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Research indicates that a genetically controlled metabolism maintaining low levels of apo B-containing lipoproteins may be conducive to longevity. Data were obtained from 75 Japanese centenarians and 73 volunteers with a mean age of 63.1 years. Lipoprotein levels were related to the subjects' inflammation markers, apo E polymorphisms, and nutritional status.

Centenarians have a decreased susceptibility to ageing-associated illnesses, chronic inflammation and infectious diseases1–3. Here we show that centenarians have a distinct gut microbiome that is enriched in microorganisms that are capable of generating unique secondary bile acids, including various isoforms of lithocholic acid (LCA): iso-, 3-oxo-, allo-, 3-oxoallo- and isoallolithocholic acid. Among these bile acids, the biosynthetic pathway for isoalloLCA had not been described previously. By screening 68 bacterial isolates from the faecal microbiota of a centenarian, we identified Odoribacteraceae strains as effective producers of isoalloLCA both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the enzymes 5α-reductase (5AR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSDH) were responsible for the production of isoalloLCA. IsoalloLCA exerted potent antimicrobial effects against Gram-positive (but not Gram-negative) multidrug-resistant pathogens, including Clostridioides difficileand Enterococcus faecium. These findings suggest that the metabolism of specific bile acids may be involved in reducing the risk of infection with pathobionts, thereby potentially contributing to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis.

The study of the complete mitochondrial genomes of 672 Japanese individuals to construct an East Asia mitochondrial DNA is highlighted. The study revealed that the present day Japanese have their closet genetic affinity to northern Asian populations and Japan could be related to an area of migratory expansion to Continental Asia.

Objective:We aimed to determine whether the association of sleep status with frailty differs between age groups of older adults. Method:This cross-sectional study was part of the observational Septuagenarians, Octogenarians, Nonagenarians Investigation with Centenarians (SONIC) study. Subjects were community-dwelling older adults in their 70s and 80s. Frailty was evaluated using the Japanese version of the Cardiovascular Health Study criteria (J-CHS). Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess sleep status. Poor sleep quality was defined as a PSQI global score ≥6. Sleep duration was categorized as short (<6 hr), normal (6–8), and long (>8). We performed multivariable logistic regression to investigate the association between sleep status and frailty separately for each age group adjusted for multiple covariates. Results:In those in their 70s, long sleep duration and sleep medication use were independently associated with frailty. In those in their 80s, poor sleep quality was independently associated with frailty. Conclusions:The association between sleep status and frailty was different between age groups. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating the evaluation of sleep quantity and non-pharmacological therapies in those in their 70s and the evaluation of sleep quality in those in their 80s to help prevent the onset of frailty.

In the context of global population ageing and concentration in cities, the population aged 80 and over (80+) is growing rapidly. Japan has the fastest ageing population and longest healthy average life expectancy, while health decline becomes pronounced and care needs increase in the 85+ age group post the ‘average life expectancy’. The healthy ageing of older urban community dwellers is a pressing issue in world initiatives for sustainable urbanisation. However, for the 85+ age group, less is known about how promoting/inhibiting factors and their pathways influence healthy ageing, and related longitudinal studies remain insufficient. Using data from a longitudinal cohort study conducted from 2008–2009 to 2014–2015 among independent dwellers aged 85+ in central Tokyo (men = 203, women = 232), this study analysed the impact pathways of environmental, social, and behavioural factors on health and survival to explore promoters and potential risks on healthy ageing by gender, with multi-group structural equation modelling (SEM) and Bayesian SEM. For both genders, there was a positive chained pathway starting from friends as facilitators through positive interactions between 'social participation’ and 'active behaviour' to 'ageing-related health'. Additionally, their personal networks were small, suggesting that men with family-centred networks and women with non-family-centred networks require different approaches and supports. Implications of the results are discussed, and an organised social watch and support system, which becomes more important in the ‘new normal’ for urban dwellers aged 85+, is recommended.

AbstractMiddle lobe syndrome is a distinct clinical entity characterized by right middle lobe atelectasis. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of medical therapy including the administration of antibiotics and the avoidance of irritating agents may be effective. However, abnormal shadows on chest radiography remain unchanged even when acute symptoms have disappeared, suggesting latent lesional inflammation or recurrence. We describe 2 cases of atelectasis in the middle lobe of the right lung which resolved completely after administration of low-dose roxithromycin. Thus, low-dose therapy with a macrolide could be of interest or some value in these cases, but it is too early to draw a definite conclusion.Copyright © 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel