Decade Of Age Research Articles

Age- and sex-adjusted CT-based reference values for temporal muscle thickness, cross-sectional area and radiodensity

Muscle mass has been traditionally assessed by measuring paraspinal muscle areas at the level of the third lumbar vertebra on computed tomography (CT). Neurological or neurosurgical patients seldom undergo CT scans of the lumbar region. Instead, temporal muscle thickness (TMT), cross-sectional area (TMA) and radiodensity measured from head CT scans are readily available measures of muscle mass and quality in these patient cohorts. The purpose of this retrospective study was to establish CT-based reference values for TMT, TMA and radiodensity for each decade of age from 0 to 100 years normalized by age and sex, and to define cut-off values for subjects at risk for sarcopenia as defined by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP). Subjects diagnosed with a concussion at the Oulu University Hospital between January 2014 and December 2022 (n = 9254) were identified to obtain a reference population. Subjects with significant pre-existing co-morbidities were excluded. TMT, TMA and radiodensity were measured, measurement reliability was quantified, and sex-adjusted reference values were calculated for each age decade. Quantile regression was used to model age-related changes in muscle morphomics. A total of 500 subjects [250 (50.0%) males] with a mean age of 49.2 ± 27.9 years were evaluated. Inter- and intra-observer reliability was almost perfect for TMT and TMA, and substantial-to-almost perfect for radiodensity. The mean TMT, TMA and radiodensity were 5.2 ± 1.9 mm, 284 ± 159 mm2 and 44.6 ± 17.7HU, respectively. The cut-off values for reduced TMT, TMA and radiodensity for males/females using the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People compliant criteria were ≤ 4.09 mm/≤3.44 mm, ≤ 166 mm2/≤156 mm2, and ≤ 35.5HU/≤35.2HU, respectively. We described a standardized CT-based TMT and TMA measurement protocol practical for clinical use with almost perfect reliability. Using the protocol, we produced quantile regression models for the detection of reduced TMT, TMA and radiodensity at the lowest 5th, 10th, 20th, 30th, 40th and 50th percentiles as well as the EWGSOP compliant criteria cut-off values for reduced muscle mass to facilitate generalizable radiological sarcopenia research.

Arthritis and Public Health Monitoring: Longitudinal Changes of Triglyceride-Glucose Index Associated with Arthritis in a Cohort of Older Chinese Adults.

The current decade 2021-2030 was designated by the United Nations as the decade of healthy aging, which underlines the need for public health innovation for arthritis clinical care. The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a novel and emerging parameter closely associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and has been suggested to indicate the risk of arthritis. This study examined the longitudinal changes of TyG levels in relation to arthritis among a nationwide cohort of older Chinese adults. We recruited 1257 participants from a national cohort of older Chinese adults, the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. On the basis of the longitudinal changes in TyG between 2012 and 2014, we performed a k-means clustering analysis to classify the participants into four TyG groups: Class 1 with moderate and stable levels of TyG; Class 2 with low but rising level of TyG; Class 3 with consistently high TyG; and Class 4 with high and TyG-level rise compared with the baseline. After a 2-year follow-up, logistic regression was used to identify the association between TyG and the onset of arthritis. Compared with individuals in Class 1, those in Class 3 and Class 4 experienced a higher risk of arthritis, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.823 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.113-7.160) and 2.848 (95% CI: 1.299-6.246), respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study exploring the association between dynamic longitudinal changes in TyG and arthritis. Further studies on world populations are called for.

