bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
WHAT ABOUT HISPANIC SERVING INSTITUTIONS: THE ROLE OF MICRO-CREDENTIALS AMONG MINORITY-SERVING INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Heyn Patricia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HIS) are educational institutions that have an enrollment of at least 25% of undergraduate students and constitute one of the fastest-growing categories in higher education. Here, we explore the benefits and implications of micro-credential certifications at Hispanic-Serving Institutions, with the goal of uncovering their potential as transformative tools in addressing educational and workforce disparities faced by Hispanic learners and trainees. We cannot underscore the strengths of micro-credential programs, such as enhancing access to post-secondary education for Hispanic learners, offering flexible educational pathways that are respectful and sensitive to their cultural and life commitments, and directly linking academic achievements with marketable skills in the workforce. Importantly, the alignment of micro-credentials with high-demand career fields offers a promising avenue for improving the economic outcomes of Hispanic graduates. Yet, there are still critical challenges to consider, including the need for broader recognition of micro-credentials in the professional market, concerns about the digital divide affecting equitable access to these programs, and the institutional capacities of HSIs to support high-quality micro-credential offerings. Comprehensive research, evaluation systems, and evidence-based guidance are needed to optimize micro-credentials at HSIs, suggesting research funding and policy adjustments, infrastructure investments, and collaborative initiatives with both academic centers and industry partners to ensure these programs effectively contribute to closing the educational, professional, and economic gaps faced by Hispanic communities.
MACHINE LEARNING MODELING OF LOW QUALITY SURVEY RESPONSES TO PREDICT COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Gao Hongxin , Schneider Stefan , Hernandez Raymond , Harris Jenny , Maupin Danny , Junghaenel Doerte U , Jin Haomiao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Early identification of cognitive impairment (CI) is critical for managing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia. Leveraging emerging evidence on the relationship between subtle errors in survey responses and CI, this study uses a novel informatics approach that combines machine learning with psychometric methods to develop a risk prediction model for identification of CI, including mild CI and dementia, in the general older adult population. The study is based on a sample of 12,942 participants aged 50 and above in the Health and Retirement Study, and psychometric indices of low-quality responses (LQR) in a range of different surveys are created as predictors. Our analysis shows an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.66 for identifying current CI and 0.70 for predicting dementia or mortality in the next 10 years. Also, the subgroup analysis shows the LQR indices have better predictive performance in the 50-59 (AUC=0.72), and 60-69 (AUC=0.71) age groups, suggesting the model may be more sensitive to early cognitive deficits. A unique feature of this tool is that it does not require the underlying surveys to be directly relevant to CI; thus, health professionals, especially those working in community settings like health and social workers, may use the tool to assist identifying older adults at risk of CI based on questionnaires of other aspects of their life, such as quality of life and personality. It may also be useful for aging researchers who intend to identify high-risk populations from survey data that do not include direct assessment of CI.
ACCEPTABILITY AND SATISFACTION WITH VIVO: PARTICIPANT FOCUS GROUPS AND SURVEY
Authors: Boucher Nathan , Kemp Elizabeth , Levitan Eric , Starr Kathryn Porter 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As part of the Vivo feasibility study, each participant (n= 22) completed a program satisfaction survey and participated in a focus group (four groups of 5-8 participants each). The satisfaction survey showed 1) 95% were satisfied with the program; 2) 86% indicated they would continue to do strength training exercises after the study; and 3) 77% indicated participation in Vivo made them more aware of the importance of strength training. To further examine acceptability and satisfaction with Vivo, our team conducted four focus groups focused on identifying key barriers and facilitators to participation in the virtual exercise sessions. Two coders, through individual coding and iterative team meetings with the larger team, used descriptive content analysis to code and identify common themes. Our team identified four themes: 1) self-reported positive outcomes (i.e., regained function after injury, variety of exercise kept interest); 2) positive exercise experience (i.e., manageable exercise with little equipment, felt inclusive, focus on safe exercise); 3) social connection with others (i.e., developed peer group, facilitate group discussion that helped bond group); and 4) importance of an individualized exercise program (i.e., modifiable depending on ability that day, individual feedback from trainers). Areas for improvement included: making rescheduling easier, optimizing trainer communication, and clarifying needed hardware. These findings support the acceptability and high satisfaction with virtual exercise programs for older adults with pre-diabetes.
