Significant Age-related Differences Research Articles

Using a Cross-Sectional Analysis of Age-Related Variations in Anthropometric Indices and their Association with Cardiometabolic Health in Adult Men

Background. Age-related changes in anthropometric indices and their association with cardiometabolic health markers are crucial for understanding health risks in adult men. Objectives. The study aimed to assess age-related variations in anthropometric indices and their correlation with health markers, highlighting potential cardiometabolic health risks in adult men. Materials and methods. A total of 200 men, aged 26 to 50 years, from Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), India, were sampled using a multistage random sampling technique and divided into 5 age groups, each including 40 individuals. This study examined variations in body measurements such as the hip circumference (HC), waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), and neck circumference (NC) across different age groups, as well as their relationship to health markers like HbA1c and lipid profile. Anthropometric measurements were taken in a standardized environment, and blood samples were taken under fasting conditions for lipid profile and HbA1c measurement. With SPSS software, descriptive statistics, a one-way ANOVA, and the Pearson correlation coefficients were used to analyze the data. Results. Significant age-related differences were found in NC and WC, with NC increasing from 39.61 ± 2.53 cm to 41.20 ± 2.63 cm and WC rising from 89.68 ± 12.08 cm to 98.80 ± 9.90 cm, indicating a trend toward central obesity. BMI and HC showed no considerable variation across age groups. A one-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in NC (F = 3.586, p = 0.008) and WC (F = 6.020, p = 0.005). Pearson’s correlations indicated that NC, BMI, and WC were positively correlated with triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels (p < 0.05), while no notable correlations were observed for HbA1c. Conclusions. The study underscores the existence of significant age-related increases in NC and WC, suggesting heightened risks of abdominal obesity and cardiometabolic health issues in older men. Monitoring these anthropometric indices is vital for the early detection of health risks in adult males.

Assessing Strength Effort in Pre-Adolescent Girls: Insights into Effort Accuracy at Different Strength Thresholds

Objectives. This study aimed to examine the peculiarities of strength effort assessment in girls aged 10, 11, and 12 years. Specifically, it sought to understand how these age groups evaluate effort at different percentages of their maximum strength (1/3, 1/2, and 2/3). Materials and methods. The study involved 75 girls divided into three age groups: 10 years (n = 20), 11 years (n = 25), and 12 years (n = 30). Participants’ maximum hand strength was measured using a dynamometer, and their ability to assess effort at 1/3, 1/2, and 2/3 of this maximum was recorded. Results. The error of effort assessment was calculated and analyzed using paired and independent samples t-tests. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. The analysis revealed no significant age-related differences in hand maximum strength or strength effort assessment among the different age groups. The most accurate assessment of effort occurred at 2/3 of maximum strength for all age groups. Significant differences were found in effort assessment between 1/3 and 1/2 of maximum strength, and between 1/3 and 2/3 of maximum strength, with improvements noted as the effort percentage increased. However, no significant differences were observed between effort levels at 1/2 and 2/3 of maximum strength. Conclusions. The study indicates that the ability to assess strength effort remains stable across the age range of 10 to 12 years, with the most precise assessment occurring at 2/3 of maximum strength. The findings suggest that while overall strength assessment abilities are consistent, targeted training may enhance precision at different effort levels. This contributes to the understanding of motor function development and highlights the need for interventions to improve effort assessment skills in young girls.

Unlocking Insights: Harnessing Primary School Children's Experiences and Reflections on Emergency Remote Learning to Shape K-12 e-Learning in the Post-Pandemic Era

The study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary education in Cyprus and to discern the implications for the post-pandemic era, specifically focusing on the Emergency Remote Learning (ERL) experiences and reflections of upper primary students (ages 9-12). Grounded in socio-constructivist learning theory, which emphasizes the importance of active student engagement and social interaction in the learning process, the research explored the challenges students faced during the rapid shift to remote education. A mixed-methods design was employed, using an in-depth online survey that incorporated both quantitative and qualitative questions. Data were collected from a sample of 204 students selected through non-probability, convenience sampling. The analysis revealed that students experienced several challenges, including technology constraints, lack of interaction, and difficulty maintaining concentration, which are consistent with global findings on K-12 ERL. Among demographic factors, the type of school attended (public vs. private) had a significant influence on most aspects of students' ERL experience. Private school students reported more favourable conditions than their public school counterparts, which facilitated a smoother shift to both asynchronous and synchronous ERL, resulting in a more positive overall ERL experience. Regardless of the type of school attended, students overwhelmingly expressed a strong preference for face-to-face learning. Comparisons with other studies conducted in Cyprus during the same period involving older student age cohorts suggest significant age-related differences. The young students in our study encountered greater challenges during the transition to ERL, which can be attributed to their heightened need for scaffolding and external regulation to learn in the virtual space, as well as the higher importance they attached to the social aspects of school life taken away by ERL. Despite their largely negative experiences with ERL, a high proportion of the children advocated integrating the e-learning tools and technologies they got acquainted with during ERL into the normal context of schooling. These findings underscore the importance of further research into effective instructional strategies tailored to young learners in both online and blended learning settings. They also highlight the potential benefits of incorporating e-learning tools into conventional classrooms to enhance the teaching and learning process.

Monitoring Age-Related Changes in Gait Complexity in the Wild with a Smartphone Accelerometer System.

Stride-to-stride fluctuations during walking reflect age-related changes in gait adaptability and are estimated with nonlinear measures that confine data collection to controlled settings. Smartphones, with their embedded accelerometers, may provide accessible gait analysis throughout the day. This study investigated age-related differences in linear and nonlinear gait measures estimated from a smartphone accelerometer (SPAcc) in an unconstrained, free-living environment. Thirteen young adults (YA) and 11 older adults (OA) walked within a shopping mall with a SPAcc placed in their front right pants pocket. The inter-stride interval, calculated as the time difference between ipsilateral heel contacts, was used for dependent measures calculations. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed significant (p < 0.05) age-related differences (mean: YA, OA) for stride-time standard deviation (0.04 s, 0.05 s) and coefficient of variation (3.47%, 4.16%), sample entropy (SaEn) scale 1 (1.70, 1.86) and scale 3 (2.12, 1.80), and statistical persistence decay (31 strides, 23 strides). The fractal scaling index was not different between groups (0.93, 0.95), but exceeded those typically found in controlled settings, suggesting an upregulation in adaptive behaviour likely to accommodate the increased challenge of free-living walking. These findings support the SPAcc as a viable telehealth instrument for remote monitoring of gait dynamics, with implications for unsupervised fall-risk assessment.

Telepharmacy and remote medication management: An empirical study from patients' perspectives.

Background: Telepharmacy has emerged as a vital tool in healthcare, allowing remote medication management, especially for patients in rural areas. Despite its growing adoption, there is limited empirical evidence on its effectiveness and patient experiences in diverse healthcare settings. Aim: This study aims to investigate telepharmacy and remote medication management through the lens of patients, shedding light on their attitudes, challenges, and preferences. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design is adopted in this study. Survey participants included outpatients aged above 18 years, accessing telepharmacy services from public hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The survey questionnaire focuses on evaluating patients' experiences and perspectives regarding telepharmacy services for remote medication management. Excluding incomplete responses resulted in a final sample of 403. Results: Participants reported positive experiences with telepharmacy, rating it moderately to very effective (Mean = 3.12-3.21) across various factors. Significant age-related differences were observed, with younger participants perceiving telepharmacy more favorably (P < 0.0001). Education levels did not significantly affect perceptions. Residential location also showed no significant impact. Patients suggested technical support and improved communication methods to enhance telepharmacy services. Implementing these suggestions increased patients' likelihood of future telepharmacy use. Conclusion: Telepharmacy, by utilizing telecommunication technology, offers a transformative approach to remote medication management, significantly improving patient care across various healthcare environments.

The Digital Gender Paradox: A Reflective Analysis of Inequality in the Virtual Realm in India

V In the fast-evolving digital age, technology promises to break barriers and offer equal opportunities to all. Yet, within the virtual realm of India, a paradox emerges: digital platforms appear inclusive, gender-based disparities persist, reflecting deep-rooted societal inequalities. The research aims to explore the complexities of the "Digital Gender Paradox," focusing on how the digital world both empowers and marginalizes women. By analysing access to technology, participation in the digital economy, and online safety, the study uncovers the subtle and overt challenges women face in navigating the digital landscape. Through a reflective lens, it evaluates the extent to which digital spaces can become catalysts for gender equality or reinforce existing biases. There is significant relationships regarding access to digital resources and participation in the digital economy based on gender and LGBTQ+ identity, particularly influenced by geographic location. The findings shows a t-value of 3.607 and p-value of 0.001, indicating that rural respondents (mean = 2.7310) face more barriers than urban respondents (mean = 2.9877). Government initiatives positively impact online experiences, the F-value of 1.219 and p-value of 0.307 shows no significant age-related differences, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to bridge the digital gender and LGBTQ+ gap in India.

The Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Complication Rate in Baghdad Medical City from 2019 to 2022

Background and aimsDue to the substantial lack of data from Iraq on ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) complications, this study aims to examine the various types of complications after VPS surgery in Baghdad Medical City. MethodsThe retrospective cohort study analyzed VP shunt procedures at Baghdad Medical City from 2019 to 2022. The overall complication rate, including infection and shunt malfunction, was determined from patient records. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the IRB, with consent waived due to the study's retrospective nature. The findings highlight the need for improved management to reduce complication rates in VP shunt procedures. ResultsThe study involved 113 participants with an average age of 2.62 years (±3.4). The most common indications for VPS placement are congenital hydrocephalus (40%) and post-infectious hydrocephalus (30%). The most common complications of post-VPS surgery are VP obstruction (54%) and post-surgical infections (44%). There were no significant differences in the incidence of post-operative complications across different age groups. ConclusionOur study showed the significant complication rate associated with VPS surgeries for hydrocephalus, particularly VPS infections and obstruction. There were no significant age-related differences in VPS complication rates across age groups.

Age-related and age-independent complications in atrial fibrillation ablation: insights from the Japan ablation registry

Abstract Background The growing prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) has intensified the focus on managing this condition in the elderly. Catheter ablation, a popular treatment option, requires more detailed examination due to limited data on its efficacy and risks in this age group. Aim To identify the types of complications of AF ablation correlated with advanced age and to differentiate them from age-independent complications. Method We conducted a prospective analysis of 170,017 AF ablation procedures from the Japan ablation registry, conducted across 482 facilities between 2017 and 2020. Complications in patients aged 80 and above (elderly group, n=14,389) were compared with those under 80 (control group, n=155,628). The overall complication rate was 2.77%, with a higher occurrence in the elderly group (elderly group vs. control group, 3.62% vs. 2.69%, p&amp;lt;0.001). Notably, the elderly experienced more cardiac tamponade/pericardial effusion (0.95% vs. 0.6%, p&amp;lt;0.001), symptomatic cerebral infarction or transient ischemic attacks (0.27% vs. 0.15%, p=0.001), and sick sinus syndrome (0.31% vs. 0.05%, p&amp;lt;0.001). While in-hospital mortality in the elderly group was relatively low (0.16%), it was significantly higher compared to the control group (0.06%, p&amp;lt;0.001). However, incidences of other complications like puncture-site complications (0.49% vs. 0.42%, p=0.28), non-puncture-site bleeding, esophagus-related complications (0.22% vs. 0.22%, p=0.72), and phrenic nerve palsy (0.44% vs. 0.43%, p=0.69) showed no significant age-related differences. Conclusion Elderly patients undergoing AF ablation are at a higher risk of overall complications, with particular susceptibility to cardiac tamponade/pericardial effusion, symptomatic cerebral infarction/transient ischemic attacks, and sick sinus syndrome. This highlights the need for careful monitoring of these specific complications in the elderly. Additionally, it is noteworthy that the risk of certain complications appears to be independent of age.

Age-Related Changes in Postural Stability in Response to Varying Surface Instability in Young and Middle-Aged Adults.

