bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SEX DIFFERENCES IN MITOCHONDRIAL RESILIENCE: EVIDENCE FROM BABOON HEPATOCYTES
Authors: Adekunbi Daniel , Li Cun , Nathanielsz Peter , Salmon Adam 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Events that occur in utero set the trajectory for later-life diseases and longevity. Compelling data exist for interactions between developmental programming and aging, but the underlying mechanisms are not clearly defined. Fetal exposure to glucocorticoids (GC) is associated with alteration in hepatic enzymes and metabolic function in later life. We previously reported increased hepatic lipid accumulation and obese phenotype in middle-age male baboons exposed to GC as fetuses. The mitochondria play significant roles in cellular processes including stress responses and possibly a nexus between developmental programming and aging. The present study investigated the long-term effects of in utero GC exposure on mitochondrial bioenergetics using hepatocytes derived from aging baboons (16–18 years, average lifespan 21 years). Mitochondrial bioenergetics of both left and right lobe liver hepatocytes were examined as well as potential sex differences in mitochondrial function. Cell viability following isolation was similar among sexes and liver lobes but hepatocytes from males were highly energetic compared to females. Significant bioenergetic differences were observed in hepatocytes isolated from female baboons’ left and right liver lobes, with higher basal, maximal, and ATP-linked respiration in left lobe hepatocytes compared to the right lobe. These lobe-specific bioenergetic differences were absent in males. Interestingly, H2O2-induced oxidative stress significantly modified male baboon hepatocyte bioenergetics but females were unaffected, suggesting mitochondrial resilience in females compared to males. These data demonstrate that early life exposure to GC elicits a sex-specific effect on mitochondrial function. These mitochondrial differences might drive differences in cell senescence between males and females.
GLYNAC SUPPLEMENTATION IN OLDER ADULTS PROTECTS FROM MEAL DRIVEN OXIDATIVE STRESS AND INFLAMMATION: RESULTS OF A RCT
Authors: Sekhar Rajagopal , Taffet George , Kumar Premranjan 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Elevated oxidative stress (OxS) and inflammation are linked to many age-associated abnormalities, but underlying contributing factors are not well understood. In a randomized clinical trial (RCT) in older adults (OA), we investigated the contribution of a single carbohydrate-meal on OxS and inflammation, and tested the protective effect of supplementing GlyNAC (combination of glycine+N-acetylcysteine) from the meal-driven rise in OxS and inflammation. We studied 20 OA and 10 YA (young-adults) to (1) compare the impact of a 75g oral glucose-meal on plasma markers of OxS (as TBARS) and inflammation (as IL-6); (2) re-assess these outcomes after supplementing OA with either GlyNAC or isonitrogenous placebo (alanine) for 16-weeks, and YA with GlyNAC for 2-weeks. We found that (1) 2-hours after a glucose-meal, compared to YA the OA had higher increases (expressed as percent-change over baseline) of OxS (TBARS –0.1 +/- 0.6 vs. 5.6 +/- 0.6, p &lt; 0.0000) and inflammation (IL-6 3.5 +/- 1.2 vs. 11.2 +/- 0.7, p &lt; 0.0000); (2) GlyNAC supplementation in OA protected against the glucose meal-driven increase in OxS (TBARS pre vs post: 4.8 +/- 0.9 vs. -0.4 +/- 0.8, p=0.002) and inflammation (IL-6 pre vs. post: 10.8 +/- 3.2 vs. 4.2 +/- 2.3, p=0.0001). No improvements occurred in OA receiving placebo or YA receiving GlyNAC. These findings suggest that: (1) In OA, a single carbohydrate-meal significantly increases OxS and inflammation; (2) GlyNAC supplementation protects from carbohydrate meal-driven increases in OxS and inflammation. Additional research to investigate the implications of supplementing GlyNAC on improving meal-related health in aging are warranted.