Choroid plexus aging: structural and vascular insights from the HCP-aging dataset

BackgroundThe choroid plexus (ChP), a highly vascularized structure within the ventricles, is essential for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production and metabolic waste clearance, crucial for neurofluid homeostasis and cognitive function. ChP enlargement is seen in normal aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Despite its key role of in the blood-CSF barrier (BCSFB), detailed studies on age-related changes in its perfusion and microstructure remain limited.MethodsWe analyzed data from 641 healthy individuals aged between 36 and 90, using the Human Connectome Project Aging (HCP-A) dataset. Volumetric, perfusion, and diffusion metrics of the ChP were derived from structural MRI, arterial spin labeling (ASL), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), respectively. Partial correlations were used to explore age-related ChP changes, and independent t-tests to examine sex differences across age decades. One-way ANOVA was employed to compare perfusion characteristics among ChP, gray matter (GM), and white matter (WM). Relationships between volume, perfusion, and diffusion were investigated, adjusting for age and sex. Additionally, the distribution of cyst-like structures within the ChP and their diffusion/perfusion MRI characteristics were analyzed across different age groups.ResultsThe ChP undergoes notable changes with age, including an increase in volume (r2 = 0.2, P < 0.001), a decrease in blood flow (r2 = 0.17, P < 0.001), and elevated mean diffusivity (MD) values (r2 = 0.16, P < 0.001). Perfusion characteristics showed significant differences between the ChP, GM, and WM (P < 0.001). Both the ChP and GM exhibited age-related declines in CBF, with a more pronounced decline in the ChP. A negative correlation was observed between the age-related increase in ChP volume and the decrease in CBF, suggesting compensatory dystrophic hyperplasia in response to perfusion decline. Cyst-like structures in ChP, characterized by lower MD and reduced CBF, were found to be more prevalent in older individuals.ConclusionsOur findings provide a detailed quantitative assessment of age-related changes in ChP perfusion and diffusion, which may affect CSF production and circulation, potentially leading to waste solute accumulation and cognitive impairment.Grant supportThis work was supported in part by the NIH U01AG052564, P30AG066512, P01AG060882, RF1 NS110041, R01 NS108491, U24 NS135568.

A Predictive Model for Graves' Disease Recurrence After Antithyroid Drug Therapy: A Retrospective Multicenter Cohort Study.

Predicting recurrence after antithyroid drug (ATD) cessation is crucial for optimal treatment decision-making in patients with Graves' disease (GD). We aimed to identify factors associated with GD recurrence and to develop a model using routine pretherapeutic clinical parameters to predict GD recurrence risk during the first year following ATD discontinuation. This electronic health records-based observational cohort study analyzed patients with GD treated with ATDs at 3 U.S. academic centers. Demographic, clinical characteristics, and GD recurrence within 1year following ATD discontinuation were assessed. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed. A predictive model for GD recurrence was developed and visualized as a nomogram. Among the 523 patients included in the study, 211 (40.34%) discontinued treatment. Of these, the 142 (67.29%) that had a follow-up period exceeding 12 months after stopping ATD were used for the development of the predictive model. Among the patients included in the model, the majority were women (n=111, 78.16%), with a mean age of 49.29 years (standard deviation 16.31) and baseline free thyroxine (FT4) levels averaging 3.39ng/dl (standard deviation 2.25). Additionally, 79 of 211 patients (37.44%) experienced recurrence within 1year. Multivariable analysis indicated a 31% increased risk of GD recurrence per additional decade of age (odds ratio 1.31, 95% confidence interval 1.03-1.66, P=.0258), and a 65% increased risk of GD recurrence for every 2.0ng/dL rise in baseline FT4 (odds ratio 1.65, 95% confidence interval 1.08-2.50, P=.0192). The recurrence predictive model's area under the curve was 0.69 in the derivation dataset and 0.65 in cross-validation. This study introduced a practical model that can be used during the initial therapeutic decision-making process. It utilizes easily accessible baseline clinical data to predict the likelihood of GD recurrence after 1year of ATD therapy. Further research is needed to identify other factors affecting risk of recurrence and develop more precise predictive models.

Mortality Trend of Hematological Neoplasms in Babol, Northern Iran (2013-2021)

Background: Blood cancers account for a significant proportion of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In this study, hematological cancer mortality in northern Iran was examined during 2013-2021, along with age-adjusted mortality rates. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, we conducted an analysis of all deaths from hematological neoplasms registered in Babol city between 2013 and 2021. In order to estimate the population, the most recent census data was used. The mortality rates and trends for each hematological malignancy were reported in crude mortality rate (CMR) and age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR). Results: In total, 357 deaths (10.8% of all cancer-related deaths) were attributed to hematological neoplasms, with an average age of 61.9±19.3 years. The crude and age-adjusted mortality rates of hematological neoplasms increased from 3.1 and 2.7 per 100000 people in 2013 to 8.1 and 6.9 per 100,000 people in 2021, respectively. Mortality trends of hematological cancers increased with age decade for both sexes (P&lt;0.001). Additionally, when examining the trends of each hematological neoplasm, there was a significant increase in neoplasms including non-Hodgkin lymphoma (P=0.033), multiple myeloma (P=0.002), and leukemia (P&lt;0.001), except for the consistent trend observed in Hodgkin lymphoma (P=0.247). Conclusion: The trend of hematological malignancies in Babol city is increasing across all age groups and in both sexes. This study emphasizes the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies, including improving access to cancer care, enhancing surveillance in families with blood malignancies and reducing modifiable risk factors. Additionally, further research is warranted to develop targeted interventions.

Mortality in chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis

Despite antifungal treatment, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate rates of mortality and its predictors in CPA. A systematic literature search was conducted across MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science to identify studies in English, reporting mortality in CPA, from database inception to Aug 15, 2023. We included clinical studies, observational studies, controlled trials, and abstracts. Case reports, animal studies, letters, news, and literature reviews were excluded. Authors of studies published since 2016 were also contacted to obtain anonymised individual patient data (IPD); for other studies, summary estimates were extracted. Subgroup analysis was done for differences in overall 1-year and 5-year mortality, data source, study design, risk of bias, country, Human Development Index, age groups, and the underlying lung disease. We used random-effects meta-analyses to estimate pooled mortality rates. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were done to explore sources of heterogeneity. One-stage meta-analysis with a stratified Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the univariable and hazards for mortality, adjusting for age, sex, type of CPA, treatment, and underlying pulmonary comorbidities. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023453447). We included 79 studies involving 8778 patients in the overall pooled analysis and 15 studies involving 1859 patients in the IPD meta-analysis. Pooled mortality (from 70 studies) was estimated at 27% overall (95% CI 22-32; I2 =95·4%), 15% at 1 year (11-19; I2 =91·6%), and 32% at 5 years (25-39; I2 =94·3%). Overall mortality in patients with CPA with pulmonary tuberculosis as the predominant predisposing condition was 25% (16-35; I2 =87·5%; 20 studies) and with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was 35% (22-49; I2 =89·7%; 14 studies). Mortality in cohorts of patients who underwent surgical resection was low at 3% (2-4). In the multivariable analysis, among predisposing respiratory conditions, pulmonary tuberculosis history had the lowest mortality hazard (relative to an absence of the disease at baseline), whereas worse outcomes were seen with underlying malignancy; subacute invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis subtypes of CPA were also significantly associated with increased mortality relative to simple aspergilloma on multivariable analysis. Mortality hazard increased by 25% with each decade of age (adjusted hazard ratio 1·25 [95% CI 1·14-1·36], p<0·0001). CPA is associated with substantial mortality. Advancing age, CPA subtype, and underlying comorbidities are important predictors of mortality. Future studies should focus on identifying appropriate treatment strategies tailored to different risk groups. None.

Ageing, social participation, and everyday mobility – Facilitating age-friendly environments

Due to the increasing share of older people worldwide, the United Nations has directed an initiative towards a "decade of healthy ageing" to promote "age-friendly environments". This study aims to gain a deeper understanding of how to promote social participation and everyday mobility in later life. The ambition is to increase the knowledge about how to create more age-friendly environments and social inclusion – for everyone. The study focuses on a social centre for older people in the municipality of Trelleborg in the south of Sweden. The social centre is located in an area with several retirement homes and hosts a variety of opportunities for social interaction for older people in combination with other services. The municipality also arranges free excursions for older people in the municipality departing from the social centre. Another initiative is a pilot project testing an autonomous bus outside of the social centre to ordinary public transport. The study includes observations, interviews with older people and officials, as well as travel-alongs. The results show that a combination of social participation and mobility can facilitate a more active everyday life for older people, increase social connectedness, and contribute to the creation of age-friendly environments.

Prostate Dimensions and Their Impact on LUTS and Erectile Function: Is Length the Missing Link?

Background/Objectives: The objective of this study is to explore potential correlations between prostate volume, LUTS, and IIEF, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between prostate dimensions-width, height, and length-and both LUTS and IIEF and to assess patients based on risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, smoking, alcohol consumption, and PSA levels. Methods: A retrospective multicenter study was conducted between January 2007 and December 2023, focusing on male patients over the age of 40. The study evaluated hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) through the completion of the IPSS and QoL questionnaires, sexual function using the IIEF-15, and PSA levels. Abdominal ultrasound was performed to determine prostate volume and its dimensions (width, height, and length). Results: A total of 943 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 61.89 ± 8.51 years. From the 40-49 age group to the 80-90 age group, IPSS increased from 10.29 to 14.26 points, PSA from 1.1 ng/mL to 3.05 ng/mL, and prostate volume from 23.79 mL to 41.16 mL. Meanwhile, over the same age intervals, IIEF showed a decline from 52.57 to 24.76 points. The IPSS demonstrated a statistically significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) with prostate volume and patient age, while showing an inverse correlation with IIEF. The only statistically significant correlation between IPSS and prostate dimensions was with the length diameter of the prostate (p = 0.011). The severity of sexual symptoms was inversely correlated with both prostate volume and age. Additionally, IIEF was negatively correlated with the width and length diameters of the prostate. Hypertension (p = 0.57), diabetes (p = 0.57), smoking (p = 0.76), and alcohol consumption (p = 0.27) did not have a statistically significant impact on IPSS, and IIEF except for cardiovascular diseases, which showed a significant correlation with IPSS in patients experiencing moderate to severe symptoms (p = 0.0001). The statistically significant correlation between cardiovascular diseases and IIEF was observed only in patients with severe symptoms (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: There is a correlation between prostate volume, IPSS, and IIEF. Only length of the prostate shows a statistically significant correlation with both IPSS and IIEF. PSA levels increase progressively with each decade of age. Hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and alcohol consumption do not have a statistically significant impact on LUTS and erectile function. Cardiovascular diseases show a correlation with patients experiencing moderate to severe LUTS, as well as with those who have severe symptoms according to the IIEF evaluation.

Analysis of Poly(ethylene glycol) from the conservation of 17th century shipwreck Vasa and associated wooden objects

Vasa, a Swedish warship that sunk in 1628 and was excavated in 1961, and associated wooden objects underwent a preservation process using various low molecular weights (600, 1500, and 4000 Mn) of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) to gradually displace the water within the wooden structure, preventing the collapse of the waterlogged wood upon drying. However, after six decades of aging after application, to what extent are these polymers degraded? To investigate this, a Soxhlet apparatus was used to extract PEG from wooden samples of Vasa, and lyophilization was used to dry aqueous PEG solutions, these samples being the runoff accumulated during the application of different molecular weights of PEG to Vasa and other associated wooden objects. These samples underwent analysis via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization – time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.The primary discovery was that the PEG within Vasa exhibited minimal degradation, with the dominant identified species, as determined by MALDI-TOF MS and NMR spectroscopy, being HO-PEG-OH. However, small quantities of HO-PEG-OH had undergone degradation, resulting in the formation of PEG chains with distinct end groups, notably a range of carbonyl-based compounds, including aldehydes, carboxylic acids, and esters, as observed through MALDI-TOF MS, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopy. These mass spectrometry product peaks could be confirmed by the expected mass difference through various end-group functionalizations, such as oxidations, esterifications, or ether formations. In addition to the carbonyl-based degradation products, some PEG chains had completely cleaved into two separate lower molecular weight HO-PEG-OH polymers, each approximately half of their original molecular weight, as revealed by GPC analysis.

Multiomic profiling reveals timing of menopause predicts prefrontal cortex aging and cognitive function.

