bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DISCRIMINATION AND COGNITIVE HEALTH DISPARITIES AMONG OLDER AMERICANS: A FOCUS ON NATIVITY AND RACE/ETHNICITY
Authors: Wang Yi , Guo Man , Shen Huei-Wern , Stangl Morgan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Discrimination, characterized by unfair or prejudicial treatment based on perceived differences, has been identified as a significant stressor with potential detrimental effects on cognitive health in the aging population. Disproportionately experienced by immigrants and racial/ethnic minorities, discrimination can exacerbate existing health disparities. Using data from the 2016 and 2018 Leave-Behind Questionnaire of the Health and Retirement Study (N=9,440), this study aims to examine 1) What is the associations between discrimination and cognitive health (global cognitive functioning score), and whether such relationships vary by nativity (US born: yes/no)? 2) Does race/ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic) moderate the above relationships? and 3) Do contextual resources (neighborhood social cohesion, social support from family and friends) and activity engagement (volunteering, cognitively stimulating activities) serve as protective factors for cognitive health in the face of discrimination? Results from linear regression models revealed that discrimination is negatively linked to cognitive health and this relationship is stronger for immigrants than non-immigrants. Across nativity and race/ethnicity groups, only Hispanic immigrants reported a significantly lower cognitive score (in comparison with U.S. born Whites) when facing higher levels of perceived discrimination. As for protective factors, both activity engagement indicators were associated with higher cognitive scores among immigrants. These findings emphasize the heightened vulnerability of immigrant populations, particularly Hispanic immigrants, to the negative effects of discrimination on cognition. The protective factors, such as volunteering and engaging in cognitively stimulating activities, highlights avenues for intervention and support to mitigate the adverse consequences of discrimination on cognitive health among older immigrants in the U.S.
DISPARITIES IN TYPE 2 DIABETES ONSET AMONG MIDLIFE AND OLDER ADULTS IN THE US: A FOCUS ON NATIVITY AND RACE/ETHNICITY
Authors: Asiedu Charlotte , Davey Adam 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) disproportionately affects midlife and older adults in the US and globally and is marked by significant disparities across certain nativity groups (foreign-born, native-born, and second-generation immigrants (SGI)). While previous research has predominantly focused on diabetes prevalence across racial groups, there exists a significant gap in understanding how this disease prevalence and onset may differ based on immigration status and nativity. This study utilized data from a nationally representative sample of the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS, 2003–2022) to understand disparities in the onset of diabetes among midlife (45–64) and older adults (65+) in the US. Survey-weighted analyses suggested an association between nativity and age of diabetes onset (early, mid-life, and late). The study sample, N = 200,730, comprised 42.35% males and 57.65% females within ages 40-85+. The overall survey-weighted chi-square tests revealed a statistically significant association between nativity and diabetes onset (p &lt; 0.001). Foreign-born adults had the highest prevalence of diabetes (15.1%), followed by SGI (13.3%). Foreign-born adults were also more likely to have received their diabetes diagnosis before age 40 (23.1%, P&lt; 0.001) followed by SGI (20.9%, p&lt; 0.001). Native-born adults were more likely to receive their diagnosis after age 60 (30.5%) compared to SGI (29.7%) and foreign-born adults (21.8%). Findings highlight disparities in T2DM prevalence and onset by nativity. The study underscores the necessity for further research on the socioeconomic, biological, psychological, cultural, and behavioral determinants of these disparities to inform targeted policies and interventions.
MARKETING ISN’T MAGIC: HOW ALTER LEVERAGED THESE BEST PRACTICES TO INCREASE RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
Authors: Epps Fayron , Suggs Andy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Dementia-Friendly Faith Villages was launched in 2018 to address the lack of resources and awareness of dementia in African American and faith communities in the State of Georgia. The program struggled to meet recruiting, retention, and program goals in its inaugural year. In response to less-than-desirable progress, the principal investigator partnered with Reckon Branding to define a messaging focus for the program that better connected with each of its key audiences: Church leaders, caregivers, and partner programs within their space. Considering 71% of customers recommend a brand based on their emotional connection to it, Reckon knew they had to tell a story that extended beyond facts and figures. The program was provided with a new verbal and visual focus through internal ideation sessions, audits of competitive programs, and external interviews of Church leadership and caregivers of those with cognitive impairments. Armed with the more memorable name ALTER, a new logo, and more consumer-friendly marketing materials, the team was able to secure 83 partnerships over the next 4 years. This strategic pivot has helped ALTER exceed its partner goals by over 300% and empowered the program to develop consistently impactful marketing materials, which provided improved recruitment reach, increasing the participants from 7,500 to more than 100,000. Thanks to this success, ALTER has extended its reach from Georgia, to many more African American communities of faith across 14 states.
