Search

Mitochondrial DNA 5178 adenine/cytosine (mt5178 A/C) polymorphism was reported to be associated with longevity and susceptibility to adult-onset diseases in Japanese. To examine whether mt5178 A/C genotypes are associated with serum protein fraction profiles, we genotyped 461 healthy Japanese individuals, and studied the relationship of mt5178 A/C genotypes to both proportion and levels of serum protein fraction. The mt5178 A/C was genotyped using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The alpha-1, alpha-2, and beta globulin proportions in females carrying mt5178A were significantly higher than those in females carrying mt5178C (P=0.002, 0.006, and 0.008, respectively). Moreover, the alpha-1, alpha-2, and beta globulin levels in females carrying mt5178A were significantly higher than those in females carrying mt5178C (P=0.001, 0.002, 0.018, respectively). This difference in globulin fraction level between the two genotypes was more evident in premenopausal females than in postmenopausal females. However, no such difference was found in males. These results provide the first evidence that the mt5178 A/C polymorphism may influence the serum protein fraction levels of the healthy Japanese women.

This paper uses data from the National Adult Literacy Survey to examine the relationship between schooling and earnings. Basic skills are partitioned between those acquired through schooling and those acquired elsewhere. The study finds that, for the most part, it is the substance of learning in school — the accumulated human capital — that counts. Further, the strength of the human capital explanation versus the credential explanation of returns to schooling varies by race. A large disparity is found between whites and blacks in the way annual earnings respond to basic skills acquired through schooling.

Research was conducted in Ulaanbaatar (UB), Mongolia with a view of finding ways of making its municipal solid waste management (MSWM) more efficient by minimizing the negative impact of waste on the environment and public health whilst increasing its resource efficiency in a manner that is economically and financially viable. In this study, “Wasteaware” benchmark indicators were applied to assess the current system for MSWM in UB according to its physical and governance features. Data were obtained from site visits, interviews with the key stakeholders, and consulting of official documents and reports. The results of benchmark indicators showed that, in terms of Public Health, Environmental Control and Institutional Aspects, UB had surpassed the levels of low- and lower-middle-income countries and sufficed the prerequisites for modernizing its waste management system. However, there are still some major steps ahead to fully transition to a modern system. Our study brought significant contributions by filling the existing literature gaps for UB and identified its key strengths and areas for improvement. We conclude that an improvement in data collection and reporting, and widespread consultation with all stakeholders would impact positively on the improvement of the efficiency of the MSWM in UB and other developing countries.

Background: Mitochondrial DNA 5178 cytosine/adenine (Mt5178 C/A) polymorphism reportedly modulates the effects of coffee consumption on the risk of hypertension, dyslipidemia and abnormal glucose tolerance. The objective of this analysis was to investigate whether Mt5178 C/A polymorphism modifies the effects of coffee consumption on erythrocytic parameters in male Japanese health check-up examinees. Methods: A total of 436 men (mean age ± standard deviation, 54.1 ± 7.8 years) were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After Mt5178 C/A genotyping, an exploratory cross-sectional analysis assessing the joint effects of Mt5178 C/A polymorphism and coffee consumption on red blood cell counts, hematocrit and hemoglobin was conducted. Results: For Mt5178C genotypic men, after adjustment for age, body mass index, alcohol consumption, habitual smoking and green tea consumption, coffee consumption significantly decreased red blood cell counts (P for trend =0.022) and hemoglobin (P for trend = 0.035). The risk of anemia, defined as hemoglobin of

