Multiscale entropy indicates vascular abnormalities in the aged

This study investigates the feasibility and sensitivity of a novel multiscale entropy index (MEI) in detecting subtle endothelial dysfunction in young and middle-aged subjects. Between December 2009 and May 2010, totally 70 subjects were recruited from a hospital, and categorized into young group (Group 1), middle-aged or elderly group (Group 2). Arterial pulse wave signals were acquired from the wrist with air pressure sensing system (APSS), followed by MEI and dilatation index (DI) analyses. In conclusion, a reduction in multiscale entropy reflected age related vascular changes and may serve as a more sensitive indicator of subtle endothelial dysfunction compared with DI in the setting of aged.