A new case of dementia is diagnosed every 3 s. Beyond age, risk prediction of dementia is challenging. There is growing evidence of underlying processes that connect aging across organ systems and may provide insight for early detection, and there is a need to identify early biomarkers at an age when action can be taken to mitigate cognitive decline. We hypothesized that timing of menopause, a marker of ovarian aging, predicts brain age decades later. We used 2086 subjects with multiple "omics" measurements from post-mortem brain samples. Age at menopause (AAM) is positively correlated with cognitive function and negatively correlated with pre-frontal cortex aging acceleration (calculated as estimated biological age from DNA methylation minus chronological age). Genetic correlations showed that at least part of these associations is derived from shared heritability. To dissect the mechanism linking AAM to cognitive decline, we turned to transcriptomic data which confirmed that later AAM was associated with gene expression in pre-frontal cortex consistent with better cognition, and among those who reached menopause naturally, decreased gene expression of pathways implicated in aging. Those with surgical menopause displayed different molecular changes, including perturbed nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) activity, validated by metabolomics. Bile acid metabolism was perturbed in both groups, although different bile acid ratios were associated with AAM in each. Together, our data suggest that AAM is predictive of brain aging and cognition, with potential mediation by the gut, although through different mechanisms depending on the type of menopause.

Aortic dimensions in a large Australian adult cohort. New normal range?

Abstract Background There is little published data worldwide about the normal range of aortic dimensions in adults. Guidelines for dilated aortic dimensions and recommendations for surgery are based on small population cohorts and absolute values. Adjustment for BSA and height are becoming more accepted, however the normal range of aortic dimensions for a large population has not been previously published. We present the distribution of aortic dimensions in a large Australian population, with indexation for BSA and height as well as centiles of age. Methods All patients &amp;gt;18 years of age attending for routine echocardiography at our institution from 2007-2022 were included in the database. Measurements of aortic root, sinotubular junction and ascending aorta using ASE criteria were collated. Dimensions were adjusted for BSA and height. Data was analysed for centiles of weight and height and across decades of age. Results A total of 117,912 patients were included in the analysis, aged 62.8+17.6 years (range 18-107), 59% male, 83.7+21.1 kgs (range 32-337) and 169.8+10.3 cm (range 107-218). The aortic root and ascending aortic dimensions are presented in absolute values (average + SD), and height adjusted (cm/m) and BSA adjusted (cm/m2) values. Data was expressed per centile of height, age and weight. There was a progressive increase in aortic dimensions as expected for increasing height, however a robust relationship was identified when dimensions were indexed according to height at all centiles regardless of age and body weight. In contrast, when adjusted for BSA, the aortic dimensions were progressively and predictably under-reported in patients over 80kg for assessment for normal vs dilated. When analysed for centiles of age, there was a small progressive increase in dimensions observed with increasing age. The indexation for height was independently robust across patients of all centiles of height. Conclusion Aortic dimensions are consistently 2.0+0.5 cm/m when adjusted for patient height across all body weight and age centiles. Adjustment for BSA in patients over 80kg tends to under-represent aortic dimensions when assessing for dilatation. Dimensions tend to increase gently with increasing age. We propose a new nomogram for normal aortic dimensions in adults.

Assessment of psychological resilience in a large cohort of the general population: Validation and norm values of the RS-5.

Psychological resilience is known as a protective factor against mental health disorders for which valid measures are indispensable. The present work aims to evaluate the Resilience Scale-5 (RS-5) psychometrically, and provide norm values. Data from the Gutenberg Health Study (GHS), encompassing 7,496 participants aged 25 to 86, spanning the years 2017 to 2022, was used. Selectivity, item difficulty, internal consistency, construct and factor validity, as well as factorial invariance were tested. Additionally, correlations and associations with depression, anxiety, and sociodemographic factors were determined. Furthermore, norm values were provided. The RS-5 displayed robust psychometric properties. Participants reported an average resilience score of 28.94 (SD = 5.53, median = 30, IQR = 6, range = 5-35), with those aged ≥75 exhibiting the highest resilience levels (M = 30.21, SD = 5.75, median = 32, IQR = 7). The RS-5 displayed a very good model fit, affirming measurement invariance across sex and age decades. Construct validity found support through anticipated intercorrelations with related psychological constructs. Significant correlations (p < .001) linked higher resilience with female gender, advanced age, higher education, elevated household income, and diminished psychological distress. The RS-5 emerged as a reliable and economic instrument for assessing psychological resilience in individuals aged 25 to 86. The study unraveled distinct sociodemographic characteristics significantly tied to resilience levels within this cohort. In contributing recent norm values tailored to the German population, this research enhances the practical applicability of the RS-5 across diverse contexts and enriches our comprehension of the demographic nuances associated with psychological resilience.