PREDICTORS OF LIVER FUNCTION AMONG MEXICAN AMERICAN WITH DISABLING ARTHRITIS
Authors: Harrison Tracie , Villareal Shelley Blozis , Hunter Heather 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In this secondary analysis of data from our recent biobehavioral study of Mexican American men and women with disabling arthritic conditions, we analyzed the relationships between mental health predictors, inflammation and liver enzymes, after controlling for age and sex. Consistent with the theoretical paradigm evaluating the prevalence and impact of diseases of desperation, the relationships between grief, anxiety, depression, inflammation (c-reactive protein, CRP) and liver function (Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGPT)) were analyzed. The 67 men (N=18) and women (N=46) 46-83 years of age (age M=62.4 years) were primarily unemployed (55%), married (43%) and high school graduates (36%). Participants were community residing and recruited through flyers, word of mouth, and known key informants. After IRB approval, surveys and blood samples were collected in homes and then analyzed. Results using Pearson correlations with reliable measures indicated significant relationships between SGPT and CRP (r=.46, P&lt; 0.01), SGPT and anxiety (r=.365, p&lt;.01), SGPT and depression (r=.34, p&lt; 0.02), and SGPT and grief (r=.30, p&lt;.04). Using a regression analysis, after controlling for age and sex, mental health (anxiety, depression, and grief) explained an additional 16% (R2 change =.16, F = 2.4, p =.08) of the variance in liver enzymes. This study was limited to a small sample size. In conclusion, psychological variables may influence physiological outcomes in Mexican Americans aging with severe arthritis, and further research is needed on mental health needs among Mexican Americans aging with disability in the community setting.
UNRAVELING THE THREADS OF DEMENTIA PERCEPTION AMONG OLDER ASIAN INDIAN IMMIGRANTS IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Neelamegam Malinee , Patil Shilpa , Nhpang RoiSan , Griner Stacey 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Asian Indian (AI) population, the second-largest immigrant group in the US, includes a substantial proportion aged 50 and older. Despite facing cognitive risks, they’re underrepresented in aging research. Our study delves into dementia perceptions among older AI immigrants in the US. We conducted in-depth interviews with 12 Asian Indian immigrants aged 50 and above in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Guided by a semi-structured interview guide, we explored their perceptions of dementia and aging in the US. Thematic analysis, utilizing both predetermined and emerging codes, was employed to analyze the data. Of the participants, the majority were women (n=21), with an average age of 68.9 years (SD=5.3) and an average length of stay in the US of 35.1 years (SD=13.1). Alarmingly, there was a notable lack of awareness regarding cognitive aging and dementia. Emerging themes included concerns about the financial burden of screening and treatment, societal acceptance, and access to support services. Moreover, participants’ immigration journeys significantly influenced their social networks and caregiving choices as they aged. Addressing the expense of care, enhancing caregiving resources, and addressing the low awareness of brain health among older AI immigrants in the US are crucial focal points for future research. These findings can inform culturally tailored initiatives and interventions aimed at dementia and aging within South Asian communities.
EXPLORING MEDICATION CONVERSATIONS IN NURSING HOME CARE CONFERENCES: A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Authors: Ku Te-Lien , Li Jingxi , Ford James , Roberts Tonya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Care conferences (CCs) represent a structured opportunity for nursing home (NH) staff, residents, and families in collaborative discussions about medication care planning, a fundamental component ensuring resident disease management and safety. Yet, how medication issues are addressed within CCs remains unexplored. This study aimed to describe how medications were discussed and who discussed them through a convenience sample of naturally observed CCs (n=15) in a 40-bed, nonprofit, short-stay, Midwestern NH. Observations were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis. CCs lasted 20 to 55 minutes each (mean=36 minutes). The number of attendees in CCs ranged from 5 to 15, with 6 being the most frequent (33.3%). Of these, 14 CCs (93%) involved medication conversations. A variety of staff attended CCs; however pharmacists were absent. Social workers and registered nurses were primarily engaged in medication conversations. Residents and families typically participated passively. Medication conversations centered around three main themes: (1) Information Seeking and Sharing—unifying participants’ understanding regarding current medication and offering opportunities for consultation; (2) Decision Making—negotiating and making decisions about adding, changing, or stopping the resident’s medication during NH stay; and (3) Discharge Planning—confirming the continuity of the resident’s medication post-discharge and navigating access to managing medication resources. The findings of this study could enhance our understanding of how medications-related discussions are conducted during CCs in NHs. Future studies can further identify the different professional roles of NH staff in medication care planning according to residents’ and families’ needs, and explore the inclusion of pharmacists in CC.
