scholarly journals Activities of NEW Brain Aging

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 204-204
Author(s):  
Yeates Conwell
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Quantitative Methods ◽  
Brain Aging ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Pilot Project ◽  
Aging Research ◽  
Stress Regulation ◽  
Impact Risk ◽  
Funding Opportunities ◽  
Structure And Functions

Abstract The Network for Emotional Well-being and Brain Aging (NEW Brain Aging) was funded by NIA with the goal of forming a national, transdisciplinary collaborative that includes investigators with research expertise in emotional well-being (EWB), Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), human and animal neuroimaging, stress regulation, and computational/quantitative methods. Our objective is to stimulate mechanistic research identifying and testing mechanisms by which brain aging influences EWB and how EWB may impact risk for and progression of ADRD. This presentation will explain the structure and functions of the network that serve as a resource for investigators interested in EWB and aging research, and how to access them: a transdisciplinary community of scholars interested in brain, aging, and EWB research from both human and animal fields; webinars; workgroups to establish priorities for NEW Brain Aging activities; a resource repository; and pilot project funding opportunities to which network members can apply.

scholarly journals New Brain Aging Center

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 204-204
Author(s):  
Feng Lin ◽  
Yeates Conwell ◽  
Janine Simmons
Keyword(s):  
Animal Studies ◽  
Brain Aging ◽  
Human Subjects ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Aging Brain ◽  
Current State ◽  
Health And Illness ◽  
Impact Risk ◽  
State Of Research ◽  
Funding Opportunities

Abstract Evidence indicates an association between emotional well-being (EWB) and underlying brain processes, and that those processes change with both normal and pathological brain aging. However, the nature of these associations, the mechanisms by which EWB and its component domains change with brain aging, and how those changes may be associated with common neuropathologies like Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), are largely unexplored. The NIA-funded Network for Emotional Well-being and Brain Aging (NEW Brain Aging) has the goal of developing a nationwide community of investigators dedicated to research that identifies and tests mechanisms by which brain aging influences EWB and how EWB may impact risk for and progression of ADRD. Synthesizing human and animal literature, our premise is that relationships between EWB and ADRD are bidirectional – normal and pathological changes in aging brain influence EWB and EWB contributes to brain health and illness, such as ADRD. NEW Brain Aging will identify and coalesce resources for interested investigators and provide pilot funding opportunities to stimulate research and development of the field. Component presentations of this symposium will include (1) an overview by Dr. Robert Kaplan of the current state of research on EWB; (2) the role of animal studies (Kuan Hong Wang) and (3) human subjects research (Feng Vankee Lin) in EWB and aging; and (4) design of NEW Brain Aging and resources it will provide (Yeates Conwell). Janine Simmons will explain NIA’s vision for EWB research and lead open discussion.

scholarly journals Pre-Analytical and Within-Person Reproducibility of Nutritional Metabolomics over 2 Years in Elders at Risk for Dementia (P18-121-19)

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gene Bowman ◽  
Natalia Gouskova ◽  
Hiroko Dodge ◽  
Juliana Donohue ◽  
Aline Bichsel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Measurement Errors ◽  
Brain Aging ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Aging Research ◽  
Blood Samples ◽  
Time Points ◽  
Nutritional Metabolomics ◽  
Over Time

Abstract Objectives Nutritional metabolomics to objectively assess dietary intake in aging permit the opportunity to circumvent measurement errors that accompany subjective means of dietary assessment. At the same time, they may offer insights into mechanisms of action and metabolic disturbances that are actionable targets for modulation through diet in hopes of disease prevention and treatment. However, prior to more broad deployment the pre-analytical and temporal variation over time should be documented in order to design and interpret epidemiological studies properly. We quantified and examined 155 nutrient biomarkers and metabolites selected for their potential relevance to dementia. Methods Blood samples from three time points, spanning a 2-year period, were obtained from older adults participating in the NIA-Layton Oregon Alzheimer's Disease Center's Nutrition and Brain Aging Study (NBAS). Blood samples were batched randomly across three time points for quantification of blood amino acids, minerals, water and fat-soluble micronutrients, lipids, one carbon, and kynurenine pathway metabolites using a variety of methods including, tandem mass spectrometry. Pre-analytical coefficients of variation (CV) were calculated for all the biomarkers and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to evaluate the within-person reproducibility in a subset of 137 participants. Results The mean baseline age of the analytic sample (n = 137) was 85.6 (± 8.3, 57 - 101 years), 70% are female, 21% carry the ApoEe4 allele and MMSE was 28.3 (± 1.78). The pre-analytical CVs ranged from 0.9% to 55.0% and the ICC ranged from 0 to 0.87 (25%-tile/median/75%-tile 0.41/0.54/0.66). Twenty four % had ICC < 0.40, 66% had ICC 0.40 −0.75 and 10% had ICC > 0.75. Conclusions The pre-analytical and within-person reproducibility of nutritional metabolomics in aging ranges widely. The majority can reliably estimate average concentrations over a 2 year period from a single time point and the biomarkers with ICC's above 0.40 can be used for correction of measurement error and those below 0.40 should consider multiple samples per subject and exploring the methodological and biological explanation for the variation over time. Funding Sources Nestle Institute of Health Sciences, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, NIA-Layton Aging & Alzheimer's Disease Center (P30AGO8017).

