bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PATHWAYS LINKING ICT UTILIZATION TO CHRONIC DISEASES SELF-MANAGEMENT AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN CHINA
Authors: Chen Qingru , Chen Yan-Yan , Gong Ke , Zhang Xuefeng , Zhao Lirong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The underlying mechanisms linking information and communication technology (ICT) utilization to self-management are currently unclear. This cross-sectional study aims to examine the mediating role of health literacy, self-efficacy, and social support in the relationship between ICT utilization and chronic disease self-management among older adults in China. A total of 590 older adults (≥60 years) with at least one chronic disease were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Shanghai between July 2023 and June 2024. Questionnaire data were recorded on self-reported socio-demographics, self-management, social support, health literacy, self-efficacy, ICT utilization. Pearson’s correlation analysis identified the relationship between these factors and self-management. Serial multiple mediation model was used to test the hypothesized relationships. The results show ICT utilization, health literacy, self-efficacy, social support, and chronic disease self-management were found significantly correlated (p&lt; 0.001). ICT utilization not only has a direct positive impact (effect=0.2377; 95%CI=0.1826-0.2927) on chronic disease self-management, but also has an indirect impact on chronic disease self-management through the independent mediating role of health literacy (effect=0.0912; 95%CI=0.0608-0.1240) and social support (effect=0.0186; 95%CI=0.0048-0.0367) and the chain mediating role of health literacy and self-efficacy (effect=0.0223; 95%CI=0.0128-0.0342), the chain mediating role of health literacy and social support (effect=0.0104; 95%CI=0.0044-0.0187), the chain mediating role of health literacy, self-efficacy, and social support (effect=0.0020; 95%CI=0.0008-0.0036).These findings suggest that ICT utilization can enhance chronic disease self-management among older adults and indirectly affects it through increasing health literacy, self-efficacy while providing more social support.
PLASMA PROTEOMIC MEDIATORS LINKING INTERMUSCULAR FAT WITH PSYCHOMOTOR SPEED
Authors: Toshiko Tanaka , Huang Xianging , Khan Sadiya , Miljkovic Iva , Terry James Greg , Tian Teresa , Rosano Caterina , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Intermuscular fat (IMF), or muscular fat infiltration, has been inversely associated with measures of cognitive function. However, the mechanisms linking higher IMF and poor cognitive function are not fully understood. To explore this, we characterized plasma proteomic profile of IMF in Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging (BLSA, n=942), and validated the findings in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study (CARDIA; n=2453) study. Plasma proteomics was measured using 7K SOMAscan, IMF was measured on CT scans of the thigh (BLSA) or abdomen (CARDIA), and processing speed was assessed with digit symbol substitution test (DSST). Associations between measures of IMF and proteins were assessed using linear regression adjusting for age, sex, education, self-reported race, and total muscle area. Of the 7268 plasma proteins tested, 718 proteins were significantly associated with IMF in both discovery and validation studies (FDR p&lt;=0.05). Mediation analysis of the IMF -associated proteins, 28 proteins significantly mediated the inverse association between IMF and DSST. Pathway analyses show the biological process and molecular functions most enriched by these proteins were the synaptic structure and function (STLITRK3, CBLN2, NTRK3, EPHA4, C1QL3) pathway, and growth factor binding (HTRA1, IGFBP2, NTRK2, EGFR, IGFBP4, IGAFLS) pathways. These results suggest a unique proteomic signature of IMF that is consistent across two independent cohorts. Further, the association of higher IMF with lower cognitive processing speed may be at least partially mediated through dysregulation of synaptic functions and growth factors binding.
PREDICTIVE MODELING OF HEALTH STATUS OVER LIFESPAN BASED ON SENESCENCE BIOMARKERS
Authors: Tang Lingzi , Hladyshau Siarhei , Ross Allison , Nyrop Kirsten , Entwistle Amy , Muss Hyman , Tsygankov Denis 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Cellular senescence is known to play a significant role in aging and the development of age-related diseases. However, the complex interplay between the accumulation and clearance of senescent cells and the relationship of these processes to the physiological decline during natural aging is not understood. Here, we report a study that explores the potential of cellular and immune senescence biomarkers (p16, p14, LAG3, CD28, and CD244) in predicting health metrics as determined by standard clinical assessments. Data were collected from a cohort of 250 healthy participants aged 25 to 85 years and included gene expression in T-cells from peripheral blood, comprehensive blood panels, quality of life (QOL) surveys, body composition analysis, and physical performance evaluations. A combination of computational techniques, including correlation analysis, unsupervised hierarchical clustering, and machine learning techniques (such as an ensemble of bagged decision trees), was employed to assess the predictive capabilities of the biomarkers relative to the health assessments and vice versa. Our findings indicate that blood and QOL assessments generate distinct participant clusters, both strongly associated with p16 expression. The highest accuracy in predicting p16 expression was achieved by integrating measurements across various assessments, suggesting a systemic role for this biomarker. Furthermore, our analysis led to a scoring system that produces integrative metrics strongly and specifically correlating with different senescence biomarkers, suggesting a simple, practical method to differentiate between varying levels of cellular and immune senescence in naturally aging individuals.
