MEDICAL STUDENTS
Name: Youngjee Choi
Home University: Washington University School of Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): John Morris, M.D.
Host University: Washington University
Research project: Is Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Correlated to
the Prevalence and Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Authors: Y. Choi, BA; M.M. Williams, MD; C.M. Roe, PhD; J.C.
Morris, MD
Abstract: Epidemiologic studies suggest an association between
type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD); several
mechanisms have been suggested to underlie this association. We
examined T2DM prevalence in demented and nondemented individuals and
also examined the effect of T2DM on dementia onset and progression.
In 506 demented and 318 nondemented participants (76.74±9.95 and
76.68±8.21 years of age respectively, with 3.98±2.65 years of
followup) studied at an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, T2DM
prevalence was higher in participants with AD compared with controls
(p= 0.012). However, the presence of T2DM was not associated with AD
onset and progression in these older adults. These findings suggest
that the putative risk for AD conferred by T2DM occurs years before
the development of dementia. Future studies should longitudinally
characterize a community-based sample for AD and duration and
control of T2DM, noting mid-life versus late-life onset of T2DM. AD
prevalence in well-characterized T2DM populations should be studied,
as well as effects of T2DM treatment on dementia progression.
Name: Courtney (Rory) Goodwin
Home University: Johns Hopkins University
Major: Neuroscience/Medicine
Mentor(s): John Laterra, M.D., Ph.D.
Host University: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Research project: Clinical Markers of tumor sensitivity to HGF/c-Met
pathway inhibition in malignant gliomas with heterogeneous
backgrounds
Authors: Poster_Authors
C. Rory Goodwin, B.S., Bachchu Lal, Ph.D., Xin Zhou, and John
Laterra, M.D., Ph.D.
Abstract: HGF/c-Met and EGFRvIII are receptor tyrosine kinase
systems that lead to over-activation of Akt, which is implicated in
increased malignant glioma progression. While anti-HGF therapies
have arrested the growth of HGF-expressing human gliomas in animal
models, the effect of parallel pathways of activation, like EGFRvIII,
are currently unknown. We implanted U87wt or U87-EGFRvIII glioma
cells in the flank of athymic nude mice to establish subcutaneous
xenografts. Mice received either Control or Anti-HGF mAb every
alternate day and were sacrificed 24, 48, or 72 hours after each mAb
injection. Tumor sizes were measured and protein was extracted for
immunoblot analysis. We found that anti-HGF therapy significantly
alters tumor response, reduces ILK expression and blunts Akt
activation in U87wt glioma xenografts. Also, we found that EGFRvIII
expression alters tumor volume, upregulates Akt activation, and ILK
expression in U87 glioma cells and reduces glioma sensitivity to
anti-HGF therapy. Thus, the genetic background of a glioma should be
taken into account when developing glioma treatment strategies.
Name: Omar Halawa
Home University: University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Xuemei Huang, M.D., Ph.D.
Host University: University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Research project: Examining Brain Laterality in Right and Left
Hand Dominant Subjects Using fMRI: Laterality Ain't What It's
Supposed to Be!
Authors: Omar Halawa M.S., Roxanne Poole, Mechelle Lewis Ph.D.,
Xuemei Huang M.D., Ph.D.
Abstract: Traditionally, motor activity is thought to be
controlled strictly by contralateral cortical and subcortical, and
ipsilateral cerebellar, structures. Functional MRI, combined with
anatomical data, is an excellent mechanism of studying brain
laterality. In order to gain insight into brain laterality and
different motor-sensory tasks, we conducted anatomical and fMRI
studies on 16 right- and 5 left-hand dominant subjects performing a
motor-sensory task with either their left or right hand.
Our research suggests that the common
laterality theory of the brain is not a hard and fast rule. Many
regions, particularly the caudate and other motor associated areas,
do not show laterality by either the dominant or non-dominant hand.
Our preliminary results suggest a difference in
the lateralization, and possible neurocircuitry, of right- and
left-handed people. Moreover, the study showed a task-specific
laterality of the striatum during the IG task in right handed
subjects. Due to the strong involvement of the basal ganglia in
initiation and modulation of motor movement, we think these
observations might have certain ramifications for certain asymmetric
movement disorders, such as Parkinson ’s disease and dystonia.
Name: Daniel Neghassi
Home University: Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Harold Pincus, M.D. and Evelyn Granieri, M.D.
Host University: Columbia University
Research project: Patient Safety in Psychiatry: A Systematic
Literature Review and Analysis of an Event Database
Name: Carolyn Parma
Home University: University of Illinois College of Medicine at
Champaigne-Urbana
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Mark K. Ferguson, M.D.
