Global Population Ages Research Articles

Epidemiology of Dementia in the Campania Region (Italy): A 2015-2020 population-based study

Abstract As the global population ages, dementia poses a significant health challenge, ranking seventh among leading causes of death worldwide. Considering the high societal and financial burden of dementia, our study aims to provide estimates of prevalence and incidence for any dementia and Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) in the Campania Region (South Italy). It is Population-based study, using routinely collected healthcare data of individuals living in the Campania Region (South Italy) from 2015 to 2020. We included individuals aged ≥65 years who had at least one administrative record for dementia and/or AD. Prevalence rates adjusted for age and sex used 2020 European population as reference. To estimate incidence, we tested three possible algorithms, which differed for the duration of the time interval between study baseline (Jan 1, 2015) and index date (first record for dementia and/or AD in administrative databases). We employed a clinical database for the validation of our algorithms towards neuropsychological test results. Among individuals, 80,392 had dementia, of which 35,748 had AD. The age- and sex-standardized prevalence rates per 1,000 individuals for any dementia and AD were 77.64 (95%CI=77.57; 77.68) and 34.05 (95%CI=34.01; 34.09), respectively. There were 82.10 incident cases of any dementia per 100,000 per year (0.79 sensitivity and 0.62 specificity), and 59.89 incident cases of AD per 100,000 per year (0.80 sensitivity and 0.59 specificity). The capture-recapture method showed low number of undetected cases (1.7% for any dementia and 3.0% for AD). Our algorithms showed acceptable performance with AUC ranging from 0.59 to 0.72, and double likelihood ratio of correctly identifying individuals above and below MMSE standard cut-offs (24 and 26). Our algorithm, integrating administrative and clinical data, holds potential for assessing dementia’s epidemiological burden, identifying risk factors, planning healthcare access, and developing prevention strategies. Key messages • Providing comprehensive estimates of dementia burden aids public health planning and resource allocation. • Integrated administrative and clinical data provide robust tools for epidemiological analysis and preventive strategies.

Landscape Design Strategies for Healthy Aging-in-Place in Communities: Case Studies from Suzhou, China

As the global population ages, the World Health Organization promotes “Healthy Aging” to enhance the quality of life for the elderly. In China, with its substantial aging population, the “9073” elderly care mode, which prioritizes community-based care, was implemented in 2011. However, the specific needs of elderly residents in different climatic and cultural contexts are often overlooked. This study addresses this gap by examining how community green space design can support healthy aging, using Suzhou as a case study due to its significant elderly population. This research examines the relationship between community environments, elderly needs, and behaviors. Our findings reveal that elderly residents have complex needs, seeking safety, comfort, health, social interaction, and spiritual richness simultaneously. A mismatch was observed between their stated preferences for features like seating and shade and their actual usage patterns, suggesting that existing green spaces may not fully meet their needs. This study underscores the importance of incorporating both expressed preferences and proactive design strategies to enhance the healthy benefit of community green spaces. These insights support the “Healthy China 2030” strategy and promote the well-being of elders, contributing to sustainable urban regeneration.

Mapping the landscape of front door frailty in the United Kingdom: Lessons for further afield.

The ageing global population is posing a significant challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. Healthcare needs have become more complex and the demand for services is ever increasing. Identification of frailty at the front door of hospitals can prompt comprehensive geriatric assessment and streamline patients to the most suitable clinical area. The United Kingdom has set a priority to develop front door services given the pressure on the National Health Service. A British Geriatrics Society survey has demonstrated that the majority of frailty assessments occur in the emergency department using the Clinical Frailty Scale. This survey prompted the creation of the setting up services guide and its key principles using a collaboration of experience from across the country. Understanding the systems that already exist and creating a network to enable a flow of care towards community teams is crucial to the successful provision of modern frailty attuned care.

