An integrated simulation and optimization approach for managing human health risks of atmospheric pollutants by coal-fired power plants

This research developed a simulation-aided nonlinear programming model (SNPM). This model incorporated the consideration of pollutant dispersion modeling, and the management of coal blending and the related human health risks within a general modeling framework In SNPM, the simulation effort (i.e., California puff [CALPUFF]) was used to forecast the fate of air pollutants for quantifying the health risk under various conditions, while the optimization studies were to identify the optimal coal blending strategies from a number of alternatives. To solve the model, a surrogate-based indirect search approach was proposed, where the support vector regression (SVR) was used to create a set of easy-to-use and rapid-response surrogates for identifying the function relationships between coal-blending operating conditions and health risks. Through replacing the CALPUFF and the corresponding hazard quotient equation with the surrogates, the computation efficiency could be improved. The developed SNPM was applied to minimize the human health risk associated with air pollutants discharged from Gaojing and Shijingshan power plants in the west of Beijing. Solution results indicated that it could be used for reducing the health risk of the public in the vicinity of the two power plants, identifying desired coal blending strategies for decision makers, and considering a proper balance between coal purchase cost and human health risk.

IMPLICATIONS

A simulation-aided nonlinear programming model (SNPM) is developed. It integrates the advantages of CALPUFF and nonlinear programming model. To solve the model, a surrogate-based indirect search approach based on the combination of support vector regression and genetic algorithm is proposed. SNPM is applied to reduce the health risk caused by air pollutants discharged from Gaojing and Shijingshan power plants in the west of Beijing. Solution results indicate that it is useful for generating coal blending schemes, reducing the health risk of the public, reflecting the trade-offbetween coal purchase cost and health risk.

Contribution of genetic polymorphisms on functional status at very old age: a gene-based analysis of 38 genes (311 SNPs) in the oxidative stress pathway

Preservation of functional ability is a well-recognized marker of longevity. At a molecular level, a major determinant of the physiological decline occurring with aging is the imbalance between production and accumulation of oxidative damage to macromolecules, together with a decreased efficiency of stress response to avoid or repair such damage. In this paper we investigated the association of 38 genes (311 SNPs) belonging to the pro-antioxidant pathways with physical and cognitive performances, by analyzing single SNP and gene-based associations with Hand Grip strength (HG), Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Walking Speed (WS), Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Composite Cognitive Score (CCS) in a Cohort of 1089 Danish nonagenarians. Moreover, for each gene analyzed in the pro-antioxidant pathway, we tested the influence on longitudinal survival. In the whole sample, nominal associations were found for TXNRD1 variability with ADL and WS, NDUFS1 and UCP3 with HG and WS, GCLC and UCP2 with WS (p<0.05). Stronger associations although not holding the multiple comparison correction, were observed between MMSE and NDUFV1, MT1A and GSTP1 variability (p<0.009). Moreover, we found that association between genetic variability in the pro-antioxidant pathway and functional status at old age is influenced by sex. In particular, most significant associations were observed in nonagenarian females, between HG scores and GLRX and UCP3 variability, between ADL levels and TXNRD1, MMSE and MT1A genetic variability. In males, a borderline statistically significant association with ADL level was found for UQCRFS1 gene. Nominally significant associations in relation to survival were found in the female sample only with SOD2, NDUFS1, UCP3 and TXNRD1 variability, the latter two confirming previous observations reported in the same cohort. Overall, our work supports the evidence that genes belonging to the pro-anti-oxidant pathway are able to modulate physical and cognitive performance after the ninth decade of life, finally influencing extreme survival.

Diagnostic accuracy of atopy patch tests for food allergy in children with atopic dermatitis aged less than two years

BACKGROUND

Atopy patch tests (APT) have been introduced as a valuable tool for the diagnosis of food allergy. However, interpretation of the readout of APT requires further clarification.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the accuracy of APT in identifying atopic sensitisation to hen's eggs (HE), cow's milk (CM), soybean and wheat in Chinese children with atopic dermatitis (AD) aged less than two years and to evaluate skin signs of APT for accurate diagnosis of food allergy.

METHODS

APT was performed and food allergy confirmed by open oral food challenges with HE, CM, soybean and wheat in 150 Chinese AD children aged less than two years. The sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values, positive (LR+) and negative likelihood ratio (LR-) of APT were calculated.

RESULTS

Erythema and infiltration were not sufficiently indicative of a positive APT. The PPV increased with the appearance of indurations and the number of papules. The true positive APT rate increased from scores of + to +++. The PPV and specificity were 100% while APT scores of +++ were obtained with HE, CM and wheat. The sensitivity of APT with HE, CM, soybean and wheat allergy ranged from 59.6% to 90.5%, while the specificity ranged from 82.1% to 92.4%.

CONCLUSION

The APT is a suitable method for the diagnosis of AD in Chinese children aged less than two years with food allergies. Erythema and infiltration are not sufficient indicators of APT positivity. The PPV increases with indurations and the number of papules.

Comparative study of photodynamic therapy with 5%, 10% and 20% aminolevulinic acid in the treatment of generalized recalcitrant facial verruca plana: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Generalised recalcitrant facial verruca plana responds poorly to current therapeutic options, including cryotherapy, topical drugs and carbon dioxide (CO2 ) laser. Case reports and uncontrolled studies suggested that topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is effective choice of treatment free from potential complications associated with invasive therapies.