Host University: The University of Chicago
Research project: Mood and Quality of Life in Elderly Patients
after Lung Cancer Surgery
Authors: Carolyn Parma, Amy E. Durkin Celauro, MS, PA-C, Mark
K. Ferguson, MD
Abstract: Background: Lung cancer is increasingly common among
the elderly, and more elderly patients are being treated surgically
for cancer. Are there QOL or mood issues that might affect the
decision to perform potentially curative surgery in this
population? We examined the relationship between age and
postoperative QOL and mood, whether preoperative comorbid factors
determine postoperative QOL and mood in elderly patients, and
whether operative complications contribute to postoperative QOL and
mood in elderly patients. Methods: Patients were contacted at least
6 months after resection for pathologic stage Ia or Ib non-small
cell lung cancer and were administered the European Organization for
Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC
QLQ-C30) and the EORTC Lung Cancer Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-LC13) to
assess mood, quality of life, functioning, and symptoms. Results:
Younger and older lung cancer patients who had undergone surgery had
a similar mood, quality of life, and symptoms after surgery.
Comorbidities were greater in the older population when compared
with the younger age group. The older patients in this study were
more likely to experience complications after surgery. The presence
of comorbidities and the occurrence of postoperative complications
did not adversely influence postoperative quality of life and mood.
Conclusions: Lung cancer resection does not seem to adversely
affect mood or QOL post-surgery in the elderly population.
Name: Melissa Rayhill
Home University: SUNY Buffalo School of Medicine and Biological
Sciences
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Fran M. Gengo, PharmD and Horatio Capote, M.D.
Host University: Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy University at
Buffalo
Research project: Post Stroke Depression: A Retrospective MRI
Study
Authors: Horacio A Capote, MD, Fran M. Gengo, PharmD, Melissa
Rayhill
Abstract: This study is a retrospective review of information
from MRI studies and chart review. The primary objective of this
research is to examine MRI findings from patients who had strokes
between 6 and 24 months ago and determine if these findings
correlate with subsequently developing depressive symptoms.
Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a well-documented, often
unrecognized phenomenon. PSD has been known to increase mortality in
patients who have suffered a stroke. However, the causes,
prevalence, and risk factors have not been well defined. Data may
elucidate MRI factors that correlate with developing depression
after stroke. Understanding which factors correlate with the
development of post-stroke depression may help in understanding risk
factors for post-stroke depression. Screening for post-stroke
depression and associated risk factors may help to make earlier
diagnosis, and could enhance preventative mental health care in
patients who have had stroke. The data collection will continue
through the end of 2007.
Name: Megan Richie
Home University: University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Hillary Bogner, M.D.
Host University: University of Pennsylvania
Research project: Depression, Cognition, and APOE: A latent
class approach to identifying a subtype
Authors: Megan Richie, and Hillary Bogner M.D., MSCE
Abstract:
Objective
Previous research has indicated that the apolipoprotein ?4 (APOE-?4)
allele is associated with decreased cognitive functioning in older
adults. However, a similar association between APOE-?4 and
depression has not been clearly established. Our purpose was to
employ latent class analysis as a new way to explore these potential
relationships.
Methods
Our sample consisted of 305 adults aged 65 or older with complete
information on APOE genotyping and covariates. We used the latent
class model to classify respondents according to the Composite
International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) and four measures of
cognitive function. We examined the relationship between class
membership and APOE genotype, cardiovascular conditions, and
sociodemographic characteristics.
Results
The latent class model yielded three classes: a non-depressed group,
a group with depressive symptoms but average cognitive functioning,
and a group with impaired cognitive functioning and symptoms of
depression. Possessing at least one APOE-?4 allele did not predict
class membership. African-Americans were more likely to be members
of the cognitively depressed class than the non-depressed class
(odds ratio [OR], 3.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16-9.10).
Respondents with education levels of high school graduate or higher
were less likely to be members of the cognitively depressed class
than the non-depressed class (OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.12-0.91).
Conclusions
Among elderly respondents with depressive symptoms, a subgroup with
cognitive impairment may exist that is not related to the APOE-?4
allele but that may be related to ethnicity and education level.
These results have implications for the appropriate identification
of depression among elderly adults.
Name: Lisa Rodelo
Home University: Wayne State University School of Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Patricia A. Areán, Ph.D.
Host University: University of California, San Francisco
Research project: Characterization of Major Depression in
Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis at San Francisco General Hospital
Authors: Lisa Rodelo M.S., Laura Julian Ph.D., John Imboden
M.D., Patricia Arean Ph.D.
