bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SLEEPLESS SUPPORT: CAREGIVER SLEEP QUALITY AND ITS CORRELATES
Authors: Erickson Alexander , McCurry Susan , Kelly Monica , Papazyan Anna , Camacho Karen , Mitchell Michael , Martin Jennifer , Song Yeonsu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Adult caregivers of people living with dementia (PLWD) experience poor sleep, negatively impacting their ability to take a caregiving role. This study explored associations between caregiver sleep quality and factors at caregiver and PLWD levels. Participants were 45 caregiver-PLWD dyads, with a majority identifying as female (n=36; 75%), non-Hispanic white (n=19;39%), and having some college education (n=39; 87%). Caregiver sleep quality was measured with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI global score and three subscales: Sleep Efficiency, Perceived Sleep Quality, and Daily Disturbances). Other measures included the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), the Revised Memory and Behavior Problems Checklist (RMBPC) frequency and caregiver distress subscales, PLWD activities of daily living (ADLs), and PLWD Sleep Disorders Inventory (SDI) total score. Analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and t-tests. On average, caregivers endorsed poor global sleep quality (PSQI; mean of overall score). Higher caregiver Daily Disturbances scores were associated with higher ZBI scores (r=.33, p=.03), lower PLWD’s ADL functioning (r=-.35, p&lt;.001), higher RMBPC frequency (r=.31, p=.04), and higher SDI (r=.39, p=.008). Higher caregiver age was associated with better PSQI global sleep quality (r=-.35, p=.02) and lower Daily Disturbance subscale scores (r=-.49, p&lt;.001). Poor Sleep Efficiency subscale scores were associated with more sleep problems of PLWD (r=.38, p=.01), and caregivers of non-White race had significantly worse sleep efficiency (t(43)=3.17, p=.003). Caregivers of PLWD generally reported poor sleep, which was associated with caregiver burden, care recipient function and behavioral impairments. Addressing PLWD’s sleep and dementia-related behavioral challenges may help caregivers improve their sleep quality.
THE LONGITUDINAL EFFECTS OF PERSISTENT PAIN AND SLEEP HEALTH ON FRAILTY AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Chen Tuo Yu , Mgabhi Philile , Tsai Feng-Jen , Bai Chyi-Huey , Hsu Hui-chuan , Chen Yi-Hua , Kuan Yi-Chun 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Research has shown that persistent pain can affect frailty of community-dwelling older adults. Additionally, evidence supports the significant association of sleep health with persistent pain and frailty. However, the relationship between persistent pain, sleep health, and frailty is not yet fully understood, and it remains unclear whether better sleep health could alleviate the impact of persistent pain on frailty. We investigated whether baseline sleep health and persistent pain predicted frailty at 4-year follow-up among community-dwelling older adults. Besides, we examined whether the relationship between persistent pain and frailty differed by sleep health. Data were from the Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging (N=2,562;2011-2015). A frailty index was built using 37 items on functioning and physical and mental health. Persistent pain was measured with a 5-level categorical variable (no pain [reference], mild pain, mild persistent pain, moderate persistent pain, severe persistent pain). Sleep health was assessed using the SATED model (satisfaction-alertness-timing-efficiency-duration). Covariates included baseline sociodemographic status (age,sex,education), errors in cognitive tests, frailty, and poor health behaviors (drinking,lack of exercise). Results showed that baseline moderate persistent pain (OR=1.44,95%CI=1.03-2.01), severe persistent pain (OR=1.65, 95%CI=1.06-2.57), and poor sleep health (OR=1.14,95%CI=1.04-1.26) increased the risks of frailty at 4-year follow-up. A significant synergistic effect between persistent pain and sleep health was observed, such that the risks of frailty were reduced among individuals with better sleep health, even with more severe persistent pain. Overall, persistent pain and sleep health predicted frailty. Improving sleep health among older adults with persistent pain may help mitigate the risks of frailty.
