Function In Elderly Individuals Research Articles

Relationship between Pain and Dementia: The Mediating Effect of Depression among Chinese Elderly.

Chronic pain poses a significant problem for older adults and may potentially impact cognitive function. This study aimed to examine the cross-sectional relationship between pain severity and cognitive function in elderly individuals residing in the community. Additionally, this study sought to examine the mediating effect of depression on the relationship between pain and dementia. The study sample was derived from the 2018 China Health and Aging Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), comprising cross-sectional data from 4559 community residents aged 65 years or older. The primary outcome assessed was the occurrence of dementia, while the main independent variable was pain severity (none, little, somewhat, quite a bit, very). Depression score served as the mediating factor. Chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between depression and the occurrence of pain and dementia. An intermediate model was constructed by stepwise regression. The study indicates a significant association between cognitive impairment and both chronic pain and depressive symptoms in older adults living in China. Individuals who frequently report experiencing pain exhibit a higher likelihood of developing dementia when compared to those who do not report any pain (odds ratio (OR) = 1.72, p < 0.001). Moreover, depressive symptoms significantly mediate the relationship between pain and dementia, with the mediating effect accounting for 65.25%. Chronic pain not only directly impacts patients' cognitive function but also indirectly exacerbates cognitive impairment through depressive symptoms as a mediating variable. For elderly individuals experiencing depressive symptoms, it is important to provide appropriate psychological treatment in conjunction with pain management strategies.

Transcriptomic analysis to identify genes associated with hypothalamus vulnerability in aging mice with cognitive decline

The normal aging process is accompanied by cognitive decline, and previous studies have indicated the crucial role of the hypothalamus in regulating both aging and cognition. However, the precise molecular mechanism underlying this relationship remains unclear. Therefore, this present study aimed to identify potential predictors of cognitive decline associated with aging specifically within the hypothalamus. To achieve this, we employed Morris water maze (MWM) testing to assess learning and memory differences between young and aged mice. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on the hypothalamus of young and aged mice to identify potential genes. Subsequently, GO and KEGG analyses were performed to investigate the functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their associated biological pathways. Finally, the results obtained from sequencing analysis were further validated using qRT-PCR. Notably, MWM testing revealed a significant decrease in spatial learning and memory ability among aged mice. According to KEGG analysis, the DEGs primarily encompassed various biochemical signaling pathways related to immune system (e.g., C3; C4b; Ccl2; Ccl7; Cebpb; Clec7a; Col3a1; Cxcl10; Cxcl2; Fosb; Fosl1; Gbp5; H2-Ab1; Hspa1a; Hspa1b; Icam1; Il1b; Itga5; Itgax; Lilrb4a; Plaur; Ptprc; Serpine1; Tnfrsf10b; Tnfsf10), neurodegenerative disease (e.g., Atp2a1; Creb5; Fzd10; Hspa1a; Hspa1b; Il1b; Kcnj10; Nxf3; Slc6a3; Tubb6; Uba1y; Wnt9b), nervous system function (e.g., Chrna4; Chrna6; Creb5; Slc6a3),and aging (e.g., Creb5; Hspa1a; Hspa1b) among others. These identified genes may serve as potential predictors for cognitive function in elderly individuals and will provide a crucial foundation for further exploration into the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Relationship between the Risk of Falling and Physical Function in Elderly Individuals with Lower Extremity Arthritis

Background: The prevalence of falls among the elderly is a significant public health concern, with lower extremity arthritis being a prominent risk factor. This condition severely impacts daily functioning and increases the risk of falls, leading to further morbidity and decreased quality of life among the aging population. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the risk of falling and physical function in elderly individuals diagnosed with lower extremity arthritis, focusing on the assessment of daily living activities and fear of falling. Methods: A total of 150 elderly individuals (45 males and 105 females) with lower extremity arthritis were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Participants' difficulties in performing daily activities and their fear of falling were evaluated using the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) and the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were employed to calculate frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The study adhered to the ethical guidelines of the Declaration of Helsinki, with all participants providing written informed consent. Results: The mean age of participants was 51±7 years, ranging from 40 to 65 years. A significant majority reported difficulty in performing daily activities (70%, n=105) and a fear of falling (80%, n=120). Gender distribution showed a higher prevalence of arthritis and associated issues among females (70%) compared to males (30%). Conclusion: The study highlights the profound impact of lower extremity arthritis on the physical function and fall risk among the elderly. There is a critical need for integrated healthcare interventions focusing on enhancing physical function and addressing the psychological aspects of fall fear to improve elderly individuals' quality of life with arthritis.