Abstract: Depressive disorders are known to worsen the
prognosis of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), therefore,
identifying RA patients with MDD is important in the care management
of the RA patient. The purpose of this pilot study was to generate
preliminary data to evaluate specific hypotheses concerning
depression in a cohort of patients with RA at a public county
hospital in San Francisco (San Francisco General Hospital; SFGH).
The objectives of this study are: 1) To determine rates of Major
Depressive Disorder (MDD) in persons with RA; 2) To determine
clinical and demographic characteristics that may be associated with
a having a diagnosis of MDD; and 3) To determine which, if any,
characteristics are associated with a particular subset of the nine
symptoms of MDD as described in the DSM-IV. 42 participants were
recruited from an outpatient RA clinic at SFGH. An adapted form of
the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) was used as
the screening instrument. Overall, 38% of the sample screened
positive for MDD. Factors that were significantly associated with
having MDD included: pain severity and primary language other than
English; other factors such as race/ethnicity, impact of pain, and
RA disease activity reached trend level significance and should be
examined further in a larger sample. The most prevalent MDD somatic
symptom reported was sleep disturbance. Some depressive symptoms
showed differences along various factors studied. This study
provides an important perspective of depressive symptom pattern by
looking at a population with four unique dimensions: it is
ethnically diverse, its members all have a chronic and painful
disease, it is mostly elderly, and its members are typically of
lower socio-economic status. There is a need for better
identification and treatment for MDD in low-income RA patients, and
existing treatments may be insufficient to address the complexities
inherent in such a population.
Name: Puja Shah
Home University: Drexel University College of Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Hillary Bogner, M.D.
Host University: University of Pennsylvania
Research project: Somatic Symptoms and the Identification of
Depression Among Elderly Primary Care Patients
Authors: Puja R. Shah, BS and Hillary R. Bogner, MD MSCE
Abstract: Somatization, the presentation of medically
unexplained symptoms, is common in the primary care setting, and is
recognized as a feature of depression. In this study, we examined
the relationship between somatization and depression as rated by
primary care physicians and investigated the characteristics of
patients who were identified by the physician as somatizing,
depressed, or both depressed and somatizing.
Patients who were rated as somatizing were 4
times as likely to be rated as depressed. Also, primary care
physicians were 4 times more likely to identify older black
patients as somatizing only versus depressed and somatizing
compared to older white patients.
Our study fills a gap in the literature by
focusing on the primary care physician ratings of depression and
somatization, and on older primary care patients. Blacks are less
likely to be rated as depressed but this seems to reflect the
tendency of doctors to rate them as somatizing
Name: Connie Taylor
Home University: Morehouse School of Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Dwain Morris-Irvin, Ph.D.
Host University: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Research project: Migration of doublecortin-positive
neuroblasts from the subventricular zone into the 6-hydroxydopamine
lesioned striatum
Name: Frank Tsai
Home University: Temple University School of Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Richard Doty, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Pennsylvania
Research project: Effects of olfactory system damage on brain
beta-amyloid and tau formation in mice
Authors: Frank Tsai, Richard L. Doty, Ph.D.
Abstract: Smell loss is a clear indicator of the early stages
of Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD) disease. Excluding
genetics, most risk factors for AD and PD are directly related to
the olfactory system and hyposmia: mild cognitive impairment in
older age, physical damage, oxidative damage, exposure to
pollutants, and viruses.
The olfactory system may play a key role in the
development of some neuropathologies. We aim to determine whether
unilateral olfactory bulb removal in the mouse brain will result in
increased brain plaque and neurofibrillary tangle formation
ipsilateral to the removal.
Name: Shu-Han Zhu
Home University: Case Western Reserve University School of
Medicine
Major: Medicine
Mentor(s): Mark Smith, Ph.D.
Host University: Case Western Reserve University
Research project: Neuronal Cell Cycle Reactivation in the
Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Shu-Han Zhu, Hyoung-Gon Lee, Gemma Casadesus, Sandra
Richardson, George Perry, Robert B. Petersen, Mark Smith
Abstract: Although Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is marked by
neuronal death, evidence shows that neurodegeneration is actually
preceded by activation of many proteins related to cell cycle
activity. To further elucidate the role of cell cycle activity in
AD, we created a transgenic mouse with inducible MYC expression
specific to the forebrain neurons (CaMKII-MYC). Upon induction,
these mice developed changes similar to those seen in Alzheimer’s
disease such as tau hyperphosphorylation, amyloid-beta accumulation,
neural degeneration and cognitive decline. These results led us to
test the capacity of roscovitine, a selective cyclin dependent
kinase inhibitor (CDK) to prevent cell cycle activity and
neurodegeneration. Roscovitine treated mice showed normal
hippocampal histology and no neurodegeneration under hematoxylin and
eosin stain whereas untreated mice showed evidences of
neurodegeneration such as eosinophilic cytoplasm, shrunken cell
bodies and nuclear condensation. Roscovitine also reduced the
expression of cell cycle marker cyclin D1 in hippocampal neurons and
reduced astrocytosis. Given the body of evidence supporting cell
cycle disregulation as an early pathogenic factor in AD, cell cycle
inhibitors may present a new preventative or therapeutic treatment
for AD.