A number of rock glaciers, including glacier-derived and talus-derived rock glaciers, were identified in Kanchanjunga Himal, easternmost Nepal. DC resistivity imagings were applied to representative rock glaciers of both types. The distribution of resistivity values in the subsurface within these rock glaciers was significantly different. A massive glacial ice body was found within the glacier-derived rock glacier, suggesting this rock glacier originated from glacial dead ice (ice-cored rock glacier). The lower limits of discontinuous mountain permafrost zone in Kanchanjunga Himal were inferred from the distribution of talus-derived rock glaciers (ice-cemented rock glaciers) and the estimated mean annual air temperature. The lower limit of the discontinuous mountain permafrost zone is 4800 m ASL on the north-facing slopes, while 5300 m ASL on the south- to east-facing slopes. These altitudes were considerably higher than those of the western Himalaya, which are under dry continental climatic conditions. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. RESUME Plusieurs glaciers rocheux comprenant a la fois des formes deriveees de vrais glaciers et des formes provenant de la mise en mouvement de talus, ont ete identifies dans le Kanchanjunga Himal, dans le Nepal le plus oriental. Des images par resistivite DC ont ete obtenues pour des glaciers representatifs des deux categories. La distribution des valeurs de resistivite en profondeur dans ces glaciers rocheux a ete significativement differente. Un corps de glace massif a ete trouve dans le glacier rocheux provenant d'un vrai glacier suggerant qu'il s'agissait de glace morte glaciaire (glacier rocheux a noyau de glace). Les limites inferieures de la zone du pergelisol discontinu dans le Kanchanjungga Himal ont ete deduites de la distribution des glaciers rocheux provenant de talus (glaciers rocheux avec de la glace ciment) et d'une estimation de la temperature moyenne annuelle de l'air. La limite inferieure de la zone du pergelisol discontinu de montagne est de 4800 m d'altitude sur les pentes exposees au nord, tandis que la limite est de 5300 m sur les pentes exposees au sud. Ces altitudes sont considerablement plus elevees que celles de l'ouest de l'Himalaya expose a des conditions climatiques continentales seches. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

To characterize the features of epidemic patterns of infectious gastroenteritis among 47 pre-fectures in Japan, we have introduced the use of two new statistical methods, the modified Lorenz curve and the modified Gini index, which are usually used in economics and demogra-phy. These statistical methods are reported to be suitable for the analysis of seasonal variations and were used in conjunction with the cumulative percentage curves. We attempted to apply these new methods using data collected from the surveillance of infectious diseases in Japan. The results suggest that cumulative percentage curves may be useful for the monitoring of in-fectious gastroenteritis epidemics in several prefectures. The modified Lorenz curve and the epi-demic index, namely the modified Gini index, may also be useful as standards for comparing the epidemic features of infectious diseases for epidemic patterns that are characterized by tempo-ral changes within the same prefecture. Such application could enable essential differences among different prefectures and different infectious diseases to be described.

To examine possible differences in the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and lifestyle-related factors in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae (L2, L3 and L4) of middleaged elderly females, the associations between BMD and several lifestyle-related factors were epidemiologically analyzed according to age class in fifty-seven Japanese females, aged 30 to 60, using health check-up data obtained in 1999 in Mito, Japan. The lifestyle-related factors consisted of physical exercise habits, preference of soybean or soybean products, preference of milk or dairy products, and preference of animal protein-rich foods (beef, chicken, pork, fish, processed foods or eggs). The BMD was estimated by the DEXA method using QDR-1000. The BMD in L2, L3, and L4 decreased markedly after the age of 50, whereas no significant differences in any of the three vertebrae were observed for the 30-39 and 40-49 age groups. In all of the age groups (30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-), the BMD was highest for L4, intermediate for L3 and lowest for L2. In individuals younger than 50 (before menopause), the relationship between the adjusted mean BMD and physical exercise habits showed little difference for L2, L3 and L4: the positive association of physical exercise and BMD was strong for L2 and L3, and weak for L4. While preferences for soybean or soybean products and milk or dairy products had a weak positive association with the adjusted mean BMD for each vertebrae, preferencescores for animal protein-rich foods were clearly inversely associated with the adjusted mean BMD of each of the three vertebrae, especially in individuals over the age of 50 (after menopause). These results suggest that the relationship between BMD and lifestyle-related fac tors may differ for each lumbar vertebrae as well as the individual's age. We propose that the excessive intake of animal protein-rich foods may have an adverse effect on BMD in elderly women after menopause, whereas physical exercise before menopause may be beneficial for the prevention of osteoporosis.

This paper describes one geometrical method of simulating the spatial distribution of snow cover. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and precise Digital Elevation Model (DEM) were used in the s...