PREVALENCE AND PREDICTORS OF LONELINESS AMONG CAREGIVERS BY CARE RECIPIENT’S LEVEL OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Couch Elyse , Howe Rebecca , Southerland Jodi L 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Loneliness is increasingly being recognized as a public health issue. However, little is known about the prevalence or predictors of loneliness among caregivers in the United States (US). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictors of loneliness among US caregivers by the care recipient’s level of cognitive impairment. We conducted a cross-sectional study of caregivers for Medicare beneficiaries in the US using data from the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC). Caregivers were divided into three groups by the care recipient’s level of cognitive impairment: non-dementia, MCI, and ADRD caregivers. Logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of severe loneliness (defined as feeling lonely every day or most days) among caregivers. Sample weights were applied to all analyses. Overall, 8.5% of caregivers reported feelings of severe loneliness, equating to over 750,000 caregivers when sample weights were applied. The prevalence of severe loneliness was higher in dementia caregivers (13%) compared to MCI (7.4%) and non-dementia (7.1%) caregivers. Adjusted logistic regression models found dementia caregiving, being without a current partner, and reporting emotional difficulties with the caregiving role were significantly associated with severe loneliness. Increasing age and caring for a parent/other relative (vs spouse) were associated with reduced odds of loneliness. There was no difference in odds of severe loneliness by gender or race. Dementia caregiving is associated with an increased risk of loneliness. Future research is needed to understand how loneliness affects caregiver health and wellbeing outcomes and to develop interventions to address caregiver loneliness, particularly for dementia caregivers.
PRO-INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN OLDER AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN IN A PAIN AND DEPRESSION INTERVENTION
Authors: Bhansali Rebekah , Hladek Melissa , Clair Catherine , Szanton Sarah , Gill Jessica , Taylor Janiece 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Aging, pain, and depression are interconnected health concerns that significantly impact older women. African American women face additional risks of comorbid pain and depression, severe depressive symptoms, and less frequent pain treatment. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators are associated with both conditions. The DAPPER (Depression and Pain Perseverance through Empowerment and Recovery) pilot study tailored nurse-led interventions to meet the needs of older African American women with chronic pain and depression. This pilot study assessed non-pharmacological interventions among African American women aged 50+ with chronic pain and depressive symptoms. The intervention consisted of eight nurse-led sessions. Participants were randomized into waitlist control and immediate intervention groups. Ten participants in the immediate intervention group completed the program and provided pre- and post-intervention saliva samples. Outcomes, including goal attainment, pain, depression, and stress, were measured using validated tools such as PROMIS-8 and PSS-14. Saliva samples were collected for cytokine analysis, including TNFα, IL-8, IL-6, and IL-1β. Although under-powered for direct conclusions, data shows a downward trend in psychosocial and pro-inflammatory biomarkers. Pre- to post-intervention mean levels of psychosocial and cytokine markers (TNFα, IL-8, IL-6, IL-1β) decreased in a subset of the immediate intervention group, supported by median sensitivity analyses. The DAPPER pilot study acknowledged the intersectionality of race, age, and gender to provide personalized care and considered the biochemical mechanisms involved in pain and depression. Further research is needed to explore the potential biochemical impact of nurse-led, home-based interventions, particularly for older African American women.
PROMOTING EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS IN OLDER ADULTS: THE ROLE OF GAMIFICATION AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES
Authors: Gomez Morgan , Pahor Anja , Carrillo Audrey , Seitz Aaron , Jaeggi Susanne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Evidence suggests that cognitive training can be beneficial for older adults to maintain and improve executive functions (EFs). EFs are important for many everyday functions, and they are impacted by aging and dementia. Integrating game-like features can boost motivation and engagement during cognitive training, promoting learning outcomes. Yet, incorporating game design elements may also increase cognitive load and distraction for some individuals. Using EF training, we investigated individual differences and the impact of gamification in older adults, including those at risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). We conducted two crossover randomized controlled trials (143 older adults; M=69 years, SD=7.5) comparing the effects of gamified and non-gamified EF interventions. We tested whether and how individual differences in inhibitory control (IC) or general cognitive ability (GCA) at baseline predict the effectiveness of these interventions. We hypothesized that participants with greater difficulty inhibiting distractions would benefit more from non-gamified training, whereas those with higher distractor tolerance would perform better with gamified tasks. Results showed that IC significantly predicted transfer. Furthermore, high IC individuals benefitted more from gamified training, whereas low IC individuals benefitted more from non-gamified training. Conversely, GCA did not predict transfer, with no significant interaction between GCA and training condition. These findings support the IC model over the GCA model on predicting transfer effects. Our findings will inform the development of personalized cognitive interventions to mitigate EF impairments, particularly in populations at risk for AD/ADRD.