PROFILES IN FORTITUDE: STATEWIDE AGE-FRIENDLY HEALTH SYSTEMS
Authors: Kennedy Teri 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The University of Kansas is in the process of developing Age-Friendly Kansas Forum (Kansas 4M), a statewide Kansas Age-Friendly Health Systems Action Community that is a reciprocal partnership between academia and primary care sites, delivery systems, and community organizations serving older adults in rural and underserved communities across Kansas. The Age-Friendly Health Systems (AFHS) Framework, developed by The John A. Hartford Foundation and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, addresses the needs and priorities of older adults through the lens of the 4Ms: 1) what matters, 2) medications, 3) mobility, and 4) mentation. The framework resulted from a distillation of the core elements common to evidence-based programs serving older adults and is being leveraged as a strategy to address the know-do gap. To date three other states, Michigan, New York, and Nebraska, have developed statewide AFHS Action Communities. This presentation will share what Kansas 4M has learned about the unique approach taken by each of these states in their efforts to launch a statewide AFHS Action Community, their unique and shared experiences, best practices, cautionary tales, and how this information is informing the development of Kansas’ statewide AFHS Action Community.
THE CORRELATION BETWEEN INTRINSIC CAPACITY AND FALLS AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS AND ITS APPLICATION
Authors: Li Chen , Chen Xiaodong , He Lingxiao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
To explore the link between intrinsic capacity and fall risk among Xiamen’s older adults and to assess the diagnostic value of intrinsic capacity composite scores for falls.

Methods
A survey covering intrinsic capacity and fall history was conducted on 612 Community-Dwelling older adults. Logistic regression and ROC curve analyses determined the intrinsic capacity composite score’s cutoff for fall risk.

Results
Higher scores indicated lower fall risk （OR=0.45,95%CI: 0.30-0.67）. The optimal cutoff value was identified as 0.367, with the maximum AUC of 0.689. Adding chronic diseases as a control slightly reduced the AUC to 0.682 but did not change the cutoff.

Conclusion
Intrinsic capacity is a protective factor against falls. A score of 0.367 effectively diagnostic fall risk, aiding in older adults` fall prevention strategies.
CALORIC RESTRICTION VERSUS TIME-RESTRICTED EATING: THE HEALTH, AGING, AND LATER-LIFE OUTCOMES PILOT
Authors: Houston Denise , Nicklas Barbara , Miller Michael , Fanning Jason , Hsu Fang-Chi , DeLany James , Ard Jamy , Kritchevsky Stephen 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In animal models, dietary interventions including caloric restriction (CR) and time-restricted eating (TRE) extend both lifespan and healthspan. However, in humans, the long-term benefits of these diets on lifespan and healthspan, and whether benefits outweigh harms, are unknown. The goal of the Health, Aging and Later-Life Outcomes Pilot (HALLO-P) is to inform the design of a definitive, full-scale trial to evaluate the long-term effects of CR and TRE in older adults. HALLO-P randomized 90 older (≥ 60 yrs) adults with obesity, or overweight and at least one comorbidity, to assess the feasibility and acceptability of three different 9-month interventions: 1) 20% CR delivered in-person; 2) 20% CR delivered remotely; and 3) 8-hour TRE with ad libitum caloric intake. Recruitment is complete and final intervention and close-out will be completed in August, 2024. To date, retention is 89% and intervention session attendance is 84%. Those assigned to CR are expected to weigh daily – to date, weights were obtained on 90% percent of days – and expected to maintain their weight within a zone of adherence – 65% of CR participants achieved this &gt;75% of the time. TRE participants are expected to eat within a 7.5-8.5 hour window – TRE participants reported eating within an 8.5-hour window 77% of the time. Final study data will include: 1) the degree of sustained CR (using doubly-labeled water); 2) the sustainability of TRE (number of participants eating within the 8-hr window); and 3) changes in body weight and composition, and metabolic and functional health.
GAIT SLOWING ON TRANSITION TO UNEVEN SURFACES: DOPAMINERGIC NEUROTRANSMISSION AND PERIPHERAL SYSTEM RISK FACTORS
Authors: Rosano Caterina , Rosso Andrea , Newman Anne , Cummings Stephen , Studenski Stephanie , Bohnen Nicholaas , Chahine Lana 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Identifying mechanisms that compensate for slow gait speed in older adults is crucial. Dopaminergic neurotransmission curbs deleterious associations of cerebrovascular disease with gait, but whether it compensates for peripheral systemic risk factors (PSRF) for gait slowing has not been studied. In this cross-sectional study of community-dwelling older adults, we examined the relationship between nigrostriatal dopaminergic terminal integrity and gait speed in individuals with and without ≥1 PSRF for gait slowing: obesity, joint pain, or reduced muscle strength. The primary outcome was percent change in gait speed (%CGS) on transition from even to uneven surface. Participants underwent dopaminergic imaging with dihydrotetrabenazine [11C]DTBZ positron emission tomography. Among 199 individuals, (mean (SD) age 75.0 (4.6) years; 62.3% female; 91.0% White) 131 (65.8%) had ≥1 PSRF. Relationship between posterior putamen [11C]DTBZ binding and %CGS was modified by PSRF; in those with ≥1 PSRF (but not in those with no PSRF), posterior putamen [11C]DTBZ binding was associated with %CGS (β=0.238, p=0.01) independent of potential confounders. Striatal dopaminergic neurotransmission may offer resilience to effects of PSRF on gait slowing.
SKELETAL MUSCLE MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION AND LONGITUDINAL CHANGES IN BRAIN STRUCTURE
Authors: Tian Teresa , Greig Erin , Davatzikos Christos , Landman Bennett , Resnick Susan , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction, a hallmark of aging, has been associated with future cognitive impairment or dementia, as well as PET and blood biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegeneration. Whether mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with accelerated loss in brain volumes and microstructural integrity is unknown. We tested the longitudinal association between in vivo muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity assessed via MR spectroscopy (post-exercise recovery rate of phosphocreatine, kPCr) and changes in brain MRI volumes and DTI microstructure over up to 12 years of follow-up in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (2008-2020). In linear mixed effects models, adjusted for demographics, PCr deletion, and physical activity, higher kPCr was associated with less ventricular enlargement, less worsening in MRI-derived brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease scores, and less regional atrophy, especially the primary sensorimotor cortex, temporal white and gray matter, thalamus, occipital areas, cingulate cortex, and cerebellum (n=649). Higher kPCr was also associated with less microstructural integrity loss in white matter tracts connecting identified gray matter areas (n=598). Specific white matter tracts, including splenium of the corpus callosum and superior longitudinal fasciculus showed consistent longitudinal associations in radial diffusivity, but not axial diffusivity, which may indicate demyelination. Higher in vivo mitochondrial function is associated with less worsening in MRI-derived brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease scores, less brain atrophy in specific gray matter regions and less microstructural integrity loss in connecting white matter tracts. Future studies are warranted to investigate the role of CNS mitochondrial function in brain aging and neurodegeneration.
THE FUTURE OF AGING RESEARCH: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FROM GLOBAL AGING SURVEYS
Authors: Lee Jinkook 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Jinkook Lee is the Director of the Program on Global Aging, Health, and Policy at USC. Dr. Lee advocates for the development of robust data and research infrastructure to better understand aging populations. She has been involved in initiatives like the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP) and is the architect of the Gateway to Global Aging Data, a platform that facilitates cross-national and longitudinal research on aging by providing access to harmonized data from various international studies of older adults. The Gateway serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and academics interested in comparing aging-related outcomes across different countries and over time. In this BSS Presidential Symposium, Dr. Lee will describe the challenges and opportunities associated with research on aging around the globe. She will discuss the shift from a focus on aging as being free of disease to a focus on multidimensional aspects of healthy aging, utilizing a life-course framework and capturing multiple aspects of exposure to deepen our understanding of the aging process, and the challenges of environmental hazards for our rapidly aging world. Dr. Lee’s presentation will provide useful background for thinking about how the next decade of research using studies from around the world will advance research on the aging process and aging populations around the world.
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN HEARING LOSS AND FUNCTIONAL BRAIN CONNECTIVITY AMONG DEMENTIA-FREE OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Jiang Kening , Reed Nicholas , Soldan Anja , Lin Frank , Albert Marilyn , Deal Jennifer , Pettigrew Corinne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hearing loss is associated with cognitive decline and mood disorders, potentially through functional changes in the brain, as auditory deprivation affects higher-order sensory, attentional, and emotional processing. This study examined the cross-sectional association between hearing loss and functional connectivity, in 141 dementia-free participants from the BIOCARD Study (Median age=71 years). Resting state functional MRI data were processed to construct seven large-scale functional networks: frontoparietal control, default mode, dorsal attention, limbic, salience/ventral attention, somatomotor, and visual. Hearing loss was assessed by pure-tone audiometry. Better-ear four-frequency pure-tone average (PTA: average of hearing thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz) in decibels hearing level (dB HL) was analyzed categorically (hearing loss: &gt;25 dB HL vs. normal hearing: ≤25 dB HL) and continuously after scaling to per 10 dB HL higher (worse). We used linear regression models, adjusting for age, sex, education, time between functional connectivity and hearing assessments (-3 to 4.5 years), APOE ε4, vascular risk factors, and diagnostic status. Hearing loss was associated with lower connectivity in the salience/ventral attention network (-0.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.05, -0.00). After restricting the analyses to 102 cognitively unimpaired (CU) participants, the association was stronger (-0.04, 95% CI: -0.07, -0.01). We also found lower connectivity in the limbic network (-0.04, 95% CI: -0.07, -0.00) associated with per 10 dB HL worse hearing among CU participants. Our study adds to the limited evidence in hearing loss-functional connectivity association. Disrupted functional connectivity in salience/ventral attention and limbic structures might underlie cognitive impairment related to hearing loss.
AN EXPLORATION OF A DIGITAL FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM: “KEEP ON KEEP UP” FOR OLDER ADULTS IN A CHINESE CULTURAL CONTEXT
Authors: Tang Yimin , Smith Sarah , Burden Sorrel , Stanmore Emma 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The use of digital health interventions can be effective in enabling and maintaining healthy behaviours to help prevent falls and improve physical function in older adults. However, scarce research has been conducted with specific cultural and minority groups living in a cross-cultural setting. The aim of this study was to explore Chinese older adults’ and stakeholders’ experience, needs and preferences related to using digital health interventions, in particular the Keep On Keep Up-Chinese (KOKU-C) falls prevention program (translated to Mandarin language). This research used think-aloud as a novel approach in interviews and was completed within a cross-cultural context to better improve user-experience, engagement and digital inclusion of Chinese older adults living in the UK. A sample of Chinese older adults 55 to 95 years of age (N=40) living in Manchester and stakeholder representatives including healthcare professionals, caregivers, community partners and researchers (N=12) have been interviewed. Results from thematic analysis found that while there are opportunities to better enhance the digital health interventions tailored to the Chinese cultural context, the KOKU-C program can still provide valuable information as well as balance and strength training to help support fall-related health outcomes and improve their quality of life. These important findings point to the need for more research taking cultural considerations into account when co-designing digital health applications. The potential benefits of this study provide a possible solution for better acceptability, engagement and interaction in digital health interventions with Chinese older populations.