In order to map mountain permafrost distribution and to discuss geomorphological indicators for permafrost on the Daisetsu Mountains, BTS measurements and DC resistivity soundings were conducted. Low BTS values were obtained on north-facing slopes at elevations above 2050 m and sporadically below 1900 m. DC resistivity soundings indicate that the permafrost thickness is from 6 to 26 m at elevations above 2050 m, and less than several metres below 1900 m. A diagnostic BTS value of −°C for permafrost occurrence was examined by means of DC resistivity soundings. The diagnostic BTS value disagreed with the results from the DC resistivity soundings in areas with sporadic permafrost. Both BTS measurements and DC resistivity soundings indicate the permafrost is continuous beneath north-facing and wind-blown ground at elevations above 2100 m and sporadic between 1750 and 1900 m. This distribution is controlled by local factors such as slope direction and snow accumulation. At elevations above 2100 m, blockstreams on north-facing slopes experience creep phenomena, reflecting the presence of permafrost. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Pour cartographier la distribution du pergelisol et pour discuter des indicateurs de pergelisol dans les montagnes Daisetsu, des mesures BTS et des sondages de resistivite DC ont ete realises. De faibles valeurs de BTS ont ete obtenues sur les pentes exposees au nord a des altitudes au-dessus de 2050 m ainsi que sporadiquement sous 1900 m. Les sondages de resistivite indiquent que l'epaisseur du pergelisol varie de 6 a 26 m aux altitudes superieures a 2050 m et est inferieure a quelques metres en dessous de 1900 m. Une valeur diagnostique de BTS de −2°C pour la presence de pergelisol a ete confrontee aux resultats des mesures de resistivite. La valeur diagnostique BTS ne correspond pas aux mesures de resistivite dans les regions de pergelisol sporadique. A la fois les mesures BTS et de resistivite indiquent l'existence d'un pergelisol continu sous les pentes exposees au nord et sous les surfaces degagees de la neige par le vent aux altitudes superieures a 2100 m et sporadiquement entre 1750 et 1900 m. Cette distribution est controlee par des facteurs locaux comme l'orientation des pentes et l'accumulation de neige. Aux altitudes superieures a 2100 m, des coulees de blocs s'etirant sur des pentes exposees au nord subissent des phenomenes de creep attestant la presence d'un pergelisol. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

To clarify how and why blood pressure differs between occupations, the proportions of hypertensives, and the measures of blood pressure, body mass index (BMI) and alcohol consumption among the individuals not taking antihypertensive drugs were compared between the eight occupational categories using the data from a health check-up for 589 middle-aged Japanese males, mostly randomly selected from five areas in Japan. After adjusting for age, the relationships of occupation to the proportion of hypertensives and the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure substantially differed among the five areas. However, after further adjustment for residence, these blood pressure levels (the proportion of hypertensives, and the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure) were found to be higher for the "Personnel in transport and communications", the "Clerical personnel", the "Managerial and civil personnel" and the "Professional and technical personnel", whereas these values were consistently lowest in the "Service personnel". Age and residence-adjusted mean BMI was also higher for the four occupational categories with the increased blood pressure levels. According to a weighted multiple regression analysis across the eight occupations, the age and residence-adjusted mean BMI was a significant predictor of the age and residence-adjusted mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.068 and 0.018, respectively). These results suggest that the occupation-related changes in BMI may largely contribute to the occupation-related changes in blood pressure.

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a fatal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system caused by an opportunistic infection of the JC virus. PML is known to occur in immunocompromised patients. A patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who developed PML during i.v. cyclophosphamide and methylprednisolone pulse therapy is described. The pertinent literature relating to complication of SLE by PML is discussed.

Background NADH dehydrogenase subunit-2 237 leucine/methionine (ND2-237 Leu/Met) polymorphism is associated with longevity in Japanese. A previous study has shown that ND2-237 Leu/Met polymorphism modulates the effects of green tea consumption on risk of hypertension. For men with ND2-237Leu, habitual green tea consumption may reduce the risk of hypertension. Moreover, there is a combined effect of ND2-237 Leu/Met polymorphism and alcohol consumption on risk of mildly decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (

To clarify whether smoking was associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and to evaluate the interrelationship among IOP, blood viscosity, and smoking. This cross-sectional study analyzed health examination data obtained between 2001 and 2004 from 1113 individuals (829 men and 284 women), ranging in age from 28 to 79 years, who had not undergone any ocular surgery or medical treatment for hypertension, ocular hypertension, and glaucoma. Multiple-regression analysis showed that systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI), and number of cigarettes smoked per day had a significantly positive association with IOP in men (P

A case of Raynaud's phenomenon, was complicated with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) during the clinical course, and subsequently with gangrene of the fingertips caused by CRST syndrome (calcinosis cutis, Raynaud's phenomenon, sclerodactyly and telangiectasia). The presence of anticentromere antibodies is rare in AIH; to date, there has been only one report of a combination of AIH and CRST syndrome. This combination of the two diseases has been identified only in Japan.(Internal Medicine 34: 6-9, 1995)