EDUCATION AND COGNITIVE ABILITY: EXPLORING DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS IN THE UNITED STATES AND MEXICO
Authors: Saenz Joseph , Khan Amina 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Education positively relates with cognition, which may be explained by enhanced cognitive reserve. However, education may also impact cognition indirectly by improving health, health behaviors, and life-course socioeconomic status (SES). This analysis explores the associations between education and cognition in the US and Mexico and quantifies the extent to which associations are direct versus indirect through health and SES. We use data from two studies: the MexCog in Mexico (n=2,042) and US Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP, n=3,267). Cognitive domains included Memory, Executive Function, Language, Visuospatial, and Orientation. Karlson-Holm-Breen (KHB) methods were used in linear regression models to quantify how much of the associations between years of education and cognitive domains were direct versus indirect through chronic conditions, income, wealth, smoking, and exercise. In regression models, years of education related positively with all cognitive domains in both studies, even when controlling for health and SES. KHB mediation analyses suggested that most of the education-cognition association was direct. In MexCog, estimates of the percent of the education-cognition association that was indirect through health and SES ranged from 4.17% (Memory) to 5.15% (Executive Function). In HCAP, indirect effects ranged from 8.95% (Orientation) to 12.15% (Language). Education was associated with better cognitive abilities in the US and Mexico regardless of cognitive domain or adjustment for late-life health and SES. Results suggested that education primarily related with cognition directly and that effects of education on cognitive abilities are not eliminated by reducing educational disparities in the late-life health and SES factors we analyzed.
REIMAGINING AGING: EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF LIFETIME DISCRIMINATION EXPERIENCES ON EVERYDAY METAMEMORY
Authors: Ly Timothy , Cundiff Jeanne , DeCaro Jason , Allen Rebecca 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Lifetime and recent experiences of discrimination (based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, etc.) contribute to impaired performance on cognitive assessments. However, the underlying mechanism by which discrimination negatively impacts cognition is unclear. Recent research investigating stress-induced impairment of metamemory may address the relationship between discrimination experiences and cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between lifetime experiences of discrimination, especially recent experiences, and everyday metamemory from a lifespan perspective (ages 20–75), using data collected from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS Refresher 1) Daily Diary Project (N = 782). Results from a 2-level multilevel model showed that the relationship between recent experiences of discrimination explained unique variance in impaired metamemory accuracy (25%; β = .377, σ = .052, 95% CI [.275, .479]), suggesting that individuals with recent discrimination experiences reported more cognitive complaints. Furthermore, the relationship between age, recent experiences of discrimination, and impaired metamemory showed that younger individuals reported more complaints after experiencing discrimination than older individuals (β = .192, σ = .092, 95% CI [.011, .373]. Individual differences accounted for 45% of the variance in the number of cognitive complaints. These findings demonstrate the need for more research into understanding metamemory accuracy as an underlying mechanism by which the psychosocial stressor of discrimination impacts cognition across the lifespan. Moreover, understanding the experiences of diverse aging populations, including experiences of discrimination, and their impact on cognition will inform research on interventions to promote positive cognitive health outcomes across the lifespan.
AAA WORKFORCE CHALLENGES AND THEIR IMPACT ON OLDER ADULTS: RESULTS FROM A NATIONAL POLL AND AGENCY INTERVIEWS
Authors: Blair Elizabeth , Wilson Traci 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) play a critical role in addressing social needs that enable older adults to live independently. In 2022, over 90% of AAAs reported that the number of consumers seeking services and the complexity of consumer needs have increased. At the same time, the nation faces a shortage of direct care workers. Existing AAAs workforce challenges, such as worker shortages and staff burnout, have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. We will share the results of a USAging poll of AAAs on the challenges facing their agency and provider workforce, reductions in volunteer staffing, and the impacts of workforce shortages on clients and services provided. Top impacts include clients not receiving the frequency of services needed, if at all. Services most impacted include personal care, respite, and transportation. Presenters will conclude by sharing innovative solutions that AAAs have developed to address these challenges.
