Clinical Research Directory

The DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project-II

Each year, millions of people are exposed to repetitive head impacts (RHI) through contact sports. RHI can result in concussions and asymptomatic non-concussions to confer risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD) including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Presently, a diagnosis of CTE can only be rendered at autopsy and it has been neuropathological diagnosed in several hundreds of American football players particularly those who played at elite levels (college and professional). The ability to make an accurate diagnosis of CTE is needed to facilitate research on risk factors, mechanisms, prevention, and treatment. In 2015, the investigators were awarded a NINDS funded 7-year U01 known as the DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project (NCT02798185) designed to develop biomarkers, characterize the clinical presentation, and examine genetic and RHI risk factors for CTE. This current 5-year NIH funded multicenter study DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project-II will build on and extend those findings.

Digital Detection of Dementia (D Cubed) Studies: D3

The specific aim of the pragmatic trial is to evaluate the practical utility and effect of the PDM, the QDRS, and the combined approach (PDM + QDRS) in improving the annual rate of new documented ADRD diagnosis in primary care practices.

Supplementing Neuro-Energy to Aid Cognition

It is projected that by 2030, one in every five Americans will be of retirement age, and this demographic shift is expected to result in more people suffering from dementia. A key feature of the brain is its need for a constant supply of glucose and oxygen to meet the high energy costs of mental activity. This study aims to develop clinically practical, noninvasive imaging methods based on combined positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to assess brain energy in order to better understand how this critical component of brain health is impacted by aging.

OTC Hearing Aid and MCI

The goal of this study is to better understand if, in patients with mild to moderate hearing loss who are also experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids: 1. improve communication 2. Whether the magnitude of benefit depends on the patient's level of cognitive disability, 3. Whether alternative remediation (such as targeted communication strategies) offer similar benefits. Participants and a communication partner will be randomized into an OTC first or Communication Strategies first arm, where participants will receive communication strategy information customized for those with cognitive impairment.

Remote Sensing for ADRD-Specific Activities Identification in Older Adults

The investigators aim to use smart-home sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and detect Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD)-specific daily activities among older adults, with the goal of early symptom detection and personalized support. Dementia, which impacts memory and cognition, remains a global concern. In the United States, more than 6.7 million individuals aged 65 and older are living with ADRD, and projected annual healthcare costs are expected to reach $1 trillion by 2050. This underscores the need for deeper understanding and innovative support. To address the unique challenges associated with ADRD, such as cognitive decline, personalized strategies that promote independent well-being are essential. Smart-home sensors can support older adults with ADRD as they continue to live in their homes. These sensors provide real-time data on health and daily activities, offering insights into their daily lives. However, adoption of these technologies is low, and the practical application of AI remains limited. This highlights the need for further research to make these devices more accessible to this population. The investigators' aims include: Conducting focus groups with individuals with and without ADRD and their caregivers to identify daily activities that can be measured using in-home sensors; Collecting in-home sensor data from older adults with and without ADRD; and Using AI to develop a tool for recognizing daily activities. The integration of smart-home sensors with advanced data-analysis techniques holds significant potential for transforming the support and care provided to individuals with ADRD. Ultimately, the investigators' findings will contribute to improving the quality of life for affected individuals and alleviating the burden on caregivers and healthcare systems.