Mitochondrial DNA 5178 cytosine/adenine (Mt5178C/A) polymor- phism is reported to be associated with longevity and to modify the effects of alcohol consumption or coffee consumption on the risk of hypertension in the Japanese population. The objective of this study was to investigate whether Mt5178C/A polymorphism modifies the effects of green tea consumption on blood pressure or risk of hypertension in middle-aged Japanese men. A total of 394 male subjects (age, 53.9 7.9 years; mean SD) was selected among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) 140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) 90 mmHg, and/or undergoing antihypertensive drug treat- ment. After adjustment, irrespective of antihypertensive drug treatment, the association between Mt5178C genotype and hypertension was dependent on green tea consumption (P for trend 0.043 and P for trend 0.011, respectively). In particular, among subjects 50 years old with Mt5178C, excluding those taking antihypertensive drugs, a significant association between green tea consumption and risk of hypertension was observed (P for trend 0.019), and the odds ratio for hypertension was significantly lower in those who consumed 6 cups of green tea per day than in those who consumed 1 cup per day (odds ratio 0.167, 95% confidence interval: 0.0330.832). On the other hand, the association between Mt5178A genotype and hypertension did not depend on green tea consumption. No consistent association between green tea consumption and blood pressure was observed in either genotype. The present results suggest a joint effect for Mt5178C/A polymorphism and green tea consumption on the risk of hypertension in middle-aged Japanese men.

Background Several genetic polymorphisms have been reported to modify the effects of smoking on serum lipid levels. The objective of this study was to investigate whether longevity-associated mitochondrial DNA 5178 (Mt5178) C/A polymorphism modifies the effects of habitual smoking on the risk of dyslipidemia in middle-aged Japanese subjects. Methods A total of 394 male subjects (age, 53.9 ± 7.9 years; mean ± SD) were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After Mt5178 C/A genotyping, a cross-sectional study assessing the joint effect of Mt5178 C/A polymorphism and cigarette smoking on the risk of hypo-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterolemia, hyper-low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterolemia or hypertriglyceridemia was conducted. Results For subjects with Mt5178C, the risk of hypo-HDL cholesterolemia increased with the number of cigarettes smoked daily (P for trend = 0.001). On the other hand, the association between Mt5178A genotype and the risk of hypo-HDL cholesterolemia did not appear to depend on the number of cigarettes smoked daily. For those with Mt5178A, the risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia or hypertriglyceridemia increased with cigarettes smoked daily (P for trend = 0.017 and P for trend = 0.002, respectively). However, the association between Mt5178C genotype and the risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia or hypertriglyceridemia did not depend on the number of cigarettes smoked daily. Conclusions The present results suggest that Mt5178 C/A polymorphism modulates the effects of habitual smoking on the risk of dyslipidemia in middle-aged Japanese men.

The mitochondrial DNA 5178 cytosine/adenine (Mt5178 C/A) polymorphism is reportedly associated with longevity in the Japanese population, and the Mt5178A genotype may exert anti-atherogenic effects. The aim of this study was to determine whether there were longitudinal differences in serum lipid levels between carriers of the Mt5178C genotype and those of the Mt5178A genotype and to assess the impact of these genotypes on serum cholesterol levels. The serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) were measured and the Mt5178 C/A genotypes determined in 110 Japanese men aged 41–66 (mean 52.3) years who had received medical checkups twice in the period 1999–2005. The longitudinal changes of TC, HDLC, and LDLC were calculated according to genotype. The serum levels of TC at baseline and follow-up were significantly different, whereas those of HDLC and LDLC were not. The changes in HDLC differed significantly between the two Mt5178 C/A genotype groups, with the changes in HDLC level being significantly greater in the Mt5178A genotype group than in the Mt5178C group (p = 0.015). The Mt5178 C/A genotype may modify longitudinal changes in serum TC and HDLC levels in middle-aged Japanese men.

In Bangladesh, projected climate change is expected to increase food demands by more frequent and intense droughts and increasing temperatures. Few investigations have studied the impact of climate variability on future rice production. Previous investigations mainly checked the sensitivity of higher air temperature and higher atmospheric carbon dioxide on rice yields. Whereas in this study, we checked the combined effects of major climatic parameters on rice. The effects of climate change on yield of a popular winter rice cultivar in Bangladesh were assessed using the biophysical simulation model ORYZA2000. This model was first validated for 2000–2008 using field experimental data from Bangladesh, with a careful test of climate data on daily basis for station-wise and reanalysis datasets. The model performance was satisfactory enough to represent crop productions in nine major rice-growing districts. Then, simulation experiments were carried out for 2046–2065 and 2081–2100. Results show 33 % reduction of average rice yields for 2046–2065 and 2081–2100 for three locations. Projected rainfall pattern and distribution will also have a negative impact on the yields by increasing water demands by 14 % in the future. The model also showed that later transplanting will have less damage under the projected climate.