Effects of square dance exercise on cognitive function in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment: the mediating role of balance ability and executive function

BackgroundSquare dancing is a kind of aerobic fitness exercise without environmental restrictions that yields many benefits for physical and mental health; this exercise is popular among middle-aged and elderly people in China and in these populations in other countries. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of square dance exercise on the overall cognitive function of elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to research its mechanisms.MethodsA total of 60 elderly people with MCI (60–69 years old) without square dance experience were selected and randomly divided into an experimental group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). The experimental group participated in square dance exercise for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their original lifestyle habits. One week before and after the intervention period, the overall cognitive function, physical fitness, and executive function of both groups were measured.ResultsAccording to the results, square dance exercise directly improved the overall cognitive function of elderly individuals with MCI and indirectly affected overall cognitive function through the mediating effects of balance ability and executive function.ConclusionsSquare dance exercise represents a nonpharmacological intervention for the prevention and treatment of MCI. Importantly, it is best to combine this exercise with other forms of physical exercise and comprehensive treatment programs such as cognitive training, social interaction, and psychological intervention to realize its maximum effect.

Biology of cognitive aging across species.

Aging is associated with cognitive decline, which can critically affect quality of life. Examining the biology of cognitive aging across species will lead to a better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms involved in this process, and identify potential interventions that could help to improve cognitive function in aging individuals. This minireview aimed to explore the mechanisms and processes involved in cognitive aging across a range of species, from flies to rodents, and covers topics, such as the role of reactive oxygen species and autophagy/mitophagy in cognitive aging. Overall, this literature provides a comprehensive overview of the biology of cognitive aging across species, highlighting the latest research findings and identifying potential avenues for future research. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 15-24.

Serum neurofilament light chain and cognition decline in US elderly: A cross-sectional study.

Early identification of cognitive impairment in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD) is crucial. Neurofilament, a potential biomarker for neurological disorders, has gained attention. Our study aims to investigate the relationship between serum neurofilament light (sNfL) levels and cognitive function in elderly individuals in the United States. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from participants aged 60 and above in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013-2014). We collected sNfL levels, cognitive function tests, sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and other variables. Weighted multiple linear regression models examined the relationship between ln(sNfL) and cognitive scores. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) visualization explored nonlinear relationships. The stratified analysis examined subgroups' ln(sNfL) and cognitive function association. The study included 446 participants (47.73% male). Participants with ln(sNfL) levels between 2.58 and 2.81 pg/mL (second quintile) performed relatively well in cognitive tests. After adjusting for multiple factors, ln(sNfL) levels were negatively correlated with cognitive function, with adjusted β (95% CI) as follows: immediate recall test (IRT): -0.763 (-1.301 to -0.224), delayed recall test (DRT): -0.308 (-0.576 to -0.04), animal fluency test (AFT): -1.616 (-2.639 to -0.594), and digit symbol substitution test (DSST): -2.790 (-4.369 to -1.21). RCS curves showed nonlinear relationships between ln(sNfL) and DRT, AFT, with inflection points around 2.7 pg/mL. The stratified analysis revealed a negative correlation between ln(sNfL) and cognition in specific subgroups with distinct features, with an interaction between diabetes and ln(sNfL). Higher sNfL levels are associated with poorer cognitive function in the elderly population of the United States. sNfL shows promise as a potential biomarker for early identification of cognitive decline.