PURPOSE IN LIFE, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND FUTURE THOUGHTS: RESULTS FROM DAILY LIFE ASSESSMENT IN YOUNG AND OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Lewis Nathan , Choi Yoonseok , Lay Jennifer , Graf Peter , Da Jiang  , Mahmood Atiya , Fung Helene H , Hoppmann Christiane 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Theoretical work suggests a sense of purpose in life may encourage health-promoting behaviors by facilitating a more future-oriented time perspective about one’s everyday goals and actions. However, little research has investigated whether people with a strong sense of purpose are thinking more about the future in their everyday lives and whether this changes across adulthood. Using ecological momentary assessment (EMA), the present study aimed to investigate associations between a sense of purpose in life, age, thoughts about the future, and physical activity. A total of 256 younger and older adults living in Canada and Hong Kong (Mage=48.0, SD=24.6, range=18-85, 68% women) completed electronic assessments 3x/day for 10 days, recording their current thoughts and how much these were directed towards the future. A subset of participants also completed a 6-month follow-up where they reported their physical activity over the past week. Multilevel models indicated those with a higher in sense of purpose reported more future-oriented thoughts across the EMA period, adjusting for self-rated health and demographics (b=3.12, 95% CI=0.33–5.90, p=.028). Associations between sense of purpose and thoughts of the future were consistent across younger and older adults. While a sense of purpose was associated with more future-oriented thoughts, these thoughts did not predict subsequent physical activity 6 months later (b=-0.00, p=.998). Findings support the notion that adults higher in purpose direct their thoughts more towards the future in daily life, yet more work is needed to uncover if and how this impacts health behavior decisions.
RACE, PRODUCTIVE ACTIVITIES, AND COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING IN THE HEALTH ABC STUDY
Authors: Rooks Ronica , Noor Mirza Ishrat , Vasquez Elizabeth 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Productive activities (working and volunteering) promote older adults’ purpose in life, physical activity, and social support and may improve cognitive functioning. We hypothesized older adults working or volunteering will have higher cognition, and each productive activity will attenuate the relationship between race and cognition. We used the Health ABC study, a cohort of community-dwelling, well-functioning Black (48.4%) and White (51.6%) older adults aged 70-79 in year 1 (n=2,996). Our linear mixed-effects models included race, working or volunteering, gender, age, education, smoking, the 400-meter walk, diabetes, and racial interactions with each productive activity in year 1 and the Teng 3MS in year 11. In our working model, working and its racial interaction were not significant. Older Black vs. White adults scored -4.4 points lower; women, a high school degree or some post-secondary education, and former vs. never smokers related to higher; and each additional year of age and diabetes related to lower 3MS scores. In our volunteering model, volunteering was not significant. Older Black vs. White adults scored -5.2 points lower; women, a high school degree or some post-secondary education, and former vs. never smokers related to higher; each additional year of age and diabetes related to lower; and older Black vs. White volunteers scored 2.0 points higher 3MS scores. While racial disparities in 3MS scores existed in both models, older Black volunteers were cognitively protected. Our policy implication is to invest in older adults’ volunteering as social determinant interventions to maintain cognitive functioning and reduce racial disparities.
RACIAL CLIMATE AND WILLINGNESS TO PARTICIPATE IN CLINICAL RESEARCH AMONG AFRICAN AMERICAN ADULTS
Authors: Dabiri Sanaz , Raman Rema , Grooms Jevay 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In the US, there is a striking inequity in morbidity and mortality rates among racial and ethnic minoritized populations, particularly African American (AA) individuals, compared to White individuals. Despite these disparities, recruiting AA communities for clinical research remains challenging. Using the social-ecological model as a framework, this project aimed to examine whether the racial climate of the geographical area-including police shootings, neighborhood vulnerabilities, and individual trust in institutions- is significantly associated with willingness to participate in clinical studies. We analyzed data from the University of Florida HealthStreet registry, which assesses community perceptions toward research participation. This data was aligned with police shootings from the Fatal Encounters dataset and the Social Vulnerability Index by county and zip code. Participants had an average age of 42.6 years (SD=16.49) with an average education of 13.12 years (SD=2.5). Most were female (64%) and identified as AA (53.7%). Results showed that higher rates of police shootings were significantly associated with lower willingness to participate in studies involving blood samples (b=-1.39,se=.004, p&lt;.01), taking medication (b=-.01,se=.006, p&lt;.05), genetic studies (b=.001,se=.00, p&lt;.05), and using medical equipment (b=-.02,se=.00,p&lt;.001) among AA adults. Higher social vulnerability was also linked to lower research participation (b=-3.53,se=1.05, p&lt;.001). Trust in research (ACME b=-.0004, p&lt;.01) and researchers (ACME b=-.0003, p&lt;.01) mediated the relationship between police shootings and willingness to take medication. Racial climate’s contribution to research participation among AA communities is poorly understood. Our findings underscore the need to address these factors to improve community engagement and reduce the diversity gap in research.
RACIAL DIFFERENCES IN PREDICTIVE CAPACITY OF EDUCATIONAL POLYGENIC SCORES ON PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Catt Wade , Williams Micah , Latham-Mintus Kenzie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This research examined whether educational polygenic scores were associated with physical limitations among older adults with European or African ancestry. In the European ancestry sample, we found that education polygenic scores were significantly associated with physical limitations in the age- and sex-adjusted models; however, education polygenic scores were no longer associated with physical limitations after adjusting for current socioeconomic status and health risk factors. In the African ancestry sample, education polygenic scores were not associated with physical limitations. Observed educational attainment was a robust predictor of physical limitations in both samples. This research demonstrates the racial inequalities in the predictive capacity of educational polygenic scores. We hypothesize that this disparity is a result of structural barriers to educational attainment by race and/or racial inequities in data collection. Both explanations stem from structural racism and highlight the limited usefulness of polygenic scores for clinical decision-making. We use these findings to explore competing theoretical explanatory frameworks of the utility and limitations of the use of polygenic scores in social and health sciences.
RACIAL//ETHNIC DIFFERENCES IN WILLINGNESS TO PARTICIPATE IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE RESEARCH
Authors: Skemp Eleanor , Sathish Tanish , Zhang Yichen , Carpenter Brian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The underrepresentation of minority populations in Alzheimer disease (AD) research has implications for both science and practice, as diversity and inclusion are crucial to ensure generalizable findings and equitable healthcare. However, various factors influence the reluctance of minoritized individuals to participate in AD research, making it important to understand the attitudes that hinder their participation. This study investigated racial/ethnic differences in attitudes about participating in AD research. Results are based on data from a 2022 national survey of U.S. adults (N = 1,274), with a deliberate oversampling of Black respondents. Participants were surveyed about their willingness to join an AD research registry, participate in an AD cohort study, and about reasons underlying their willingness. Participants self-identified as White (47.3%), Black (43.9%), and Hispanic (8.8%). A higher percentage of Blacks were unwilling to participate in a research registry or a cohort study than Whites and Hispanics (p’s &lt;.006), and Blacks were less likely to perceive participation as a contribution to society (p &lt;.001). Hispanics expressed greater concern in cohort studies about the time commitment, the potential to receive negative health news, and fear that research results could be used against them (p’s &lt;.002). As a note of caution, statistically significant differences were relatively small. Despite the limitations a relatively crude racial/ethnic categorization, results could inform AD research recruitment strategies by identifying factors that may cause hesitance among potential participants, with the goal of enhancing the presence of underrepresented groups in AD research.
SENOLYTIC EFFECTS ON COGNITION, MOBILITY, AND BIOMARKERS IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MCI AND SLOW GAIT: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Millar Courtney , Iloputaife Ike , Baldyga Kathryn , Norling Amani , Boulougoura Afroditi , Vichos Theodoros , Tchkonia Tamara , Kirkland Jim 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
One aim of this single-arm pilot study, called the STAMINA Study, evaluates the preliminary effects of two senolytic drugs, Dasatinib and Quercetin (DQ), on phenotypic and biological outcomes in older adults with slow gait speed and mild cognitive impairment. Twelve participants took six cycles of 100 mg of Dasatinib and 1250 mg of Quercetin for two days every two weeks over 12 weeks. Absolute changes in cognition and mobility, and percent changes in biomarkers were calculated. Spearman correlations between changes in phenotypic and biomarker outcomes were performed. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores (mean change = 1.0 point, 95%CI: -0.7, 2.7) and stride length (mean change = 0.031 meters, 95% CI: -0.003, 0.066) tended to improve following DQ, without reaching statistical significance. However, MoCA scores did improve significantly by 2 points (95%CI: 0.1, 4.0) in those with the lowest baseline MoCA scores (18-25 points). Mean percent change in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a key product of the senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP), decreased following DQ (mean change = -3.0%, 95%CI: -13.0, 7.1), which was significant when compared to biomarker controls (p=0.04). Reduction in TNF-α was significantly correlated with increases in MoCA score (r=-0.65, p=0.02).This study suggests that intermittent DQ treatment may have functional benefits in older adults with slow gait speed and mild cognitive impairment. The observed reduction in TNF-α and its correlation with increases in MoCA scores suggests that DQ may improve cognition by modulating the SASP. However, these data are preliminary and must be interpreted with caution.