The objective of this study was to investigate whether the mitochondrial DNA 5178 cytosine/adenine (Mt5178 C/A) polymorphism modifies the effects of coffee consumption on serum lipid levels and the risk of dyslipidemia in middle-aged Japanese men. A total of 397 male subjects (age, 53.9±7.8 years; mean±s.d.) were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After adjustment for age, body mass index, habitual alcohol consumption, habitual smoking and use of antihypertensive medication, among subjects who consumed1 cup of coffee per day, the odds ratio (OR) for hyper-low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterolemia (serum LDL cholesterolor =140 mg per 100 ml) was significantly lower in those with Mt5178A than in those with Mt5178C (OR=0.378, 95% confidence interval: 0.153-0.919). After adjustment, the association between the Mt5178A genotype and hyper-LDL cholesterolemia depended on coffee consumption (P for trend=0.018). Coffee consumption was positively associated with serum LDL cholesterol levels only in subjects with Mt5178A. However, in subjects with Mt5178C, serum LDL cholesterol level or risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia did not seem to depend on coffee consumption. These results suggest that for men with Mt5178A, coffee consumption negates the genetic benefit of lower risk for hyper-LDL cholesterolemia.

[1] Evaporation and condensation in the soil column clearly influence year-round nonconductive heat transfer dynamics in the dry active layer underlying semiarid permafrost regions. We deduced this from heat flux components quantified using state-of-the-art micrometeorological data sets obtained in dry and moist summers and in winters with various snow cover depths. Vapor moves easily through large pores, some of which connect to the atmosphere, allowing (1) considerable active layer warming driven by pipe-like snowmelt infiltration, and (2) direct vapor linkage between atmosphere and deeper soils. Because of strong adhesive forces, water in the dry active layer evaporates with great difficulty. The fraction of latent heat to total soil heat storage ranged from 26 to 45% in dry and moist summers, respectively. These values are not negligible, despite being smaller than those of arctic wet active layer, in which only freezing and thawing were considered.

NADH dehydrogenase subunit-2 237 leucine/methionine (ND2-237 Leu/Met) polymorphism is reportedly associated with longevity in the Japanese population. The ND2-237Met genotype may confer resistance to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular atherogenic diseases. Hyperuricemia is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. To investigate whether ND2-237 Leu/Met polymorphism is associated with serum uric acid (SUA) levels, we conducted a cross-sectional study in 321 healthy Japanese male subjects. In nonobese (body mass index, BMI25) male subjects, interaction between ND2-237 Leu/Met genotypes and drinking frequency on SUA levels was observed (P=0.031). The SUA levels were significantly higher in daily drinkers with ND2-237Leu than in non-daily drinkers with ND2-237Leu (P=0.018). In nonobese men, after adjustment for covariates, daily drinkers with ND2-237Leu had a significantly higher odds ratio (OR) for hyperuricemia (SUAor =6.5 mg/dl: vs. daily drinkers with ND2-237Met, OR=3.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14-9.29; vs. non-daily drinkers with ND2-237Leu, OR=3.22, 95% CI 1.39-7.45; SUAor =7.0 mg/dl: vs. non-daily drinkers with ND2-237Met, OR=3.53, 95% CI 1.00-12.4). However, in obese (BMIor =25) men, no significant interaction between ND2-237 Leu/Met polymorphism and habitual drinking on SUA levels or on the risk for hyperuricemia was observed. These results suggest that ND2-237 Leu/Met polymorphism modulates the effects of daily alcohol consumption on SUA levels in nonobese Japanese men.

Background: Mitochondrial DNA 5178 adenine/cytosine (mt5178 A/C) polymorphism has been reported to be associated with longevity in Japanese individuals, with experimental findings concluding that mt5178 A is an anti-atherogenic genotype. The aim of this study was to determine whether mt5178 A/C polymorphism influences intraocular pressure (IOP), and its relationship with the development of arteriosclerosis. Methods: Four hundred and forty-nine male volunteers who had visited a general hospital for medical check-up between August 1999 and August 2000 were enrolled. Of these, 386 Japanese men who had not undergone any medical treatment for hypertension, ocular hypertension or glaucoma were selected as subjects of this study. After these subjects were genotyped, a cross-sectional study regarding the relationship between genotype and IOP was conducted. Results: Mean IOP was significantly higher in men with mt5178 C (13.3 mmHg) than in those with mt5178 A (12.7 mmHg) (P = 0.037). This significant difference in mean IOP between the two genotypes remained evident after adjusting for age, body mass index, blood pressure, habitual smoking and habitual drinking. Interactions between mt5178 A/C polymorphism and habitual smoking or daily alcohol consumption with regard to IOP were observed. According to multiple regression analysis, habitual smoking was significantly associated with IOP in men with mt5178 A (P for trend = 0.020), while daily alcohol consumption was significantly associated with IOP in those with mt5178 C (P for trend = 0.021). Conclusion: Longevity-associated mitochondrial DNA 5178 A/C polymorphism may be associated with IOP in Japanese men.