AIMS

To investigate the efficacy and safety of PDT with different concentrations of photosensitiser in the treatment of verruca plana.

MATERIALS & METHODS

The two sides of a subject's face were separately randomized to receive aminolevulinic acid (ALA) of 5%, 10% or 20% concentration. All patients were irradiated with 633-nm red light for 339 J/cm(2) total dose. Complete response (CR) rate was assessed on Week 4, 8, and 16 respectively.

RESULTS

The mean overall clearance rate was 74.1%, 68.8%, and 64.6% on Week 4, 8, and 12, respectively, in the 110 treated sides. The CR rate was lower in the 5%-ALA group than in the 10%-ALA group (14.3% vs. 33.3%, p < 0.05) and 20%-ALA group (14.3% vs. 26.3%, p < 0.05) after 12 weeks. The mean severity of pain measured by visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring was 3.8 (range: 2 to 10, depending on the lesion location). The overall recurrence rate was 16.7% (4/24) on Week 12. Hyperpigmentation was observed in 61% (67/110) of all treated sides. On Week 4, 8, and 16, hyperpigmentation was more developed in the 20%-ALA group than in the other two groups (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

In terms of complete clearance rate, the 5% ALA-PDT group was significantly inferior to the 10% and 20% ALA-PDT groups at each follow-up. In contrast, the 20% ALA group showed a higher incidence rate of transient hyperpigmentation than the other two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This randomised clinical trial suggests that PDT with ALA of 10% concentration offers better efficacy and safety than 5% or 20% concentration for generalised recalcitrant facial verruca plana.

Gastrodin ameliorates anxiety-like behaviors and inhibits IL-1beta level and p38 MAPK phosphorylation of hippocampus in the rat model of posttraumatic stress disorder

Gastrodin, a main constituent of a Chinese herbal medicine, has been shown to be effective in treating various mood disorders. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether gastrodin could ameliorate stress-associated behavior in a rat model of enhanced single prolonged stress (ESPS)-induced posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Following ESPS, rats were administered orally with gastrodin (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg daily) or vehicle for 2 weeks. Animals were then tested in the open field and elevated plus-maze, and the levels of IL-6 and IL-1beta, the expression of iNOS, p38 and phospho-p38 (p-p38) in hippocampus were also tested. ESPS exposure resulted in pronounced anxiety-like behavior, elevated IL-6 and IL-1beta levels, and the higher expression of iNOS and p-p38 in hippocampus. However, repeated treatment with gastrodin, particularly at higher doses, reversed the aforementioned changes, including anxiety-like behavior, levels of IL-6 and IL-1beta, and the expression of iNOS and the p38 MAPK phosphorylation. These results indicate that gastrodin possesses anxiolytic effect and may be an effective herbal preparation for the treatment of PTSD.

Multivariate modelling of endophenotypes associated with the metabolic syndrome in Chinese twins

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The common genetic and environmental effects on endophenotypes related to the metabolic syndrome have been investigated using bivariate and multivariate twin models. This paper extends the pairwise analysis approach by introducing independent and common pathway models to Chinese twin data. The aim was to explore the common genetic architecture in the development of these phenotypes in the Chinese population.

METHODS

Three multivariate models including the full saturated Cholesky decomposition model, the common factor independent pathway model and the common factor common pathway model were fitted to 695 pairs of Chinese twins representing six phenotypes including BMI, total cholesterol, total triacylglycerol, fasting glucose, HDL and LDL. Performances of the nested models were compared with that of the full Cholesky model.

RESULTS

Cross-phenotype correlation coefficients gave clear indication of common genetic or environmental backgrounds in the phenotypes. Decomposition of phenotypic correlation by the Cholesky model revealed that the observed phenotypic correlation among lipid phenotypes had genetic and unique environmental backgrounds. Both pathway models suggest a common genetic architecture for lipid phenotypes, which is distinct from that of the non-lipid phenotypes. The declining performance with model restriction indicates biological heterogeneity in development among some of these phenotypes.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our multivariate analyses revealed common genetic and environmental backgrounds for the studied lipid phenotypes in Chinese twins. Model performance showed that physiologically distinct endophenotypes may follow different genetic regulations.

Waste management with recourse: an inexact dynamic programming model containing fuzzy boundary intervals in objectives and constraints

The existing inexact optimization methods based on interval-parameter linear programming can hardly address problems where coefficients in objective functions are subject to dual uncertainties. In this study, a superiority-inferiority-based inexact fuzzy two-stage mixed-integer linear programming (SI-IFTMILP) model was developed for supporting municipal solid waste management under uncertainty. The developed SI-IFTMILP approach is capable of tackling dual uncertainties presented as fuzzy boundary intervals (FuBIs) in not only constraints, but also objective functions. Uncertainties expressed as a combination of intervals and random variables could also be explicitly reflected. An algorithm with high computational efficiency was provided to solve SI-IFTMILP. SI-IFTMILP was then applied to a long-term waste management case to demonstrate its applicability. Useful interval solutions were obtained. SI-IFTMILP could help generate dynamic facility-expansion and waste-allocation plans, as well as provide corrective actions when anticipated waste management plans are violated. It could also greatly reduce system-violation risk and enhance system robustness through examining two sets of penalties resulting from variations in fuzziness and randomness. Moreover, four possible alternative models were formulated to solve the same problem; solutions from them were then compared with those from SI-IFTMILP. The results indicate that SI-IFTMILP could provide more reliable solutions than the alternatives.

