Aging Population Research Articles

The somatotroph pituitary gland function in high-aged multimorbid hospitalized patients with IGF-I deficiency.

It is unclear whether the age-related decline in the somatotropic axis stems from a reduced growth hormone (GH) production in the pituitary gland, or from a peripheral origin akin to an acquired GH resistance. With the help of a GHRH/arginine test, high-aged multimorbid hospitalized patients with IGF-I deficiency are to be tested to determine whether there is primarily a pituitary GH deficiency in the sense of a somatopause. Seventeen multimorbid patients (eleven men and six women) with a mean age of 82 years, with IGF-I concentrations below two standard deviations of 30-year-old men and women were identified. Patients suffered from a variety of common age-related stable diseases including coronary artery disease, chronic liver or kidney disease, chronic heart failure as well as acute conditions e.g., urosepsis or endocarditis. To assess the somatotropic axis they underwent a GHRH/arginine test. Results were evaluated using descriptive statistics. In average, the peak concentration of GH after stimulation was 14.8µg/L with a range from 2.76 to 47.4µg/L. Taking into account both, gender and BMI (with a mean of 26.5kg/m²) for each participant, the pituitary gland was adequately stimulated in 16 out of the 17 patients. No patient reported common side effects related to the GHRH/arginine test. The somatotroph pituitary gland retains its secretory capacity in the advanced aged. Therefore, age does not seem to be the driving pacemaker for the functional decline of the somatotropic axis within the aged population.

Fall Detection System for Elderly Care

Abstract: This project introduces a revolutionary Fall Detection System for Elderly Care, focusing on swift detection and immediate response to falls, particularly among wheelchair-bound seniors. In response to the escalating challenges posed by an aging population, Especially concerning the well-being of the elderly, the development of innovative solutions has become imperative. Central to these concerns is the prevalence of falls among seniors, which not only jeopardizes their physical health but also threatens their independence. Conventional fall detection methods have proven inadequate in providing timely assistance, underscoring the critical need for more advanced technologies. This project addresses this pressing need through the creation of a comprehensive Fall Detection System, with a specific focus on wheelchair-bound individuals. By seamlessly integrating state-of-the-art hardware and software components, the system aims to revolutionize elderly care by prioritizing safety and autonomy. At its core, the system utilizes the MPU6050 sensor module, renowned for its precision in monitoring body position and movement. Through the implementation of sophisticated algorithms, the software component meticulously analyzes real-time sensor data to swiftly detect falls. Upon detection of a fall event, the system autonomously triggers alerts to nearby healthcare services or designated contacts, ensuring a rapid response and timely provision of assistance to the elderly individual in need.

The NOS1AP gene rs10494366 common genetic variant does not modify the risk of sudden cardiac death in users of digoxin.

Common genetic variations in the nitric oxide synthase-1 adaptor protein (NOS1AP) gene are associated with QT-interval prolongation. In a previous study, we observed an association between the rs10494366 variant of this gene and an increased QT-interval shortening in digoxin users. As QT-interval shortening is a risk factor for sudden cardiac death (SCD), in this study, we investigated whether the association between digoxin use and risk of SCD differs in participants with different NOS1AP rs10494366 genotypes. We included 11 377 individuals from the prospective population-based cohort of the Rotterdam Study. We used Cox proportional hazard regression analysis with digoxin as time-dependent exposure to estimate the associations between current digoxin use and the risk of SCD among different rs10494366 genotype groups in the adjusted models. We also studied whether such an association was dose-dependent, comparing high dosage (≥ 0.250 mg), moderate dosage (0.125 mg ≤ dose< 0.250 mg) and low dosage (< 0.125 mg) digoxin users with non-users. The median baseline age of the total study population was 62 (interquartile range [IQR] 58-71) years. The cumulative incidence of SCD was 4.1% (469 cases), and among them, 74 (15.7%) individuals were current digoxin users at the time of death, during a median follow-up of 11.5 (IQR 6.5-17) years. Current digoxin users had an increased risk of SCD (multivariable adjusted model hazard ratio [HR]: 3.07; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.38-3.98), with no significant differences between the three genotype groups. The adjusted HRs were 4.03 [95% CI: 1.98-8.21] in the minor homozygous GG, 3.46 [95% CI: 2.37-5.04] in the heterozygous TG and 2.56 [95%CI: 1.70-3.86] in the homozygous TT genotype groups. Compared to low- and moderate-dose, high-dose digoxin users with GG genotype had the highest risk of SCD (HR: 5.61 [95% CI: 1.34-23.47]). Current use of digoxin is associated with a significantly increased risk of SCD. The NOS1AP gene rs10494366 variant did not modify the digoxin-associated risk of SCD in a population of European ancestry.