RESEARCH ON THE IMPACT OF INTERGENERATIONAL DEMOGRAPHIC EVOLUTION ON COMMUNITY SERVICES IN CHINA (2024–2050)
Authors: Wu Yuxia , Si Wanwan , Mi Hong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Facing the dual challenges of population aging and a declining birthrate, China is actively promoting mutual assistance and support among multiple generations through a combination of policies and coordinated services. Utilizing datasets from multiple Chinese censuses and the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this study employs microsimulation models to establish predictive frameworks for both population intergenerational shifts and service demands. It delves into the trajectories of generational transitions and their subsequent impact on community-based services over the forthcoming 25 years in China. Building upon the long-term care practices and experiences in generational integration within OECD nations, the study proposes phased service policy alignments and synergistic strategies.The research underscores that defining parameters such as demographic structures, health statuses, care paradigms, and multi-generational dynamics, along with segmenting service recipients and fine-tuning policies and service collaborations, enables precision targeting and flexible adjustments in community services. This, in turn, fosters “upward intergenerational” connections — where individuals in their early senior years provide informal caregiving to those who are significantly older and may have physical limitations — and “downward intergenerational” bonds — in which grandparents contribute to the upbringing of their grandchildren. Such arrangements not only reinforce societal bonds but also alleviate the caregiving responsibilities of families, particularly those with members in their mid-30s to mid-40s, who often juggle between child-rearing and older adults care responsibilities.
POSTING SHORT-FORM VIDEOS PROMOTES OLDER ADULTS’ PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH: A MODEL BASED ON SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY
Authors: Wu Jingxuan , Peng Huamao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objectives
This study focuses on how posting behaviors of older adults on short-form video platforms (e.g., TikTok) influences depression and reveals the psychological mechanism (satisfying basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness) from the perspective of the Self-Determination Theory and uncover whether browsing behavior moderates this effect. Method: A total of 1705 older adults aged 55 to 83 years were instructed to complete the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Short-form Video Usage Behavior Questionnaire, and the Basic Psychological Needs Scale. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0.

Results
1) Older adults posting short-form videos exhibit lower levels of depression compared to those who have never posted short-form videos through the mediations of greater competence (indirect effect = -.15) and autonomy (indirect effect = -.05), and the indirect effect of autonomy becomes insignificant when the diversity of browsing behaviors is high. 2) Among older adults posting short-form videos, posting short-form videos frequently decreases depression through competence (indirect effect = -.16), autonomy (indirect effect = -.04), and relatedness (indirect effect = -.06), regardless of the diversity of browsing behaviors.

Discussion
This study highlights the positive effect of posting short-form videos on older adults’ psychological health by satisfying basic psychological needs. For those unable or unwilling to post videos, diversifying browsing behaviors can improve autonomy and safeguard psychological health. These findings emphasize older adults’ initiative and creativity, along with the importance of lifelong competence development, and present new strategies to support successful aging in the era of Internet-based media.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE SELF-EFFICACY IN SMARTPHONE USE SCALE FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Cheng Yutian , Gondo Yasuyuki 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Currently, a large proportion of older adults are still unable to use smartphone functions, except for calling or dialing. Considering the strategy to accelerate smartphone use, developing a tool to assess users’ confidence is important for future intervention studies. Thus, this study aimed to develop the scale for measuring the self-efficacy of smartphone use for older adults. We came up with 38 items first, derived former researches and some of developed own experience from smartphone lecture held for older adults. We conducted an internet survey for Japanese older adults aged 60 to 89, totally 400 participants (50% are female). Exploratory factor analysis and correlation analysis with general self-efficacy were conducted. By deleting those items which factor loading was too low or correlation with general analysis was not significant, the final questionnaire turned out to be 26 items. Further factor analysis revealed a three-factorial solution with good reliability (Cronbach alpha is 0.926). Three factors are named as Confidence (Cronbach alpha is 0.928), Problem Solving (Cronbach alpha is 0.904), and Realization of Benefit (Cronbach alpha is 0.855). Scores of self-efficacy of smartphone use showed significant positive correlations between general self-efficacy, which means high level of construct validity. With the development of this scale, it found out to be more than one dimension of self-efficacy in smartphone use, provided more precise assessment for further study. In further application research, we hope to develop a shorter version so it can reduce older adults’ burden.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION BELIEF INDEX FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS
Authors: Wakui Tomoko , Watanabe Kentaro , Miwa Hiroyasu , Itoh Sakiko 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In highly aged societies, the technology integration into community care settings is promoted. Despite this, real-world adoption faces hurdles because of the common belief that care provided by humans is inherently superior. This gap highlights the absence of specific measures to assess this belief. This study aims to develop the Technology Integration Belief Index for Family Caregivers (TIBI-FC), which evaluates family caregivers’ attitudes towards technology use in long-term care. We conducted a survey with 2,002 family caregivers of older adults living in the community, selected in proportion to the national percentage of older population in need of care. Using SPSS 29.0 and Amos 29, we carried out exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Model fit was evaluated using the comparative fit index (CFI) and the root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA). The participant group was 42.2% female, with the average age of 60.0 (SD = 10.7). The finalized TIBI-FC, comprising 14 items, was categorized into two dimensions: efficiency and stereotype. The first factor, efficiency, included six items, while the second, stereotype, comprised eight items, demonstrating a robust two-factor structure (CFI =.972, RMSEA =.060). This structure suggests that the TIBI-FC effectively captures the nuanced beliefs about technology integration in care. Importantly, the development of the TIBI-FC not only sheds light on existing challenges but also sets the stage for future strategies to enhance technology acceptance among family caregivers, potentially transforming the landscape of long-term care.
THE FEASIBILITY OF PERFORMING A VIRTUAL REALITY MEAL-PREPARING TASK IN YOUNG AND OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Jayakody Oshadi , Pa Judy , Verghese Joe , Doriwala Hussain , Carrera Robert , Agrawal Sunil , Blumen Helena 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative technology to use in Alzheimer’s clinical trials to improve cognitive and behavioral skills in older adults. However, the application of VR in older adults raises questions regarding their ability to use VR platforms and concerns regarding simulator sickness (i.e., dizziness). We compared the task completion time, accuracy, simulator sickness and acceptability of a virtual meal-preparing task between 8 young (M age 25, SD 2.6, M years of education 17.1 SD 1.6, 50% women) and 8 older adults at risk for dementia (M age 76.3, SD 7.9, M years of education 12.9 SD 8.3, 62.5% women, 62.5% Black or Hispanic, screened with AD8 dementia screening). Following a practice task, all participants completed the meal-preparing task developed using Unity 3D (V2022 LTS). Participants were seated, wore a headset, and used wireless hand controllers to navigate and perform the task. Results from two-sample t-test showed that i) older adults took a longer time to complete the task (75 Vs 235 seconds; p&lt; 0.001) and ii) made more errors (p=0.04) compared to young adults but no participants reported simulator sickness (i.e., dizziness, headache, eyestrain, etc.). All participants reported high self-efficacy in performing similar virtual tasks. This pilot study shows that, even though older adults required more guidance during the practice task, they were still able to complete a simple virtual task within an average of &lt; 5 minutes. Additionally, they reported high acceptability (i.e., self-efficacy, level of enjoyment) and willingness to engage in future VR interventions.
EFFECTS OF A STAGED INTEGRAL ART-BASED COGNITIVE INTERVENTION FOR OLDER ADULTS ON THE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE SPECTRUM
Authors: Yan Yuanjiao , Huang Chenshan , Shi Yanhong , Lin Rong , Li Hong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The combined art activities can prevent or reverse the cognitive decline. However, few studies have systematically examined its effects. To evaluate the effects of a staged integral art-based cognitive intervention (SIACI) in older adults on the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) spectrum.

Methods
Participants were randomised in a 1:1 ratio into an intervention group (n=72) and a wait-list control group (n=72). The intervention group underwent a 16-week, 24-session SIACI program, while the control group underwent the program after the follow-up assessment. General and specific domains of cognitive function, and other health-related outcomes were measured at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1), and 6 months follow-up (T2).