Anti-inflammatory heat shock protein 70 genes are positively associated with human survival

A positive relationship between stress tolerance and longevity has been observed in several model systems. That the same correlation is applicable in humans and that it may be open to experimental manipulation for extending human lifespan requires studies on association of stress genes with longevity. The involvement of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) in cellular maintenance and repair mechanisms, including its role as an anti-inflammatory protein, makes it a suitable candidate for studying such associations. We have studied the association of three single nucleotide polymorphisms, HSPA1A (-110A>C), HSPA1B (1267A>G), and HSPA1L (2437T>C), present in the three HSP70 genes, with human survival, in a cohort of individuals born in the year 1905. This population cohort is a part of the longitudinal study of Danish nonagenarians. Since DNA samples were already collected in 1998, this gave us the opportunity to perform survival analysis on these subjects. Haplotype relative risk, and genotype relative risk were calculated to measure the effects of haplotypes and genotypes on human survival in a sex-specific manner. A significant association of HSPA1A-AA (RR=3.864; p=0.016) and HSPA1B-AA (RR=2.764; p=0.039) genotypes with poor survival was observed in female subjects. Also the female carriers of haplotype G-C-T had longer survival than the non-carriers (HRR=0.550; p=0.015). On an average, female carriers of the G-C-T haplotype live about one year longer than non-carriers. This result corroborates our previous observations from heat shock response (HSR) study where we had shown that after heat stimulation, mononuclear cells from the carriers of genotype HSPA1L-TT had better HSR than cells with the HSPA1L-CC genotype.

Role of neurocrine somatostatin on sphincter of Oddi contractility and intestinal ischemia reperfusion-induced acute pancreatitis in macaques

BACKGROUND

Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (IIR) is implicated in the pathogenesis of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). This study investigates the impact of neurocrine somatostatin (SST) on the contraction of sphincter of Oddi (SO) during IIR.

METHODS

Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion model in macaques was induced by occluding the superior mesenteric artery. Pancreatitis was confirmed by pancreatic histology and serum levels of amylase and lipase. SST and its receptors (SSTRs) in SO were visualized by immunohistochemistry. Effects of SST on the contraction of the isolated SO were recorded in vitro.

KEY RESULTS

Inflammatory scores of the pancreas and serum levels of amylase or lipase in the macaques that underwent IIR were significantly higher than those in the control group. The frequency and amplitude of phasic contraction of the circular muscle in SO was increased by SST in a concentration-dependent manner. Compared with the control group, SST innervation or SSTR2 expression in SO of macaques treated with IIR was increased 5.2 fold or 5.6 fold respectively. Prophylactic infusion of SST before IIR significantly reduced SST immunoreactive fibers in SO as compared to those in the IIR group and remarkably alleviated the pathophysiologic changes due to IIR.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Increased SST innervation in SO during the early phase of IIR associated with the contraction of circular muscle of SO, which might be one of the promoting factors associated with the development of SAP. Prevention of IIR or intervention of SO contraction after occurrence of acute pancreatitis might be beneficial for preventing SAP.

Regulation of membrane progestin receptors in the zebrafish ovary by gonadotropin, activin, TGF-beta and BMP-15

Progestin hormones are vital for inducing oocyte maturation in fish by binding to membrane progestin receptors (mPRs). The aim of this study was to examine the expression and regulation of mPRalpha and mPRbeta in zebrafish follicles. First, defolliculated fully grown oocytes were subjected to immunofluorescent staining using anti-mPRalpha and mPRbeta antibodies, and their expression on the oocyte membrane was confirmed. Second, total protein was collected from zebrafish follicles and Western blotting revealed that the level of mPRalpha and mPRbeta increased with follicle development. We have previously shown that several members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily, including TGF-beta1, activin-A, and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-15, regulate oocyte maturation in zebrafish. Therefore, the third major focus of this study was to test if these growth factors, as well as gonadotropins, regulate the expression of mPRs. Overexpression of BMP-15 significantly reduced, while knockdown of BMP-15 increased, mPRbeta levels. However, mPRalpha expression level remained unchanged with BMP-15 overexpression or knockdown. Treatment of follicles with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) resulted in an increased in mPRbeta, but not mPRalpha, expression levels. Activin-A induced the expression of mPRalpha and mPRbeta in a dose- and time-dependent manner. On the other hand, TGF-beta1 treatment suppressed the expression of mPRbeta, but not mPRalpha. Taken together, these findings further support the role of mPRs in oocyte maturation and suggest that gonadotropins, BMP-15, activin-A, and TGF-beta1 exert their regulatory effects on oocyte maturation in part by regulating mPR expression.