PROLONGED NIGHTLY FASTING AMONG OLDER ADULTS: A PILOT STUDY EXPLORING CHANGES IN COGNITIVE FUNCTION
Authors: James Dara , Sears Dorothy , Larkey Linda , Maxfield Molly , Ofori Edward , Han Seung Yong , Alperin Kate , Osha Peyton 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Aging is significantly associated with cognitive decline. A growing number of US adults ages ≥ 65 years have neurocognitive impairment resulting in compromised immediate and/or long-term health outcomes. Interventions to mitigate cognitive decline and promote healthy aging are needed. Research in intermittent fasting (IF) suggests positive health outcomes related to improvements in circadian rhythm and metabolism, which influence cognition. IF regimens may therefore result in improved neurocognitive health. We conducted an IF single-group, pre/post pilot study to explore changes in neurocognitive. Older adults (≥65 years of age; Nf18) with self-reported memory decline engaged in an 8-week, remotely-delivered, prolonged nightly fasting (PNF) intervention (14-hour nightly fasting, 10-hour daytime eating window). Our primary exploratory outcome was 8-week change in neurocognitive function assessed via composite score of the Memory and Attention Phone Screener (MAPS). Trends in outcome change were assessed with paired t-tests. Participants were mean age 69.7 years, non-Hispanic White, predominantly female (94%), married (50%), and employed (65%). Completion defined as percentage of participants that completed the intervention from those that started the intervention; completion rate was 90%. Paired t-test indicated a significant increase in scores on a neurocognitive screen (MAPS) pre/post-intervention (p=0.02) with a medium effect size (Cohen’s d=0.58). Findings suggest that PNF, a type of IF regimen targeted to align food intake with circadian rhythms, may significantly improve neurocognitive function among older adults with self-reported memory decline. These promising pilot results suggest a need for fully-powered, randomized controlled trials to test the efficacy of this non-pharmacological, low cost-to-burden ratio intervention.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TOGETHER FOR COUPLES WITH MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT: A FEASIBILITY STUDY
Authors: Ahn Sangwoo , Cobb Sandy , Crouter Scott , Lee Chung Eun , Anderson Joel 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Spouses often assume the role of informal caregivers for older adults living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). These couples represent a population with low levels of physical activity, however, there is limited research regarding promotion of physical activity among these dyads. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a dyadic intervention, hypothesized to enhance physical activity via mutual support. We recruited three dyads (mean age: 66 [MCI] and 67 [spouse] years) from a local memory clinic. The dyads were asked to engage in physical activity together for 16 weeks. The weekly intervention consisted of 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on their own and two lower body strength training sessions per week, one videoconferencing-supervised and one on their own. The adherence rate to the weekly MVPA and strength training was 88% and 83%, respectively. However, the percentage meeting the goal of 150 minutes/week of MVPA as measured using a Fitbit was 31% and 73% among those with MCI and spouses, respectively. There were no issues with the retention rate (100%) or safety; satisfaction scores were high (MCI = 93%, spouses = 98%). Exit interviews revealed three key themes: (1) value of the program (accountability, togetherness), (2) difficulties (differences in physical capacity between spouses), and (3) suggestions to improve the program (incorporating various types of strength training). Our dyadic intervention was feasible to support regular physical activity for older adults living with MCI and their spouses. Future work will incorporate participants’ feedback to optimize the intervention.
