bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PD1 BLOCKADE IMPROVES SURVIVAL AND CD8+ CYTOTOXIC CAPACITY, WITHOUT INCREASING INFLAMMATION, DURING NORMAL MICROBIAL EXPERIENCE IN OLD MICE
Authors: Camell Christina 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The elderly and those with chronic diseases have a 2 to 10-fold increased risk of hospitalization and mortality following infection as compared with healthy adults. A significant contributor to disease severity is the aging of the immune system, including an expansion of exhausted T cells. These cells simultaneously promote excessive levels of inflammation and display impaired T cell activation and function. How exhausted T cells from aged individuals respond to infection and whether acute restoration of T cell activation further exacerbates the inflammatory environment or generates functional T cells is unclear. Previously, we used a mouse model of normal microbial experience (NME), where old specific pathogen-free (SPF) mice show 100% mortality following exposure to multiple microbes ordinarily found in pet store mice. In the present study, we show that when exposed to NME, old SPF mice have increased expression of multiple inflammatory pathways and exhibit elevated frequencies of a heterogenous exhausted CD8+ T cell pool that expresses differing combinations of the inhibitory receptor programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), TOX, and CXCR5. Pre-treatment or intervention with an anti-PD1 monoclonal blocking antibody during the exposure of old SPF mice to NME significantly improves both antibody production and survival, without altering the acute inflammatory response. Anti-PD1 checkpoint blockade-mediated survival is dependent on CD8+, but not CD4+ T cells. Correspondingly, CD8+ PD1+ T cells from old mice given anti-PD1 monoclonal antibody have increased granzyme B production. These data reveal a new approach for reducing vulnerability to infections in the elderly by targeting CD8+ T cell exhaustion through PD1 checkpoint blockade immunotherapy.
WHEN YOUR CAREGIVER IS ALSO YOUR CONFIDANT: CAREGIVER FUNCTIONS AND THE QUALITY OF CARE RECEIVED BY OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Shang Yongxin , Patterson Sarah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Older adults can rely on multiple caregivers for support in later life and the characteristics of caregivers are closely related to the care received by older adults. This study aims to explore the association between caregiver functions and quality of care, asking if having a caregiver who also functions as a confidant can improve the care received by older adults. Using the baseline data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) in 2011, we construct an analytic sample of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 or above with at least one caregiver to help with self-care (eating, bathing, toileting, dressing), mobility (going outside or inside, getting out of bed), or household activities (laundry, shopping, preparing meals, banking, medications) due to health or functioning reasons in the last month (N = 1,875). About 76% of these older adults identify at least one of their caregivers as their confidants, with whom they can discuss important things in the last year. OLS regressions on the care hours (log-transformed) suggest that older adults with at least one caregiver as a confidant are significantly more likely to receive more hours of care (p &lt; 0.001). Logistic regressions on the binary outcomes of reporting any unmet care needs show that having a caregiver as a confidant is associated with a lower likelihood of having unmet care needs in household activities (p &lt; 0.05), but not in self-care or mobility. These findings demonstrate the potential benefits of having a close tie as a caregiver in later life.
A POOL OF INTERESTED PARTIES: COMMUNICATION, ENTRYWAYS, AND USER INVOLVEMENT IN AGING RESEARCH IN A SWEDISH CONTEXT
Authors: Jonsson Oskar , Iwarsson Susanne , Schmidt Steven 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Established in 2007, the Centre for Ageing and Supportive Environments (CASE) is an interdisciplinary research environment at Lund University, Sweden. The center’s activities are led by a steering committee in close collaboration with the CASE User Council, which provides input, ideas and poses research questions for various research projects. Between 2018-2024, CASE was responsible for one of Lund University’s thematic collaboration initiatives – Social Rights and Housing for the Ageing Population, which is a partnership for knowledge mobilization contributing to solutions for key societal challenges. As one forward-looking way to prolong the established initiative with a long-term ambition, we have launched a national registry, which will be used as a pool of interested parties with the aim to raise awareness about aging research and the possibility to engage in research, mobilize knowledge and utilize research results. The approach is to offer people with an interest in research on aging and health to register in a nationwide online person register/database to systematize and facilitate communication, entryways to research studies, and user involvement. The development of the pool has been fraught with issues related to terminology, ethics, legal requirements for handling personal data, and providing necessary information without being overwhelming but instead attractive for the diverse individuals and groups within the civil society, business, and public authorities that we target. This presentation will provide an overview of the multiple strategies and tactics we employ to tailor the information flow and interactive process based on individual and group-specific needs and preferences.
MOBILIZING UNTAPPED LIVED EXPERTISE TO ASSESS ACCESSIBLE AND AGE-FRIENDLY INFRASTRUCTURES
Authors: Terashima Mikiko , Clark Kate , Deturbide Katherine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Many rural municipalities in Canada have been experiencing steady population declines overall, while vulnerable population groups such as older adults and persons with disabilities tend to remain in their communities. With shrinking tax bases, municipalities must make smarter choices in provisions of accessible and age-friendly services and amenities. However, exact conditions and needs of accessible and age-friendly infrastructures in rural communities are increasingly becoming difficult to evaluate, as their planning departments do not have sufficient human and financial capacities to monitor them. The Planning for Equity, Accessibility, and Community Health (PEACH) Research Unit is situated in a planning school at a university in Nova Scotia, Canada. In partnership with two rural municipalities, PEACH Research Unit conducted in-person and online consultations with persons with lived expertise to develop key indicators that can inform municipalities on priority accessible and age-friendly infrastructure needs. This presentation will highlight lessons learned from our engagement processes, including considerations for accessibility and inclusive recruitment, engagement venues, and communication methods that maximize participation of a hard-to-reach group in rural communities. An example tool especially useful for our purpose was an online mapping platform, which helped the participants articulate their insights and better share stories of their experiences. It facilitated discussion beyond simply inventorying what types of infrastructure matter to them—while also soliciting their suggestions on solutions to the design of specific sites in real settings, which were often relational to surrounding environments.
ADVANCE CARE PLANNING IN DEMENTIA VERSUS NORMAL COGNITION: A DEMOGRAPHIC AND PSYCHOSOCIAL STUDY
Authors: Rahemi Zahra , Bacsu Juanita , Adams Swann 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Older adults from minority groups often face higher rates of chronic diseases and cognitive impairment, along with lower rates of advance care planning and comfort care at end-of-life. This study aimed to explore patterns of advance care planning among older adults in the U.S., focusing on various demographic and psychosocial factors and cognition levels. We utilized data from the 2018 Health and Retirement Study to investigate the association between these factors and the likelihood of having a living will, a durable power of attorney for healthcare (DPOAH), or both, stratified by cognition (dementia/impaired cognition vs. normal cognition). Variables such as race, ethnicity, rurality, marital status, gender, education, age, and discrimination were included in the models. Among the 17,698 respondents, 71.6% exhibited normal cognition, while 28.4% had been diagnosed with dementia or impaired cognition. In both cognition groups, Black and Hispanic participants, as well as younger individuals with lower educational attainment, were less likely to have established a living will. Hispanic participants and younger individuals with lower educational attainment were also less likely to have a DPOAH and both a DPOAH and living will. Significant predictors of having a living will, DPOAH, or both that were not consistent among groups included rurality, marital status, and experiences of everyday discrimination. These findings underscore the importance of addressing disparities in advance care planning among older adults with diverse identities and levels of cognition. Understanding these differences is crucial for designing advance care planning for a diverse aging population facing health and cognitive decline.
SELF-REPORTED DISCRIMINATION AND BRAIN STRUCTURAL ABNORMALITIES: THE MULTI-ETHNIC STUDY OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Authors: Forrester Sarah , Tanley Jordan , Bancks Michael , Luchsinger José , Rapp Stephen , Jiminez Marcia P , Bryan Robert , Hughes Timothy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Black and Hispanic adults have greater risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD) compared to White adults. These disparities might be at least partially attributable to adverse social determinants of health (SDoH) such as experienced interpersonal discrimination. This study examines racial/ethnic differences in the association between self-reported discrimination and brain imaging findings associated with aging and AD/ADRD. We used data from the MESA study, which initially enrolled 6814 participants in 2000-02. when they self-reported their race/ethnicity (38% White, 28% Black, 22% Hispanic, 12% Chinese Americans) and instances of lifetime discrimination. The primary exposure was experiencing racial discrimination. During Exam 6 (2016-18) and ancillary study MIND A (2019-21), brain imaging with 3-Tesla MRI (n=1430) and amyloid PET (n=315) was completed. Multivariable linear (brain MRI measures) and logistic (amyloid PET positivity [centiloid &gt;12.2]) regression models were adjusted for covariates including age, race/ethnicity, gender, education, site, smoking status, blood pressure, diabetes, APOE-ε4, income, health insurance, (all models) and intracranial volume (for brain volumes). Race/ethnicity stratified analyses were completed to assess moderation. Racial discrimination was positively associated with greater white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV), but not gray matter volume (GMV) or fractional anisotropy (p = 0.008). Racial discrimination was also significantly associated with higher odds of amyloid positivity [OR (95%CI) = 2.24(1.07, 4.70)]. Stratified analysis revealed stronger associations between racial discrimination and GMV and WMHV in Black participants (p = 0.008 and 0.003, respectively). Instances of racial discrimination over a lifetime may be detrimental to brain health, especially for Black adults.
CURRENT PRACTICES OF DRIVING REHABILITATION SPECIALISTS: IS FITNESS TO DRIVE EVALUATIONS USING THE BEST EVIDENCE?
Authors: Dickerson Anne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
It is well established that social participation is essential for maintaining quality of life and in the US, driving is the primary mode of community mobility for older adults. Research has established the importance of fitness-to-drive (FTD) evaluations for those older adults with medical conditions. These medically-at-risk drivers, at any age, are generally evaluated by specialized driver rehabilitation specialists (DRS) to determine FTD. In the last 10 years, much research has established which assessments best determine FTD with cognitive assessments being the primary determinant. The aim of this research study was to compare assessment tools with the best evidence with the actual tools being currently used by DRSs. A comprehensive review of tools was completed by 321 practicing DRSs. Results show that cognitive tools such as Trails A, Trails B, and clock drawing are being used by 91%, 92%, and 74% respectfully. However, other tools with strong evidence are being used much less (MOCA-46%, UFOV-30%). Additionally, assessment with limited or no evidence (e.g., Traffic signs-66%, brake reaction-71%) or with vehicle technology changes, are not essential to FTD (e.g., muscle strength-91%, ROM-95%) are used extensively. Highlights from the research will include how the on-road assessment is used as a determining factor for FTD with statements. For example: If a driver with moderate dementia passes the on road, he/she should be able to continue driving. While 71% indicted this was probably/definitely false, 29% felt it was probably/definitely true. Implications of these results will be discussed.
FEW OLDER DRIVERS TAKE REFRESHER COURSES: IDENTIFICATION OF FACILITATORS AND BARRIERS
Authors: Bedard Michel , Maxwell Hillary , Gelinas isabelle , Naglie Gary , Vrlkjan Brenda , Porter Michelle , Tuokko Holly , marshall Shawn 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Older drivers may benefit from driver refresher courses, particularly from courses with on-road training. Yet, the uptake of refresher courses and the factors associated with the decision to enroll is poorly documented. We examine these issues using the Candrive prospective cohort (recruitment stated in 2009; N = 927), a representative sample of older Canadian drivers. We operationalized our outcome variable as having taken any non-mandatory refresher course within the last 10 years (yes/no). We developed a conceptual model that includes sociodemographic factors (e.g., age), health-related factors (e.g., medical conditions), and driving-related factors (e.g., driving comfort), and identified the contribution of these factors using logistic regression. Participants’ mean age was 76.21 (SD=4.85) and 576 (62.1%) were males. Ninety-eight participants (10.6%) reported having taken a non-mandatory refresher course within the last 10 years; roughly half reported the course included an on-road component. The multivariable regression model (-2 log likelihood = 518.41, p &lt;.001, Nagelkerke R-square =.17) identified six of 13 variables entered into the model as statistically significant. The odds of having taken a course differed by province of residence, and was higher with increasing age, if their driving was important for others, were a volunteer, and spoke to a physician about driving, but was lower if they enjoyed driving. Our results indicate that the uptake of refresher courses is limited but is associated with potentially modifiable factors. Deepening our understanding of these facilitators and barriers will help support older adults to drive safely for longer.
“I WOULD LIKE TO BE IN CONTROL”: PERSPECTIVES OF OLDER ADULTS ON AUTONOMOUS DRIVING
Authors: Arthanat Sajay 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Autonomous driving technology is projected to have major implications on transportation safety, independence and aging-in-place of older adults. However, are older adults ready to embrace driving automations? This mixed-method research study explored the perspectives and readiness of older adults for autonomous driving, and underscored the demographic and age-related factors that potentially influence the adoption. The study involved two aims and employed the Levels of Autonomous Driving developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers to gauge readiness for the technology. In Aim 1, semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine older adults (purposively sampled) following a tutorial depicting the autonomous driving levels. The interviews were guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) primarily focusing on the affinity of the participants to each automation level. A survey was also pilot tested with the participants using cognitive interviewing. In Aim 2, the survey was completed by 528 older adults (65+). The survey uniquely presented 16 realistic driving scenarios with respondents choosing the level of automation preferred for their car in each. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data underscored the perceived benefits, facilitators, barriers and mistrust associated with driving automation. The readiness for automation was generally low in the survey sample and ranged from no automation to driver assistance (52.7%), partial to conditional (35.9%) and high to full automation (11.3%). Pearson correlations showed that readiness significantly varied by income, living status, geographical location and perceived usefulness for aging-in-place. Multivariate analyses is underway to explore causal pathways in the study data.
TRADITIONAL AND NONTRADITIONAL FAMILY DEMENTIA CAREGIVING AMONG SEXUAL AND GENDER MINORITIES
Authors: Flatt Jason , Kittle Krystal , Pickett Andrew , Dowling Maritza , Anderson Joel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Few studies on dementia caregiving have examined the unique needs of sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers (SGM-DCs) who self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and/or additional identities. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that over 350,000 SGM older adults in the U.S. are currently living with dementia, a number projected to increase to over a million by 2050. At least 1 in 10 SGM caregivers are providing care to someone with dementia. This paper synthesizes findings about traditional (i.e., biological) and non-traditional (i.e., chosen) family structures from several studies led by our research team examining the health of SGM-DCs. We found 10-20% of SGM-DCs report caring for non-traditional (i.e., chosen) family members with dementia. We also found over half of SGM-DCs report not living with their care recipient. Using population-based data, we found a larger number of SGM-DCs who report caring for a grandparent with dementia compared with non-SGM–DCs (17% vs. 4%, respectively). SGM-DCs of chosen family members were more likely to report providing care for fewer than five years and fewer than 8 hours per week. Our analyses did not find significant differences in physical or mental health outcomes between traditional and non-traditional SGM-DCs. We highlight areas for future research exploring divergent support needs between traditional and non-traditional family caregivers, as well as related implications for health policy and intervention efforts to promote the health of SGM-DCs. Historical changes in dementia caregiving related to changes in family structure should also be examined in future research.
GSA STUDENT CHAPTERS: A BROAD APPROACH TO MAKING THIS NEW INITIATIVE SUCCESSFUL AT YOUR INSTITUTION—US AND GLOBALLY
Authors: Gugliucci Marilyn 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) Board of Directors approved the formation of a committee to explore the creation of GSA Student Chapters. As of academic year 2023-24, Phase II of the GSA Student Chapter project is underway and going strong. In this symposium, four GSA student chapter advisors will be presenting on their journey as an advisor in their second year of this project, or just starting up a chapter. The topics will cover undergraduate, post-graduate, and graduate students, as well as students focused on gerontology and health professions education. Presentations include: (1) Opportunities for Integrating Sigma Phi Omega Honor Society Chapter with a GSA Student Chapter; (2) Starting a GSA Student Chapter with Post-Graduate Students in the UK: Opportunities and Challenges; (3) GSA Student Chapter as a Gateway to Undergraduate Student Understanding of Professional Organization Involvement; and (4) Health Professions and Medical Education: How the GSA Student Chapter Enhances Professionalism and Networking.
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND MEDICAL EDUCATION: HOW THE GSA STUDENT CHAPTER ENHANCES PROFESSIONALISM AND NETWORKING
Authors: Gugliucci Marilyn 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNE COM) has had a Geriatrics Club since 2003. This club then became recognized as an American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Student Chapter in 2006. In 2022, we also participated as a pilot GSA Student Chapter. The benefits of being a chapter of either one or two national organizations positions students for national student memberships, national resources, and networking opportunities. The AGS provides practice materials and skills information to the medical students. However, GSA provides opportunities beyond research presentations and publications, with approximately 1200 of GSA members connected to the Emerging Scholars and Professional Organization (ESPO). This applies to all health professions students and includes interprofessional opportunities. With a strong support system and mentoring system within ESPO, The GSA Student Chapter provides advancement in learning skills, attitudes and knowledge, along with an extensive network of fellow students and practitioners to support their undergraduate (pre-clinical and clinical) health professions education. This prepares students for their health professions careers by providing national organizational connections that they can rely on throughout their careers. Forming a GSA Student Chapter for health professions students, regardless of the type of health professions program will be shared and sample programs and events in palliative care, geriatrics and gerontology will be presented.
GSA STUDENT CHAPTER AS A GATEWAY TO UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT UNDERSTANDING OF PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION INVOLVEMENT
Authors: Bouchard Lauren 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Portland State University Student Chapter has created networking events for students across Oregon, and undergraduate students are especially important to the chapter. Due to the GSA annual meeting in Seattle, our chapter had the unique opportunity to educate students across the Pacific Northwest as to the importance of professional organization membership. In partnership with the Oregon Gerontological Association (OGA), Western Oregon University (WOU), and Portland Community College (PCC), our chapter created an educational event regarding the structure, events, and benefits of GSA. Undergraduate students may differ in their knowledge and understanding of opportunities they perceive to be beyond their educational level. For this reason, our Careers in Aging Month (CIAM) event focused on membership in the larger GSA organization with support from the Emerging Scholars Professional Organization (ESPO) section within GSA. We highlighted potential differences for undergraduate students, including the new change that allows these students to gain GSA membership for free. This presentation will explain chapter activities designed to encourage undergraduate student membership as well as provide suggestions to recruit and engage undergraduate student members.