Results
Of the 144 participants (mean [SD] age, 71.6 [5.8] years; 50 [34.7%] males and 94 [65.3%] females), 130 and 115 completed the questionnaires at T1 and T2, respectively. The average attendance rate in the intervention group was 86.0%. At T1, the intervention group showed greater improvement than the control group in general cognitive functions (MoCA, between-group mean difference, 95% CIs, 0.4 to 2.5, p=0.009). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvement compared to the control group in language, memory, quality of life, sleep quality and physical activity level at T1. Statistically significant group differences remained in sleep quality (PSQI, between-group mean difference, -1.3 [95% CIs, -2.5 to -0.1], p=0.035) at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusions: In this randomised controlled trial of the SIACI program, older adults on the AD spectrum who participated in the program experienced improved cognition and psychological health.
ENABLING PRIORITIZATION FOR AMYLOID POSITIVITY TESTING WITH A DIGITAL COGNITIVE ASSESSMENT
Authors: Jannati Ali , Thompson Karl , Toro-Serey Claudio , Banks Russell , Showalter John , Bates David , Tobyne Sean , Pascual-Leone Alvaro 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Primary care providers currently wait for a complaint to initiate a ‘for-cause’ cognitive evaluation and often refer the patient to a specialist. Specialist evaluation then leads to the diagnosis, but treatment occurs late and is unlikely to meaningfully prevent or reduce disability. We hypothesized a brief digital cognitive assessment (DCA), the Digital Clock and Recall (DCR), could concurrently identify CI and predict PET Aβ status, thereby providing an efficient means for timely identification and prioritization of patients for disease-modifying treatments. 930 participants (age 72.0±6.7; 56.8% female; 23% minorities) were classified as cognitively unimpaired, mild cognitive impairment, or probable Alzheimer’s dementia, and 35.1% were Aβ+ on 18F-florbetapir PET scan. DCR-based models were compared with blood-based biomarkers (BBMs) Aβ42/40, pTau-181, and pTau-217, which poorly classified CI (AUCs=0.63, 0.66, 0.72) but accurately classified Aβ status (AUCs=0.81, 0.78, 0.89). DCR accurately classified CI and predicted Aβ status (AUCs=0.85, 0.83). Moreover, combining the DCR with Aβ42/40, pTau-181, and pTau-217 improved their Aβ-status prediction performance to AUCs of 0.882, 0.835, and 0.905, respectively. DCR was superior to BBMs in detecting cognitive impairment and boosted their Aβ-PET prediction ability to levels comparable to CSF biomarkers. We propose a workflow in which implementation of DCAs such as the DCR facilitates early identification of individuals with MCI or early dementia likely due to AD, thanks to the concurrent classification of CI and accurate prediction of Aβ PET status.
A SURVEY OF MICROGLIA ASSOCIATION WITH AMYLOID PLAQUE IN 3XTG ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE MODELS
Authors: Asante-Danso Anthony , Abdelmageed Mofida , Paul Anirban 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Brain aging is characterized by a progressive functional decline of cellular and molecular mechanisms that affect most living organisms. These mechanisms’ decline is the primary risk factor for many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). In neurodegenerative diseases like AD, extracellular deposition of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and microglial activation are critical facets that influence disease progression. Microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, play a key role in maintaining brain homeostasis and eliminating these Aβ forms through phagocytosis. However, increased microglia association with amyloid plaque can lead to neuroinflammation, thus creating a more neurotoxic environment in the brain, leading to further AD progression and neuronal loss. Little research examines how this association of microglia and amyloid plaque differs with sex or age. To address research gaps, we are using wild-type and triple transgenic human-induced AD models (3xTg-AD) of female and male mice to gain a strong understanding of the changes in microglia activation in brain aging and AD.