COGNITIVE-FOCUSED INTERVENTIONS FOR ADULTS WITH DIABETES: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW
Authors: Kim Bohyun , Hu Jie 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Adults with diabetes and impaired memory and executive functions are more likely to experience difficulties in diabetes self-management resulting in poor glycemic control. Cognitive-focused interventions are widely accepted as an effective way to improve cognitive function in individuals at high risk of mild to severe cognitive dysfunction. This review synthesizes the effects of cognitive-focused interventions on cognitive ability, diabetes self-management, and glycemic control in adults with diabetes. A systematic review of randomized controlled/clinical trials studies published in English between 2012–2022 was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guideline. PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of science were searched. Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias tool was used to evaluate the bias and quality of the studies. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Cognitive ability and diabetes self-management were assessed using different measurements and glycemic control was measured with A1C. Seven studies applied cognitive training, one provided working memory training, and one used occupational therapy. Seven studies combined cognitive training with a co-intervention including self-efficacy, lifestyle management, physical training, chronic disease self-management program, square-stepping exercise, psychoeducational intervention, and empowerment. Two studies provided a cognitive-focused intervention only. All nine studies showed statistically significant improvements in at least one outcome variable. Cognitive-focused interventions have a positive effect on improving memory and executive function. However, the evidence of cognitive-focused interventions on self-management and glycemic control has not been established. Future studies to improve cognitive using effective strategies to improve cognitive function enhancing diabetes self-management behaviors and glycemic control are warranted.
COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS: DYNAMICS OF SOCIAL NETWORK AND PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT
Authors: Park Soobin , Park Sojung , Kim BoRin , Baek Jihye , Amano Takashi 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
As cognitive reserves diminish with age, older adults become aware of age-related losses and allocate their resources accordingly. Drawing on the selective optimization with compensation and socioemotional selectivity theory, older adults may select emotionally close social relationships to manage emotional distress caused by deterioration in cognitive functions. This study investigates whether different levels of cognitive functions [no impairment (NI), cognitive impairment no dementia (CIND), and dementia] influence the degree of loneliness among older adults, and how heterogeneous patterns of social relations affect this association. We used data from the 2018 Health and Retirement study, which included 4,500 respondents over 51 years of age who completed a modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status. Using comprehensive social-relational indicators for the structure and quality of four relational sources (spouse or partner, children, family, and friends), we applied latent class analysis and identified five subgroups of social relations: restricted–limited support (Nf190, 4.22%), family and friends focused–ambivalent (Nf1,252, 27.82%), diverse–positive (Nf2,203, 48.96%), negative (Nf500, 11.11%), and spouse focused–ambivalent (Nf355, 7.89%). Hierarchical regression showed that those in the CIND (p &lt; .032) and dementia group (p &lt; .037) were more likely to experience loneliness than those in the NI group, and those with dementia who were in the category of spouse focused–ambivalent support (p &lt; .001) had relatively lower levels of loneliness. Reliance on spousal support may be due to people selecting and adapting increasingly on closer relations to counter their vulnerability and feel less lonely. Interventions to sustain this core relationship should be encouraged, including spousal-caregiving relief programs.
TELEMEDICINE TRENDS IN THREE NURSING HOMES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Sandell Lindsay , Baar Tena , Haque Raza , Zell Angela 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Physical distancing and visiting restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges in providing timely medical care in nursing homes. The rising number of new COVID-19 cases created hardship in providing scheduled and non-urgent care visits. Virtual visits were pivotal in providing patient care. However, the additional responsibility of facilitating virtual visits for both social and clinical purposes further constrained the ability of nursing home staff to provide care. The critical deficiency of the workforce, rising numbers of new cases, and required triage of patients have been significant barriers to regularly scheduled care. We hypothesize that regular non-COVID-19 services in the evaluated nursing home facilities were lower than COVID-19 visits during this period. Our goal is to show the types of services affected during the pandemic. In this study, we analyzed 563 virtual visits during the COVID-19 pandemic in three nursing home facilities in Michigan from December 2020 through February 2022. Upon analyzing the types of services and trends, our results revealed that the number of COVID-19 related visits (68) was significantly lower than non-COVID-19 related visits (485), refuting our hypothesis. This illustrates that routine care could still be delivered during the pandemic. Additionally, the overall number of virtual visits declined steadily over the study period. This trend could suggest an increase of in-person services or a decrease in COVID-19 cases. The decline could also be related to the barriers faced by the nursing home workforce considering the time and additional responsibility of monitoring a virtual visit.