LONGITUDINAL ASSOCIATION OF DIGITAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGY USE WITH DEMENTIA IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Peng Wenting , Luo Yuqian , Liu Minhui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Dementia is a global public concern and is associated with many adverse outcomes, such as disability. However, it remains unknown whether common modalities of digital health technology are associated with dementia. Using the data from 2015 to 2019 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), the study examined whether prior-year digital health technology use predicted dementia in a later year in community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and older (N=4,002). Digital health technology use was ascertained with four items: filling prescriptions, contacting clinicians, handling insurance, and obtaining health information. Dementia was assessed using a modified NHATS definition, including a physician diagnosis, cognitive performance in three domains, and the AD8 Dementia Screening Interview. Lagged generalized estimation equation models were used to examine the longitudinal associations, adjusting for demographics and health-related factors. Seniors using any digital health technology in the prior year were at a lower risk of having possible or probable dementia in the later year (OR=0.61, 95% CI=0.51-0.74) than those not. Filling prescriptions, contacting clinicians, and obtaining health information statistically significantly predicted possible or probable dementia, with ORs of 0.61, 0.69, and 0.66, respectively. Additionally, any digital health technology use (OR=0.65, 95% CI=0.50-0.82), filling prescriptions (OR=0.60, 95% CI=0.43-0.85), and obtaining health information (OR=0.74, 95% CI=0.56-0.96) decreased the risks of having probable dementia. These findings suggest that digital health technology use is a protective factor of dementia. Intervention programs to delay dementia progression should incorporate strategies to help older adults use digital health technology in their daily lives.
THE GLOBAL PRIDE STUDY: LESSONS LEARNED AND NEXT STEPS
Authors: Fredriksen-Goldsen Karen , Nelson Christi , Oswald Austin , Kim Hyun-Jun 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As the older adult population becomes increasingly diverse and globalized, new challenges emerge in gerontological research and practice worldwide. This presentation examines sexuality, gender, and aging within a global context, exploring both fortitude and risks, as well as differing social and cultural interpretation of sexuality, gender, and age in relation to research and the development of culturally relevant practices. We will discuss the formation of the research network, involving more than 50 international collaborators. As part of the Global Pride project, we developed and tested a pilot survey, which was distributed by 18 partners and completed across six global regions (N= 3,885). Key processes and lessons learned include: 1. Establishing an international network of researchers to exchange knowledge and experiences in studying sexuality, gender, longevity, and health holistically; 2. Implementing a collaboratively developed survey across six global regions, taking into consideration differing cultural contexts and methodologies; 3. Employing culturally tailored dissemination strategies across diverse regions and settings. The insights gleaned from this research will deepen an awareness of the diversity of lives across the life course and contribute knowledge about the richness, challenges, and heterogeneity of ageing, as well as best practices for the implementation of global research.
PERSON-CENTERED ONLINE DEMENTIA TRAINING
Authors: Sturdevant Diana , Jackson Kimethria , Broussard Kimetha 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Nursing education that focuses on care of people living with dementia (PLWD), and training in person-centered dementia care is limited. Person-centered dementia care puts PLWD at the center of the care process. It requires deep knowledge of the individual, as well as empathy and understanding from the nurse. Person-centered dementia care training improves care by correcting misconceptions about dementia and increases confidence in managing behavioral-psychological symptoms of dementia. In this session we will report outcomes from an on-line training focused on improving nursing care of people living with dementia (PLWD). The training consisted of 4 modules that included multimedia, discussion boards, and interactive exercises to stimulate student engagement and interaction. Undergraduate nursing students were recruited via email announcements of the volunteer opportunity. A total of (n=31) participants were recruited from 4 baccalaureate nursing programs including Traditional Junior, Traditional Senior, Degree Completion LPN to BSN, and Accelerated BSN. Pre/post assessments included the Dementia Attitudes Scale, the ADRC Staff Dementia Knowledge Assessment Tool, and the Confidence in Dementia Scale. A 5pt-likert scale was used to evaluate course structure and content, and open-ended questions provided prompts for additional participant comments. Common themes from evaluations included: need for additional content, more interactive activities, and inclusion as a required course for all nursing students.