scholarly journals Analysis of Funded Projects by National Institutes of Health in the Field of Aging from 2008 to 2017 (P01-006-19)

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dongqiao Li
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Brain Aging ◽  
Basic Research ◽  
Policy Formulation ◽  
Research Management ◽  
Aging Research ◽  
Related Field ◽  
Research Hotspots

Abstract Objectives To provide the current basic research direction for scientific researchers in the aging and related field, and also provide objective basis and reference for the research management and policy formulation Methods R01 projects in the field of aging funded by NIA and NIDDK was selected from 2008 to 2017. The research methods of scientometric and expert consultation were used to analyze the trends, intensity, research hotspots and future in the field of aging. Results From 2008 to 2017, NIA funded 2898 R01 projects with a total amount of US$4.373 billion in the field of aging, and the projects of brain aging were the most funded by NIA. NIDDK funded 5605 R01 projects with a total amount of US$8.054 billion in the field of aging, and the projects of liver, endocrine, metabolic were the most funded by NIDDK. Alzheimer's disease has always been the research hotspot in the field of brain aging, and the research was focused on brain neuroplasticity and biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease. Diabetes and obesity have been the research hotspots in the field of liver, endocrine, and metabolic. In recent years, there have been more types of diseases in the related fields. Moreover, the fields of cardiovascular, lung and kidney were also analyzed. Conclusions Aging research is a multi-scientific field. New technologies and new methods are being applied in the field of aging, and there will be developed towards a more systematic and precise direction in the future. Funding Sources National Science Library, Chinese Academy of Science.

Eliciting Music-Evoked Autobiographical Memories (MEAMs) in Individuals with Mild Alzheimer’s Disease: A Case Series

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Deanna Choi
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Classical Music ◽  
Short Term Memory ◽  
Affective State ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Pilot Project ◽  
Emotional Reaction ◽  
Autobiographical Memories

Numerous studies have examined the possibility that listening to music facilitates learning and memory, and various music therapy interventions have yielded promising results for individuals with pathological amnesic disorders. However, the mechanisms by which such phenomena operate are largely unknown. Here I will pursue the hypothesis that music processing pathways are linked to autobiographical memory networks, allowing the spontaneous activation of memories for personal events (music-evoked autobiographical memories, or MEAMs). These reminiscences are often of a pleasant or nostalgic nature, inducing a positive affective state. These emotions, in turn, elicit a sense of identity and self-awareness that contributes to psychological well-being. I will present data from a series of participants diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s disease, all of whom have varying degrees of short-term memory deficits and cognitive impairments. After listening to a 30-second musical excerpt (in a total sequence of 24), they were asked to describe any memories that may have been conjured by the music, as well as their overall attitude, familiarity, and emotional reaction towards the piece. The experimental stimuli included 12 pieces from a well-known repertory of instrumental classical music, which were matched to 12 similar excerpts controlled for instrumentation, tempo, mode, and stylistic patterns. I video-recorded the interviews, analyzing both verbal and behavioural responses to the musical excerpts played. Data will be compared with that obtained from healthy controls. I will then discuss the implications of the current pilot project towards future studies and potential applications in clinical settings.

Longitudinal Changes in Individual BrainAGE in Healthy Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Alzheimer’s Disease

GeroPsych ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 25 (4) ◽  
pp. 235-245 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katja Franke ◽  
Christian Gaser
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Brain Aging ◽  
Elderly Subjects ◽  
Additional Increase ◽  
Longitudinal Changes ◽  
Novel Method ◽  
The Brain

We recently proposed a novel method that aggregates the multidimensional aging pattern across the brain to a single value. This method proved to provide stable and reliable estimates of brain aging – even across different scanners. While investigating longitudinal changes in BrainAGE in about 400 elderly subjects, we discovered that patients with Alzheimer’s disease and subjects who had converted to AD within 3 years showed accelerated brain atrophy by +6 years at baseline. An additional increase in BrainAGE accumulated to a score of about +9 years during follow-up. Accelerated brain aging was related to prospective cognitive decline and disease severity. In conclusion, the BrainAGE framework indicates discrepancies in brain aging and could thus serve as an indicator for cognitive functioning in the future.