INFLAMMATORY BIOMARKERS DIFFER AMONG HOSPITALIZED VETERANS INFECTED WITH COVID-19 VARIANTS
Authors: Park Catherine , Seligman Benjamin , Hicken Bret , Tavakoli-Tabasi Shahriar , Sharafkhaneh Amir , Amos Christopher , Chou Andrew , Razjouyan Javad 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 infection pathogenesis reported a complex interplay between virus and host immune response. In this study, we hypothesized that Omicron variant causes less inflammation and cytokine release than Delta and Alpha variants as measured by the first laboratory biomarkers during hospitalization. This is a retrospective cohort study of veterans who tested positive for COVID-19 and were hospitalized at the Veterans Health Administration due to COVID-19 infection. We defined three groups of patients based on highly likely period representing variants: Alpha (12/01/2020-05/31/2021), Delta (09/01/2021-11/30/2021), and Omicron (02/01/2022-07/11/2022). The risk of abnormality levels in biomarkers (C-reactive protein [CRP], ferritin, albumin, alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate transaminase [AST], and lactate), as well as in-hospital mortality, were calculated using logistic regression adjusted by age, sex, body-mass-index, race, Charlson comorbidity index, VA frailty index, and vaccine record status. Of 414,213 Veterans tested for COVID-19, 74,342 Veterans (age: 67.8±14.3 years, BMI: 29.4±7.1 kg/m2) met the criteria: Alpha, 18,159 (34.4%); Delta, 23,414 (44.4%); Omicron, 11,207 (21.2%). Compared with Omicron, we observed significantly higher odds of abnormality levels in CRP (Alpha, adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=1.38; Delta, aOR=1.74), ferritin (Alpha, aOR=2.02; Delta, aOR=2.33), albumin (Alpha, aOR=1.16; Delta, aOR=1.15), ALT (Alpha, aOR=1.13; Delta, aOR=1.12), AST (Alpha, aOR=1.31; Delta, aOR=1.57), and lactate (Alpha, aOR=1.62; Delta, aOR=2.27) as well as mortality (Alpha, aOR=2.19; Delta, aOR=2.95). Veterans infected with Omicron showed less severe biomarkers’ responses compared to Alpha and Delta and lower mortality risk. Understanding the biomarkers’ responses of each patient across the different variants could be used to enhance acute patients’ management.
BUILDING BRIDGES: AN AGE-FRIENDLY CONFERENCE FOR THE GEROPSYCHOLOGY WORKFORCE
Authors: Carpenter Brian , Moye Jennifer , Dzierzewski Joseph 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
As in other disciplines, there is a high demand for psychologists who have specialized training in aging, but the demand far outstrips the supply, with only 1% of clinical/counseling psychologists identifying aging as their area of focus. The field of geropsychology has held a series of training conferences, the last in 2006, to define a training model and aging-related competencies. Fifteen years later, the field gathered again for a conference focusing specifically on the pipeline, with the goals of 1) understanding the recent shortage of applicants for positions in academic settings, 2) addressing underrepresentation of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds across clinical and academic geropsychology, and 3) implementing concrete solutions. In this symposium we describe our two-day, four-hour virtual national conference held in 2021, attended by more than 150 psychologists nationwide, including the structure and outcomes of the conference and the progress of several ongoing working groups. The first paper summarizes quantitative and qualitative findings of a pre-conference survey on perceptions of the geropsychology workforce. The second paper describes a career pathways webinar aimed at graduate students, interns, and fellows to attract students to diverse careers in aging. The third paper describes discussions about the impact of the pandemic on geropsychology training. The fourth paper presents a survey and efforts of a working group focused on post-licensure training. This presentation offers a possible model for others considering ways to galvanize interest and training in aging.