GRADUATE STUDENTS
Name: Nicholas Eaton
Home University: University of Minnesota--Twin Cities
Major: Psychology (Clinical)
Mentor(s): Thomas F. Oltmanns, Ph.D.
Host University: Washington University in St. Louis
Research project: The Long-Term Stability of the Internalizing
Factor Across the Lifespan in a Nationally-Representative U. S.
Sample
Authors: Nicholas R. Eaton, Robert F. Krueger, & Thomas F.
Oltmanns
Abstract: Recent research into the underlying structure of
psychopathology indicates that two broad, super-ordinate factors –
internalizing (INT) and externalizing – account best for many common
psychiatric disorders. However, little is currently known about how
these factors differ across age groups and the long-term stability
of INT. Latent variable modeling was used to examine the potential
invariance of INT (comprised of major depression, generalized
anxiety, and panic disorder) in younger, middle, and older adults
and its stability over eight to 10 years. Results indicated that INT
factor loadings did not differ significantly across the age groups.
INT stability levels, which were moderate to high over time, also
did not show significant differences. These results suggest that INT
may function as an age-unbiased method to conceptualize mental
disorders for classification and possibly for research and treatment
as well. INT also seems to be a largely stable construct over time
periods longer than previously examined.
Name: Karen Fortuna
Home University: University of Pennsylvania
Major: Masters in Social Work
Mentor(s): Cynthia Zubritsky, Ph.D
Host University: University of Pennsylvania
Research project: Assessment of Bipolar Spectrum Disorder in
Older Adults
Authors: Karen Lynn Fortuna, MSW and Cynthia Zubritsky, PhD
Abstract: We hypothesized that 1) screening instruments
designed to identify BSD in older adults may not exist and 2) there
are common characteristics among older adults diagnosed with BSD
that are not explored in screening instruments used for the general
population.
Methods
1. A literature review was conducted to identify BSD screening
instruments.
2. Eleven older adults with depression
completed the Bipolar Spectrum Disorder Scale modified to identify
common characteristics of older adults with BSD.
(1) Results: Literature Review
A review of the literature revealed six
self-report and seven interview style screening tools that are
commonly used for the general population; instruments reporting
average age of consumer in validation studies mean age was 39.5.
(2) Results: Modified Screening Tool
Using results from the focus group we
identified that older adults with a high probability of a BSD
diagnosis include the following.
Vivid dreams, emotions, and realistic
nightmares
Physical pains
Increased levels of hostility,
aggressiveness, and irritability
Impaired ability to function in a community
or social setting
Name: Steffanie Halberstadt
Home University: University of Pennsylvania
Major: Biostatistics
Mentor(s): Tom TenHave, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Pennsylvania
Research project: Predicting Suicide in High-Risk Populations:
A 25-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Steff Halberstadt, B.A., Tom Ten Have, Ph.D., Amy
Wenzel, Ph.D.
Abstract: Suicide is a critical public health concern that is
considerably difficult to study because of its infrequency. Our
goal is to use baseline data from patients admitted to the
Philadelphia General Hospital from 1970 to 1975 for suicide ideation
or attempt and corresponding data from the National Death Index to
determine predictors of completed suicide over a long period of
follow up. Logistic regression was used to investigate demographic,
suicide-relevant, diagnostic, psychological, and psychiatric
variables. Interest also focused on whether associations with
suicide differed between suicide ideators and attempters at baseline
as well as between short-term and long-term deaths. More
demographic and suicide-relevant variables were significantly
associated with suicide, and younger age of hospital admission as
well as being Caucasian were significantly associated with higher
odds of completed suicide (p=. 008 and .002). Those who took
precautions against discovery were more likely to complete suicide
(p=.025) and people who died more than 5 years after admission to
the hospital were about one fifth as likely as others to have
committed suicide (p<.001). It has been shown that people who
attempt suicide at least once are more likely than others to
complete suicide. With 25+ years of follow up, we are able to gain
much needed information on how to predict and thus prevent suicide
for such a high-risk population.