Effects of ApoE in the Panama aging research initiative: A community‐dwelling older adults’ cohort in Panama

AbstractBackgroundThe Panama Aging Research Initiative (PARI) is a longitudinal study of more than 800 adults aged 60 years and older. The objective of this analysis consists of identifying the effects of Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene as a risk factor for sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with elevated risk for ε4‐carriers and reduced risk for ε2‐carriers.MethodOur ongoing community‐based cohort (n = 400) has undergone clinical interviews, neuropsychological testing, and assessments of frailty at two time points (14‐29 months apart). Fasting blood draws were obtained for measurements of genetic and blood‐based biological markers. DNA was extracted from whole blood and (ApoE) genotyping (n = 330) was conducted according to standardized PCR procedures. We will examine whether ε2 and ε4 are associated with differential rates of normal cognitive aging, and whether associations of ε4 with cognitive decline are modified by sex, education or other health conditions common among older adults in Panama, including chronic illnesses, polypharmacy and frailty.ResultOur study evaluate whether ApoE ε2, ε3 and ε4 allele frequency is a significant factor associated with cognition and daily function in elderly individuals. Specifically, we focus on evaluating the frequency of ApoE ε4 expression as a risk for cognitive impairment. Together these results contribute to our understanding of the risk factors of cognitive outcomes among Hispanic populations outside the US.ConclusionLittle is known about the factors associated to cognitive health at old age in Central American populations. Genetic biomarkers could be used as a tool for diagnostic testing. It is expected that ApoE‐ε4 polymorphism will correlate with cognitive deficit among the elderly population and those at risk for cognitive impairment.

A back propagation neural network approach to estimate the glomerular filtration rate in an older population

BackgroundThe use of creatinine-based glomerular filtration rate (GFR)-estimating equations to evaluate kidney function in elderly individuals does not appear to offer any performance advantages. We therefore aimed to develop an accurate GFR-estimating tool for this age group.MethodsAdults aged ≥ 65 years who underwent GFR measurement by technetium-99 m-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) renal dynamic imaging were included. Data were randomly split into a training set containing 80% of the participants and a test set containing the remaining 20% of the subjects. The Back propagation neural network (BPNN) approach was used to derive a novel GFR estimation tool; then we compared the performance of the BPNN tool with six creatinine-based equations (Chronic Kidney Disease-Epidemiology Collaboration [CKD-EPI], European Kidney Function Consortium [EKFC], Berlin Initiative Study-1 [BIS1], Lund-Malmö Revised [LMR], Asian modified CKD-EPI, and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease [MDRD]) in the test cohort. Three equation performance criteria were considered: bias (difference between measured GFR and estimated GFR), precision (interquartile range [IQR] of the median difference), and accuracy P30 (percentage of GFR estimates that are within 30% of measured GFR).ResultsThe study included 1,222 older adults. The mean age of both the training cohort (n = 978) and the test cohort (n = 244) was 72 ± 6 years, with 544 (55.6%) and 129 (52.9%) males, respectively. The median bias of BPNN was 2.06 ml/min/1.73 m2, which was smaller than that of LMR (4.59 ml/min/1.73 m2; p = 0.03), and higher than that of the Asian modified CKD-EPI (-1.43 ml/min/1.73 m2; p = 0.02). The median bias between BPNN and each of CKD-EPI (2.19 ml/min/1.73 m2; p = 0.31), EKFC (-1.41 ml/min/1.73 m2; p = 0.26), BIS1 (0.64 ml/min/1.73 m2; p = 0.99), and MDRD (1.11 ml/min/1.73 m2; p = 0.45) was not significant. However, the BPNN had the highest precision IQR (14.31 ml/min/1.73 m2) and the greatest accuracy P30 among all equations (78.28%). At measured GFR < 45 ml/min/1.73 m2, the BPNN has highest accuracy P30 (70.69%), and highest precision IQR (12.46 ml/min/1.73 m2). The biases of BPNN and BIS1 equations were similar (0.74 [-1.55−2.78] and 0.24 [-2.58−1.61], respectively), smaller than any other equation.ConclusionsThe novel BPNN tool is more accurate than the currently available creatinine-based GFR estimation equations in an older population and could be recommended for routine clinical use.