Coffee and Alzheimer's Disease: Reviewing the Neuroprotective Effects of Bioactive Compounds

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder primarily managed with symptomatic treatments. Coffee, a popular beverage, contains bioactive compounds like caffeine, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, trigonelline, caffeic acid, and kaempferol, which may offer neuroprotective benefits. These compounds could potentially address AD-related pathologies such as amyloid-beta accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. This review explores the neuroprotective potential of coffee's bioactive components in AD. Aim of the Study This study aims to review research on the neuroprotective effects of coffee and its bioactive compounds in Alzheimer's disease. It seeks to understand how these compounds may mitigate AD-related pathologies and their potential in preventive and therapeutic applications. The study also identifies knowledge gaps and suggests future research directions. Material and Methods We reviewed literature from PubMed, Google Scholar and other scientific sources using keywords: Alzheimer's disease, coffee, neuroprotective, caffeine, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, trigonelline, caffeic acid, and kaempferol. Conclusions Emerging evidence indicates that coffee's bioactive compounds may offer neuroprotective benefits against Alzheimer's disease. Compounds such as caffeine, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, trigonelline, caffeic acid, and kaempferol show potential in mitigating key AD pathologies. However, the current evidence is preliminary, and more research is needed to fully understand their cognitive benefits and mechanisms. Investigating these properties is particularly relevant given the aging global population and the age-related nature of AD.

Epidemiological analysis of 2106 geriatric trauma patients in a level I trauma center in Lanzhou City, Gansu Province, China.

As the global population ages, geriatric trauma gains attention. Limited studies on geriatric trauma in developing countries necessitate comprehensive investigation. This study aims to delineate the epidemiological characteristics of geriatric trauma, providing insights for prevention and enhanced elderly trauma care. Clinical data of 2106 geriatric trauma patients (age ≥ 60) treated from November 1, 2020, to October 31, 2023, at the trauma center of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University were retrospectively analyzed. Descriptive statistics covered temporal and monthly distribution, trauma sites, causes, and length of stay. Inclusive were 2106 geriatric patients (941 males, 1165 females; male-to-female ratio 1:1.24). Trauma incidence was higher in summer and autumn (May-October) than winter (November-December). Peak incidents occurred between 14:00-16:00, with concentrations at 12:00-16:00 and 20:00-22:00. Falls (59.35%), road traffic accidents (16.62%), other traumas (14.10%), cutting/stabbing (4.56%), violence (3.42%), mechanical injuries (1.61%), winter sports injuries (0.14%), burns (0.14%), and animal bites (0.06%) were major causes. Extremity and skin injuries prevailed, with significant site distribution differences (P < .001). Average length of stay at the trauma center was 78.35 ± 48.32 minutes. The gender distribution, timing, causes, and sites of trauma in the elderly differ significantly from other age groups. Unlike the higher occurrence of trauma in young men compared to women, among the elderly, it is more prevalent in women than men, mainly attributed to falls. It is crucial to implement specific measures to prevent trauma in the elderly, and the advancement of information technology in the trauma care system could additionally improve the quality of care.

Expert consensus on BRAF inhibitors in the treatment of malignant solid tumors (2024 edition)

The global aging population is leading to an increasing incidence of cancer, exacerbating the global burden of cancer. By 2040, the total number of cancer patients worldwide is projected to reach 28 million. With advancements in tumor molecular biology research and the widespread application of next-generation sequencing technology, precision treatment for cancer has made significant progress in clinical settings. Selective targeting of the Braf gene has emerged as one of the early successful cases of precision medicine for tumors. Braf gene mutations can result in unrestricted activation of downstream kinases in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cell signaling pathway, promoting rapid proliferation of tumor cells. BRAF inhibitors, either as monotherapy or in combination with MEK inhibitor, have been approved for various cancers, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer and glioma, among others. Clinical studies related to BRAF inhibitors are continuously exploring new applications. However, there is currently no consensus on the use of BRAF inhibitors in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple solid cancers in China. This article integrates clinical evidence of Braf mutations in multiple solid cancers to establish an expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of malignant solid cancers with Braf gene mutations. The goal is to promote and guide the standardized application of BRAF inhibitors.