Factors associated with attitudes toward death and dying in the second half of life: A scoping review

How we think and feel about death and dying affects how we live our lives and our opportunities for healthy aging. This scoping review, using the PRISMA guidelines and drawing on the World Health Organizations public health framework for healthy aging, examined the personal, health and environmental factors associated with attitudes toward death and dying in persons 50 years and older. Most of the 74 eligible studies focused only on negative attitudes to death and few studies investigated the comprehensive range of factors that influence attitudes to death and dying. In the context of population aging and the United Nations Decade of healthy aging (2021–2030) attention to death attitudes and the factors that influence them are imperative to enable current and future generations to age and die well.

Integrative nursing interventions: knowledge, attitudes and practice in home nursing services in Germany-a quantitative and qualitative online survey.

Integrative nursing interventions (INI) play a significant role in healthcare, particularly in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Integrating evidence-based INI into healthcare aligns with global initiatives such as the WHO's Decade of Healthy Aging 2020-2030. Many INI are low-threshold practices, empowering patients to independently manage health. However, the extent to which INI are used by home-care nursing-services (HNS) remains largely unknown. This study aims to explore the field of INI in German HNS regarding nurses' use of INI as well as attitudes, subjective knowledge, and information needs on the subject. A cross-sectional anonymous online survey with 29 Likert scale items and two open-ended questions was conducted between April 2023 and July 2023. The survey targeted nurse managers of HNS in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Descriptive analysis was performed for quantitative data, while content analysis according to Kuckartz was applied to analyze open-ended text responses. In total, n = 68 out of n = 1,331 HNS took part in the survey yielding a response rate of 5.1%. Their overall attitude toward INI was clearly positive (10-point Likert scale M ± SD: 8.37 ± 2.22). The average self-assessed knowledge level about INI was moderate (M ± SD: 5.39 ± 2.76). Almost half of the participants (45.6%) declared to incorporate INI in patient care. Most participants (84.2%) lacked employees with additional qualifications in INI. The INI used most were medicinal herbal teas (61%), compresses (57%), and aromatherapy (48%). Acupressure showed the greatest disparity between actual use in participating HNS (4.3%) and interest in further education (61%). The most common symptoms for which INI are used are pain, respiratory problems, anxiety, and palliative care. The main challenges reported for the use of INI in HNS are financial aspects, qualification and limited resources (staff and time). This exploratory study provides the first insights into nurses' attitudes, self-assessed knowledge, and utilization of INI in German HNS. Overall response rate was low (5.1%), therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution. Urgent action is needed to address financial aspects and further education on INI, to promote integration of INI in HNS to the best possible extent.

B-345 The PSA and free PSA Concentrations in Serum of Apparently Healthy Subjects Using the Atellica IM hsPSA and fPSAII Assays

Abstract Background PSA assays are recommended in the screening for prostate cancer (PC) among males 50 years and older. Those with PSA results in the gray zone (between 4 ng/mL and 10 ng/mL) and a nonsuspicious digital rectal examination (DRE) may be further tested with the free PSA (fPSA) assays to improve detection of PC. PSA and fPSA are also detected in apparently healthy subjects. The goal of this study was to evaluate the distribution of high sensitivity PSA (hsPSA), fPSAII, and %fPSAII (fPSAII/hsPSA x 100) values generated on the Atellica® IM Analyzer among apparently healthy subjects by age decade. Methods Serum samples were prospectively collected from apparently healthy subjects at multiple sites across the United States: 673 males 50-70+ years presenting at primary care facilities for routine PSA testing (&amp;gt;120 samples in each age decade (50-59, 60-69, 70+ years) and 113 samples in each of two younger decades (30-39, 40-49 years). Distribution statistics include the mean, median, interquartile range, 2.5th, 95th, and 97.5th percentiles. Results In this study, using samples from healthy men 30-70+ years (N=786), it was observed that median hsPSA results increased with every decade from 0.682 ng/mL at 30-39 years to 2.183 ng/mL at age 70+ years. The 97.5th percentiles were below 4.0 ng/mL in men &amp;lt;50 years, and above 4.0 ng/mL in men &amp;gt;50 years. All men (100%) 30-49 years had an hsPSA result below 4.0, and 95.5% of men 50-59 years had an hsPSA result below 4.0. The percent of subjects with hsPSA values above the cut-off of 4.0 was 6.6% among men 60-69 years and 12.4% among men &amp;gt;70 years. Median hsPSA values for each age group were comparable to median PSA values reported for healthy men older than 50 years old without cancer undergoing routine health check-ups in the United States and other countries (median hsPSA value was 0.90 among men 50-59 years). For both hsPSA and fPSAII, it was observed that average values increased with each successive decade for subjects 30-70+ years. The range across decades was 0.904-2.183 ng/mL for hsPSA and 0.23-0.46 ng/mL for fPSAII. However, the average %fPSAII (fPSA/hsPSAx100) values did not consistently rise over time because hsPSA variances also increase, a pattern previously documented. Conclusions The distribution of Atellica® IM hsPSA and fPSAII assay values from apparently healthy males was determined. CAUTION: Investigational Device. Not available for sale. Future availability cannot be guaranteed. The results are preliminary and were achieved in unique setting with no expected timeline for completion.

Open versus Percutaneous Repair of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture A Systematic Review

Abstract Background The optimal treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures (AATR) is still under debate. It is most frequently ruptured in the 3rd and 4th decade of age. Objective The aim of this study was to compare open repair and minimally invasive repair in acute Achilles tendon rupture in adults regarding operative techniques, functional outcome and complications. Patients and Methods This systematic review included 6 articles with 329 patients. There were 165 patients had open repair and 164 patients by percutaneous repair with a mean follow-up of 23 months (range 20–24 months). Variables of each article were recorded and analyzed with respect to age, sex, follow-up, complications, and final outcomes. Results Percutaneous technique was much faster than open repair but regarding time to return to work, open repair patients had fewer weeks than the percutaneous. Complications were less in percutaneous repair except sural nerve injury. Conclusion The review has showed out that minimally invasive techniques clinically and biomechanically suitable alternatives to open repair based on both clinical outcomes and complication.

Seroconversion Toxoplasmosis as a predictor for gestational diabetes mellitus among pregnant ladies in Iraq

Background. Toxoplasma gondii (T.g.) can reach many host organs including the pancreas and pancreatic tissue may be directly attacked and compromised by the organisms. Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of toxoplasmosis infestation as a predictor of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) among pregnant ladies in Thi-Qar, Southern Iraq. Methodology. A case-control study was conducted on 151 pregnant ladies classified (61) with GDM and (89) healthy pregnant ladies attending a tertiary Endocrine Center. All patient data were gathered from direct interviews and the digital records of the tertiary center, which used an internal network system and Microsoft Access program. Each pregnant woman was diagnosed with new GDM according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) definition criteria. Results. The mean ages of the whole participants were 28 ±6 years old and more than half of them were in the second decade of life, their mean weight was 75.38±13.29) kg and their body mass index was 29.82 ± 5.23 (Kg/m2). Family history of DM, history of toxoplasmosis infestation, and positive serological test of IgG for toxoplasmosis was significantly predominant among women with GDM rather than those without (p-value= 0.007, 0.002, 0.004 respectively). Conclusions. The second decade of age is the independent risk factor for developing new GDM, while toxoplasmosis infestation and positive IGG were additive-dependent risk factors for developing new GDM in collaboration with other patients' profiles. Pregnant women with GDM were significantly older, heavier in body weight, and obese than those without GDM making them at higher risk factors for getting hyperglycemia.