Mitochondrial DNA 5178 C/A (mt5178 C/A), namely NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 237 Leu/Met, polymorphism is as reported in literature associated with longevity and susceptibility to ischemic heart disease or cerebrovascular disorders in the Japanese population. Previous reports suggested that mt5178A genotype exerts antiatherogenic effects. The aim of this study was to investigate whether mt5178 C/A polymorphism is associated with hematological parameters, such as thrombogenic risk factors for myocardial infarction and stroke, in 321 healthy Japanese men. No significant differences were observed between mt5178 C/A genotypes, but in subjects with body mass index (BMI) of < or = 23, this polymorphism influenced the effects of habitual smoking on hematological parameters. Red blood cell (RBC) counts were significantly lower and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) levels were significantly higher in smokers with mt5178A than nonsmokers with mt5178A. Platelet counts were significantly higher in smokers with mt5178C than nonsmokers with mt5178C. Cigarette consumption was strongly associated with RBC counts, mean corpuscular volume levels, and MCH levels for men with mt5178A, and was associated with platelet counts for those with mt5178C. Moreover, BMI was significantly positively associated with RBC counts and platelet counts only in men with mt5178A, age was significantly negatively associated with RBC counts only in men with mt5178C. These data suggest that mt5178 C/A polymorphism may influence the effects of cigarette smoking on hematological parameters in healthy BMI < or = 23 Japanese men.

Mitochondrial DNA 5178 adenine/cytosine (mt5178 A/C) polymorphism is reportedly associated with longevity and susceptibility to age-related diseases in Japanese individuals. We previously reported an association between mt5178 A/C polymorphism and serum protein fraction levels in healthy Japanese women. An association between habitual smoking and serum protein fraction levels has also been reported previously. The aim of this study was to examine whether mt5178 A/C polymorphism influenced the effects of habitual smoking on serum protein fraction levels in 321 healthy Japanese men. In mt5178C genotype men, alpha-1 and alpha-2 globulin levels were higher in smokers than in nonsmokers (P

To investigate the association of smoking habits with blood pressure (BP) and intraocular pressure (IOP), and to examine whether the smoking-BP association is related to the IOP level.This study was conducted on the basis of a cross-sectional design using annual health check-up data during one-year between August, 1999 and August, 2000 for 611 middle and old-aged Japanese residents living in Ibaraki prefecture, Japan.After adjustment for age, gender, body mass index and alcohol intake score, the proportion of hypertensives, and the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) of the subjects without antihypertensive medications were the highest (50.4%, 129.6 mmHg and 75.9 mmHg, respectively) in the "smokers of 25 or more cigarettes per day with intraocular pressure (IOP)≥15 mmHg" of six subgroups crossed by three smoking categories (non-smokers, 1 to 24 cigarettes per day, and 25 or more cigarettes per day) and two IOP categories (less than 15 mmHg, and 15mmHg or greater). On the other hand, the adjusted proportion of hypertensives, and the adjusted mean SBP and DBP decreased with increasing smoking category in the individuals with less than 15 mmHg of the IOP (p for trend=0.028 for proportion of hypertensives 0.008 for the SBP, and 0.001 for the DBP, respectively).Heavy smoking may be specifically related to 'high BP accompanied by high IOP', although the BP may be inversely associated with smoking under the condition without high IOP.