Exploring the Effectiveness of Technology-Assisted Interventions for Promoting Independence in Elderly Patients: A Systematic Review

Background: The aging global population presents significant challenges for healthcare systems. Technology-assisted interventions have emerged as promising tools to enhance independence and well-being among elderly individuals. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of technology-assisted interventions in promoting independence among elderly patients and identify key barriers and facilitators to their implementation. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Studies evaluating technology-assisted interventions for promoting independence in elderly patients were included. Data were synthesized through narrative and thematic analysis. Results: Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. Technology-assisted interventions demonstrated positive impacts on physical and cognitive functioning, health management, quality of life, and technological engagement among elderly patients. Improvements were observed in areas such as mobility, chronic disease management, mental health, and daily living activities. High usability and adherence rates were reported for well-designed interventions. However, challenges in user-centered design, personalization, and integration with existing healthcare systems were identified. Conclusions: Technology-assisted interventions show promise in promoting independence among elderly patients. Future research should focus on addressing identified challenges and conducting larger, long-term studies to confirm effectiveness and sustainability.

The association between dietary flavonoid intake and frailty risk among middle-aged and elderly US adults: A nationally representative study

Given the global ageing population, exploring potential dietary prevention strategies to reduce the public health burden of frailty is critically important. Dietary flavonoids offer multiple health benefits; however, there is a scarcity of research evidence regarding their association with the risk of frailty in middle-aged and older adults. This study aimed to assess the association between dietary flavonoid intake and frailty risk among middle-aged and older U.S. adults and to analyse the potential roles of different flavonoid subclasses. This study involved 9063 participants aged ≥40 years. Frailty was evaluated using a frailty index, and flavonoid intake was estimated through two 24-h dietary recalls. Analyses were carried out via multivariable logistic regression, restricted cubic spline models, weighted quantile sum regression, and quantile g-computation models. Additionally, subgroup analyses and interaction tests were conducted for age and gender. The results indicated that higher intakes of total flavonoids and subclasses (anthocyanidins, flavan-3-ols, flavanones, flavones, flavonols) were significantly associated with a lower prevalence of frailty, but isoflavone intake was not associated with frailty. A nonlinear, L-shaped dose-response relationship was observed between total flavonoids and frailty risk. Flavonols and flavanones were identified as the main contributors to the overall effect. Age influenced the association between dietary flavonoids and frailty, with middle-aged adults benefiting more than older adults. This study provides new evidence supporting an inverse association between dietary flavonoid intake and frailty risk, especially for foods rich in flavonols and flavanones.

Global, regional, and national burden of age-related macular degeneration, 1990–2019: an age-period-cohort analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease 2019 Study

ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore the burden of disease and disparities in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at the global, regional, and national levels from 1990 to 2019 using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study, with a particular focus on associations with age, period, and cohort.MethodsWe derived disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and age-standardized rates of AMD from the GBD 2019. We used an age-period-cohort (APC) model to estimate the overall annual percentage changes in DALYs (net drifts), the annual percentage changes in different age groups (local drifts), the longitudinal age profiles (longitudinal age-specific rates), and the relative risks of period and cohort (period and cohort effects) between 1990 and 2019. Further analysis was conducted by country, region, gender and sociodemographic index (SDI).ResultsGlobally, the number of DALYs increased from 296771.9321 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 205462.8041–418699.8184) in 1990 to 564055.0967 (95% UI, 392930.6967–789194.6407) in 2019 (59.7% were female), while the age-standardized DALYs rates decreased from 8.29 per 100,000 (95% UI, 5.8–11.58/100,000) to 7.05 per 100,000 (95% UI, 4.92–9.84/100,000). With increasing age, the burden of AMD increased, and the DALYs rates in female was greater than that in male in all age groups. The burden of disease varied across SDI regions and countries. The top three countries in terms of the number of DALYs were China, India and Italy, accounting for 45% of the global total.ConclusionThe burden of AMD varied according to SDI, country, and sex from 1990 to 2019. Due to global population growth and aging, AMD will continue to be a major public health problem in the future, and relevant health policies need to be continuously improved and optimized.

Natural Products and Their Neuroprotective Effects in Degenerative Brain Diseases: A Comprehensive Review.

As the global population ages, the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's is rapidly rising. These diseases present a significant public health challenge, as they severely impair cognitive and motor functions, ultimately leading to a substantial reduction in quality of life and placing a heavy burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Although several therapeutic agents have been developed to manage the symptoms of these diseases, their effectiveness is often limited, and there remains an urgent need for preventive strategies. Growing evidence indicates that bioactive compounds from natural products possess neuroprotective properties through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, modulating key pathways such as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tropomyosin receptor kinase B-cAMP response element-binding protein (BDNF-TrkB-CREB), which are crucial for neuronal survival. These compounds may also reduce amyloid-beta and tau pathology, as well as enhance cholinergic neurotransmission by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase activity. By targeting oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration, natural products offer a promising approach for both prevention and treatment. These findings suggest that natural products may be promising for preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to explore the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, the limitations of current therapies, and the potential role of natural products as therapeutic agents.

Research on the aging-suitability of community outdoor spaces in Zhengzhou based on the analytic hierarchy process and semantic differential method

BackgroundAs global populations age, the suitability of community outdoor spaces for older adult residents has become a critical urban planning concern. However, comprehensive evaluation methods for assessing these spaces are lacking. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the aging-suitability of community outdoor spaces in Zhengzhou, China, and provide optimization suggestions for urban planners and policymakers.MethodsAn evaluation index system was established using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), with aging-suitability as the goal layer. The criteria layer included outdoor behavioral activities, green space configuration, transportation and road systems, and basic service facilities. The semantic differential (SD) method was employed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation among older adult residents in three communities (A, B, and C) in Zhengzhou city.ResultsThe evaluation revealed that older adult residents generally had a favorable assessment of their community spaces’ aging-suitability. Community A received the highest overall rating. Green space configuration and transportation systems emerged as critical factors influencing aging-suitability.ConclusionThe combined AHP-SD approach proved effective in evaluating the aging-suitability of community outdoor spaces. The study identified key areas for improvement in each community, with variations in strengths and weaknesses across the three sites. Implications: Based on the findings, optimization suggestions are proposed in four aspects: enhancing outdoor behavioral activities, improving green space landscapes, refining road transportation systems, and upgrading basic service facilities. These recommendations can guide urban planners and policymakers in creating more age-friendly community environments.

Preparing for responsive management versus preparing for renal dialysis in multimorbid older people with advanced chronic kidney disease (Prepare for Kidney Care): Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

BackgroundChronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence is steadily increasing, in part due to increased multimorbidity in our aging global population. When progression to kidney failure cannot be avoided, people need unbiased information to inform decisions about whether to start dialysis, if or when indicated, or continue with holistic person-centred care without dialysis (conservative kidney management). Comparisons suggest that while there may be some survival benefit from dialysis over conservative kidney management, in people aged 80 years and over, or with multiple health problems or frailty, this may be at the expense of quality of life, hospitalisations, symptom burden and preferred place of death. Prepare for Kidney Care aims to compare preparation for a renal dialysis pathway with preparation for a conservative kidney management pathway, in relation to quantity and quality of life in multimorbid, frail, older people with advanced CKD.MethodsThis is a two-arm, superiority, parallel group, non-blinded, individual-level, multi-centre, pragmatic trial, set in United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS) kidney units. Patients with advanced CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2, not due to acute kidney injury) who are (a) 80 years of age and over regardless of frailty or multimorbidity, or (b) 65–79 years of age if they are frail or multimorbid, are randomised 1:1 to ‘prepare for responsive management’, a protocolised form of conservative kidney management, or ‘prepare for renal dialysis’. An integrated QuinteT Recruitment Intervention is included. The primary outcome is mean total number of quality-adjusted life years during an average follow-up of 3 years. The primary analysis is a modified intention-to-treat including all participants contributing at least one quality of life measurement. Secondary outcomes include survival, patient-reported outcomes, physical functioning, relative/carer reported outcomes and qualitative assessments of treatment arm acceptability. Cost-effectiveness is estimated from (i) NHS and personal social services and (ii) societal perspectives.DiscussionThis randomised study is designed to provide high-quality evidence for frail, multimorbid, older patients with advanced CKD choosing between preparing for dialysis or conservative kidney management, and healthcare professionals and policy makers planning the related services.Trial registrationISRCTN, ISRCTN17133653 (https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN17133653). Registered 31 May 2017.

Museum as active aging place for elderly volunteer interpreters:from the perspective of Chinese ‘Family’ and ‘State’

ABSTRACT As global populations age, examining how museums can promote active aging holds practical significance. In China, an increasing number of elderly individuals are entering museums as volunteer interpreters. As they serve the museum, this engagement profoundly impacts their active aging. This paper, based on participant observation and in-depth interviews, analyzes the motivations, behaviors, and impacts of 20 elderly volunteer museum interpreters in China. The study reveals that the dialectical relationship between the individual and the ‘family’ and ‘state’ in Chinese traditional culture serves as an intrinsic motivation for the active aging of elderly volunteer interpreters. It also identifies this relationship as an outcome of the active aging they pursue. Chinese museums have contextual specialties in addressing the issue of aging. The study illustrates the value of museums in challenging the perspective of ageism and underscores the importance of cultural context for understanding elderly people’s active aging.

Evaluating the accuracy of a self-administered smartphone hearing test application in a geriatric population.

As the global population ages, hearing loss becomes increasingly prevalent, and is associated with neurocognitive and psychiatric comorbidities, impacting quality of life. Early screening and timely intervention might prevent or delay cognitive decline, a gap in care that can potentially be addressed by self-administered smartphone hearing tests. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of Mimi™ (Berlin, Germany), a commercially available self-administered smartphone hearing test compared to pure tone audiogram (PTA) in terms of both hearing levels and hearing thresholds in our local geriatric population > 65 years-old. Fifty-two participants above 65 years of age requiring conventional audiograms were recruited from a National Referral University Hospital Otolaryngology clinic from March to June 2022. All participants were administered the conventional PTA tests in a sound-proof booth conducted by audiology technicians followed by Mimi™ Hearing Test in a quiet clinic room. Comparisons between the hearing levels of both tests were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, Bland-Altman plots and Gwet's Kappa which looked at concordance. Hearing thresholds were then analysed using the Wilcoxon signed rank (SR) test. Mimi™ showed strong to very strong correlation with good agreement compared to readings obtained from formal PTA. Concordance in determining hearing loss also showed substantial to almost perfect agreement at each individual frequency, with values of kappa falling between 0.735-0.857. In terms of thresholds, there were no significant differences in thresholds given by both tests except for 2.0 kHz, HFPTA and 4FPTA (p < 0.05). Mimi™ serves as a good screening tool for detection of moderate hearing loss for early pickup and treatment except at higher frequencies. The smartphone hearing test is also less accurate in determining the extent of hearing loss and formal PTA after hearing loss is detected on screening should still be standard of care.

Concept of Dementia and its Management in Unani System of Medicine: A Review

Dementia, derived from Latin meaning “without mind,” is a significant global health concern and the seventh leading cause of death, characterized by the progressive deterioration of cognitive functions, including memory, thinking, and behaviour. As the global population ages, dementia's prevalence is anticipated to rise dramatically, with an estimated 50 million cases currently worldwide, projected to reach 152 million by 2050. The two primary causes are Alzheimer's disease and vascular disorders. In the Unani system of medicine, dementia, referred to as Nisyān, is attributed to the dysfunction of three internal faculties: imagination (Qüwwate Khayal), thought (Qüwwate Fikr), and memory (Qirwwate Zikr), influenced by factors such as abnormal temperament (Sü' Mizāj) and disruptions in structural integrity. Clinical features vary, with early signs including short-term memory loss and disorientation. The condition can be classified into primary (degenerative) and secondary (acquired) dementias. Risk factors include age, family history, and lifestyle choices. Treatment principles in Unani medicine focus on addressing the underlying causes, correcting brain temperament, evacuating morbid matter, and employing dietary, regimental, and pharmacotherapeutic approaches. This holistic framework underscores the importance of traditional medical systems in understanding and managing dementia, advocating for a comprehensive approach to treatment that encompasses both modern and traditional practices. Keywords: unani system of medicine, Dementia, cognitive decline, Dietotherapy, su’Mizaj

Caenorhabditis elegans as in vivo model for the screening of natural plants-derived novel anti-aging compounds: a short introduction.

The global aging population highlights the need for effective anti-aging treatments. Natural products show promise, but thorough evaluation requires in vivo models due to the complexity of aging. Ethical concerns are driving a shift from traditional models like rabbits and mice to alternatives such as Caenorhabditis elegans. This microscopic nematode, with its short life cycle, genetic similarities to humans, and cost-effectiveness, is ideal for testing anti-aging compounds. We review studies using C. elegans to assess natural products, suggesting it could serve as a primary model for -evaluating the safety and efficacy of plant-derived anti-aging compounds.

Efficacy of wooden toy training in alleviating cognitive decline in elderly individuals with cognitive impairment: A cluster randomized controlled study.

With the increasing global aging population, the health and welfare of elderly individuals, especially individuals with prevalent mild cognitive impairment (MCI) living in nursing homes, have become critical concerns. These concerns highlight the urgency of developing effective interventions to address the cognitive and psychological needs of elderly individuals, ensuring their well-being and alleviating the burden on their caregivers. This study investigates the impact of wooden toy training on mitigating cognitive decline in elderly individuals with cognitive impairment. It evaluates how this training influences cognitive functions and psychological well-being, exploring whether it can slow or reverse the progression of cognitive decline. This outcome will be assessed in a randomized controlled trial, in which changes in cognitive ability and psychological health indicators among the participants will be measured. A two-arm, open-label, cluster-randomized controlled trial. The study was conducted in two nursing homes, which served as both the recruitment sites for participants and the intervention locations. These nursing homes were selected for their ability to facilitate the intervention and for their representative demographic characteristics of the elderly population. The settings provided a controlled environment that was conducive to implementing the wooden toy training program and observing its effects on the participants. A total of 76 elderly participants with mild cognitive impairment but functional independence were recruited. Participants were randomized into an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group engaged in an 8-week wooden toy training program, whereas those in the control cohort received customary nursing care. Standardized cognitive and psychological well-being measures were used to assess improvements in cognitive performance and mental health. Significant improvements were observed in the cognitive functions of the intervention group from a baseline score of M = 13.11 to M = 16.29 postintervention (95% CI [-4.44, -1.93]), along with reductions in depressive symptoms from a baseline score of M = 8.63 to M = 7.18 (95% CI [0.38, 2.51]). Additionally, engagement in activities with wooden toys significantly satisfied their need for competence, increasing from a baseline of M = 16.29 to M = 20 postintervention (95% CI [-5.92, -1.51]), and relatedness, which improved from a baseline of M = 20.32 to M = 22.95 (95% CI [-4.73, -0.53]). This study underscores the potential of a wooden toy intervention in nursing homes that combines cognitive challenges with traditional cultural elements to improve cognitive functions in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Our findings suggest a novel method of promoting the cognitive and psychological health of nursing home residents through emotional comfort and social interaction.

Network Pharmacology Approaches Used to Identify Therapeutic Molecules for Chronic Venous Disease Based on Potential miRNA Biomarkers.

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a prevalent condition in adults, significantly affecting the global elderly population, with a higher incidence in women than in men. The modulation of gene expression through microRNA (miRNA) partly regulated the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Previous research identified a functional analysis of seven genes (CDS2, HDAC5, PPP6R2, PRRC2B, TBC1D22A, WNK1, and PABPC3) as targets of miRNAs related to CVD. In this context, miRNAs emerge as essential candidates for CVD diagnosis, representing novel molecular and biological knowledge. This work aims to identify, by network analysis, the miRNAs involved in CVD as potential biomarkers, either by interacting with small molecules such as toxins and pollutants or by searching for new drugs. Our study shows an updated landscape of the signaling pathways involving miRNAs in CVD pathology. This latest research includes data found through experimental tests and uses predictions to propose both miRNAs and genes as potential biomarkers to develop diagnostic and therapeutic methods for the early detection of CVD in the clinical setting. In addition, our pharmacological network analysis has, for the first time, shown how to use these potential biomarkers to find small molecules that may regulate them. Between the small molecules in this research, toxins, pollutants, and drugs showed outstanding interactions with these miRNAs. One of them, hesperidin, a widely prescribed drug for treating CVD and modulating the gene expression associated with CVD, was used as a reference for searching for new molecules that may interact with miRNAs involved in CVD. Among the drugs that exhibit the same miRNA expression profile as hesperidin, potential candidates include desoximetasone, curcumin, flurandrenolide, trifluridine, fludrocortisone, diflorasone, gemcitabine, floxuridine, and reversine. Further investigation of these drugs is essential to improve the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, supporting the clinical use of miRNAs as biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting CVD is crucial.

Speech based detection of Alzheimer’s disease: a survey of AI techniques, datasets and challenges

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a growing global concern, exacerbated by an aging population and the high costs associated with traditional detection methods. Recent research has identified speech data as valuable clinical information for AD detection, given its association with the progressive degeneration of brain cells and subsequent impacts on memory, cognition, and language abilities. The ongoing demographic shift toward an aging global population underscores the critical need for affordable and easily available methods for early AD detection and intervention. To address this major challenge, substantial research has recently focused on investigating speech data, aiming to develop efficient and affordable diagnostic tools that align with the demands of our aging society. This paper presents an in-depth review of studies from 2018–2023 utilizing speech for AD detection. Following the PRISMA protocol and a two-stage selection process, we identified 85 publications for analysis. In contrast to previous literature reviews, this paper places a strong emphasis on conducting a rigorous comparative analysis of various Artificial Intelligence (AI) based techniques, categorizing them meticulously based on underlying algorithms. We perform an exhaustive evaluation of research papers leveraging common benchmark datasets, specifically ADReSS and ADReSSo, to assess their performance. In contrast to previous literature reviews, this work makes a significant contribution by overcoming the limitations posed by the absence of standardized tasks and commonly accepted benchmark datasets for comparing different studies. The analysis reveals the dominance of deep learning models, particularly those leveraging pre-trained models like BERT, in AD detection. The integration of acoustic and linguistic features often achieves accuracies above 85%. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in data scarcity, standardization, privacy, and model interpretability. Future directions include improving multilingual recognition, exploring emerging multimodal approaches, and enhancing ASR systems for AD patients. By identifying these key challenges and suggesting future research directions, our review serves as a valuable resource for advancing AD detection techniques and their practical implementation.

Patterns of intrinsic capacity trajectory and onset of activities of daily living disability among community-dwelling older adults.

Global population ageing has brought about new challenges for elderly care. Exploring intrinsic capacity (IC) over time, which is designed as a composite measure of an individual's physical and mental capabilities, is essential for promoting healthy ageing and preventing dependency, such as that emerging from disability in activities of daily living (ADL). We aimed to identify and examine the differences between classes of IC trajectory and onset of ADL disability. We conducted an observational study using data from three waves (2011-15) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, comprising 2609 participants with 6034 observations. IC was measured by five domains, including locomotion, cognition, psychological, sensory capacities, and vitality. We used joint latent class modelling to identify distinct classes with similar patterns of IC trajectory and onset of ADL disability, as well as to explore the variation in IC trajectory and predict five-year risks of ADL disability considering the heterogeneity in the elderly population. The average baseline IC score was 7.15 (range: 0-15). We observed that IC scores slowly decreased with age, with 17.25% of participants developing ADL disability. We identified three classes of IC, which could be described as moderate health (class 1: n = 1634, 62.63%), at-risk (class 2: n = 716, 27.44%; had the highest risk of ADL disability), and optimal health (class 3: n = 259, 9.93%; had the lowest baseline risk of ADL disability). The probability of being in the moderate health class was decreased the most by emotional problems (odds ratio (OR) = 0.219; P < 0.001). Having a self-rated poor standard of living substantially reduced the chances of moderate (OR = 0.308; P = 0.001) and optimal health (OR = 0.110; P < 0.001). Observing IC trajectories and the onset of ADL disability can stratify the elderly into heterogeneous groups, as well as provide data for implementing person-centred care plans to reverse the trend and delay the adverse outcomes in clinical practice.