Statistical methods in collaborative research

National Institute Of Environmental Health Sciences

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

In fiscal year 2025 the collaborative projects have resulted in 13 publications. Several of the projects focus on developing statistical methods for genetic and epidemiologic studies. With the help from Taylor Petty from Sciome we published a manuscript in which we extended the GADGETS method, a method using genetic-algorithm-based methods to identify genetic epistatic effects using data from case-parent triads, to studies of maternal genetic effects and fetal-maternal interaction effects We also extended the method to studies of epistasis-by-exposure interaction and developing a simpler alternative fitness score specific to epistatic SNP sets that also elegantly combines SNP sets of different sizes. In another project with Clare and David, we developed a method for pooled sample analysis using a case-cohort study design. We showed in the paper that pooling specimens together prior to assay could reduce the amount needed from each person’s archive, and would also require less money to be spent on assay with only minimal power loss. In addition to methodological work, I collaborate on several genetic and epidemiologic studies. In a project led by Drs. Holle and Park, we performed a GWAS of five carotenoid levels and identified an association between two common SNPs and lutein and zeaxanthin levels. Working with Dr. Bauer, we identified potential associations of a gene-smoking interaction with the risk of preeclampsia using data from mother-child dyads in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Birth Cohort. I actively participate in several applied studies collaborating with multiple researchers in the branch. Collaborating with Dr. Li’s group we are analyzing the sleep data collected through UNC Sleep Center. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can affect overall health; therefore, understanding sleep disorders can help improve health outcomes. We developed a clinically relevant tool for predicting sleep apnea using data from 16,958 polysomnography studies. Sleep apnea may depend on position (supine vs. lateral) and may be influenced by gas exchange. We are assessing the sex difference in positional sleep apnea and its trend with age and the sex difference in gas exchange related variables across age groups. Knowledge of age and sex differences may facilitate the development of more effective, personalized treatments for diverse patient populations. Studying brain wave spindle densities and blood glucose levels, we found decreased spindle densities in diabetes patients compared to matched controls and the finding offers a possible explanation for neurological complications from diabetes. We are now using a Streptozotocin-treated animal model to understand the impact of glucose and brain waves. I also collaborate extensively with intramural investigators from other branches as well as extramural investigators. The research of Dr Rider from CRU focuses on autoimmune diseases, in particular, dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory autoimmune disease. I work closely with Dr. Rider’s group on several projects. Using data from the Twin-Sib study we published a paper describing the association between stressful life events and diagnosis of systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases among adults. Working with a summer student and a visiting fellow in Dr. Rider’s lab, we are assessing the association between early life exposure and later development of autoimmune disease. I worked with David Resnik on several research projects studying institutional review board policies and relationship between research outcome, journal impact factors and funding support, author affiliation in peer-reviewed research on the relationship between climate change and hurricanes.