ABSENCE OF ANGIOTENSIN TYPE 2 RECEPTOR IS LINKED TO HIGHER BODY WEIGHT AND POOR AEROBIC PERFORMANCE IN AGED MICE
Authors: Abadir Michael , Bene Michael , Said Adam , Marx Ruth , Powell Laura , Walston Jeremy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Age-related physical decline significantly impacts the quality of life and increases dependence in older adults. The role of angiotensin receptors in the decline of strength and endurance in older organisms has not yet been fully explored. The two main angiotensin receptors are: Angiotensin 1 (AT1) receptor, and Angiotensin 2 (AT2) receptor. This study aimed to investigate the effects of each angiotensin receptor on physical performance in older mice. We compared aged (24 months old) Losartan (an AT1 receptor antagonist) treated wild type (WT) mice to age- and sex-matched mice lacking the AT1 or AT2 receptor (AT1KO or AT2KO). Mice underwent treadmill running until exhaustion or a maximum duration of one hour, with number of falls off belt (NOF), number of gentle stimuli (NGS), and total time on the treadmill belt (TOB) recorded. NGS indicates how often mild stimuli were used to encourage mice to return to the treadmill belt. Body weights showed significant differences between groups by ANOVA (p=0.03), with Tukey HSD indicating AT2KO mice were significantly heavier than WT (p=0.04). TOB analysis indicated significant differences (Kruskal-Wallis, p=0.03), with post-hoc analyses revealing the AT2KO group spent less TOB than WT (p=0.008) and WT los (p=0.01). Differences in NGS were detected, with the AT2KO requiring significantly more stimuli compared to WT (p=0.003), WT los (p=0.001), and AT1KO (p=0.01). These findings highlight the impact of angiotensin receptor modifications on physical performance and suggest that loss of AT2 may result in decreased aerobic performance, potentially due to increased body weight.
ACTIVATED SKN-1 ALTERS THE LONGEVITY TRAJECTORY OF LONG-LIVED C. ELEGANS MUTANTS
Authors: Turner Chris , Curran Sean 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In the presence of stressful environments, the SKN-1 cytoprotective transcription factor is activated to induce the expression of gene targets that can restore homeostasis. However, constitutive activation of SKN-1 results in diminished health and a reduction of lifespan. Here we demonstrate the necessity to regulate the activity of SKN-1 for maintaining the longevity promoting responses associated with impaired daf-2/insulin receptor signaling, the eat-2 model of caloric restriction, and glp-1-dependent loss of germ cell proliferation. A hallmark of animals with constitutive SKN-1 activation is the age-dependent loss of somatic lipids and this phenotype is linked to the general reduction in survival in animals harboring the skn-1gf allele, but surprisingly, daf-2lf; skn-1gf double mutant animals do not redistribute somatic lipids which suggests the insulin signaling pathway functions downstream of SKN-1 in the maintenance of lipid distribution. As expected, eat-2lf; skn-1gf double mutant animals, which independently activate SKN-1, continue to display somatic lipid depletion in older ages with and without the skn-1gf activating mutation but animals lacking a proliferating germline do not redistribute somatic lipids, which supports a genetic model where SKN-1 activity is an important regulator of lipid mobilization in response to food availability to fuel the developing germline by engaging the daf-2/insulin receptor pathway.
AGE AND LOSARTAN EFFECTS ON MITOCHONDRIAL PROTEOME IN MICE
Authors: Said Adam , Bene Michael , Abadir Michael , Kreimer Simion , Marx Ruth , Powell Laura , Walston Jeremy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Loss of mitochondrial function with age is associated with reduced organ functional performance and predispose individuals to age-related diseases. Current studies suggest the renin-angiotensin system significantly interacts with mitochondrial function. This study investigated the effects of aging and Losartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, on the mitochondrial proteome in mice. Mitochondrial samples from young mice (3 months), aged mice (24 months), and aged mice treated with Losartan (24 and 33 months) were analyzed using Cytoscape. Aged (24 months) mice had a marked downregulation of beta-oxidation and amino acid degradation proteins compared to young (3 months) mice. In contrast, chaperone and muscle contraction proteins were upregulated in older mice. Additionally, the TCA cycle proteins showed significant changes with age, with some proteins becoming increased in abundance while others became significantly less abundant. Overall, there was not a clear regulation pattern, suggesting a further complexity in mitochondrial energy production with age. Losartan treatment in 24-month-old mice upregulated the TCA cycle and beta-oxidation proteins. In contrast, chaperone and muscle contraction proteins were downregulated. This trend opposes the aging effect and suggests the regulatory effects of Losartan. At 33 months, there were no significant changes in any protein groups of losartan-treated mice. This difference in expression suggests that more advanced age may prevent the regulatory effects of losartan. In line with previous studies, these results suggest that Losartan has the potential to compensate for age-related functional decline. Losartan is a potential pharmacological intervention that may reverse aging-related mitochondrial proteome decline.