Name: Lisa Jackey
Home University: University of Michigan
Major: Developmental Psychology
Mentor(s): Toni Antonucci, Ph.D
Host University: University of Michigan
Research project: Aging and Depression: A Comparison of
Symptom-Based and Diagnosis-Based Measures
Authors: Lisa Jackey, Kira Birditt, and Toni Antonucci
Abstract: Literature suggests that a substantial number of
older adults are depressed, and that depression is associated with
age. Different assessments of depression have been used, including
some based on diagnostic criteria and others based on a threshold
number of symptoms. The present study aimed to compare these two
types of measures, with particular emphasis on their association
with age and with demographic and social network characteristics.
Data were from Wave 2 of the Social Relations and Health Across the
Lifecourse Study, which included 1076 adults 20-100 years of age.
Results showed substantial (78%) but not complete overlap between
depressive status on a diagnosis-based assessment (the Composite
International Diagnostic Interview: CIDI) and a symptom-based
assessment (the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale:
CES-D). The oldest-old (80+) participants were the least likely to
report a Major Depressive Episode on the CIDI, but there were no age
differences on the CES-D. Self-rated health was the most consistent
predictor of depressive status across measures. Quality of relations
with social network members was also associated with depressive
status. Specific associations between social network characteristics
and depression differed both by measure and by age group.
Name: Jean Ko
Home University: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public
Health
Major: Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Epidemiology
Mentor(s): George W. Rebok, Ph.D.
Host University: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Research project: Feasibility of using the General Health
Questionnaire (GHQ) to assess the prevalence and characteristics of
apathy in community-based older adults.
Authors: Ko, J.Y., Clarke, D.E., Rebok, G.W., Eaton, W.W.
Abstract: Apathy, a complex neurobehavioral syndrome, is
commonly present in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. This project
sought to examine the feasibility of using the General Health
Questionnaire (GHQ) to assess apathy and to estimate the prevalence
and correlates of apathy in community-based older adults (aged 50+
years). Data from 1,540 older community-dwelling adults from the
Baltimore Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA), a longitudinal
community survey, were used for these analyses. Principal axis
factor analysis with varimax rotation and ROC curve were used to
develop and validate the GHQ-Apathy scale. Chi-square statistics,
t-tests, and logistic regressions were used to evaluate the
prevalence and correlates of apathy.
Name: Nichole Kryla
Home University: UC Santa Cruz
Major: Cognitive Psychology
Mentor(s): Mara Mather, Ph.D.
Host University: UC Santa Cruz
Research project: The Ties that Bind: The Impact of Stress on
Memory Binding in Aging
Authors: Nichole Kryla-Lighthall, Marissa Gorlick, and Mara
Mather
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Emotional arousal can enhance memory for
central objects, but has been found to impair memory for event
details, such as co-occurring objects. Arousal can also impact
memories after an event has occurred. PURPOSE: Examine the impact of
post-encoding arousal (via stress) on recognition and feature
binding for arousing and neutral images in young and old adults. We
predicted that: 1) Post-encoding stress would enhance recognition
and within-object memory binding (item location) for arousing
images; 2) Post-encoding stress would impair between-object memory
binding (paired associates) for arousing images, and; 3) Older
adults would have impaired memory binding, but overall the same
degree of stress-related enhancement and impairment to memory as
young adults. METHODS: 48 young and 48 older adults were randomly
assigned to the stress or control condition. Participants viewed
picture/shape pairs in which pictures were either arousing or
neutral. Afterwards, stress was induced by having participants
submerge a hand in ice water. 24 hours later, participants completed
a surprise memory test which included item recognition, location
memory, and pair memory tasks. RESULTS: Stress created only marginal
differences in memory for picture location, enhancing memory for
positive picture location. There were no differential effects of
stress on between-object memory for arousing and neutral objects.
Older adults did have impaired memory binding, but memory
performance for both older and younger adults were relatively
unaffected by stress. CONCLUSIONS: Emotionally arousing objects were
remembered better by young and old adults. And in both age groups,
memory for within-object details such as location was enhanced when
objects were arousing. However, inducing physiological arousal did
not significantly change performance on any elements of memory
binding regardless of age.
Name: Poorni Otilingam
Home University: University of Southern California
Major: Clinical-Aging Psychology
Mentor(s): Margaret Gatz, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Southern California
Research project: Development and pilot testing of a brain
health focused dietary intervention: Habitos Alimenticios para una
Buena Salud (Good Eating Habits for Good Health)
Authors: Poorni G. Otilingam, M.P.H., M.A., Giulia Suro, B.A.,
Antonio Escobar and Margaret Gatz, Ph.D.