To investigate the magnitude of the 'regression to the mean' effect for the changes in serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) levels during one-year interval between annual health check-ups in occupational settings, the relationships between the baseline level and subsequent one-year change in TC, TG or HDLC were analyzed using paired health check-up data in 1998 and 1999 of 547 Japanese male clerical workers. After adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), yearly change in BMI, drinking score and smoking score by the multivariate analyses, the yearly changes in each serum lipid (deltaTC, deltaLn(TG) or deltaHDLC) were clearly inversely associated with the lipid levels in 1998. For example, in the multiple linear regression analyses setting delta value in each serum lipid as a dependent variable, the partial regression coefficients for the baseline lipid levels (beta1) were - 0.21 (p

As one approach to exploring whether the mitochondrial DNA 5178 adenine/cytosine (mt5178 A/C) polymorphism is associated with atherosclerosis, we genotyped 461 healthy Japanese individuals and studied the relationship of mt5178 A/C genotypes to serum lipid levels. Blood specimens were obtained after at least a 12-h fasting period from the subjects. The mt5178 A/C was genotyped by the polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The relative frequency of mt5178 A was 41.6% (192/461) and of mt5178 C was 58.4% (269/461). After adjustments for age and body mass index, the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration in males carrying mt5178 A was significantly higher than that in males carrying mt5178 C ( P=0.026). The tryglyceride (TG) concentration in females carrying mt5178 A was significantly lower than that in females carrying mt5178 C ( P=0.012). This difference in the TG level between the two genotypes was more evident in postmenopausal females than in premenopausal females. Mt5178 A seems to have an antiatherogenic effect. This is the first genetic epidemiological report on the association of mt5178 A/C polymorphism with serum lipid levels in the Japanese population.

We investigated the epidemic pattern of chickenpox incidence among 47 prefectures in Japan. There were two peaks in chickenpox incidence in all prefectures. The first peaks appear at almost the same time in a year, while the second peaks occur at different times with relatively different types of size and shape. The feature of the second peak might characterize the epidemic pattern of chickenpox. We first introduced the second peak index, that is, the ratio of the difference between the incidence at the point of the second peak and the minimum incidence between the first and second peaks to the difference between the incidence at the point of the second peak and the minimum incidence in the year. There was a close correlation between the second peak index and the magnitude of variation in temperature within a year corresponding to the difference between the maximum and the minimum of the monthly mean of the highest daily temperature. This is the first article focusing on the close relationship between the second peak of epidemic pattern of chickenpox incidence and the variation of temperature within a year.

To investigate whether blood pressure differs by taking preferred alcoholic beverage among habitual drinkers, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) were compared among groups with different beverage types in 563 middle-aged Japanese males using data from a cross-sectional health survey conducted from February, 1989 through March, 1991 in five areas of Japan. Mean values of SBP and DBP, adjusted for residence, age and body mass index (BMI), were significantly greater in 'exclusively sake' drinkers (adjusted SBP: 127.2 mmHg, adjusted DBP: 83.0 mmHg) and in 'exclusively shochu' drinkers (adjusted SBP: 127.5 mmHg, adjusted DBP: 84.2 mmHg) than in non-drinkers (adjusted SBP: 120.9 mmHg, adjusted DBP: 77.3 mmHg). Adjusted SBP and DBP of 'exclusively beer' drinkers (adjusted SBP: 121.9 mmHg, adjusted DBP: 79.1 mmHg) were significantly (for SBP: p = 0.016, for DBP: p = 0.008) lower than those of 'exclusively sake' drinkers. Similar patterns of blood pressure differences between five beverage types of habitual drinkers were found especially in the group with less than 150 g of weekly ethyl-alcohol consumption. Even after adding ethyl-alcohol consumption as a covariate among 479 habitual drinkers, the significant differences in adjusted SBP and DBP between 'exclusively beer' drinkers and 'exclusively sake' drinkers (for SBP: p = 0.032, for DBP: p = 0.044) were noted. These results may suggest that the effects of drinking on blood pressure differ by beverage type in middle-aged Japanese males.

Background Longevity-associated mitochondrial DNA 5178 cytosine/adenine (Mt5178 C/A) polymorphism modulates the effects of coffee consumption on the risk of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abnormal glucose tolerance. The objective of this study was to investigate whether Mt5178 C/A polymorphism modifies the effects of coffee consumption on abnormally elevated levels of serum liver enzymes in male Japanese health check-up examinees. Methods A total of 421 male subjects (mean age ± SD, 54.1 ± 7.7 years) were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After Mt5178 C/A genotyping, a cross-sectional study assessing the joint effects of Mt5178 C/A polymorphism and coffee consumption on elevated levels of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) was then conducted. Results For men with Mt5178C, after adjustment for age, body mass index, alcohol consumption, habitual smoking, green tea consumption, antihypertensive treatment, and antidiabetic treatment, elevated levels of serum AST, as defined as ≥30 U/L; those of serum ALT, as defined as ≥25 U/L; or those of serum GGT, as defined as ≥60 or >51 U/L, may depend on coffee consumption (P for trend = 0.013, P for trend

Background Prevention of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health issue. Although several studies have been performed on the association between alcohol consumption and CKD or renal function, it remains controversial. Numerous genetic polymorphisms have been reported to be associated with CKD and kidney function. Mitochondrial DNA cytosine/adenine (Mt5178 C/A) polymorphism is associated with longevity in Japanese. This polymorphism modifies the effects of alcohol consumption on blood pressure, risk of hypertension, serum triglyceride levels, risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia and serum uric acid levels. The objective of this study was to investigate whether Mt5178 C/A polymorphism modifies the effects of alcohol consumption on renal function in male Japanese health check-up examinees. Methods A total of 394 male subjects aged 29–76 years were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After Mt5178 C/A genotyping, a cross-sectional study assessing the combined effects of Mt5178 C/A polymorphism and habitual drinking on the risk of mildly decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (2) was conducted. Results For Mt5178A genotypic men, habitual drinking may increase eGFR (P for trend = 0.003) or reduce the risk of mildly decreased eGFR (P for trend = 0.003). Daily drinkers had a significantly higher eGFR than non-drinkers (P = 0.005). The crude odds ratio for decreased eGFR was significantly lower in daily drinkers than in non-drinkers (odds ratio = 0.092, 95% confidence interval: 0.012-0.727, P = 0.024). On the other hand, for Mt5178C genotypic men, habitual drinking does not appear to affect eGFR. Conclusion The present results suggest a joint effect of Mt5178 C/A polymorphism and alcohol consumption on eGFR and the risk of mildly decreased eGFR in male Japanese subjects.

Background Longevity-associated mitochondrial DNA 5178 (Mt5178) C/A reportedly modulates the effects of coffee consumption on the risk of hypertension, dyslipidemia and abnormal glucose tolerance, and those of alcohol consumption on the risk of hypertension, dyslipidemia and hyperuricemia in middle-aged Japanese men. However, there has been no research examining whether Mt5178 C/A polymorphism influences the effects of coffee consumption or alcohol consumption on the clustering of cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs). Methods A total of 332 male subjects (mean age ± SD, 52.8 ± 7.8 years) were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After Mt5178 C/A genotyping, a cross-sectional study assessing the joint effects of Mt5178 C/A polymorphism and coffee consumption or alcohol consumption on the clustering of CRFs, namely hypertension, abnormal glucose tolerance, hyper-low-density lipoprotein cholesterolemia, hypo-high density lipoprotein cholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperuricemia, was then conducted. Results After adjustment for confounding factors, significant and negative associations were observed between coffee consumption and clustering of ≥2 CRFs in subjects with Mt5178C. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for the clustering of ≥2 or ≥3 CRFs was significantly lower in subjects who consumed 1–3 cups of coffee per day than in those who consumed Conclusions The present results suggest that Mt5178 C/A polymorphism modifies the effects of coffee consumption or alcohol consumption on the clustering of CRFs in middle-aged Japanese men.

Background Combined effects between mitochondrial DNA 5178 (Mt5178) C/A polymorphism and alcohol consumption on the risk of hypertension or hyperuricemia have been reported. The objective of this study was to investigate whether Mt5178 C/A polymorphism modulates the effects of alcohol consumption on the risk of dyslipidemia. Methods A total of 394 male subjects were selected from among individuals visiting the hospital for regular medical check-ups. After Mt5178 C/A genotyping, a cross-sectional study assessing the combined effect of Mt5178 polymorphism and alcohol consumption on the risk of dyslipidemia was conducted. Results For men with Mt5178C, alcohol consumption was significantly and negatively associated with the risk of hyper-low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterolemia (serum LDL cholesterol ≥ 140 mg/dl) (P for trend = 0.015). After adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), habitual smoking, coffee consumption and use of antihypertensive medicine, the odds ratio (OR) for hyper-LDL cholesterolemia was significantly lower in daily drinkers with Mt5178C than non-drinkers with Mt5178C (OR = 0.360, 95% confidence intervals: 0.153-0.847). A significant and negative association between alcohol consumption and serum LDL cholesterol levels was also observed in Mt5178C genotypic men (P for trend < 0.01). On the other hand, the association between Mt5178A genotype and risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia does not appear to depend on alcohol consumption. Conclusions For Mt5178C genotypic men, alcohol consumption may reduce the risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia.