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Bierhoff H. [Genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors in life expectancy-What role does nature-versus-nurture play in aging?]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2024:10.1007/s00103-024-03873-x. [PMID: 38637469 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-024-03873-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
In Germany and worldwide, the average age of the population is continuously rising. With this general increase in chronological age, the focus on biological age, meaning the actual health and fitness status, is becoming more and more important. The key question is to what extent the age-related decline in fitness is genetically predetermined or malleable by environmental factors and lifestyle.Many epigenetic studies in aging research have provided interesting insights in this nature-versus-nurture debate. In most model organisms, aging is associated with specific epigenetic changes, which can be countered by certain interventions like moderate caloric restriction or increased physical activity. Since these interventions also have positive effects on lifespan and health, epigenetics appears to be the interface between environmental factors and the aging process. This notion is supported by the fact that an epigenetic drift occurs through the life course of identical twins, which is related to the different manifestations of aging symptoms. Furthermore, biological age can be determined with high precision based on DNA methylation patterns, further emphasizing the importance of epigenetics in aging.This article provides an overview of the importance of genetic and epigenetic parameters for life expectancy. A major focus will be on the possibilities of maintaining a young epigenome through lifestyle and environmental factors, thereby slowing down biological aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Bierhoff
- Institut für Biochemie und Biophysik, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Hans-Knöll-Straße 2, 07745, Jena, Deutschland.
- Leibniz-Institut für Alternsforschung - Fritz-Lipmann-Institut (FLI), Jena, Deutschland.
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Chen Y, Yang S, Yu K, Zhang J, Wu M, Zheng Y, Zhu Y, Dai J, Wang C, Zhu X, Dai Y, Sun Y, Wu T, Wang S. Spatial omics: An innovative frontier in aging research. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 93:102158. [PMID: 38056503 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Disentangling the impact of aging on health and disease has become critical as population aging progresses rapidly. Studying aging at the molecular level is complicated by the diverse aging profiles and dynamics. However, the examination of cellular states within aging tissues in situ is hampered by the lack of high-resolution spatial data. Emerging spatial omics technologies facilitate molecular and spatial analysis of tissues, providing direct access to precise information on various functional regions and serving as a favorable tool for unraveling the heterogeneity of aging. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in spatial omics application in multi-organ aging research, which has enhanced the understanding of aging mechanisms from multiple standpoints. We also discuss the main challenges in spatial omics research to date, the opportunities for further developing the technology, and the potential applications of spatial omics in aging and aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuhao Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaixu Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongqiang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Centre, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, 801 N. Rutledge, P.O. Box 19628, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| | - Jun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- College of Science & Engineering Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoran Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunhong Sun
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China.
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Zihl J, Reppermund S. The aging mind: A complex challenge for research and practice. Aging Brain 2023; 3:100060. [PMID: 36911259 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2022.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline as part of mental ageing is typically assessed with standardized tests; below-average performance in such tests is used as an indicator for pathological cognitive aging. In addition, morphological and functional changes in the brain are used as parameters for age-related pathological decline in cognitive abilities. However, there is no simple link between the trajectories of changes in cognition and morphological or functional changes in the brain. Furthermore, below-average test performance does not necessarily mean a significant impairment in everyday activities. It therefore appears crucial to record individual everyday tasks and their cognitive (and other) requirements in functional terms. This would also allow reliable assessment of the ecological validity of existing and insufficient cognitive skills. Understanding and dealing with the phenomena and consequences of mental aging does of course not only depend on cognition. Motivation and emotions as well personal meaning of life and life satisfaction play an equally important role. This means, however, that cognition represents only one, albeit important, aspect of mental aging. Furthermore, creating and development of proper assessment tools for functional cognition is important. In this contribution we would like to discuss some aspects that we consider relevant for a holistic view of the aging mind and promote a strengthening of a multidisciplinary approach with close cooperation between all basic and applied sciences involved in aging research, a quick translation of the research results into practice, and a close cooperation between all disciplines and professions who advise and support older people.