Abstract: The purpose of this project was to pilot test
materials for a study assessing the effectiveness of a
vascular-based dietary intervention among Latinas. Materials
included informed consent and recruitment materials, measures, and
dietary intervention. The goal was to ensure: clarity of items and
response options; ecological validity of measures; and culturally
appropriate intervention methods. Fifteen monolingual (Spanish) and
bilingual middle-aged Latinas were recruited from three promotora de
salud (peer health educator) organizations. Pilot testing was
primarily conducted in Spanish, and was facilitated by bilingual
research assistants. Pilot testers were compensated with a $10 gift
card for their participation. Results indicated key culture-specific
communication strategies based on promotoras’ field experiences. For
example, because it can be especially intimidating for less
acculturated Latinas to sign up for the study on their own, pilot
testers recommended that they be encouraged to invite a female
friend or relative to participate.
Name: Kristen Payne
Home University: University of Alabama
Major: Clinical Psychology
Mentor(s): Rebecca Allen, Ph.D.
Host University: The University of Alabama
Research project: What’s Important? Themes Expressed by
Chronically Ill Older Adults and Caregivers in the Legacy Project
Authors: Kristen L. Payne, M.A., Rebecca S. Allen, Ph.D.,
Michelle Hilgeman, B.S., & Margaret Ege, B.S.
Abstract: The Legacy Project was a family-based intervention
designed to help older adults and their caregivers complete a
tangible Legacy to leave for their family (e.g., scrapbook).
Participants met with an interventionist for 3 sessions to develop
their personal Legacy. The first session consisted discussing what
was important in the dyad’s lives as a tool to help them think about
what Legacy project they would like to complete. The current study
examines 10 of the dyads who completed this first session. A
thematic analysis revealed that the most commonly reported themes
for what was important to the care recipient were: family,
spirituality, and generativity. Two surprising findings immerged.
First, dyads talked often about memories surrounding food, such as
specific recipes they remembered. Second, African-American dyads
seemed to be most comfortable with an African-American
interventionist. African-American issues (e.g., health habits) were
discussed more often when the dyad and interventionist were race
matched.
Name: Natalie Sabik
Home University: University of Michigan
Major: Psychology and Women's Studies
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Cole, Ph.D. and Deborah Keller-Cohen, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Michigan
Research project: Exploring Body Satisfaction, Social
Engagement, and Depression Among Black and White Aging Women
Authors: Natalie Sabik, Dr. Elizabeth Cole, Dr. Deborah
Keller-Cohen
Abstract: This research explores whether body perceptions among
diverse aging women are linked to aging consciousness, social
engagement and depression. 100 Black and White women aged 75 to 85
years were recruited to complete survey measures. We hypothesize
that high aging consciousness and low femininity will predict body
satisfaction, and body satisfaction will be positively related to
social engagement and negatively related to depression. Follow up
interviews will be conducted with 20 women to discuss body image,
with attention to its association with social support and
depression. We expect that aging consciousness will be associated
with higher body satisfaction, and that this will lead to less
depression and higher social engagement. This project’s focus on
underrepresented groups will add to existing work on body image,
aging, and depression among women. Gaining a better understanding of
the relationships between these constructs for women of different
races may lead to increased aging consciousness and improvements in
well-being among aging women.
Name: Melissa Snarski
Home University: University of Alabama
Major: Psychology
Mentor(s): Forrest Scogin, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Alabama
Research project: The Effectiveness of Behavioral Activation in
Treating Depressed Geriatric Inpatients
Authors: Melissa Snarski, M.A., & Forrest Scogin, Ph.D.
Abstract: Finding effective depression treatments is an
ever-evolving process. Particularly, there is a lack of research
examining effective psychologically-based treatments for older adult
inpatients. This study aims to fill this gap in the literature and
examine the feasibility and effectiveness of applying Behavioral
Activation Therapy(BATD) in an inpatient geriatric facility.
Depressive symptoms were used as outcome variables, measured at
pre-, mid-, and post- treatment among all participants.
A repeated measures analysis examining the time
x treatment interaction
indicated a marginally significant interaction
for depression scores between the two groups over time at pre and
post (F= 3.71, p =.06) and statistical significance between the pre
and mid timepoints (f=5.20, p<.03). Most interesting was that among
completers, there was both statistical significance at pre to mid
(F=11.60, P=.002) and pre to post (F=6.36, p<.02). This suggests
that BATD may be a particularly useful treatment for geriatric
depression due to its brevity.