Modeling terminal Pleistocene and Holocene forager population increase and environmental change in the Central Namib desert, Namibia

This paper examines the interplay of environmental change and human demographic shifts among late Pleistocene and Holocene populations in the hyper-arid context of the Central Namib Gravel plains, Western Namibia. This paper applies a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach to arid-zone hunter-gatherer mobility patterns and settlement systems based on variability among ethnographically and historically observed groups. It then applies this model in examining issues related to the Middle-to-Later Stone Age transition at the sites of Erb Tanks and the Mirabib rock shelter. This model suggests that, among modern arid-zone foragers, population density is by far the strongest factor influencing mobility and settlement systems, with higher population densities favoring longer residential site usages and shorter residential moves within smaller territories. In contrast, environmental variables having to do with annual rainfall, rainfall seasonality, and effective temperature affect mobility and settlement systems in ambiguous and statistically insignificant ways. This paper closes by arguing that regional-scale population increases signaled by various features of Later Stone Age archaeological patterning led to local population expansions in the Central Namib Desert, and that this in turn caused a range of recognizable cultural shifts that were strongly linked with adaptations to aridity.

Trends in clinical outcomes of older hemodialysis patients: data from the 2023 Korean Renal Data System (KORDS).

With an increasing aging population, the mean age of patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is globally increasing. However, the current clinical status of elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) is rarely reported in Korea. The current study analyzed the clinical features and trends of older patients undergoing HD from the Korean Renal Data System (KORDS) database. The patients were divided into three groups according to age: <65 years (the young group), n = 50,591 (35.9%); 65-74 years (the younger-old group), n = 37,525 (26.6%); and ≥75 years (the older-old group), n = 52,856 (37.5%). The proportion of older-old group undergoing HD significantly increased in incidence and decreased in prevalence from 2013 to 2022. The median levels of hemoglobin, serum creatinine, albumin, calcium, phosphorus, and intact parathyroid hormone significantly decreased in the older-old group. The proportions of arteriovenous fistula creation and left forearm placement showed decreased trends with age. Although the utilization of low surface area dialyzers increased with age, the dialysis adequacy, including urea reduction ratio and Kt/V was within acceptable range in the older-old group on HD. Over the past 20 years, the mortality rate in the older-old group has increased, with cardiovascular diseases decreasing and infectious diseases increasing. The incidence of elderly patients undergoing HD has increased over time, but the high mortality of the older-old group needs to be solved. Therefore, it is imperative to develop holistic strategies based on age and individual needs for patients with ESKD.

Core Competencies for Gerontogeriatric Nursing: A Validation Study.

As the aging population grows, facing multifaceted health challenges and escalating care costs, equipping newly graduated nurses with the requisite skills for high-quality gerontogeriatric care becomes crucial. This study assesses the psychometric properties of a Gerontogeriatric Competency (GGC) scale to evaluate the competencies of newly graduated registered nurses (RNs). Using a convenience sampling approach, a nationwide, observational prospective cohort study was conducted among 272 newly graduated RNs. The evaluation framework included a sociodemographic questionnaire, three groups of questions targeting gerontogeriatric nursing education aspects, and the GGC scale, with 64 competencies. Construct validity (via confirmatory factor analysis), known-group validity and reliability (assessed by Cronbach's α) were examined. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed an adequate index fit: the ratio of chi-square to degrees of freedom (χ2/df) = 2.785, the goodness-of-fit index (GFI) = 0.579, confirmatory fit index (CFI) = 0.864, the parsimony goodness-of-fit index (PGFI) = 0.526, the parsimony confirmatory-of-fit index (PCFI) = 0.809, the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.087, and the modified expected cross-validation index (MECVI) = 24.418. Differences were observed in gerontogeriatric competencies based on curriculum inclusion, self-confidence, knowledge in caring for older adults, and satisfaction with the nursing program content. The Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.992 for the overall scale and ranged from 0.935 to 0.983 for the GGC dimensions. The GGC scale is a valid and reliable tool for assessing the gerontogeriatric competencies of new graduate RNs, highlighting its potential to enhance education, training, and, ultimately, the quality of care provided to the older population.

Liver and Kidney Transplantation in Elderly Patients

Due to an aging population, advances in multiple medical fields, and shifts among indications for surgery, liver and kidney transplantation is increasingly pursued for elderly patients (aged 65 or greater). Elderly patients represent a uniquely vulnerable group, but overall, they appear to have similar outcomes compared to younger patients. As demographics continue to trend to an older median age, physicians and health care systems must be prepared to take care of elderly transplant candidates.

Senior-Centric Object Detection for Independent Living

Abstract: The need for creative solutions that help seniors preserve their independence is growing as a result of the worldwide population aging issue. A major obstacle that many seniors encounter is the possibility of a loss in their physical and cognitive abilities, which can make it difficult for them to carry out everyday chores. This study introduces a senior-oriented object detecting system in order to address this urgent problem. The technology assists elderly people in recognizing and locating things in their living areas by utilizing sophisticated computer vision techniques and machine learning algorithms. It aims to improve seniors' safety and autonomy through real-time support, ultimately leading to a better quality of life. This system is carefully designed to accommodate the special requirements of senior citizens, providing a viable means of fostering autonomous live in a population that is aging. This initiative is a big step forward in the fight to empower seniors and improve their well-being in an aging society because of its creative approach and emphasis on user-centric design

From hospital to home: Analyzing the market dynamics of home health and hospital-at-home care

The home health care industry in the United States is expected to develop at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.89% from 2023 to 2032, and is expected to reach approximately $300 billion by 2028. The aging population, rising rates of chronic illnesses, the need for post-hospitalization care, and patient preferences for at-home care are some of the factors contributing to this growth. In addition to non-medical help with everyday life activities, home health care offers medical treatments such skilled nursing and physical therapy. Large providers with the greatest patient volume, such as AccentCare, Amedisys, and Enhabit Home Health &amp; Hospice, dominate the industry. To guarantee patient safety and high-quality care, home health agencies are subject to regulatory scrutiny. Home health care can also be a valuable source of information and respite for family caregivers. The capabilities of home health care have been increased by technological developments in telehealth and remote monitoring, which allow medical professionals to keep an eye on patients' status and interact with them from a distance. All things considered, the home health care sector is changing to accommodate the expanding and varied requirements of patients who want to receive treatment in the convenience of their own homes, offering an affordable and individualized substitute for traditional hospital settings.

Lumbar instability remodels cartilage endplate to induce intervertebral disc degeneration by recruiting osteoclasts via Hippo-CCL3 signaling

Degenerated endplate appears with cheese-like morphology and sensory innervation, contributing to low back pain and subsequently inducing intervertebral disc degeneration in the aged population.1 However, the origin and development mechanism of the cheese-like morphology remain unclear. Here in this study, we report lumbar instability induced cartilage endplate remodeling is responsible for this pathological change. Transcriptome sequencing of the endplate chondrocytes under abnormal stress revealed that the Hippo signaling was key for this process. Activation of Hippo signaling or knockout of the key gene Yap1 in the cartilage endplate severed the cheese-like morphological change and disc degeneration after lumbar spine instability (LSI) surgery, while blocking the Hippo signaling reversed this process. Meanwhile, transcriptome sequencing data also showed osteoclast differentiation related gene set expression was up regulated in the endplate chondrocytes under abnormal mechanical stress, which was activated after the Hippo signaling. Among the discovered osteoclast differentiation gene set, CCL3 was found to be largely released from the chondrocytes under abnormal stress, which functioned to recruit and promote osteoclasts formation for cartilage endplate remodeling. Over-expression of Yap1 inhibited CCL3 transcription by blocking its promoter, which then reversed the endplate from remodeling to the cheese-like morphology. Finally, LSI-induced cartilage endplate remodeling was successfully rescued by local injection of an AAV5 wrapped Yap1 over-expression plasmid at the site. These findings suggest that the Hippo signaling induced osteoclast gene set activation in the cartilage endplate is a potential new target for the management of instability induced low back pain and lumbar degeneration.

Cultural, Clinical, and Sociolinguistic Considerations in the Neurocognitive Assessment and Care in Arabic-speaking Patients with Dementia

Abstract Recent research from many Arabic-speaking countries indicates that the aging population is more prone to certain neurodegenerative diseases. This increased vulnerability implies exploring the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals with dementia within these communities. Neurocognitive interventions and assessment-based protocols for dementia have recently shifted from a disease-centered approach to a person-centered care model, which recognizes people with dementia as psychosocial individuals who live and interact in a particular sociocultural and linguistic context. This shifting paradigm embraces a more holistic approach, acknowledging the significant impact of their psychosocial functioning as well as their experience of the disease. In this context, we provide an overview of dementia in Arabic-speaking people with Alzheimer’s disease, with a focus on sociolinguistic and sociocultural profiles. We detail the cultural aspects that should be incorporated into cognitive testing and care for their home or host countries if they are migrants. We discuss the limits of diagnosis, neurocognitive testing, and therapeutic interventions in this context. We formulate a set of recommendations for clinicians dealing with neurocognitive disorders, related to the acculturation and diglossic differences between the dialect spoken by the clinician and the client. However, limited access to interpreters and the lack of adapted resources can reveal deeper issues which require systemic solutions. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of cultural differences in language, culture, and country of origin. Many so-called “ethnic, translinguistic, and diglossic misunderstandings” are linked to poor linguistic comprehension, language barriers, and illiteracy.

Protocol for the Development and Analysis of the Oxford and Reading Cognitive Comorbidity, Frailty and Ageing Research Database-Electronic Patient Records (ORCHARD-EPR)

BackgroundHospital electronic patient records (EPRs) offer the opportunity to exploit large-scale routinely acquired data at relatively low cost and without selection. EPRs provide considerably richer data, and in real-time, than...

Questions about Aging and Later Life on Quora.

Gerontologists have yet to explore the types of questions individuals have about later life. Analyzing questions offers a unique perspective on how individuals make sense of age-related issues. Specifically, questions require people to articulate specific inquiries or doubts, thus providing an unfiltered glimpse into the public's concerns and priorities vis-à-vis aging. We conduct a content analysis of questions posted on Quora that pertain to later life. We compiled 2,950 questions posted across four topics on Quora: 'Aging', 'Senior Citizens', 'Elders' and 'Older People'. After applying our exclusion criteria, 658 questions were left for content analysis. These questions received over 250 million views. Both deductive and inductive approaches guided our qualitative analysis. Five themes emerged from our analysis. The biggest theme (30%; N=195) dealt with 'Practical Concerns' (Theme 1). The next biggest theme (29%; N=191) was about 'Health and Well-Being' (Theme 2). Theme 3 was about the 'Prolongation of Youth' (16%; N=110) and Theme 4 was about the 'Science of Aging' (15%; N=97). Theme 5 covered 'Existential Concerns' (10%; N=65). There is a need to address concerns that the public has about aging, particularly those involving practical issues and health. Growing old is unavoidable and with the population aging at a rapid pace, assuaging such concerns is of paramount importance. By doing so, individuals can approach the aging process with greater clarity and an elevated sense of empowerment.

Psychometrics of the Korean Version of the screen for adult anxiety related disorders (SCAARED)

BackgroundFor enhanced management of anxiety disorders, early screening and accurate diagnostic differentiation are essential. The Screen for Adult Anxiety Related Disorders (SCAARED) has been developed to identify and categorize anxiety disorders, thereby facilitating timely and appropriate interventions. In line with this, we aimed to translate and validate the Korean version of the SCAARED questionnaire for the Korean population.MethodsThe original SCAARED was translated into Korean and administered to community adult population (N = 119) ages 18–45 years old in South Korea. The internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the SCAARED were evaluated. In addition, its factor structure was examined using confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis. Concurrent validity was evaluated by comparing SCAARED with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS), the Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Test-retest reliability was evaluated one week after the first assessment.ResultsThe SCAARED showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.945) and test-retest reliability (γ = 0.883). The SCAARED had significant correlation with DASS-21 subscales (γ = 0.655–0.701), BAI (γ = 0.788) and STAI subscales (γ = 0.548–0.736), confirming good concurrent validity. The results of the Exploratory Factor Analysis showed four factors comparable to the original SCAARED (Generalized anxiety, Somatic/Panic/Agoraphobia, Social anxiety, and Separation anxiety). The area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic of total and each of the factor scores ranged from 0.724 to 0.942.ConclusionsThe Korean version of the SCAARED is a reliable and valid instrument to screen for anxiety disorders in the Korean adult populations.

Relationship Between Physical Exercise and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults in China: Cross-Sectional Population-Based Study.

The existing literature reveals several significant knowledge gaps that hinder health care providers in formulating exercise prescriptions for cognitive health. This study endeavors to elucidate the relationship between the level of physical activity and cognitive function in older adults in China. Moreover, it seeks to explore the associations between distinct exercise behaviors-such as exercise types, the purpose motivating engagement in exercise, the accessibility of exercise fields, and the inclination toward exercise-and cognitive function. Using data from the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS conducted in 2016, cognitive function was meticulously assessed through the modified Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination, encompassing measures of orientation, memory, and calculation. Using self-report structured questionnaires, a myriad of information about physical activity during leisure time, exercise engagement, exercise intensity, primary exercise types, reasons for exercise participation, availability of sports facilities, and exercise willingness was diligently gathered. Robust ordinary least squares regression models were then used to compute coefficients along with 95% CIs. A discernible inverted U-shaped trend in cognitive scores emerged as the level of physical activity surpassed the threshold of 500 metabolic equivalents of task (MET) minutes per week. Notably, individuals with a physical activity level between 500 and 999 MET minutes per week exhibited a coefficient of 0.31 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.54), those with a physical activity level between 1000 and 1499 MET minutes per week displayed a coefficient of 0.75 (95% CI 0.52 to 0.97), and those with a physical activity level above 1500 MET minutes per week demonstrated a coefficient of 0.45 (95% CI 0.23 to 0.68). Older individuals engaging in exercise at specific MET levels showcased superior cognitive function compared to their inactive counterparts. Furthermore, individuals driven by exercise motivations aimed at enhancing physical fitness and health, as well as those using sports facilities or public spaces for exercise, exhibited notably higher cognitive function scores. The findings underscore the potential of exercise as a targeted intervention for the prevention and treatment of dementia or cognitive decline associated with aging in older individuals. Leveraging these insights to formulate informed exercise recommendations holds promise in addressing a significant public health challenge linked to aging populations.

The current status of health care indices and functional independence among older adults: data from HelpAge international-jordan study

BackgroundHealth services should anticipate the changing pattern of illnesses associated with population aging to promote healthy aging.AimWe aimed to evaluate health indices and chronic illnesses and their relationship with functional independence in community Syrian refugees & Jordanian elderly.MethodsA stratified sample of 1,718 community older adults aged ≥ 60-year-old from four major Jordanian governorates was interviewed in this cross-sectional study. Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living was utilized to assess functional status. Data were analyzed using STATA 15.ResultsDespite the similarities in baseline function, Syrian refugees had more multimorbidities but less active health insurance, accessibility to healthcare services and availability of medications and medical devices than Jordanians. Two-thirds had multimorbidities; with heart diseases, musculoskeletal conditions, hypertension, and diabetes being the most commonly reported chronic illnesses. Females had significantly more multimorbidities, and functional dependence, yet less education, income and accessibility to healthcare services. The mean Katz Index score was 4.99 ± 1.61. Significant predictors of functional dependence included increasing age, lower level of education, and some chronic illnesses.ConclusionNational inclusive plans to support vulnerable older adults especially refugees and older women, provide health insurance, enhance access to health care facilities, and manage chronic medical illnesses comprehensively are urgently needed to improve independence of community-living older adults and to promote healthy aging.

The association among thriving in life, quality of life, and suicidal ideation in Chinese urban older adults: the moderating effects of attitude toward own aging

BackgroundAs the global trend of population aging intensifies, the health and well-being of the older population has gradually become a focus of attention for the global community. This study assessed the status of thriving in life among Chinese urban older adults and identified its relationship with attitude toward own aging and quality of life (QoL). It also tested whether attitude toward own aging moderates the association between thriving in life and Qol or between thriving in life and suicidal ideation.MethodsPrimary data were collected through a cross-sectional survey among urban older adults from three provinces in China. They were invited to complete an anonymous survey using face-to-face interviews from December 2019 to January 2020. Data from 764 older adults were analyzed.ResultsApproximately 44.39% of participants reported positive responses toward the four domains of thriving in life. Thriving in life and attitude toward own aging had a significant association with QoL. Thriving in life was a protective factor for suicidal ideation for older adults. Moreover, attitude toward own aging moderated the association between thriving in life and QoL and that between thriving in life and suicidal ideation.ConclusionsChinese urban older adults were reportedly thriving in life, which contributed to increased QoL and reduced suicidal ideation. Notably, the study revealed that more positive attitudes towards own aging were associated with higher levels of thriving in life, better QoL, and reduced suicidal ideation. Targeted interventions for older adults should be devised to promote thriving in life and prevent negative attitudes of older people towards their own aging, further raising QoL and reducing suicidal ideation.

Provenance history of the eastern Pearl River Mouth Basin: Implications for the evolution of the South China margin

The provenance history of the Pearl River Mouth Basin is of great significance for understanding how the South China margin evolved from a Mesozoic Andean-type subduction margin into the present-day rifted passive margin. However, the long-term provenance history of continental margin basins in the northern South China Sea is poorly understood. Newly identified Mesozoic−Cenozoic successions from the Lufeng Sag in the eastern Pearl River Mouth Basin provide valuable records of the provenance history and related evolution of the South China margin. Here, we trace the provenance of the eastern Pearl River Mouth Basin using U-Pb ages of zircon and ZTR values (proportions of zircon, tourmaline, and rutile in all transparent heavy minerals) of heavy minerals, and determine the tectonic setting and crustal thickness using trace element ratios and Eu anomalies in zircon. The results show that from the middle Eocene strata—which have a U-Pb age spectrum similar to strata of the Upper Cretaceous—to the Miocene strata, the proportion of Mesozoic age populations gradually increases, while the proportion of Paleozoic age populations decreases. In addition, following the middle Eocene high values, the ZTR values decreased during the late Eocene and then increased during the early Oligocene. Based on the variations in zircon age populations and ZTR values, the middle Eocene sediment is interpreted to have been recycled from Upper Cretaceous to middle Eocene successions, followed by an early Oligocene provenance change from intrabasinal to extrabasinal sources. Moreover, the zircon trace element ratios and Eu anomalies indicate that a widespread Mesozoic continental magmatic arc formed before ca. 90 Ma along the South China margin, and the crust simultaneously thickened during this time. In accordance with the provenance history, the evolution of the South China margin is divided into three tectonic phases: the Paleo-Pacific, Proto-South China Sea, and South China Sea. During the transition from the Paleo-Pacific to the Proto-South China Sea tectonic phase, sediment was recycled from Upper Cretaceous to middle Eocene successions in the eastern Pearl River Mouth Basin. During the transition from the Proto-South China Sea to the South China Sea tectonic phases, the provenance changed from intrabasinal to extrabasinal sources.

Investigating The Determinants of Vocational Education and Economic Development in Digital Age: A Review from 2018 - 2023

Vocational education plays a crucial role in the development of individuals by providing them with the most essential skills. The crucial importance of vocational education necessitates support from various elements, including government policy and the educational aspect within the vocational school. However, higher vocational education and economic development in the digital age face several challenges, stemming from enrollment trends, policy interventions, labor market dynamics, and demographic shifts. This study provides a systematic review using PRISMA guidelines for addressing higher vocational education enrollment, policy interventions, labor market trends, and demographic factors that affect the integration of vocational education and economic development in the digital age. The initial phase involves the identification of a suitable source database, which may include prominent platforms such as Scopus, Google Scholar, or IEEE Xplore The findings of the study reveal that most students enrolling in higher vocational education recommend using hands-on training and practical skills that have been directly applicable to my current job in the IT industry. The program needs to focus on industry-relevant skills for the demands of the labor market. We also identifying and filling these research gaps could lead to a more comprehensive and critical understanding of vocational education. Vocational education programs can adapt to labor market trends by incorporating emerging technologies into their curricula, collaborating with industry experts to identify skill gaps, and offering continuing education courses to keep graduates up to date with the latest advancements. Finally, this study provides some recommendations for further studies.

The Effect of Iron Oxide Insertion on the In Vitro Bioactivity, and Antibacterial Properties of the 45S5 Bioactive Glass.

The aging population and increasing incidence of trauma among younger age groups have heightened the increasing demand for reliable implant materials. Effective implant materials must demonstrate rapid osseointegration and strong antibacterial properties to ensure optimal patient outcomes and decrease the chance of implant rejection. This study aims to enhance the bone-implant interface by utilizing 45S5 bioglass modified with various concentrations of Fe3O4 as a coating material. The effect of the insertion of Fe3O4 into the bioglass structure was studied using Raman spectroscopy which shows that with the increase in Fe3O4 concentration, new vibration bands associated with Fe-related structural units appeared within the sample. The bioactivity of the prepared glasses was evaluated using immersion tests in simulated body fluid, revealing the formation of a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 24 h on the samples, indicating their potential for enhanced tissue integration. However, the sample modified with 8 mol% of Fe3O4 showed low reactivity, developing a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 96 h. All the bioglasses showed antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The modified bioglass did not present significant antibacterial properties compared to the bioglass base.