Design Intervention Assessment of Urban Public Park for Physical Activity Promotion in Bangkok, Thailand

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 4-4
Author(s):  
Sigit Arifwidodo ◽  
Orana Chandrasiri
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Urban Areas ◽  
Urban Landscape ◽  
Physical Activity Promotion ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Pilot Project ◽  
Public Park ◽  
Activity Promotion ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Design Intervention

Public Park is considered one of the essential settings for physical activity, especially in urban areas. Parks support physical activity through their accessibility, their provision to facilitate active pursuits; their capacity to provide opportunities to a wide range of users; and their semi-permanent nature. The paper explores the design intervention assessment of Benchakitti Park, which serves as the pilot project for active park and showcase during the past ISPAH 2016 conference. The objective of the paper is to understand the health and well-being benefits of an urban park in increasing PA levels of urban population and promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. Keywords: Public park; physical activity; urban landscape design; public health; SOPARC

Lighting and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias: Spotlight on sleep and depression

2021 ◽  
Vol 53 (5) ◽  
pp. 405-422
Author(s):  
MG Figueiro ◽  
HC Kales
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Neurodegenerative Disease ◽  
Sleep Disturbances ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Pharmacological Intervention ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Health And Well Being ◽  
Positive Results

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias is the collective term for a progressive neurodegenerative disease for which there is presently no cure. This paper focuses on two symptoms of the disease, sleep disturbances and depression, and discusses how light can be used as a non-pharmacological intervention to mitigate their negative effects. Bright days and dark nights are needed for health and well-being, but the present components of the built environment, especially those places where older adults spend most of their days, are too dimly illuminated during the day and too bright at night. To be effective light needs to be correctly specified, implemented and measured. Yet, without the appropriate specification and measurement of the stimulus, researchers will not be able to successfully demonstrate positive results in the field, nor will lighting designers and specifiers have the confidence to implement lighting solutions for promoting better sleep and mood in this population.

scholarly journals A Framework for a New Approach to Empower Users Through Low-Cost and Do-It-Yourself Assistive Technology

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (6) ◽  
pp. 3039
Author(s):  
Thais Pousada García ◽  
Jessica Garabal-Barbeira ◽  
Patricia Porto Trillo ◽  
Olalla Vilar Figueira ◽  
Cristina Novo Díaz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Assistive Technology ◽  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Design Thinking ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Pilot Project ◽  
Assistive Device ◽  
Preliminary Results ◽  
Do It Yourself ◽  
Principles Of Design

Background: Assistive Technology (AT) refers to “assistive products and related systems and services developed for people to maintain or improve functioning and thereby to promote well-being”. Improving the process of design and creation of assistive products is an important step towards strengthening AT provision. Purpose: (1) to present a framework for designing and creating Low-Cost AT; (2) to display the preliminary results and evidence derived from applying the framework. Methodology: First, an evidence-based process was applied to develop and conceptualize the framework. Then, a pilot project to validate the framework was carried out. The sample was formed by 11 people with disabilities. The measure instruments were specific questionnaire, several forms of the Matching Person-Technology model, the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Device Scale, and a tool to assess the usability and universal design of AT. Results: The framework integrates three phases: Identification (Design), Creation (Making the prototype), and Implementation (Outcome Measures), based on the principles of Design Thinking, and with a user-centered perspective. The preliminary results showed the coherence of the entire process and its applicability. The matching between person and device was high, representing the importance of involving the user in the design and selection of AT. Conclusions: The framework is a guide for professionals and users to apply a Low-Cost and Do-It-Yourself perspective to the provision of AT. It highlights the importance of monitoring the entire procedure and measuring the effects, by applying the outcome measures.

A Generative Sequential Mixed Methods Approach Using Quantitative Measures to Enhance Social Constructionist Inquiry

2021 ◽  
pp. 155868982098627
Author(s):  
Diego Romaioli
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Mixed Methods Research ◽  
Quantitative Methods ◽  
Maslach Burnout Inventory ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Social Constructionist ◽  
Social Scientists ◽  
Mixed Methods Approach ◽  
Qualitative And Quantitative Methods ◽  
Sequential Mixed Methods

In order to enhance core mixed methods research designs, social scientists need an approach that incorporates developments in the social constructionist perspective. This work describes a study that aimed to promote occupational well-being in hospital departments where employees are at risk of burnout, based on a constructionist inquiry developed starting from the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Taking this study as an example, we define a “generative sequential mixed methods approach” as a process that involves consulting quantitative studies to identify criticalities on which to conduct focused, transformative investigations. The article contributes by envisaging ways to mix qualitative and quantitative methods that consider a “generative” and “future-forming” orientation to research, in line with recent shifts in social psychology.

scholarly journals The Financial Presentation of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 685-686
Author(s):  
Lauren Nicholas
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Financial Stability ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Chronic Illnesses ◽  
Older Americans ◽  
Economics Of Aging ◽  
Financial Events ◽  
Credit Data ◽  
Medicare Claims Data

Abstract Dementia, a currently incurable degenerative cognitive disease, represents a major threat to financial stability. Early signs of dementia can include difficulties managing money and forgetting to pay bills, raising concerns about the implications of pre-clinical disease for financial well-being. We linked Medicare claims data to 20 years of consumer credit data for more than 80,000 older Americans living in single households to study the financial presentation of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias. Using non-parametric regression models, we find elevated rates of payment delinquency, subprime credit, and withdrawal from use of credit products up to 6 years before dementia is clinically diagnosed. Similar patterns did not appear with a number of placebo acute and chronic health conditions, suggesting that the adverse financial events are unique to dementia and do not occur with other acute or chronic illnesses. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Economics of Aging Interest Group.

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