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Ferraro KF. Disciplinary Roots of 300 Top-Ranked Scientific Contributors to Gerontology: From Legacy to Enriching Our Discovery. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2022; 77:2149-2154. [PMID: 36409829 PMCID: PMC9678198 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glac129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gerontology is viewed by many as a multidisciplinary field of inquiry, but which disciplines have had the greatest impact on research in the field? Combining data from a composite score incorporating multiple citation indicators with information on the highest degree, we examine the disciplinary origins of the 300 top-ranked scholars in gerontology. Despite efforts for gerontology to be distinct from geriatrics, more than 30 percent of the most influential scholars in gerontology during the past 6 decades hold a degree in medicine. Other fields of the leading contributors to gerontology include psychology, sociology, biology, biochemistry, and genetics. Although the disciplinary origins of gerontology will likely shift in the coming decades, we conclude that biomedical sciences are likely to remain core to the development of gerontology. To build on the scientific contributions of leading scholars in gerontology, future research should reflect conceptual precision and scientific innovation while prioritizing methodological rigor and transparency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth F Ferraro
- Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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Hoffman JM, Song S, Brugger K, Valencak TG. Untapped research opportunities in China: promising future avenues and potential concerns for aging companion animals. GeroScience 2022; 44:1295-1299. [PMID: 34427857 PMCID: PMC9213577 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00433-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Companion animals have recently been proposed as ideal translational models of human aging due to their shared susceptibility for certain diseases, similar environments, and sophisticated veterinary medicine diagnostics, all of which are not possible in rodent laboratory models. Here, we introduce and propose the study of companion animals in China as a largely untapped resource in academic and veterinary aging research. Pet ownership rates along with economic gains in the pet industry have skyrocketed over the last decade in China. Yet, the majority of research institutions still focus on agricultural animal research, not companion animals. In this perspective, we compare available pet ownership rates between the USA, the European Union, and China before focusing on the potential of companion animal aging research in China. In addition, we highlight some ethical considerations that must be addressed before large-scale companion animal aging research can be completed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Hoffman
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama At Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Shanshan Song
- 3000 Animal Hospital Center, 103 T5 EFC, Cangqian Street, Yuhang District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Katharina Brugger
- Unit for Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Teresa G Valencak
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
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Wadsworth HE, Horton DK, Dhima K, Cullum CM, White J, Ruchinskas R. Change in Balance and Neuropsychological Measures Post-Lumbar Drain Trial in Patients with Suspected Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2022; 50:529-534. [PMID: 34937028 DOI: 10.1159/000520693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting is commonly used to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Assessment of cognition and balance pre- and post-lumbar drain (LD) can be used to provide objective metrics which may help determine the potential benefit of VP shunting. The aim of this investigation was to determine which measures identify clinical change as a result of a LD trial and to develop recommendations for standard NPH clinical assessment procedures. METHODS The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and a brief battery of commonly used neuropsychological tests pre- and post-LD (MMSE, trail making test, animal fluency, Hopkins Verbal Learning Test - Revised, and digit span) were administered to 86 patients with a diagnosis of NPH. Subjects were divided into groups based on whether or not clinical change was present, and thus, VP shunting was recommended post-LD, and predictors of group membership were examined. RESULTS Significant improvements (p < 0.05) were seen on the BBS and Trail Making Part B in the VP shunt-recommended group, with no other significant changes over time in either group. Regression analyses found that VP shunt recommendation was accurately predicted for 80% of the sample using the BBS score alone, with accuracy increasing to 85% when Trails B was added. CONCLUSIONS Scores from the BBS and Trails B were most likely to change in those chosen to undergo VP shunting post-LD. Given that the typical clinical presentation of NPH includes gait disturbance and cognitive impairment, it is recommended that a standard pre-/post-LD evaluation include the BBS and trail making test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E Wadsworth
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Carver College, University of Iowa, Iowa, Iowa, USA
| | - Daniel K Horton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Children's Health, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kaltra Dhima
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - C Munro Cullum
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan White
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Robert Ruchinskas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Kim S, Jang H, Choi SJ, Kim HJ, Lee JH, Kwon M. Quantitative and Qualitative Differences of Action Verbal Fluency between Young and Older Adults. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2022; 50:585-591. [PMID: 35240660 DOI: 10.1159/000519070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Action verbal fluency (AVF) task, a word fluency test, involves language and executive function and is known to be sensitive to fronto-striatal degeneration. However, the ability may also decrease qualitatively as well as quantitatively in normal aging. The objective of this study is to investigate the age-related quantitative and qualitative differences in AVF of Korean adults. METHODS We analyzed data from 78 participants of 40 young (mean age = 28.9) and 38 older adults (mean age = 67.7). The correct responses in the AVF task were measured for quantitative analysis. Qualitatively, the mean number of arguments required by each verb was calculated for syntactic analysis. For semantic analysis, we subclassified verbs according to their characteristics (e.g., moment vs. non-moment verbs/active vs. non-active verbs) and calculated the ratio for comparison. The results of AVF were also compared to those of semantic/phonemic fluency and the Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-K). RESULTS The older group showed quantitatively lower performance in AVF than the young group (p < 0.01). The result of the AVF task significantly correlated (p < 0.01) with both semantic/phonemic fluency and the MoCA-K. Also, the older group produced syntactically more simple verbs than the counterpart (p < 0.01). In the semantic analysis, the older group produced fewer moment verbs (p < 0.05) but more non-moment verbs (p < 0.05) than the young group. There was no difference in active or non-active verbs between two groups. CONCLUSION These results indicated that the ability of AVF declines with age not only quantitatively but also qualitatively in relation to their cognitive changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soomin Kim
- Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuna Jang
- Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sou Jin Choi
- Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Ji Kim
- Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hong Lee
- Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Neurology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Miseon Kwon
- Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Neurology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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8
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Carmody C, Duesing CG, Kane AE, Mitchell SJ. Is Sex as a Biological Variable Still Being Ignored in Preclinical Aging Research? J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2022; 77:2177-2180. [PMID: 35172335 PMCID: PMC9678191 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glac042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Five years ago, the National Institute of Health (NIH) introduced a mandate to revolutionize the way sex as a biological variable (SABV) is considered in NIH-funded preclinical research. Given the known effects of sex on aging physiology, pathology, treatment response, and the effectiveness of interventions it is particularly important that SABV be considered in basic biology of aging research. Five years after this mandate, a significant amount of published work funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) is still not including mice of both sexes and/or not considering sex differences or comparisons in preclinical studies. Here we review a cross-section of recently published NIA-funded research to determine adherence to this mandate. We discuss the state of the preclinical aging field in terms of SABV and suggest strategies for improving adherence to the NIH mandate. It is imperative that we consider SABV and include males and females in all aspects of aging biology research to improve health outcomes for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Carmody
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research at Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charlotte G Duesing
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research at Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alice E Kane
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research at Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah J Mitchell
- Address correspondence to: Sarah J. Mitchell, PhD, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH Zürich, Schorenstrasse 16, SLA A-46, 8603 Schwerzenbach, Zürich, Switzerland. E-mail:
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Ouchi K, Bhasin S, Orkaby AR. Aging researchers in early stages (ARIES): a model for career development collaboration of researchers in aging. Qual Ageing Older Adults 2021; 22:75-80. [PMID: 34659740 DOI: 10.1108/qaoa-01-2021-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose – Individuals over age 65 represent the fastest-growing segment of the population, yet they are also the least studied group and are most likely to be excluded from research most likely to apply to them. A significant reason for this deficit has been a dearth of scientists and clinicians to care for and study the many diseases that impact older adults. Design/methodology/approach – In this manuscript, the difficulties associated with raising new generations of researchers in aging and offer suggestions for how early-stage clinician-scientists can foster career development in aging are discussed. This paper draws upon a local example, ARIES, to explain how early-stage investigators can be brought together with the goal of creating a pipeline of future leaders in aging research. Findings – The model may empower more early-stage clinicians to successfully pursue aging research. Originality/value – The current success of aging researchers in the early stages serves as a model for creating similar career development programs designed for early-stage researchers in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Ouchi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA and Department of Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shalender Bhasin
- Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA and Department of Medicine, Division for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ariela R Orkaby
- Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA and Division of Aging, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Kiselica AM, Benge JF. Neuropsychological Equivalence of the Clinical Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment in the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set and Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2021; 50:231-236. [PMID: 34186536 PMCID: PMC8819646 DOI: 10.1159/000516413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our understanding of Alzheimer's disease may be improved by harmonizing data from large cohort studies of older adults. Differences in the way clinical conditions, like mild cognitive impairment (MCI), are diagnosed may lead to variability among participants that share the same diagnostic label. This variability presents a challenge for cohort harmonization and may lead to inconsistency in research findings. Little research to date has explored the equivalence of the diagnostic label of MCI across 2 of the largest and most influential cohort studies in the USA: the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). METHODS Participants with MCI due to presumed Alzheimer's disease from the NACC Uniform Data Set (n = 789) and ADNI (n = 131) were compared on demographic, psychological, and functional variables, as well as on an abbreviated neuropsychological battery common to the 2 data sets. RESULTS Though similar in terms of age, education, and functional status, the NACC sample was more diverse (17.4% non-White participants vs. 7.6% in ADNI; χ2 = 7.923, p = 0.005) and tended to perform worse on some cognitive tests. In particular, participants diagnosed with MCI in NACC were more likely to have clinically significant impairments on language measures (26.36-31.18%) than MCI participants in ADNI (16.03-19.85%). DISCUSSION The current findings suggest important differences in cognitive performances between 2 large MCI cohorts, likely reflective of differences in diagnostic criteria used in these 2 studies, as well as differences in sample compositions. Such diagnostic heterogeneity may make harmonizing data across these cohorts challenging. However, application of shared psychometric criteria across studies may lead to closer equivalence of MCI groups. Such approaches could pave the way for cohort harmonization and enable "big data" analytic approaches to understanding Alzhei-mer's to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M. Kiselica
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jared F. Benge
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas – Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Abstract
This paper explores perspectives of Inuit elders on the relationships between aging, health and place. Their views are important to consider in the context of a growing proportion and number of older people in Arctic communities, a new sociological condition. Developing policies and programs to promote healthy aging in Inuit communities is challenging as there is little known about the social and living conditions that promote healthy aging in the Arctic. In this study twenty Inuit aged between 50 to 86, from one community in Nunavut, participated to in-depth qualitative interviews. Themes discussed included aging and health, housing conditions, community conditions, land-based activities, medical and leisure travel outside of the community, and mobility and accessibility. Preliminary analyses of the qualitative data were validated in the community through a focus group with four participants and an interpreter. Interviews and the focus group transcripts were analysed using thematic content analyses and NVivo 12 qualitative data analysis program (QSR International Pty Ltd. 2017). Participants reported that spending time with children, having social support, living in houses adapted to aging health conditions, having access to community activities and services, and time spent on the land were the main resources supporting their health. Several factors limited the availability of these resources. These include: lack of accessibility to resources; structural factors impacting their availability; and natural and social changes in interpersonal relationships. Participants also stressed the importance of being able to grow old in their own community. Knowledge generated in this project contributes to policies and programs targeting housing and community conditions to support healthy aging, and aging in place, in Inuit Nunangat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Baron
- VITAM Centre de Recherche en Santé Durable, 2601, Chemin de la Canardière, Bureau G-2316, Québec, QC, G1J 0A4, Canada.