Name: Erica Solway
Home University: University of California, San Francisco
Major: Sociology
Mentor(s): Carroll Estes, Ph.D.
Host University: University of California, San Francisco
Research project: Somebody Showed Me that Mental Illness Was
Not a Dead End Insights of Older Adult Mental Health Consumer
Advocates and Key Leaders in Mental Health and Aging
Authors: Erica S. Solway, MSW, MPH and Carroll L. Estes, PhD
Abstract: Hypothesis: There are significant barriers to
involvement in advocacy (efforts intended to increase or improve
mental health services) for older adults with mental health needs,
yet these advocacy efforts can have an important influence on the
access to and quality of mental health services for older adults;
Methods: Qualitative interviews and participant observation using a
grounded theory approach; Data: In-person interviews with 18 older
adult mental health consumer advocates in the Bay Area and telephone
interviews with 52 leading advocates, policymakers, and providers in
the field of mental health and aging across the nation; Conclusions:
Although barriers to involvement in advocacy do exist, older adult
mental health advocates (1) often gain satisfaction, self-esteem,
confidence, skills, and friendships, and strengthen community ties;
and (2) successfully promote policies/programs that have a positive
influence on the treatment and care of older adults with mental
health problems. The advocacy efforts by older adult consumer
advocates parallel the needs identified by key leaders in the field
across the country while at the same time lending a personal
perspective suggesting that more collaboration between consumers and
other leaders in the field could be highly effective for policy
change.
Name: Merry Sylvester
Home University: University of Nevada, Reno
Major: Clinical Psychology
Mentor(s): Jane E. Fisher, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Nevada, Reno
Research project: The Context of Behavioral Disturbances in
Persons with Dementia
Authors: Merry Sylvester, B.A., and Jane E. Fisher, Ph.D.
Abstract: Behaviors exhibited by dementia patients have serious
negative consequences including increased risk of
institutionalization, administration of antipsychotic medication,
and increased caregiver stress. These behaviors are typically
conceptualized as symptoms of disease without consideration of the
etiological role of patient history and current environmental
factors. The aims of this project were to 1) further develop a
prescriptive method of assessment to inform restraint-free
approaches for reducing problem behaviors; and 2) examine variation
in the relationship between environmental stimuli and
topographically similar behaviors across patients. Participants
included 60 nursing home residents with Alzheimer’s disease(AD).
Certified nursing assistants completed a questionnaire to assess the
possible function of individual behaviors including: reducing
sensory stimulation, increasing sensory stimulation
escape-motivated, and attention-motivated. Results indicate that
behavior problems exhibited by AD patients serve adaptive functions.
Significant inter-individual variability in function was found for
all behaviors, supporting the need for individualized interventions
for topographically similar behaviors across patients.
Name: Don Teed
Home University: University of Minnesota
Major: Fulfilling pre-medical requirements
Mentor(s): Jose V. Pardo, M.D., Ph.D.
Host University: University of Minnesota
Research project: Measurement of Pi to ATP flux in the human
anterior cingulate cortex using 7T magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Don N. Teed BA, Malgorzata Marjanska PhD, Jose V.
Pardo MD/PhD
Abstract: Normal aging has been shown to have a strong negative
correlation with glucose metabolism in frontomedial regions of the
brain, including the anterior cingulate (ACC) (Pardo et al., 2006).
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is non-invasive tool that
offers insight into the in vivo structure and functioning of the
human brain. The recent development of ultra-high field strength 7T
MRS suitable for human studies allows for high MRS detection
sensitivity and a large chemical shift dispersion. No study to date
has used 7T MRS to investigate metabolic changes in the anterior
cingulate cortex associated with normal aging. We predict that
normal aging and age-related cognitive decline in the anterior
cingulate cortex will correlate with diminished rate of ATP
synthesis in this structure.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
Name: Irma Escobar
Home University: University of Southern California
Major: Psychology and minor in Public Health
Mentor(s): Gia Robinson Shurgot, Ph.D. and Bob Knight, Ph.D.
Host University: University of Southern California
Research project: The Influence of Optimism, Mastery, and
Positive Aspects of Caregiving on Coping Styles Among Latina
Dementia Caregivers
Authors: Irma R. Escobar, Gia R. Shurgot, PhD and Bob G.
Knight, PhD
Abstract: Caring for a relative with dementia is a stressful
experience that is associated with poor physical and psychological
health (Hooker, Monahan, Bowman, Frazier, & Shifren, 1998; Pinquart
& Sörensen, 2003; Vitaliano, Zhang, & Scanlan, 2003). Research has
found that individuals who are optimistic tend to have positive
outcomes due to their positive expectations and use of
problem-focused coping strategies in situations in which they
perceive having mastery or control (Carver, Scheier, & Weintraub,
1989; Hooker et al., 1998).
As predicted, optimism positively correlated
with mastery and problem-focused coping (r = .51, p < 0.001 and r =
.40, p < .01). In a multiple regression, mastery was a significant
and partial mediator of optimism and problem-focused coping.
Further research should examine the quality of
the caregiver and care recipient relationship, and the care
recipient’s personality to determine how these two factors affect
caregivers’ positive aspects of caregiving and perceived burden.
Name: Joshua Ginsberg
Home University: Yeshiva University
Major: Biology
Mentor(s): Jeremy Koppel, M.D. and Gwenn Smith, Ph.D.
Host University: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Research project: Plasma Endocannabinoids in Alzheimer's
Disease and Elderly Controls
Authors: Jermey Koppel, M.D., Peter Davies P.h.d., Joshua
Ginsberg
Abstract: Endocannabinoids have been shown to play a major role
in the immune system. This can be seen at the CB2 receptor in the
brain. There are certain endocannabinoids in the form of lipids that
trigger the CB2 receptor and cause the immune system to shut down in
the brain. This is a major factor in people diagnosed with
Alzheimer’s Disease. So we measured these endocannabinod lipids in
the brain of AD patients and regular elderly controls and we found
that the first 2AG showed significantly higher level of
concentration in AD brains as opposed to elderly controls. However,
the other endocannabinoid lipid AEA did not show any significant
level differences between the two brains. Anyways, based on the
findings of the first findings of the lipid endocannabinoid 2AG we
believe that if some type of intervention at the CB2 receptor site
would be done it could be a possible way to detect and prevent
Alzheimer’s Disease.
Name: Hannah Perrin
Home University: Brown University
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor(s): Suzanne de la Monte, M.D.
Host University: Brown Medical School
Research project: What’s Important? Themes Expressed by
Chronically Ill Older Adults and Caregivers in the Legacy Project
Authors: Kristen L. Payne, M.A., Rebecca S. Allen, Ph.D.,
Michelle Hilgeman, B.S., & Margaret Ege, B.S.
Abstract: The Legacy Project was a family-based intervention
designed to help older adults and their caregivers complete a
tangible Legacy to leave for their family (e.g., scrapbook).
Participants met with an interventionist for 3 sessions to develop
their personal Legacy. The first session consisted discussing what
was important in the dyad’s lives as a tool to help them think about
what Legacy project they would like to complete. The current study
examines 10 of the dyads who completed this first session. A
thematic analysis revealed that the most commonly reported themes
for what was important to the care recipient were: family,
spirituality, and generativity. Two surprising findings immerged.
First, dyads talked often about memories surrounding food, such as
specific recipes they remembered. Second, African-American dyads
seemed to be most comfortable with an African-American
interventionist. African-American issues (e.g., health habits) were
discussed more often when the dyad and interventionist were race
matched.
Name: Elizabeth Roth
Home University: University of Pennsylvania
Major: Psychology
Mentor(s): Christopher F. Murphy, Ph.D.
Host University: Weill Medical College of Cornell University
Research project: Does Geriatric Depression Predict Rapid
Cognitive Decline? A Preliminary Analysis
Authors: Elizabeth A. Roth, George S. Alexopoulos, MD,
Christopher F. Murphy, PhD
Abstract: Background: Research has shown that when depression
and cognitive impairment co-occur, cognitive abilities tend to
decline over time, even after depression remits (Butters et al.
(2000), Alexopoulos et al. (1993)). A recent study further suggests
that a high percentage of depressed older adults without baseline
cognitive impairment develop impairment in the course of one year.
Objectives: This study tested the hypotheses that 1. Depressed
subjects who were cognitively intact at baseline will develop
impairment by one-year follow-up and 2. Baseline cognitive
performance will predict trajectories of cognitive decline. Methods:
Seventy-one older adults with major depression were studied, based
on data from ten cognitive tasks that were collected in a
longitudinal, antidepressant treatment trial (Alexopoulos et al.
2004). At baseline and follow-up, patient-subjects were classified
as impaired or intact on each cognitive task based on the
performance of the comparison sample. Results: Among geriatric
depressed patients who were cognitively intact at baseline, up to
19% displayed impaired task performance at one year follow-up.
However, patients became newly impaired on an average of only 1.3
tasks, suggesting task specific changes rather than domain-wide or
global deficits. Although these results confirm the hypothesis that
cognitively intact depressed subjects perform at impaired levels
within the course of one year, individuals demonstra |