BODY COMPOSITION CHANGE AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION AFTER INTENSIVE BEHAVIORAL WEIGHT LOSS INTERVENTION
Authors: Chae Kacey , Bettencourt Amie , Houston Denise , Simonsick Eleanor , Ferrucci Luigi , Kalyani Rita , Clark Jeanne , Gudzune Kimberly 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The LookAHEAD trial, an RCT of adults with obesity and diabetes, has demonstrated weight loss (WL) efficacy through intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI), but also a decline in lean mass (LM) after ILI. One potential concern with LM reduction is worsening physical function (PF), particularly among older adults. Our study objective was to evaluate the change in PF across different categories of body composition changes during ILI. We conducted a secondary analysis within the LookAHEAD trial, among ILI participants with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The independent variables were 1). percent WL, 2). percent FM change, and 3). percent appendicular lean mass (ALM) change at 12 months (12M). The dependent variable was the change in self-reported PF at 12M, measured by the SF-36 (higher scores indicating better PF). At baseline, 628 participants (63% women) had mean age 58.3 years (SD 6.7), weight 96.1 kg (16.8), FM 39.8 kg (10.7), ALM 22.9 kg (5.1), and PF score 81.5 (17.6). Mean WL was 9.2% (6.3); PF scores increased in the WL ≥10% and 5-9.9% groups. Mean change in FM was -14.8% (11.7); PF scores increased in the high FM-loss, moderate FM-loss, and low FM-loss groups [high-loss vs. low-loss (p=0.02); high-loss vs. gain (p=0.04)]. Mean change in ALM was -4.8% (4.9); PF score increased in the high ALM-loss, moderate ALM-loss, and low ALM-loss groups, but the between-group differences were not significant (p=0.06). Results suggest that LM loss does not necessarily contribute to PF declines; FM loss may be a greater contributor to PF improvement.
CHARACTERIZING PERFORMANCE VARIABILITY DURING A SIX-MINUTE WALK TEST
Authors: Brinkley Tina , Hsu Fang-Chi , Kitzman Dalane , Houston Denise , Fanning Jason 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The six minute walk (6MW) is a test of sub-maximal exercise capacity that reflects the level at which most activities of daily living are performed. While 6MW outcomes traditionally focus on distance covered or average gait speed, recent efforts explore methods to capture performance variability. We used functional principal component analysis (fPCA) to characterize patterns of lap-to-lap performance in 33 adults with overweight/obesity (mean age: 64.2±7.7 yrs, mean BMI: 35.5±6.1 kg/m2, 79% male, 82% White). The 6MW was performed on a 20-m course using standardized procedures, and the time to complete each half lap was recorded. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to examine associations between fPCA components and physical function measures including the expanded Short Physical Performance Battery (eSPPB) and self-reported mobility. Two fPCA components were extracted, explaining 72% (PC1) and 15% (PC2) of the variance in lap-to-lap performance. PC1 captured both speed and consistency of performance, where higher scores were correlated with greater 6MW distance (r=0.93, p&lt; 0.0001), faster initial 6MW gait speed (r=0.80, p&lt; 0.0001), 4-meter usual gait speed (r=0.64, p&lt; 0.0001), and repeated chair stands time (r=-0.40, p=0.02), and higher eSPPB (r=0.50, p-0.027) and mobility (r=0.54, r=0.001) scores. PC2 captured consistency in performance, with higher scores correlating with less gait change speed during the 6MW (r=-0.63, p&lt; 0.0001) and better balance (r=0.43, p=0.0122). These results suggest faster gait speed overall as well as during the initial stages of the 6MW are associated with better physical function. Future research should examine whether intervening on gait speed and gait consistency benefits long-term independence.
DIETARY DIVERSITY AND OVERWEIGHT ARE ASSOCIATED WITH HIGH INTRINSIC CAPACITY AMONG CHINESE URBAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Lin Siyang , Chen Jingyi , jiang Xinye , Huang Xiaoming , Yuan Yin , Li Na , Huang Feng , Zhu Pengli 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background and objectives
The associations of intrinsic capacity (IC) with dietary diversity and body mass index (BMI) remain unclear in older adults. This study aimed to examine the associations of dietary diversity and BMI on high IC.

Methods
The cross-sectional study used data from the Fujian Prospective Aging Cohort, which included 1972 individuals aged 60-98 from 2020 to 2021. The dietary diversity score (DDS) was constructed with eight food varieties, and consuming ≥five varieties of food daily was considered a high DDS. BMI was grouped into underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity according to the Chinese guidelines. High IC was defined as ≥three unimpaired domains of cognition, locomotion, sensory, vitality, and psychology.

Results
Compared with low DDS, high DDS had a positive association with high IC (OR = 1.42, 95 % CI = 1.16-1.74). Compared with normal weight, underweight was inversely related to high IC (OR = 0.18, 95 % CI = 0.09-0.36), overweight was positively related to high IC (OR = 1.65, 95 % CI = 1.33-2.06), while no significant association was observed between obesity and high IC. The restricted cubic spline model exhibited an inverted U-shaped nonlinear curve of BMI and high IC and identified an optimal BMI of 25.7 kg/m2 for high IC.