Candidate region linkage analysis in twins discordant or concordant for depression symptomatology

Genetic risk factors contribute considerably to both clinical affective disorders and subsyndromal mood level. There is moreover evidence to suggest that the genetic basis of bipolar disorder and unipolar depression overlap to some extent, and several linkage analyses have suggested evidence for a common susceptibility locus in affective disorders on chromosome 12q24. In this study we investigated the chromosome 12 candidate region for linkage to the mean level of depression symptomatology, over a 10-year follow-up, using a highly informative sample of concordant and discordant twin pairs selected from 4,731 participants of the Longitudinal Study of Ageing Danish Twins. Our results showed suggestive evidence of linkage to this region with a peak LOD score of 1.91 for marker D12S1634 located at 148 cM, and thus indicates that the previously identified disease locus at 12q24 is also a general vulnerability locus affecting the normal range of mood.

Gene expression in epithelial ovarian cancer: a study of intratumor heterogeneity

The aim of this study was to investigate the intratumor heterogeneity of gene expression profiles in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). This was done to evaluate whether sampling of a single macrodissected tissue sample from each EOC case would bias the data and result in, eg, prognostic studies based on gene expression microarray experiments. From nine EOCs removed at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, three tumor samples of 200-300 mg each were taken with greatest possible mutual distance. The samples were immediately flash frozen. A parallel section was taken for histopathologic comparison. RNA was extracted from the tissue samples. Five micrograms of each RNA sample was used for labeling. The fragmented biotin-labeled complementary RNA was hybridized to Affymetrix GeneChip Human Genome U133 plus 2.0 arrays, and scanning was performed on the GeneArray scanner 3000 (Affymetrix, Santa Clara, CA). Data were evaluated using hierarchical clustering and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) from reliability analysis. All evaluation methods revealed low intratumor heterogeneity. Intratumor ICCs ranged from 0.888 to 0.978. In contrast, "between-tumor" ICC was 0.549 indicating much lower intra- than intertumor heterogeneity. Due to a low degree of intratumor variation, we conclude that it is sufficiently accurate in a clinical setup to use single, macrodissected tumor samples in the evaluation of gene expression in EOCs.

A genome-wide linkage search for bipolar disorder susceptibility loci in a large and complex pedigree from the eastern part of Cuba

We present results from a genome-wide scan of a six generation pedigree with 28 affected members with apparently dominant bipolar I disorder from eastern Cuba. Genotypes were obtained using the early access version of the Genechip Mapping 10K Xba array from AFFYMETRIX. Parametric and non-parametric linkage analyses under dominant and recessive models were performed using GENEHUNTER v2.1r5. Two phenotypic models were included in the analyses: bipolar I disorder and recurrent depressive disorder, or bipolar I disorder only. LOD scores were calculated for the entire family combined, and for four subdivisions of the family. For the entire family a suggestive parametric LOD score was obtained under the dominant model and the broader phenotype at 14q11.2-12 (LOD = 2.05). In the same region, a non-parametric LOD score close to genome-wide significance was also obtained, based on the entire family (NPL = 7.31, P-value = 0.07). For two individual branches of the pedigree, genome-wide significance (P < 0.005) was obtained with NPL scores of 8.71 and 12.99, respectively, also in the same region on chromosome 14. Chromosome 5q21.3-22.3 also showed close to genome-wide significant linkage for the complete pedigree (NPL = 7.26, P = 0.07), also supported by significant linkage in one individual branch (NPL = 9.86, P < 0.005). In addition, genome-wide significant nonparametric results (P-values <0.005) were obtained for individual branches at 5p13.1-q12.3, 6p22.3, 8q13.3-21.13, and 10q22.3-23.32. Finally, 2p25.1-25.3, 2p13.3-14, 3p14.2, 6p22.3-24.1, 7p14.1-14.2, 8q12.2-12.3, 10q21.1-21.2, 14q13.1-21.1, 15q15.1-21.2, and 22q12.3-13.32 showed suggestive linkage in the complete family. Most of these potential susceptibility loci overlap with, or are close, to previous linkage findings. The locus on 5q may, however, represent a novel susceptibility locus.

Significant linkage to chromosome 12q24.32-q24.33 and identification of SFRS8 as a possible asthma susceptibility gene

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a complex genetic disorder. Many studies have suggested that chromosome 12q harbours a susceptibility gene for asthma and atopy. Linkage on chromosome 12q24.21-q24.33 was investigated in 167 Danish families with asthma.

METHODS

A two step procedure was used: (1) a genome-wide scan in one set of families followed by (2) fine scale mapping in an independent set of families in candidate regions with a maximum likelihood score (MLS) of > or =1.5 in the genome-wide scan. Polymorphisms in a candidate gene in the region on 12q24.33 were tested for association with asthma in a family based transmission disequilibrium test.

RESULTS

An MLS of 3.27 was obtained at 12q24.33. The significance of this result was tested by simulation, resulting in a significant empirical genome-wide p value of 0.018. To our Knowledge, this is the first significant evidence for linkage on chromosome 12q, and suggests a candidate region distal to most previously reported regions. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms in splicing factor, arginine/serine-rich 8 (SFRS8) had an association with asthma (p < or = 0.0020-0.050) in a sample of 136 asthmatic sib pairs. SFRS8 regulates the splicing of CD45, a protein which, through alternative splice variants, has an essential role in activating T cells. T cells are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic diseases such as asthma, so SFRS8 is a very interesting candidate gene in the region.

CONCLUSIONS

Linkage and simulation studies show that the very distal part of chromosome 12q contains a gene that increases the susceptibility to asthma. SFRS8 could act as a weak predisposing gene for asthma in our sample.

Haplotype effects on human survival: logistic regression models applied to unphased genotype data

Haplotype based linkage disequilibrium (LD) mapping exhibits higher power than the single locus approach because it makes use of the LD information contained in the flanking markers. New statistical methods have been proposed to help to infer haplotype effects on human diseases using multi-locus genotype data collected from unrelated individuals. In this paper, we introduce a statistical procedure for measuring haplotype effects on human survival using the popular logistic regression model with haplotype based parameterizations. By modeling haplotype frequency as a function of age, our model infers haplotype effects by estimating and testing the slope parameters under different genetic mechanisms (multiplicative, dominant, or recessive). In addition, by estimating the sex-specific slope parameters, our model allows the detection of sex-specific haplotype effects or haplotype-sex interactions. As an example, we apply our model to an empirical dataset on a stress related gene, interleukin-6, to look for haplotypes that affect individual survival and for haplotype-sex interactions. We show that our logistic regression based haplotype model can be a helpful tool for researchers interested in the genetics of human aging and longevity.

Variability of the SIRT3 gene, human silent information regulator Sir2 homologue, and survivorship in the elderly

The human sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) gene encodes a putative mitochondrial NAD-dependent deacetylase (SIRT3) which belongs to the evolutionary conserved family of sirtuin 2 proteins. Studies in model organisms have demonstrated that SIR2 genes control lifespan, while no data are available regarding a possible role of SIRT3 in human longevity. By analysing the genotype-specific survival function relevant to the G477T marker of SIRT3, we found that in males the TT genotype increases (p=0.0272), while the GT genotype decreases (p=0.0391) survival in the elderly. Since SIRT3 lies in a chromosomal region (11p15.5) where four genes potentially associated with longevity are located (HRAS1, Insulin-like Growth Factor 2, Proinsulin, and Tyrosine Hydroxylase) we tested for linkage-disequilibrium between G477T alleles and alleles of the above genes. The disequilibrium was not significant in any case, thus suggesting that SIRT3 itself, or a gene strictly linked to SIRT3, may have a role in human longevity.

Long-term results of functional hemispherectomy for intractable seizures

OBJECTIVE

From May 1989 to April 1997, functional hemispherectomy was performed in 8 cases of intractable seizures. We retrospectively analyzed our experience to evaluate the seizure control and complications of this surgical technique.

METHODS

Following Dr. Rasmussen's model of functional hemispherectomy or performing a modification of this operation, we removed the sensorimotor cortex and temporal lobe associated with disconnection of the remaining portions of the frontal lobe and parieto-occipital lobe.

RESULTS

All the patients were followed up for 3-11 years (mean 6.7 years). Satisfactory seizure control was obtained in all the cases. Life quality improved and patients worked or studied well after the operations. No cases of superficial cerebral hemosiderosis were found.

CONCLUSION

Modified functional hemispherectomy may allow the patients to lead more independent lives by leading to a cessation or reduced frequency of seizures.

Measuring the genetic influence in modulating the human life span: gene-environment interaction and the sex-specific genetic effect

New approaches are needed to explore the different ways in which genes affect the human life span. One needs to assess the genetic effects themselves, as well as gene-environment interactions and sex dependency. In this paper, we present a new model that combines both genotypic and demographic information in the estimation of the genetic influence on life spans. Based on Cox's proportional hazard assumption, the model measures the risks for each gene as well as for gene-environment and gene-sex interactions, while controlling for confounding factors. A two-step MLE is introduced to obtain a non-parametric form of the baseline hazard function. The model is applied to genotypic data from Italian centenarian studies to estimate relative risks of candidate genes, risks due to interactions and initial frequencies of different genes in the population. Results from models that either do or do not take into consideration individual heterogeneity are compared. It is shown that ignoring the existence of heterogeneity can lead to a systematic underestimation of genetic effects and effects due to interactions.

A logistic regression model for measuring gene-longevity associations

The logistic regression model is a popular model for data analysis in epidemiological research. In this paper, we use this model to analyze genetic data collected from gene-longevity association studies. This new approach models the probability of observing one genotype as a function of the age of investigated individuals. Applying the model to genotype data on the TH and 3'ApoB-VNTR loci collected from an Italian centenarian study, we show how it can be used to model the different ways that genes affect survival, including sex- and age-specific influences. We highlight the advantages of this application over other available models. The application of the model to empirical data indicates that it is an efficient and easily applicable approach for determining the influences of genes on human longevity.

Recent advances in human gene-longevity association studies

This paper reviews the recent literature on genes and longevity. The influence of genes on human life span has been confirmed in studies of life span correlation between related individuals based on family and twin data. Results from major twin studies indicate that approximately 25% of the variation in life span is genetically determined. Taking advantage of recent developments in molecular biology, researchers are now searching for candidate genes that might have an influence on life span. The data on unrelated individuals emerging from an ever-increasing number of centenarian studies makes this possible. This paper summarizes the rich literature dealing with the various aspects of the influence of genes on individual survival. Common phenomena affecting the development of disease and longevity are discussed. The major methodological difficulty one is confronted with when studying the epidemiology of longevity involves the complexity of the phenomenon, which arises from the polygenic nature of life span and historical mortality change. We discuss this issue and suggest new methodological approaches.

Variations of cardiovascular disease associated genes exhibit sex-dependent influence on human longevity

This article investigates the relationship between the polymorphic variations in genes associated with cardiovascular disease and longevity in the Danish population. A new procedure that combines both demographic and the individual genetic information in determining the relative risks of the observed genetic variations is applied. The sex-dependent influences can be found by introducing sex-specific population survival and incorporating the risk of gene-sex interaction. Three genetic polymorphisms, angiotensinogen M/T235, blood coagulation factor VII (FVII) R/Q353 and FVII-323ins10, manifest significant influences on survival in males, with reduced hazards of death for carriers of the angiotensinogen M235 allele, the F VII Q353 allele, and the FVII-323P10 allele. The results show that some of these genotypes associated with lower risk of CVD could also reduce the carrier's death rate and contribute to longevity. However, the presence of sex-dependent effects and the fact that major CVD-associated genes failed to impose detrimental influence on longevity lead us to concur that the aging process is highly complicated.

Replication studies in longevity: puzzling findings in Danish centenarians at the 3'APOB-VNTR locus

In Danes we replicated the 3'APOB-VNTR gene/longevity association study previously carried out in Italians, by which the Small alleles (less than 35 repeats) had been identified as frailty alleles for longevity. In Danes, neither genotype nor allele frequencies differed between centenarians and 20-64-year-old subjects. However, when Danish and Italian data were compared, a significant difference (p = 0.0004) was found between the frequencies of Small alleles in youths, which disappeared in centenarians (p = 0.290). Furthermore, the demographic-genetic approach revealed in Danes a significant gene-sex interaction relevant to Long alleles (more than 37 repeats). The different findings in Denmark and Italy suggest that gene/longevity associations are population-specific, and heavily affected by the population-specific genetic and environmental history.

[Simultaneously corneal laceration repair, traumatic cataract removal and intraocular lens implantation]

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to evaluate the outcome of patients who undrwent simultaneously corneal laceration repair, cataract extraction and posterior chamber lens implantation.

METHODS

Traumatic cataract extraction and posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL) implantation were performed in 36 eyes of 36 cases with corneal laceration. YAG laser was the postoperative procedure for embrane before the lens and after cataract. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed for central cicatrice of cornea. All the patients have been followed up for 3-12 months.

RESULTS

The postoperative visual acuity s.c. was 0.1-0.3 in 8 cases(22.8%), 0.4-0.5 in 14 cases (40%) 0.6-0.8 in 13 cases (37.1%) on following up. There were no serious complication attributable to PC IOL implantation.

CONCLUSION

As long as the range of surgical indication was known well, PC IOL implantation can get good clinical effects at the time of primary repair.

Multiple mechanisms of suppression circumvent transcription defects in an RNA polymerase mutant

Using a high-copy-number suppressor screen to obtain clues about the role of the yeast RNA polymerase II subunit RPB4 in transcription, we identified three suppressors of the temperature sensitivity resulting from deletion of the RPB4 gene (DeltaRPB4). One suppressor is Sro9p, a protein related to La protein, another is the nucleosporin Nsp1p, and the third is the RNA polymerase II subunit RPB7. Suppression by RPB7 was anticipated since its interaction with RPB4 is well established both in vitro and in vivo. We examined the effect of overexpression of each suppressor gene on transcription. Interestingly, suppression of the temperature-sensitive phenotype correlates with the correction of a characteristic transcription defect of this mutant: each suppressor restored the level of promoter-specific, basal transcription to wild-type levels. Examination of the effects of the suppressors on other in vivo transcription aberrations in DeltaRPB4 cells revealed significant amelioration of defects in certain inducible genes in Sro9p and RPB7, but not in Nsp1p, suppressor cells. Analysis of mRNA levels demonstrated that overexpression of each of the three suppressors minimally doubled the mRNA levels during stationary phase. However, the elevated mRNA levels in Sro9p suppressor cells appear to result from a combination of enhanced transcription and message stability. Taken together, these results demonstrate that these three proteins influence transcription and implicate Sro9p in both transcription and posttranscription events.

Genes and longevity: lessons from studies of centenarians

In population studies of aging, the data on genetic markers are often collected for individuals from different age groups. The idea of such studies is to identify "longevity" or "frailty" genes by comparing the frequencies of genotypes in the oldest and in the younger groups of individuals. In this paper we discuss a new approach to the analysis of such data. This approach, based on the maximum likelihood method, combines data on genetic markers with survival information obtained from standard demographic life tables. This method allows us to evaluate survival characteristics for individuals carrying respective candidate genes. It can also be used in the estimation of the effects of allele-area and allele-allele interaction, either in the presence or absence of hidden heterogeneity. We apply this method to the analysis of Italian data on genetic markers for five autosomal loci and mitochondrial genomes. Then we discuss basic assumptions used in this analysis and directions of further research.

Activation mutants in yeast RNA polymerase II subunit RPB3 provide evidence for a structurally conserved surface required for activation in eukaryotes and bacteria

We have identified a mutant in RPB3, the third-largest subunit of yeast RNA polymerase II, that is defective in activator-dependent transcription, but not defective in activator-independent, basal transcription. The mutant contains two amino-acid substitutions, C92R and A159G, that are both required for pronounced defects in activator-dependent transcription. Synthetic enhancement of phenotypes of C92R and A159G, and of several other pairs of substitutions, is consistent with a functional relationship between residues 92-95 and 159-161. Homology modeling of RPB3 on the basis of the crystallographic structure of alphaNTD indicates that residues 92-95 and 159-162 are likely to be adjacent within the structure of RPB3. In addition, homology modeling indicates that the location of residues 159-162 within RPB3 corresponds to the location of an activation target within alphaNTD (the target of activating region 2 of catabolite activator protein, an activation target involved in a protein-protein interaction that facilitates isomerization of the RNA polymerase promoter closed complex to the RNA polymerase promoter open complex). The apparent finding of a conserved surface required for activation in eukaryotes and bacteria raises the possibility of conserved mechanisms of activation in eukaryotes and bacteria.

Discovery Through Total Synthesis-Epimerization at C7 in the CP Compounds: Is (7S)-CP-263,114 a Fermentation Product?

Sometimes a surprise can occur in a total synthesis. The preparative investigation of the title compound CP-263,114 and of CP-225,917 (1)-both natural products that were first isolated in 1997 by Pfizer-has shown that CP compounds of the 7R series can be converted into the 7S series (for example, 2); (7S)-CP-263,114 is itself apparently a fermentation product.

Genes, demography, and life span: the contribution of demographic data in genetic studies on aging and longevity

In population studies on aging, the data on genetic markers are often collected for individuals from different age groups. The purpose of such studies is to identify, by comparison of the frequencies of selected genotypes, "longevity" or "frailty" genes in the oldest and in younger groups of individuals. To address questions about more-complicated aspects of genetic influence on longevity, additional information must be used. In this article, we show that the use of demographic information, together with data on genetic markers, allows us to calculate hazard rates, relative risks, and survival functions for respective genes or genotypes. New methods of combining genetic and demographic information are discussed. These methods are tested on simulated data and then are applied to the analysis of data on genetic markers for two haplogroups of human mtDNA. The approaches suggested in this article provide a powerful tool for analyzing the influence of candidate genes on longevity and survival. We also show how factors such as changes in the initial frequencies of candidate genes in subsequent cohorts, or secular trends in cohort mortality, may influence the results of an analysis.

PCR-based genotyping of epidemic and preepidemic Trichoderma isolates associated with green mold of Agaricus bisporus

We used randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR to estimate genetic variation among isolates of Trichoderma associated with green mold on the cultivated mushroom Agaricus bisporus. Of 83 isolates examined, 66 were sampled during the recent green mold epidemic, while the remaining 17 isolates were collected just prior to the epidemic and date back to the 1950s. Trichoderma harzianum biotype 4 was identified by RAPD analysis as the cause of almost 90% of the epidemic-related episodes of green mold occurring in the major commercial mushroom-growing region in North America. Biotype 4 was more closely allied to T. harzianum biotype 2, the predominant pathogenic genotype in Europe, than to the less pathogenic biotype 1 and Trichoderma atroviride (formerly T. harzianum biotype 3). No variation in the RAPD patterns was observed among the isolates within biotype 2 or 4, suggesting that the two pathogenic biotypes were populations containing single clones. Considerable genetic variation, however, was noted among isolates of biotype 1 and T. atroviride from Europe. Biotype 4 was not represented by the preepidemic isolates of Trichoderma as determined by RAPD markers and PCR amplification of an arbitrary DNA sequence unique to the genomes of biotypes 2 and 4. Our findings suggest that the onset of the green mold epidemic in North America resulted from the recent introduction of a highly virulent genotype of the pathogen into cultivated mushrooms.

[The treatment of 432 patients with pituitary adenomas via transsphenoidal approach]

OBJECTIVE

To study some clinical features of 432 cases of pituitary adenomas treated by transsphenoidal microsurgery between July 1982 and October 1996.

METHODS

Pathological examination, immunohistochemical examination and electronmicroscopic examination were done in 424, 29 and 103 cases respectively.

RESULTS

Hyperprolactinemia was found in many so-called non-functioning adenomas besides in prolactinomas. The dura maters were invaded by tumors in 78 cases (the incidence of dural invasion was 65.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperprolactinemia is not peculiar to prolactinomas, and differential diagnosis is necessary when hyperprolactinemia exists. The involvement of the dura mater of sellar floor is an important mark that the adjacent tissues were invaded by pituitary adenomas. The outcome of surgical treatment is significantly different between the patients with dural invasion and without invasion.

[Endovascular treatment of carotid-cavernous sinus fistulae]

OBJECTIVE

To treat carotid-cavernous sinus fistulae mmunications between 43 patients with endovascular procedure.

METHOD

Of the 43 patients 37 were male and 6 female. Traumatic and spontaneous CCF were noted in 39 and 4 patients respectively. 36 patients with CCF were given ICA alone, both internal and external carotid arteries in 7. Fistulae occlusion in 31 patients and ICA obliteration in 12 patients were achieved with transarterial detachable balloon technique. External carotid feeding arteries were embolized with silk suture in 7 patients.

RESULT

Angiographic and clinical cure wer obtained in 39 patients and improved in 4. One patient was complicated by hemiplegia postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular balloon embolization is the first method of choice in dealing with carotid-cavernous fistulae.

[Anatomy of the endolymphatic sac and its clinical significance]

Using 28 formalin fixed temporal bones and materials of 26 cases of endolymphatic surgery for menieres' disease, the location, vascular distribution and size of the endolyphatic sac (ELS) were investigated. ELS were measured with surgical microscope in all the cadaver specimen with a mean length of 6.9393 +/- 2.0429 mm and mean width of 5.8821 +/-1.6522 mm. All the specimens showed no clear capillary distribution. Only in 24 of the 26 ELS surgeries for Menieres' disease the ELS were found. The mean length was 6.8125 +/- 2.2449 mm, the mean width 5.6666 +/- 1.5084 mm and the vascular distribution was unclear in 29% of the cases. It was found that the ELS usually located at the Donaldson line, and moved downward in the under-developed mastoid with smaller size.

[Effect of AHMED valve implantation surgery for the treatment of neovascular glaucoma]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of the valve implantation for the treatment of neovascular glaucoma.

METHODS

15 cases (15 eyes) neovascular glaucoma were treated with AHMED valve implantation surgery, and followed up for 6 to 42 months.

RESULTS

The IOP of the cases is lowered from 6.01 +/- 1.28 kPa (1 kPa = 7.5 mmHg) preoperatively to 1.96 +/- 0.68 kPa postoperatively. The success rate was 80.0% (The criteria of success is 0.80 kPa < or = IOP < or = 2.80 kPa and without severe complication that influence the visual acuity). The common postoperative complications included hyphema, shallow anterior chamber.

CONCLUSION

The AHMED valve implantation surgery can lower the IOP, increase the operative success rate and preserve the visual function effectively. It is regarded to be an effective, safe method to treat neovascular glaucoma.

[Polymorphism of group specific component (Gc) in nine Han subpopulations in China]

Isoelectric focusing (IEF) followed by immunofixation in thin layer polyacrylamide gels (pH4-6) was used to analyse the Gc subtypes of 1841 individuals from nine Han geographically distributed populations in China. The Gc1F gene frequencies in these Han subpopulations from Lanzhou, Huhhot, Harbin, Xi'an, Zhengzhou, Chengdu, Guiyang, Zhangzhou and Harras in Guangdong Province were 0.3905, 0.4333, 0.4193, 0.4146, 0.4182, 0.4035, 0.4045, 0.4381 and 0.4347 respectively; Gc1S were 0.3071, 0.2190, 0.2734, 0.2261, 0.2182, 0.2871, 0.2889, 0.2738 and 0.2764 respectively; Gc2 were 0.2786, 0.3357, 0.2917, 0.3367, 0.3295, 0.2896, 0.3065, 0.2667, and 0.2814 respectively. GcV were 0.0238, 0.0119, 0.0156, 0.0226, 0.0341, 0.0198, 0.0000, 0.0214 and 0.0075 respectively. The results of present study indicated a clear cline of linear change from north to south China in allelic frequency at the Group-Specific Component (Gc) locus among nine Chinese populations. Three alleles, Gc1F, Gc2 and GcV, showed frequencies varying from 0.3905 to 0.4381, from 0.2786 to 0.3367 and from nil to 0.0341, respectively, over these geographical subpopulations. In addition, some rare variant phenotypes of Gc in Chinese populations were discussed.

Can superoxide dismutase prevent postburn dermal ischemia?

Decreasing progressive dermal ischemia after burning could theoretically limit the amount of skin necrosis. It is controversial whether the use of free radical scavengers could prevent the progressive dermal ischemia of the postburn stasis zone. We evaluated the effect of superoxide dismutase (SOD) on preventing postburn dermal ischemia in animal models by the India ink perfusion and skin transparent preparation techniques. The closely clipped backs of guinea-pigs were bathed in 75 degrees C water for 10 s. Within 5 min postburn, SOD-treated groups were administered SOD (10,000 u/kg) intra-peritoneally every 6 h. All animals were perfused with 70 per cent India ink via cervical artery cannula by 16 kPa constant pressure at 0, 8, 16, 24 h postburn, and the skin transparent preparations were made, while the level of malonyl dialdehyde (MDA) in skin tissue was assessed. The results showed that with prolongation of postburn time, the rate of filling of India ink in skin capillary plexuses decreased gradually (p < 0.01). MDA increased continuously, which was related to postburn dermal ischemia (r = 0.689, p < 0.01). Though the level of MDA decreased in SOD-treated groups, the India ink filling rates showed no significant difference between controls and experimental groups (p > 0.05). The results were also confirmed by observation of skin transparent preparations and TEM. This study suggests that superoxide dismutase fails to prevent progressive dermal ischemia after burning.

[The development and application of the MJ-I electrode of stereo-location]

We use the MJ-I electrode of stereo-location insert intrabrain to measure the epileptic focus and to direct the surgical treating the patients with epilepsy. Excellent operative results were achieved.