Prevalence of peripheral artery disease in young coronary artery disease patients

Background and objectives. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD) are progressive inflammatory conditions caused by arteriosclerosis, typically presenting after the age of 50. However, assessing peripheral vascular disease (PVD) in younger populations may offer early indications of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. This study investigates the prevalence of abnormal ankle brachial index (ABI) values among young myocardial infarction (MI) patients and examines the correlation of ABI with other cardiovascular risk factors. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, involving 147 patients aged 40 years or younger who were admitted with MI symptoms. The study focused on the incidence and severity of MI in relation to age, sex, and the presence of risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, dyslipidemia, hypertension (HTN), and diabetes mellitus (DM). Results. The study analyzed the incidence of myocardial infarction (MI) in a population under 40 years old. It was found that the incidence rate increased with age within this group. Specifically, males were more frequently affected than females, with 70% of cases occurring in males. Among female participants, all were over 30 years old. In terms of ankle-brachial index (ABI) values, 40% of females exhibited abnormal ABI, compared to 25% of males. Significant risk factors identified included smoking, with 60% of participants reporting tobacco use, alcohol consumption at 50%, and dyslipidemia present in 45% of cases. Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) were less prevalent, affecting 20% and 15% of participants, respectively. There was a significant correlation between low ABI values and the use of tobacco (p&lt;0.01) and alcohol (p&lt;0.05). However, the analysis showed no significant relationship between the number of vascular involvements indicated by ABI and the length of hospital stay. The length of hospital stay did increase with patient age, with an average increase of 2 days for every decade of age, but this was not significantly associated with ABI values. Conclusion. ABI is a valuable diagnostic tool in young populations for detecting early signs of CHD, offering advantages over routine blood pressure measurements. This study supports the broader use of ABI in both young and older populations to improve early detection and management of cardiovascular risks. Further research is needed to explore the implications of ABI in routine clinical practice and its correlation with other cardiovascular risk factors.

Blood transfusion in injured older adults: A retrospective cohort study.

We asked how increasing age interacts with transfusion and mortality among older injured adults at our large regional trauma center. Older adults are increasing proportions of acute trauma care and transfusion, but the specific interactions of increasing age with blood product use are unclear. Trauma data (age, injury severity, mechanism, etc.) were linked with transfusion service data (type, timing and numbers of units) for all acute trauma patients treated at our center 2011-2022. Subsets of patients aged ≥55 years were identified by age decade and trends assessed statistically, p < 0.01. Of 73 645 patients, 25 409 (34.5%) were aged ≥55. Within increasing 10-year age cohorts, these older patients were increasingly female (32.2%-67.2%), transferred from outside facilities (55.2%-65.9%) and injured in falls (44.4%-90.3%). Overall, patients ≥55, despite roughly equivalent injury severity, were twice as likely to be transfused (24% vs. 12.8%) as younger patients and to die during hospitalisation (7.5% vs. 2.9%). Cohort survival at all ages and levels of transfusion intensity in the first 4 h of care were more than 50%. Through age 94, numbers of red cell and whole blood units given in the first 4 h of care were a function of injury severity, not age cohort. In our trauma resuscitation practice, patients aged ≥55 years are more likely to receive blood products than younger patients, but numbers of units given in the first 4 h appear based on injury severity. Age equity in acute resuscitation is demonstrated.

Década del Envejecimiento Saludable: Calidad de Vida para los Adultos Mayores

This article deals with health as an inalienable human right of older people, as subjects with full rights, who must access health and life in general with quality, with information, without discrimination or abuse. Living this stage of life in the best conditions is possible by assuming responsibilities and trying to make conscious decisions for healthy aging. The challenge is everyone's task, without forgetting the share of responsibility that we have as pointed out by the WHO towards the Decade of Healthy Aging 2021-2030, declared by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2020, as the main strategy to build a society for all ages.