- Faculté de Sciences Infirmières, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
| | - Christopher Fletcher
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Mylène Riva
- Canada Research Chair in Housing, Community and Health; Institute for Health and Social Policy and Department of Geography, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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12
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Abstract
The "Aging Science Talks: Science for the Community" daily online seminar series was established in reaction to the cancellation of a myriad of regional, national, and international meetings focused on the biology of aging due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The inability to attend scientific meetings has far-reaching implications for our field, as we lose the ability to 1) disseminate both published and non-published data through talks and posters; 2) network and establish new collaborations to produce innovative science in the aging field; and 3) continue the career development of early career researchers (ECRs). Through these virtual seminars, we hope to offset the negative effects of these canceled meetings. We established the program rapidly using a "lean" approach, making use of existing technologies broadly available at academic institutions. Here, we provide an initial description of how this program was developed and implemented. We discuss advantages and limitations of this approach, including "real-time" participation and the creation of an on/off-line community of inquiry (CoI). In the future, we hope to formally evaluate the success of this program in building engagement, creating a community, and enhancing the development of ECRs, and to capture metrics associated with the continued progress of science. Our approach to building a CoI may be applied across multiple scientific disciplines during this time of uncertainty, and may offer a valuable example of how to continue to advance science during pandemics or similar events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dudley W Lamming
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, 53705, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Christy S Carter
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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13
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Roberts JR, Maxfield M. Examining the Relationship Between Religious and Spiritual Motivation and Worry About Alzheimer's Disease in Later Life. J Relig Health 2018; 57:2500-2514. [PMID: 29730806 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-018-0635-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
As awareness of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders and diagnosis rates rise, concern about developing such conditions may also increase, referred to here as dementia worry (DW). Few studies have examined DW and potential protective factors. Religiosity provides diverse psychological benefits and may be associated with lower DW; however, intrinsic/extrinsic motivations were expected to differentially relate to DW. Among 83 older adults (M = 69.48 years), both greater intrinsic and extrinsic-social religious motivation were associated with lower DW. Results suggest internalizing one's religious beliefs and building a social network within a religious community may provide a psychological buffer against DW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Roberts
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO, 80918, USA.
| | - Molly Maxfield
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO, 80918, USA
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Tchalla AE, Clément JP, Saulnier I, Beaumatin B, Lachal F, Gayot C, Bosetti A, Desormais I, Perrochon A, Preux PM, Couratier P, Dantoine T. Predictors of Rapid Cognitive Decline in Patients with Mild-to-Moderate Alzheimer Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study with 12-Month Follow-Up Performed in Memory Clinics. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2018; 45:56-65. [PMID: 29684916 DOI: 10.1159/000487938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Alzheimer disease (AD) is particularly devastating, with no cure, no means of prevention, and no proven way to slow progression. AD is associated with the worsening of cognitive function attributable to a variety of factors of which little is known. Our main objective was to determine factors associated with rapid cognitive decline (RCD) in older AD patients. METHODS We conducted a 12-month, prospective, multi-centre cohort study. Community-living individuals aged ≥65 years with mild-to-moderate AD were included. RCD was defined as the loss of ≥3 points/year in the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. Potential individual-level predictors were collected at baseline. RESULTS A total of 521 individuals were included. The mean age was 80.8 ± 9.0 years and 66.0% were females. The average baseline MMSE score was 20.5 ± 4.5. The incidence of RCD was 40.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 36.7-45.1). RCD was more common in patients with moderate (53.5%) than mild (22.3%) AD. The factors associated with RCD were: a parental history of dementia (odds ratio [OR], 2.32 [95% CI, 1.24-4.21], p = 0.011), psychotic symptoms (OR, 2.06 [95% CI, 1.22-3.48], p = 0.007), malnutrition (OR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.06-2.63], p = 0.028), and the female gender (OR, 1.48 [95% CI, 1.03-2.15], p = 0.036). An MMSE score < 20 at treatment onset was also associated with RCD (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The factors associated with RCD were an MMSE score < 20 at treatment onset, female gender, psychotic symptoms, malnutrition, and a family history of dementia. These results may be directly relevant to patients, their families, and their physicians, enabling early anticipation of difficult clinical trajectories and poor functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achille E Tchalla