Conclusions
High DDS is a protective factor of high IC in older adults. Overweight had the most protective association with high IC among the four BMI subgroups. Individuals with overweight and higher dietary diversity had higher IC.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN WEIGHT-ADJUSTED WAIST INDEX AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Qiu Xichenhui , Kuang Jiahao , Wei Changning , Zheng Xujuan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The impact of obesity on cognitive function has generated interest, and weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) has emerged as a novel marker of obesity. However, the association between WWI and cognitive function in older adults remains unclear. This study aims to explore the relationship between WWI and cognitive performance in older adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014.

Methods
A cross-sectional investigation was conducted using NHANES data. Multivariate regression and smoothing curve fitting were used to analyze the linear and nonlinear relationship between WWI and cognitive function, assessed by neuropsychological tests. Subgroup analysis and machine learning models were employed to evaluate the stability and associations between WWI and cognitive metrics.

Results
The analysis included 3472 participants. Results showed that higher WWI was significantly associated with lower scores on cognitive tests, including CERAD-WL (learning), AFT (memory), and DSST (processing speed). This association remained stable after considering WWI as a categorical variable. The negative association was more pronounced in men and decreased with advancing age. Non-linear threshold effects were observed, with stronger correlations between WWI and cognitive function above specific thresholds. Conclusions: Increased abdominal obesity, as indicated by higher WWI, was linked to deficits in learning, memory, verbal fluency, and processing speed among older adults. These findings suggest that abdominal obesity may play a crucial role in cognitive decline in this population. Interventions targeting abdominal obesity could be important for preserving cognitive performance in older adults.
APP PROMOTING NONPHARMACOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA IN NURSING HOMES
Authors: Yang Minhee , Hwang Sinwoo , Kim EunKyo , Cho Jungwon , Cho Eunhee 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Mobile app-based interventions have emerged as a promising approach for providing individualized non-pharmacological interventions to people living with dementia (PLWD) to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Offering such interventions can be challenging in nursing homes because of the lack of support from family members and heavy workload when composing and implementing individualized non-pharmacological interventions. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a decision support application for nurses to facilitate non-pharmacological interventions. The research team developed an app that provides symptom-specific non-pharmacological interventions, and experts provided feedback on the app’s usability. Finally, the app was tested with four dyads of PLWD and nurses for four weeks (two weeks of the intervention period only) and was assessed for its overall quality and usability using questionnaires and interviews. Nurses recorded BPSD diaries ranging from 17 to 78 for four weeks. The implementation of symptom-specific, individualized non-pharmacological interventions using the application led to a reduction in BPSD. The nurses most frequently provided individualized music programs, followed by reminiscence programs. The engagement level of each dyad ranged from 3.1 to 3.6 out of 5. Overall, the app was perceived as beneficial in facilitating symptom-specific, individualized non-pharmacological care in nursing homes. Collectively, this study highlights the usefulness of the app in nursing homes by assisting nurses in their decisions regarding non-pharmacological interventions. However, further enhancements are warranted to improve usability and efficacy within the context of nursing homes.
EPIGENETIC AGING AND XENOBIOTIC METABOLISM IN THE MOUSE LIVER
Authors: Abudahab Sara , Saeedy Dalia Al , AlAzzeh Ola , McClay Joseph 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hepatic xenobiotic metabolism declines with age, and while intact metabolism is associated with longevity, few studies have explored the genome-wide impact of epigenetic aging on these processes. In this study, we used liver tissues from male C57BL/6 mice (4, 24, and 32 months), obtained from the National Institute on Aging. We mapped DNA methylation changes using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) to identify age-associated differentially methylated sites (a-DMS). Our findings demonstrate significant age-associated methylation changes, with younger mice (4 months) displaying different patterns compared to older counterparts. First, we found that genes encoding Phase I and II drug-metabolizing enzymes, in addition to ABC and SLC transporters, showed differential methylation with age. Targeted analysis of important pharmacogenes (Cyp1a2, Cyp2d9, and Abcc2) showed that aging led to Cyp2d9 hypermethylation and reduced expression, while Abcc2 expression remained unchanged. Cyp1a2 was hypomethylated with age, yet its expression decreased. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that a-DMS hypomethylated with age were enriched for HNF4α binding sites. HNF4α is downregulated with age, potentially explaining the reduction in Cyp1a2 expression despite hypomethylation. Pathway analysis of a-DMS revealed disruptions in xenobiotic metabolism pathways, including small molecule catabolism, are evident in both normally aged (24 months) and super-aged (32 months) mice when compared to the younger group (4 months). This study underscores the impact of epigenetic modifications in aging on liver function and xenobiotic metabolism.