicted.

Methods
A retrospective review was conducted using the PearlDiver database (PearlDiver Technologies, Fort Wayne, IN). Using ICD codes, patients aged 65–75 and Elixhauser Comorbidity Score(ECI)&gt;4 with a history of HF admitted for COVID-19 were identified. This cohort was propensity score matched with a group of patients without HF by age, gender, other cardiovascular diseases, and ECI. Records from both groups were reviewed for new onset of cardiovascular-related conditions, including myocardial infarction(MI), arrhythmias, and hypertension, within one year following the admission. Pearson’s chi-squared test was used to compare groups. The strength of association was reported using Risk Ratios (RR). A p-value &lt; 0.05 was deemed significant.

Results
4,014 members in each group were identified. A history of HF was associated with an increased risk of MI(RR=1.18, CI95% =1.005–1.37, p=0.04), and arrhythmias (RR=1.17, CI95% =1.08–1.26, p &lt; 0.00001). No differences present in risk of myocarditis(RR=0.05, CI95%=0.12–1.99, p=50) across groups.

Conclusion
Older adults with a history of HF are more likely to experience MI and arrhythmias over a year after hospitalization for COVID-19.
USING TELEPRESENCE ROBOTS TO SUPPORT FAMILY VIRTUAL VISITS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Hung Lillian 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
In this project, virtual family visits were made to residents of four Canadian long-term care homes using a telepresence robot. Guided by the Consolidated Framework of implementation Research (CFIR), we conducted an online survey, interviews, focus groups, and observations to explore the participants’ experience. Analysis identified three themes: (a) relative advantage (easy to visit), (b) capacity for change (readiness and organizational support), and (c) cultural safety (champions leading the way during challenging times). Preliminary results indicate that staff, residents, and families accepted the robot for easy connection but had concerns about privacy issues. Future research should apply inclusive methods to bring relevant stakeholders together to explore user experiences fully: who is affected in what ways and the benefits, risks, and burdens of emerging technologies.
UNCOVERING THE POSITIVE ASPECTS OF CAREGIVING: A PROFILE OF CAREGIVERS’ DEMOGRAPHIC AND CARE CONTEXTS
Authors: Lee Yeonjung , Bierman Alex 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Burden and benefits of caregiving experiences can coexist. The objective of this research is to describe and compare the predictors of the two intertwined caregiving experiences. This study examines how the variations in caregiving experiences can be explained in terms of both positive and negative aspects of caregiving, respectively by demographic characteristics and care related contexts. The Caregiving, Aging, and Financial Experiences study is a national survey intended to examine social conditions and well-being among a representative sample of 4,010 Canadians between age 65 and 85. Within the sample, 1,641 informal caregivers are the focus of the current analysis. Scales of positive and negative caregiving experiences are employed. Findings based on principal axis factor analysis shows that there is clear separate factor loadings between the positive and negative caregiving experiences. Subsequent seemingly unrelated regression analysis shows that there are similarities as well as differences in predictors between the two caregiving experiences. Lastly, the variance explained differs markedly between the two measures, with over 26% of the variance in negative caregiving accounted for by demographic and caregiving factors, but less than 4% of the variance in positive caregiving. This study demonstrates that positive aspects of caregiving is not simply the flip-side of negative caregiving. Standard predictors do not sufficiently explain positive caregiving as well as negative caregiving. Consequently, greater attention to factors that account for positive aspects of caregiving is warranted for an inclusive understanding of caregiving experiences.
TECHNOLOGY AND GROUP EXERCISE INTERVENTIONS FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA OR MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT: A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Levine Hannah , Randhawa Paavan , Park JuYoung , Hung Lillian 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
We conducted a scoping review to analyze evidence about online group-based exercise programs. We searched six electronic databases and conducted team analysis with patient and family partners. Of 1,166 screened articles, the final review included 8 publications. Results identified three types of technology-based group exercise interventions for people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI): (a) exergames, (b) virtual cycling, and (c) video-conferencing platforms. These studies used psychosocial, physical function, biomarker, and cognitive outcome measures. The review identified three key impacts: (a) feasibility and accessibility; (b) physical, psychosocial, and cognitive benefits; and (c) adaptations necessary for persons with dementia or MCI. Over all, technology-based group exercise interventions were found to be accessible, feasible, and acceptable to persons with dementia or MCI. However, a “one-size-fits-all” game approach often did not work, suggesting that exercise interventions should be adaptable to meet the various needs of individual participants.
MOTIVATING CHANGE IN OLDER ADULTS: MOTIVATIONAL CIGARETTE SMOKING CESSATION MESSAGE TESTING
Authors: Johnson Adrienne , Kaye Jesse 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Cigarette smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death and disability in the U.S., resulting in ~480,000 deaths annually. Older adults who smoke bear a disproportionate weight of the health consequences of smoking, including cancer, mortality, and the greatest health-related fear of older adults: dementia. Compared to younger adults, older adults who smoke are half as likely to make a quit attempt, but more likely to stay quit using evidence-based treatments. Research suggests the increased risk of dementia among people who currently smoke may motivate adults ages &gt;50 to quit smoking, particularly if given a clear/actionable strategy. Research also suggests Fear-based messages may perform differently than Hope-based messages. 820 adults (ages 50–80) without dementia who smoke, completed an online survey evaluating time-matched messages (randomly assigned between-subjects: Control Nf266, Fear of dementia Nf274, Hope from quitting Nf280) on motivation and intentions to quit smoking. Participants’ demographics were Mage=61.1 years (SD=7.4), 48.0% cisgender women, 66.6% White, 23.3% Black. Mann-Whitney U Tests were use to examine change scores for each variable due to non-normal distributions. Compared to control message (water ad), the Fear message showed greater increase in motivation to quit U(Ncontrol=266, Nfear=274)=30391, z=-3.33, p=.001. The Hope message did not differ from the control or Fear message (p’s&gt;.05). Intention to quit did not differ between messages (p’s&gt;.05). A Fear-based message highlighting that smoking increases the risk of developing dementia, motivated quitting more than a control message. Future work should examine the feasibility, acceptability, and behavioral impact of this motivational message in healthcare settings.