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France.,Université de Limoges, EA 6310 HAVAE Handicap Activité Vieillissement Autonomie Environnement, Limoges, France.,Centre de Mémoire de Recherche et de Ressources (CMRR) du Limousin, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Clément
- Centre de Mémoire de Recherche et de Ressources (CMRR) du Limousin, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France.,Université de Limoges, IFR 145 GEIST, Institut d'Epidémiologie Neurologique et de Neurologie Tropicale, INSERM, UMR 1094 NeuroEpidemiologie Tropicale, Limoges, France
| | - Isabelle Saulnier
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France.,Université de Limoges, EA 6310 HAVAE Handicap Activité Vieillissement Autonomie Environnement, Limoges, France.,Centre de Mémoire de Recherche et de Ressources (CMRR) du Limousin, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Betty Beaumatin
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France.,Centre de Mémoire de Recherche et de Ressources (CMRR) du Limousin, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Florent Lachal
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France.,Université de Limoges, EA 6310 HAVAE Handicap Activité Vieillissement Autonomie Environnement, Limoges, France
| | - Caroline Gayot
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France
| | - Anaïs Bosetti
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France
| | - Iléana Desormais
- Université de Limoges, IFR 145 GEIST, Institut d'Epidémiologie Neurologique et de Neurologie Tropicale, INSERM, UMR 1094 NeuroEpidemiologie Tropicale, Limoges, France
| | - Anaïck Perrochon
- Université de Limoges, EA 6310 HAVAE Handicap Activité Vieillissement Autonomie Environnement, Limoges, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- Université de Limoges, IFR 145 GEIST, Institut d'Epidémiologie Neurologique et de Neurologie Tropicale, INSERM, UMR 1094 NeuroEpidemiologie Tropicale, Limoges, France
| | - Philippe Couratier
- Centre de Mémoire de Recherche et de Ressources (CMRR) du Limousin, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France.,Université de Limoges, IFR 145 GEIST, Institut d'Epidémiologie Neurologique et de Neurologie Tropicale, INSERM, UMR 1094 NeuroEpidemiologie Tropicale, Limoges, France
| | - Thierry Dantoine
- CHU de Limoges, Pôle HU Gérontologie Clinique, Limoges, France.,Université de Limoges, EA 6310 HAVAE Handicap Activité Vieillissement Autonomie Environnement, Limoges, France.,Centre de Mémoire de Recherche et de Ressources (CMRR) du Limousin, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France
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Cochrane A, McGilloway S. The Role of Philanthropic Funding in Building Research Evidence to Support an Aging Population: A Case Study from Ireland. J Aging Soc Policy 2017; 29:262-275. [PMID: 28362228 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2017.1312207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This case study examines the role of philanthropic funding in building capacity for aging research in Ireland, and how this investment has addressed the lack of evidence to support planning for an aging population. The funding has supported a range of initiatives including the national longitudinal study on aging (TILDA), the creation of three professorships/chairs, and the establishment of four new research centers. Important potential outcomes are emerging across other domains including research-informed policy development and the generation of health benefits. The efforts of academic researchers to ensure that their findings are readily accessible to end users and to forge robust working relationships with all stakeholders have helped to enhance the use of research findings. Overall, philanthropy has played a pivotal role in building capacity, infrastructure, and expertise in academic settings in Ireland. Moreover, this work provides an excellent example of how such efforts can begin to inform effective planning and service provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Cochrane
- a Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Psychology , National University of Ireland Maynooth , Maynooth , Ireland
| | - Sinéad McGilloway
- b Director, Mental Health and Social Research Unit, Department of Psychology , National University of Ireland Maynooth , Maynooth , Ireland
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Abstract
With 38 million residents, Poland has the eighth-largest population in Europe. A successful transition from communism to democracy, which began in 1989, has brought several significant changes to the country's economic development, demographic structure, quality of life, and public policies. As in the other European countries, Poland has been facing a rapid increase in the number of older adults. Currently, the population 65 and above is growing more rapidly than the total population and this discrepancy will have important consequences for the country's economy. As the population ages, there will be increased demands to improve Poland's health care and retirement systems. This article aims to provide a brief overview of the demographic trends in Poland as well a look at the country's major institutions of gerontology research. The article also describes key public policies concerning aging and how these may affect the well-being of Poland's older adults.