Effects of Exercise on Cognitive FunctionImprovement in South Korean Elderly: A Meta-Analysis

The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis and investigate the impact of exercise on cognitive function in elderly individuals in South Korea. To achieve this goal, academic journals published in South Korea between January 2012 and August 2022 were analyzed comprehensively. The study selected 34 final studies and used the CMA 2.0 for meta-analysis. First, the overall effect size of exercise intervention was found to be significantly large (ES = 1.138). Second, gender and age were not statistically significant to explain effect size of exercise intervention. Third, the study found that a 16-week intervention period had the greatest effect (ES = 2.700). Lastly, the effect size of exercise intervention increased with the passage of time (p=.008). In conclusion, the study found that exercise participation among elderly individuals had a positive impact on cognitive function improvement. The effect of exercise increased with the passage of time.

Effect of dietary supplementation with multinutrient soy flour on body composition and cognitive function in elderly individuals at the risk of low protein: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Insufficient protein intake and cognitive decline are common in older adults; however, there have been few studies on low protein risk screening and complex nutrient interventions for elderly individuals in rural communities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary multinutrient soy flour (MNSF) on body composition and cognitive function in elderly individuals who are at risk of protein deficiency in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Nutritional interventions were given to those found to have low protein levels using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Among 733 older adults screened, 62 participants were included and randomly assigned into two groups, one taking soy flour and the other taking MNSF for 12 weeks. A previous cross-sectional survey found that 35.1% of the elderly people with an average age of 71.61 ± 5.94 years had an inadequate body protein mass proportion. After the intervention, the MNSF group demonstrated a significant improvement in protein mass, muscle mass, mineral levels, skeletal muscle mass, and fat-free mass compared with baseline (all P < 0.05), as well as a better upward trend compared with the soy flour group (P = 0.08; P = 0.07; P = 0.05; P = 0.08; P = 0.07). Regarding the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scores, the MNSF group showed a significant decrease after 12 weeks (P < 0.05), which were significantly different compared with the soy flour group (P < 0.05). In the future, the application of MNSF as a food-based supplement to improve nutrition and delay cognitive decline in older adults at the risk of protein deficiency may be considered.

Effects of stochastic resonance whole-body vibration on sensorimotor function in elderly individuals-A systematic review.

Due to demographic changes, falls are increasingly becoming a focus of health care. It is known that within six months after a fall, two thirds of fallers will fall again. Therefore, therapeutic procedures to improve balance that are simple and can be performed in a short time are needed. Stochastic resonance whole-body vibration (SR-WBV) may be such a procedure. An electronic search to assess the effectiveness of SR-WBV on balance in the elderly was conducted using databases that included CINAHL Cochrane, PEDro, and PubMed. Included studies were assessed using the Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool by two independent reviewers. Nine studies showing moderate methodological quality were included. Treatment parameters were heterogeneous. Vibration frequency ranged from 1 to 12 Hz. Six studies found statistically significant improvements of balance from baseline to post measurement after SR-WBV interventions. One article found clinical relevance of the improvement in total time of the "Expanded Time to Get Up and Go Test". Physiological adaptations after balance training are specific and may explain some of the observed heterogeneity. Two out of nine studies assessed reactive balance and both indicated statistically significant improvements after SR-WBV. Therefore, SR-WBV represents a reactive balance training.

Abstract 12217: Effect of Repeated Binge Drinking in Mid-Life Adults on Vascular Function

Introduction: Age-related changes in vascular function, including endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffening, contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. “Mid-life adults”, defined as age 50-64, begin to show signs of vascular aging. One in five mid-life adults engage in binge drinking and our previous studies in young adults showed that repeated binge drinking was associated with endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffening. However, it is unclear how binge drinking influences vascular function in aged individuals. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate endothelial function and arterial stiffness in mid-life adults who binge drink regularly (binge drinkers) compared to those who did not drink alcohol (alcohol abstainers). Methods: Twelve apparently healthy mid-life men and postmenopausal women, with no smoking history were included in this study (mean±SEM, age: 57±1 years, body mass index: 26.0±0.8 kg/cm 2 , systolic blood pressure: 119±5 mmHg). Alcohol use was assessed by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and dried blood spot phosphatidylethanol. Endothelial function was assessed by brachial artery response to reactive hyperemia (flow-mediated dilation, FMD) via ultrasonography. Arterial stiffness was assessed by carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) via use of the cuff-based SphygmoCor Xcel. Results: Binge drinkers (n=6) had an AUDIT score≥5 (11.8±2.1) and positive phosphatidylethanol level (162±103 ng/mL), while alcohol abstainers (n=6) had an AUDIT score≤1 (0.8±0.2) and negative phosphatidylethanol level. Compared to alcohol abstainers, binge drinkers had a lower brachial artery FMD (alcohol abstainers vs. binge drinkers: 9.8±1.2% vs. 5.1±0.9%, P=0.01), but similar cfPWV (7.2±0.7 vs. 7.0±0.5 m/sec, P=0.8). Conclusions: Our results indicate that compared to mid-life adult alcohol abstainers, binge drinkers had lower endothelial function, but similar arterial stiffness. These findings suggest that repeated binge drinking may further impair endothelial function throughout the aging process.

Effect of Sleep Disturbance on Cognitive Function in Elderly Individuals: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Many epidemiologic and clinical studies have shown significant links between the degree of sleep disturbance and severity of impairment of selective cognitive functions, including the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the sleep parameters that affect cognitive function in old age are unclear. Therefore, we investigated the association between sleep parameters and cognitive function in older patients. Patients aged above 65 years who complained of sleep-disordered breathing were enrolled consecutively. The Mini-Mental-State Examination tool was used to evaluate cognitive function. Eighty patients (normal cognitive function, n = 32 and cognitive impairment, n = 42) were included in this study. Multiple linear regression and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to explain the relationship between sleep parameters and cognitive function. We found that the body mass index (BMI) was significantly lower in the cognitive impairment group than in the normal cognitive function group. Additionally, the cognitive impairment group showed significantly decreased sleep efficiency and an increased apnea index compared with normal subjects. Moreover, lower BMI, reduced sleep efficiency, and high frequency of apnea events during sleep were associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment.

The impact of lipid nanoparticles (LNP) on anti-viral pathways and immune function in aged individuals

Abstract Aging leads to increased morbidity and mortality posing a big challenge to societies as the world population shifts to an increased proportion of aged individuals. Immunosenescence, a condition of chronic increased level of basal inflammation and immune system dysregulation, is suspected to decrease vaccine efficacy and enhance COVID-19 complications in older individuals. Current vaccination efforts like mRNA vaccines utilize lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platforms that elicit the immune response however, little is known about how LNP adjuvantation affects anti-viral pathways and immune function in aged individuals. We have previously shown that type I IFN production including the phosphorylation of IRF7 and TBK-1 in the TLR 7/8, RIG-I or cGAS-STING pathways and phagocytosis is dysregulated in innate immune cells (i.e., cDC1s, cDC2s, and CD14dimCD16+ monocytes) from healthy older adults (n=11). Our preliminary data utilizing LNP show that in response to LNP stimulus at 4 and 24 hours, older adults have decreased IFNy output. Thus, we further hypothesize that cDC1, cDC2, and CD14dim CD16+ monocytes from healthy, older adults (n=11) will have dysregulated anti-viral signaling and antigen presentation in response to LNP stimulation as measured by the defect in type I IFN production, phosphorylation of IRF7, TBK-1, and immune function like phagocytosis and antigen presentation via flow cytometry. These data support our previous reports of a delayed/decreased proinflammatory output following stimulation and demonstrate potential targets of antiviral pathways that can resolve dysfunctions of the aging immune system for an effective vaccination response. Supported by NIH (U19 AI128910-04S1)

Water supplementation affects the fluid intake and serum levels of BDNF among the elderly nursing home residents

ObjectivesThe link between dehydration and fluid intake with brain function in elderly individuals has produced conflicting findings. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of water supplementation on fluid intake, cognitive and motor performance, and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in euhydrated and dehydrated elderly. MethodsTwenty participants 60 to 89 y of age were randomly divided into four groups, namely; euhydration + control (EC), euhydration + treatment (ET), dehydration + control (DC), and dehydration + treatment (DT) groups. The treatment groups were personally supplemented with plain water for 7 d. The volume of water intake was assessed with food recalls. The digit span test and finger tapping test were used to examine cognitive and motor performances. Peripheral BDNF levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of serum samples. ResultsWater supplementation increased 2.5 times the volume of water and total fluid intake in the ET and DT groups. The mean of the volume water intake on day 7 in ET and DT was significantly different from EC (P < 0.01) and DC (P < 0.001) groups. Serum BDNF levels were higher on preintervention in dehydration compared to euhydration groups (P < 0.05) and significantly negative correlated with the volume of water (r = –0.59, P = 0.006) and fluid intake (r = –0.60, P = 0.004). ConclusionsThe present study demonstrated that 7 d of water supplementation increased the water and the total fluid intake in elderly individuals regardless of dehydration status. Serum BDNF levels increased during dehydration and reverted to physiologic levels after appropriate rehydration.

Relationship of Blood and Urinary Manganese Levels with Cognitive Function in Elderly Individuals in the United States by Race/Ethnicity, NHANES 2011-2014.

Manganese (Mn) is an essential metal with a biphasic relationship with health outcomes. High-level exposure to Mn is associated with manganism, but few data explore the effects of chronic, lower-level Mn on cognitive function in adults. We sought to determine the relationship between blood/urinary manganese levels and cognitive function in elderly individuals using 2011–2014 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Weighted multivariate regression models were used to determine correlations, adjusting for several covariates. Blood Mn was inversely associated with the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD) immediate learning of new verbal information (p-value = 0.04), but lost significance after adjusting for medical history (p-value = 0.09). In addition, blood Mn was inversely associated with Animal Fluency scores after adjusting for all covariates. Urinary Mn was inversely associated with CERAD immediate learning after adjusting for all covariates (p-value = 0.01) and inversely associated with the Digit Symbol Substitution Test scores (p-value = 0.0002), but lost significance after adjusting for medical history (p-value = 0.13). Upon stratifying by race/ethnicity, other Races and Non-Hispanic (NH)-Blacks had significantly higher blood Mn levels when compared to NH-Whites. Collectively, these findings suggest that increased blood and urinary Mn levels are associated with poorer cognitive function in an elderly US population.

Caspase-1 variant influencing CSF tau and FDG PET levels in non-demented elders from the ADNI cohort

BackgroundGenetic variations in the inflammatory Caspase-1 gene have been shown associated with cognitive function in elderly individuals and in predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but its detailed mechanism before the typical AD onset was still unclear. Our current study evaluated the impact of Caspase-1 common variant rs554344 on the pathological processes of brain amyloidosis, tauopathy, and neurodegeneration.MethodsData used in our study were obtained from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort. We examined the relationship between Caspase-1 rs554344 allele carrier status with AD-related cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), PET, and MRI measures at baseline by using a multiple linear regression model. We also analyzed the longitudinal effects of this variant on the change rates of CSF biomarkers and imaging data using a mixed effect model.ResultsWe found that Caspase-1 variant was significantly associated with FDG PET levels and CSF t-tau levels at baseline in total non-demented elderly group, and especially in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) subgroup. In addition, this variant was also detected associated with CSF p-tau levels in MCI subgroup. The mediation analysis showed that CSF p-tau partially mediated the association between Caspase-1 variant and CSF t-tau levels, accounting for 80% of the total effect.ConclusionsOur study indicated a potential role of Caspase-1 variant in influencing cognitive function might through changing tau related-neurodegeneration process.

Addition of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Motor Control Exercises on Pain and Function in Elderly Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain

Introduction: Low back pain is a common, disabling, costly medical problem in most countries. CLBP is one of the most frequently reported conditions affecting the older adults. Numerous studies have also documented the associations of pain-related beliefs and appraisals with pain intensity and related problems, including depression, physical disability, and activity and social role limitations. Recently there is an increased attention to the role of cognitions in mood, anxiety, and other psychological disorders sparked interest in incorporating cognitive therapy techniques into behavioral therapies for chronic pain. CBT is a form of psychological therapy. It focuses on actions are the behavioral part. CBT is a feasible treatment for cognitively intact, older persons with CLBP, and may be efficacious as well. The aim of the study is to analyze the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy with Motor control exercises programme on CLBP.&#x0D; Methods: Study is an experimental study design includes 40 patients with CLBP with more than 6 months duration. 20 participants underwent motor control exercises with moist heat pack and 20 participants underwent motor control exercises with cognitive behavioral therapy and moist heat pack. Study was conducted for 8weeks of duration and the outcome measures were pain and disability which was measured using numerical pain scale and Oswestry disability index.&#x0D; Results: The between group comparison was made using the unpaired t test and the results were found to be 10.15 ±0.502, at the 95% of the Confidence intervals for disability. The between group comparison was made using the unpaired t test and the results were obtained are 7.47 ± 0.22, at the 95% of the Confidence intervals for Pain.&#x0D; Conclusion: The study concluded that motor control exercises with cognitive behavioral therapy were significantly effective in reducing pain and disability. 

Neural Mechanism of Repeated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Enhance Visual Working Memory in Elderly Individuals With Subjective Cognitive Decline.

Visual working memory (VWM), the core process inherent to many advanced cognitive processes, deteriorates with age. Elderly individuals usually experience defects in the processing of VWM. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is a key structure for the top-down control of working memory processes. Many studies have shown that repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improves VWM by modulating the excitability of neurons in the target cortical region, though the underlying neural mechanism has not been clarified. Therefore, this study sought to assess the characteristics of brain memory function post-rTMS targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The study stimulated the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in elderly individuals by performing a high-frequency rTMS protocol and evaluated behavioral performance using cognitive tasks and a VWM task. Based on the simultaneously recorded electroencephalogram signals, event-related potential and event-related spectral perturbation analysis techniques were used to investigate the variation characteristics of event-related potential components' (N2PC and CDA) amplitudes and neural oscillations in elderly individuals to elucidate the effect of high-frequency rTMS. The results found that rTMS enhanced VWM performance and significantly improved attention and executive function in elderly individuals with subjective cognitive decline. We therefore speculate that rTMS enhances VWM by increasing the N2PC and CDA amplitude, alongside increasing β oscillation activity. This would improve the attention and allocation of resources in elderly individuals such as to improve an individual's VWM.

Microbiome-Metabolomics Reveals Endogenous Alterations of Energy Metabolism by the Dushen Tang to Attenuate D-Galactose-Induced Memory Impairment in Rats.

Aging affects the brain function in elderly individuals, and Dushen Tang (DST) is widely used for the treatment of senile diseases. In this study, the protective effect of DST against memory impairment was evaluated through the Morris water maze (MWM) test and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A joint analysis was also performed using LC-MS metabolomics and the microbiome. The MWM test showed that DST could significantly improve the spatial memory and learning abilities of rats with memory impairment, and the TEM analysis showed that DST could reduce neuronal damage in the hippocampus of rats with memory impairment. Ten potential biomarkers involving pyruvate metabolism, the synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies, and other metabolic pathways were identified by the metabolomic analysis, and it was found that 3-hydroxybutyric acid and lactic acid were involved in the activation of cAMP signaling pathways. The 16S rDNA sequencing results showed that DST could regulate the structure of the gut microbiota in rats with memory impairment, and these effects were manifested as changes in energy metabolism. These findings suggest that DST exerts a good therapeutic effect on rats with memory impairment and that this effect might be mainly achieved by improving energy metabolism. These findings might lead to the potential development of DST as a drug for the treatment of rats with memory impairment.