As individuals transition into middle age, subtle declines in postural control may occur due to gradual reductions in neuromuscular control. The current study aimed to examine the effect of age on bipedal postural control across three support surfaces with varying degrees of instability: a firm surface, a foam pad, and a multiaxial balance board. The effect of surface stability was also assessed. Postural accelerations were recorded using a tri-axial accelerometer placed over the lumbar spine (L5) in 24 young female adults (23.9 ± 5.3 years) and 24 middle-aged female adults (51.4 ± 5.9 years). Sample entropy (SampEn) was used to analyze the complexity of postural control by measuring the regularity of postural acceleration. The main results show significant age-related differences in the mediolateral and anteroposterior acceleration directions (p ≤ 0.012). Young adults exhibit more irregular fluctuations in postural acceleration (high SampEn), reflecting greater efficiency or automaticity in postural control compared to middle-aged adults. Increased surface instability also progressively decreases SampEn in the mediolateral direction (p < 0.001), reflecting less automaticity with increased instability. However, no interaction effects are observed. These findings imply that incorporating balance training on unstable surfaces might help middle-aged adults maintain postural control and prevent future falls.

Harnessing Daily Routines for Early Detection of Cool Executive Delays: Validating the EFORTS Questionnaire.

Bakground: The early identification of executive function (EF) delays should involve parental reports on children's executive control in daily activities, capturing both "hot" and "cool" executive functions. This study aimed to revalidate the reliability and validity of the Executive Functions and Occupational Routines Scale (EFORTS) and examine whether it represents both hot and cool EFs Methods: Parents of 971 children (469 boys) aged 3 to 11 years (M = 6.08, SD = 1.8) completed the EFORTS and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functions/Preschool version (BRIEF/P). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis led to re-reestablishing the EFORTS daily functional routines with high internal consistency values (0.82-0.93). Results: Significant correlations were revealed between the EFORTS daily function subscales and various BRIEF/P "hot" and "cool" executive scales. Again, divided into three executive subscales, the EFORTS items showed medium-high internal reliability (α = 0.79-0.93). Significant age-related differences were demonstrated in the children's EFs in three age groups: 3.0-5.11, 6.0-7.11, 8.0-11.11. Conclusions: The results suggest that EFORTS effectively assesses children's executive control over daily functions, capturing both "cool" and "hot" EFs, making it a reliable tool for early detection of executive delays prior to formal schooling.

Gender and age-related variations in rumen fermentation and microbiota of Qinchuan cattle.

Our study aimed to investigate the gender and age-related variations in rumen fermentation, serum metabolites, and microbiota in Qinchuan cattle. A total of 38 Qinchuan beef cattle were selected and maintained on a uniform diet for three months. Rumen fluid and blood samples were collected to determine rumen fermentation, serum metabolites, and microbial 16S rRNA sequencing. The results revealed that the concentration of rumen butyrate in female Qinchuan cattle was significantly higher than in males (P<0.05). Isobutyrate, butyrate, and isovalerate exhibited significant age-related differences. Females exhibited lower serum GLU and higher TG, NEFA levels compared to males (P<0.05). Serum ALB and UREA levels increased with age (P<0.05). Furthermore, the alpha diversity of rumen bacteria improved with age (P<0.05), with no gender differences observed. Males had higher relative abundances of Bacteroidota, Verrucomicrobiota, and Cyanobacteria, while females had higher Firmicutes and Desulfobacterota (P<0.05). The cellulose-degrading genus Ruminococcus and propionate-producing genus Succiniclasticum were more abundant in females, whereas the anti-inflammatory genus Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and the hemicellulose-degrading genus Prevotella were more abundant in males (P<0.05). Age-related differences in bacteria were found in Pseudobutyrivibrio and several members of the Lachnospiraceae. Functional prediction indicated that "Amino acid metabolism" and "Lipid metabolism" were mainly enriched in females, whereas "Carbohydrate metabolism" and "Glycan biosynthesis and metabolism" were enriched in males (P<0.05). RDA analysis highlighted butyrate as a key factor influencing the rumen bacterial community. NK4A214_group and Ruminococcus were positively correlated with butyrate, while Prevotella and Pseudobutyrivibrio were negatively correlated with butyrate (P<0.05). We observed a significant improvement in the diversity and stability of rumen microbiota as age increased. Ruminococcus, NK4A214_group, and Prevotella were likely contributors to variations in energy utilization and fat deposition between male and female Qinchuan cattle.

From childhood to adolescence: the growth of narrative macrostructure in heritage bilingual English speakers

ABSTRACT Narratives are crucial for investigating children’s spontaneous language, offering insights into linguistic changes from early childhood to adolescence. Despite the known improvement in narrative skills with age, research focusing on bilingual children older than 8 is sparse. This study explores narrative macrostructure, episodic complexity, and internal state terms expressing feelings and thoughts among bilingual children in preschool, primary, and secondary school, focusing on English as a heritage language. Narratives were elicited from fifty-nine English-Hebrew bilinguals aged 5–14, divided into three age-groups, using Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives (Gagarina, N., D. Klop, S. Kunnari, K. Tantele, T. Välimaa, I. Balcˇiūnienė, U. Bohnacker, and J. Walters. 2014. “MAIN: Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives.” ZAS Papers in Linguistics 56:1–156), with language exposure data collected from parent questionnaires. Analyses of story grammar elements and episodic complexity revealed significant age-related differences in narrative macrostructure, with older children demonstrating more complex and coherent narratives. The length of exposure to the societal language did not significantly predict narrative outcomes, suggesting that narrative quality is not solely dependent on societal language exposure duration. This study provides valuable baseline data for typical narrative development in bilinguals and could aid in identifying Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) in bilingual populations.

Historical change in associations between perceived risk, disapproval, and use of cannabis among young adults ages 19–30, 2011–2022

BackgroundThe current study used U.S. young adult data to examine overall and age group-specific historical trends in (a) mean perceived risk and disapproval of cannabis use, and (b) risk/use and disapproval/use associations. MethodsData were collected from 2011 to 2022 from 16,492 respondents aged 19–30 in the national Monitoring the Future panel study. Trends in mean risk and disapproval overall and by age group (19–22, 23–26, 27–30) were modeled. Models regressing any past 30-day cannabis use on risk and disapproval controlled for sex, race/ethnicity, college education, population density, state cannabis policy, region, and year. Age group differences and historical trends in regression estimates from year-specific models were examined. ResultsFrom 2011 to 2022, overall mean perceived risk decreased from 3.08 (just over moderate) to 2.50 (between slight and moderate); mean disapproval decreased from 2.21 (between disapprove and strongly disapprove) to 1.66 (between don’t disapprove and disapprove). Higher risk and disapproval were independently associated with lower odds of past 30-day cannabis use overall (AORs 0.86 and 0.76, respectively); controlling for sociodemographics and state policy had virtually no impact on association strength. There were no significant age-related association differences. The risk/use association weakened from AOR 0.84 in 2011 to AOR 0.91 in 2022; the disapproval/use association remained stable (AORs 0.753 and 0.749). ConclusionsYoung adults now perceive cannabis as less risky and are less disapproving of using than they were a decade ago. Perceived risk has weakened as a cannabis use risk factor over time; disapproval has remained a stable risk factor.

Changes in health-related quality of life in young-old and old-old patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgery: A systematic review.

There is a significant gap in research exploring changes in postoperative health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients aged 65 years and older undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty. To investigate the variations in HRQoL improvement, as evaluated by patient-reported outcome measures following total hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, and partial knee arthroplasty between the young-old and old-old adults. We searched six online databases (including MEDLINE, Embase) from their inception dates to May 15, 2023. We included studies using a validated HRQoL assessment tool to evaluate changes in HRQoL in patients aged ≥65 years undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty. These include the EuroQol five-dimension (EQ-5D), Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Short Form 12 (SF-12). The primary outcomes were postoperative HRQoL changes between young-old (65-74 years) and old-old groups (≥75 years). The secondary outcomes included complications, length of stay, and mortality. The search yielded 12,229 articles; twelve studies (n = 103,613) were included. Studies using EQ-5D found no significant differences between young-old and old-old patients after hip and knee arthroplasty. Analyses of SF-36 and SF-12 scales showed no significant age-related differences in postoperative improvements in physical and mental health. Our review of four studies that included multivariable analyses revealed inconsistent associations between age and EQ-5D. Comparisons between the young-old and old-old age groups in postoperative complications, hospital length of stay, and mortality revealed no associated age-related changes in HRQoL. The young-old and old-old patients exhibited comparable improvement in HRQoL following hip or knee arthroplasty. The older patients did not have higher postoperative complications rates, longer hospital length of stay, and increased mortality. While chronological age should be considered when planning hip and knee arthroplasty, greater emphasis should be placed on assessing the comorbidities and functional status of patients.

A study on emotionally engaging toothbrush design for children: An empirical approach based on child psychology and cognitive development

This study investigates the emotional engagement of children aged 3–12 with toothbrush color design from a psychological perspective, focusing on three distinct age groups: 3–5 years, 6–8 years, and 9–12 years. While previous research has primarily concentrated on the physical attributes of toothbrushes, this study employs a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and observations, to analyze children's emotional responses and preferences for various toothbrush designs across different age groups. The findings reveal significant age-related differences in emotional engagement; younger children tend to prefer bright colors and playful shapes, whereas older children prioritize functionality. Additionally tactile experience and interactivity are found to play crucial roles in enhancing children's enjoyment and motivation for toothbrushing. Furthermore, the study explores the relationship between toothbrush design and children's oral health behavior, proposing an emotionally engaging toothbrush design framework that considers children's psychological needs across different age groups. This framework offers practical guidelines for designers to create toothbrushes that enhance children's brushing experience and contribute to their oral health. The study highlights the importance of emotional engagement in designing for children and offers new insights into creating user-centered products that cater to children's developmental needs, with implications for promoting children's oral health through emotionally engaging design.

유아가 인식하는 자신의 놀이성: 교사의 평가 및 유아 실행 기능과의 관계

This study investigates young children’s self-perceived playfulness and explores the association with playfulness as assessed by teachers and the children’s executive functions. A sample of 183 preschoolers from childcare centers in the metropolitan area was selected purposively for one-on-one assessments to measure the children’s perceived playfulness and executive functions. Teachers were also asked to evaluate the playfulness of the children. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, independent sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and partial correlation analysis were conducted on the collected data. The results indicated that children generally perceived themselves as highly playful, and this perception was partially correlated with the teachers’ evaluations. No gender differences were found in the children’s self-perceived playfulness, but there were significant age-related differences within the groups. Moreover, a significant correlation was found between the children’s self-perceived playfulness and their executive functions. The findings suggest that children’s self-perceptions of their playfulness are related to both teachers’ assessments and their own executive functioning, thereby generalizing the tendencies observed in previous research where playfulness was assessed by adults such as teachers or parents.

Anatomical investigation of the morphometry of the cerebral arteries using digital subtraction angiography in the Thai population.

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the dimensions of cerebral arteries in the Thai population using digital subtraction angiography (DSA), with a focus on the anterior cerebral artery (ACA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and posterior cerebral artery (PCA). The research aimed to explore anatomical variations in diameters and lengths of these arteries across different sexes and age groups, which are crucial for cerebrovascular interventions. This retrospective study measured the diameters and lengths of the ACA, MCA, and PCA in 177 Thai patients with an average age of 47.6 years (range: 11-82 years) with normal cerebral angiograms. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was used for the measurements. The study found significant sex-based differences in the mean diameters of the left ACA (males: 2.12 ± 0.28mm, females: 1.92 ± 0.20mm; p < 0.01), right MCA (males: 2.50 ± 0.25mm, females: 2.31 ± 0.17mm; p < 0.01), and left MCA (males: 2.44 ± 0.19mm, females: 2.30 ± 0.17mm; p < 0.01) with males exhibiting larger diameters. The right ACA length was significantly longer in males (15.46 ± 1.74mm) compared to females (13.98 ± 1.92mm; p < 0.01). While no significant age-related differences were observed in diameters, a significant increase in length with age was noted for the left ACA in the ≥ 60 years group (13.61 ± 1.64mm) compared to the < 60 years group (12.63 ± 1.36mm; p < 0.01). Among others, significant correlations were found between the diameters of the left ACA and right MCA (r = 0.699; p < 0.01), and a strong correlation between left ACA length and left PCA diameter (r = 0.975; p < 0.01). The findings provide invaluable data for tailoring neurosurgical approaches and designing angiographic equipment for the Thai population, emphasizing the importance of considering anatomical variations in clinical practice. These results highlight the necessity for personalized medical care based on anatomical differences to improve cerebrovascular intervention outcomes.

The effect of aging on the repeated-dose liver micronucleus assay using N-nitrosodipropylamine, quinoline, and carbendazim

The repeated dose liver micronucleus (RDLMN) assay has been sufficiently validated in terms of the numbers and types of chemicals studied. However, it remains unclear whether aging affects assay results. The OECD Test Guideline 407 (Repeated Dose 28-Day Oral Toxicity Study in Rodents) indicates that dosing should begin as soon as feasible after weaning and in any event before 9 weeks of age. Therefore, it is particularly important to determine whether there are age-related differences between 6 and 8 weeks of age at the start of dosing when considering the possibility of integrating this assay into a 4-week repeated dose general toxicity study. We evaluated the impact of the rats’ age on the RDLMN assay with three chemicals: N-nitrosodipropylamine, quinoline, and carbendazim. There were no significant age-related differences for the first two chemicals, whereas a markedly higher frequency of micronucleated hepatocytes (MNHEPs) was observed in younger rats for carbendazim. However, regardless of the age of animals, micronucleus induction was detected in all three chemicals. Combined with the previous reports on clofibrate and diethylnitrosamine, we concluded that animals of any age from 6 to 8 weeks could be used in the RDLMN assay.

Establishment of Reference Intervals for Common Renal and Liver Function Parameters in Healthy Adults in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Reference intervals (RIs) are crucial for the accurate interpretating of laboratory test results in clinical settings, serving as benchmarks for evaluating individual health status. This study investigates the influence of sex and age on common liver function tests (LFTs) and renal function tests (RFTs) in healthy adults in Mogadishu, Somalia. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out from October 2022 to January 2023 on a randomly selected sample of 255 healthy participants from Mogadishu, Somalia. Approximately 5 mL of whole blood was collected from each participant and processed screening of hepatitis B and C, and human immunodeficiency virus, and then biochemical analyses were conducted for common liver and kidney parameters. The study found significant sex and age-related differences in the measured LFTs and RFTs parameters. For LFTs, males had higher levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) compared to females (ALT: 11.5 vs 7.5 U/L; AST: 25.5 vs 19.1 U/L; both p < 0.001). Age-related differences were also observed, with individuals aged 30 and above had higher levels of ALT and AST compared to those aged 18-29 (ALT: 10.9 vs 8.5 U/L; AST: 24.3 U/L vs 21.0 U/L, both p < 0.001). For RFTs, males had higher levels of creatinine (0.9 vs 0.7 mg/dL), urea (23.1 vs 16.1 mg/dL), and uric acid (5.2 vs 4.2 mg/dL) than females, all with p < 0.001. The study established population specific RIs for common liver and renal function parameters and revealed significant variations across sex and age groups. These findings underscore the importance of developing and using local RIs to ensure accurate clinical interpretation and effective patient management. Further research with larger sample sizes and in diverse regions of Somalia is highly recommended.

Exploring Literacy Improvement and Nutritional Practices in Chenchu Tribe Community in Telangana

This study investigates the correlation between literacy improvement needs and nutritional practices among adults chenchu tribe community in Telangana. Focusing on three key areas literacy improvement, nutrition for children, and healthcare access the research aims to identify gaps and propose actionable solutions to enhance overall community well-being. Data was collected from 120 adults across various age groups, villages, and income levels, with a focus on their perceptions of literacy education, nutritional practices, and healthcare. The study reveals significant age-related differences in the desire for literacy improvement and varies perceptions of nutrition and healthcare based on income. The findings underscore the need for targeted educational and nutritional interventions in these communities. This research contributes to the broader understanding of rural development challenges and offers recommendations for policy adjustments to improve literacy and health outcomes.