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17
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Phillips KA, Hambright MK, Hewes K, Schilder BM, Ross CN, Tardif SD. Take the monkey and run. J Neurosci Methods 2015; 248:27-31. [PMID: 25835199 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2015.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is a small, New World primate that is used extensively in biomedical and behavioral research. This short-lived primate, with its small body size, ease of handling, and docile temperament, has emerged as a valuable model for aging and neurodegenerative research. A growing body of research has indicated exercise, aerobic exercise especially, imparts beneficial effects to normal aging. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these positive effects of exercise, and the degree to which exercise has neurotherapeutic effects, is an important research focus. Thus, developing techniques to engage marmosets in aerobic exercise would have great advantages. NEW METHOD Here we describe the marmoset exercise ball (MEB) paradigm: a safe (for both experimenter and subjects), novel and effective means to engage marmosets in aerobic exercise. We trained young adult male marmosets to run on treadmills for 30 min a day, 3 days a week. RESULTS Our training procedures allowed us to engage male marmosets in this aerobic exercise within 4 weeks, and subjects maintained this frequency of exercise for 3 months. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS To our knowledge, this is the first described method to engage marmosets in aerobic exercise. A major advantage of this exercise paradigm is that while it was technically forced exercise, it did not appear to induce stress in the marmosets. CONCLUSIONS These techniques should be useful to researchers wishing to address physiological responses of exercise in a marmoset model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley A Phillips
- Department of Psychology, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States; Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States.
| | - M Karen Hambright
- Department of Social Sciences, College of Coastal Georgia, Brunswick, GA 31520, United States
| | - Kelly Hewes
- Department of Psychology, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States
| | - Brian M Schilder
- Department of Anthropology, Center for the Advanced Study of Human Paleobiology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Corinna N Ross
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Suzette D Tardif
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States; Department of Cellular & Structural Biology, Barshop Institute for Longevity & Aging Studies, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78245, United States
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Serrano JP, Latorre JM, Gatz M. Spain: promoting the welfare of older adults in the context of population aging. Gerontologist 2014; 54:733-40. [PMID: 24632624 PMCID: PMC4229894 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnu010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spain is one of the European countries with the most significant societal changes in the 21st century contributing to an aging population, in particular, high life expectancy coupled with low fertility, which will result in a doubling of the old-age dependency ratio. Demographic aging implies important challenges that affect the lives of people, families, the economy, public finances, and the reorganization of the health and social systems. Currently, the older population has become particularly vulnerable due to the economic crisis taking place in Spain, which has brought about the need for new policies and systems to protect older persons. The pension system is under the greatest threat in conjunction with possible changes in the national health care system. This report presents a general view of the main factors that surround and affect older adults in Spain, as well as policies developed by the government in response to the current and future situation. We highlight demographic predictions for the coming decades, quality-of-life indicators, situations of dependency, active aging policies, and the main research programs related to gerontology in Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan P Serrano
- Department of Psychology and Regional Centre of Biomedical Research (IDNE), Health Psychology Unit, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain.
| | - José M Latorre
- Department of Psychology and Regional Centre of Biomedical Research (IDNE), Health Psychology Unit, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Margaret Gatz
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
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