bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body Weight Correlates with Molecular Variances in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Huang Fengyuan , Xu Peng , Yue Zongliang , Song Yuwei , Hu Kaili , Zhao Xinyang , Gao Min , Chong Zechen
Published: January 2024

Overweight and obesity are identified by a high body mass index (BMI) and carry significant health risks due to associated comorbidities. Although epidemiologic data connect overweight/obesity with 13 cancer types, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this correlation is needed to improve prevention and treatment strategies. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of molecular differences between overweight or obese patients and normal weight patients across 14 different cancer types from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Using the propensity score weighting algorithm to control for confounding factors, obesity-specific mutational features were identified, such as higher mutation burden in rectal cancer and biased mutational signatures in other cancers. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) in tumors from patients with overweight/obesity were predominantly upregulated and enriched in inflammatory and hormone-related pathways. These DEGs were significantly associated with survival rates in various cancer types, highlighting the impact of elevated body fat on gene expression profiles and clinical outcomes in patients with cancer. Interestingly, while high BMI seemed to have a negative impact on most cancer types, the normal weight–biased mutational and gene expression patterns indicated overweight/obesity may be beneficial in endometrial cancer, suggesting the presence of an “obesity paradox” in this context. Body fat also significantly impacted the tumor microenvironment by modulating immune cell infiltration, underscoring the importance of understanding the interplay between weight and immune response in cancer progression. Together, this study systematically elucidates the molecular differences corresponding to body weight in multiple cancer types, offering potentially critical insights for developing precision therapy for patients with cancer.

Significance:

Elucidation of the complex interplay between body weight and the molecular landscape of cancer could potentially guide tailored therapies and improve patient management amid the global obesity crisis.
One CD4+TCR and One CD8+TCR Targeting Autochthonous Neoantigens Are Essential and Sufficient for Tumor Eradication
Authors: Wolf Steven P. , Anastasopoulou Vasiliki , Drousch Kimberley , Diehl Markus I. , Engels Boris , Yew Poh Yin , Kiyotani Kazuma , Nakamura Yusuke , Schreiber Karin , Schreiber Hans , Leisegang Matthias
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To achieve eradication of solid tumors, we examined how many neoantigens need to be targeted with how many T-cell receptors (TCR) by which type of T cells.

Experimental Design:

Unmanipulated, naturally expressed (autochthonous) neoantigens were targeted with adoptively transferred TCR-engineered autologous T cells (TCR-therapy). TCR-therapy used CD8+ T-cell subsets engineered with TCRs isolated from CD8+ T cells (CD8+TCR-therapy), CD4+ T-cell subsets engineered with TCRs isolated from CD4+ T cells (CD4+TCR-therapy), or combinations of both. The targeted tumors were established for at least 3 weeks and derived from primary autochthonous cancer cell cultures, resembling natural solid tumors and their heterogeneity as found in humans.

Results:

Relapse was common with CD8+TCR-therapy even when targeting multiple different autochthonous neoantigens on heterogeneous solid tumors. CD8+TCR-therapy was only effective against homogenous tumors artificially derived from a cancer cell clone. In contrast, a combination of CD8+TCR-therapy with CD4+TCR-therapy, each targeting one neoantigen, eradicated large and established solid tumors of natural heterogeneity. CD4+TCR-therapy targeted a mutant neoantigen on tumor stroma while direct cancer cell recognition by CD8+TCR-therapy was essential for cure. In vitro data were consistent with elimination of cancer cells requiring a four-cell cluster composed of TCR-engineered CD4+ and CD8+ T cells together with antigen-presenting cells and cancer cells.

Conclusions:

Two cancer-specific TCRs can be essential and sufficient to eradicate heterogeneous solid tumors expressing unmanipulated, autochthonous targets. We demonstrate that simplifications to adoptive TCR-therapy are possible without compromising efficacy.
Supplementary Tables S1-S12 from Ultrasensitive Detection of Circulating LINE-1 ORF1p as a Specific Multicancer Biomarker
Authors: Taylor Martin S. , Wu Connie , Fridy Peter C. , Zhang Stephanie J. , Senussi Yasmeen , Wolters Justina C. , Cajuso Tatiana , Cheng Wen-Chih , Heaps John D. , Miller Bryant D. , Mori Kei , Cohen Limor , Jiang Hua , Molloy Kelly R. , Chait Brian T. , Goggins Michael G. , Bhan Irun , Franses Joseph W. , Yang Xiaoyu , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Wang Xinan , Christiani David C. , Johnson Bruce E. , Meyerson Matthew , Uppaluri Ravindra , Egloff Ann Marie , Denault Elyssa N. , Spring Laura M. , Wang Tian-Li , Shih Ie-Ming , Fairman Jennifer E. , Jung Euihye , Arora Kshitij S. , Yilmaz Osman H. , Cohen Sonia , Sharova Tatyana , Chi Gary , Norden Bryanna L. , Song Yuhui , Nieman Linda T. , Pappas Leontios , Parikh Aparna R. , Strickland Matthew R. , Corcoran Ryan B. , Mustelin Tomas , Eng George , Yilmaz Ömer H. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Chan Andrew T. , Skates Steven J. , Rueda Bo R. , Drapkin Ronny , Klempner Samuel J. , Deshpande Vikram , Ting David T. , Rout Michael P. , LaCava John , Walt David R. , Burns Kathleen H.
Published: January 2024

Supp Table ST1 - ST12
Supplementary Figure 9 from Ultrasensitive Detection of Circulating LINE-1 ORF1p as a Specific Multicancer Biomarker
Authors: Taylor Martin S. , Wu Connie , Fridy Peter C. , Zhang Stephanie J. , Senussi Yasmeen , Wolters Justina C. , Cajuso Tatiana , Cheng Wen-Chih , Heaps John D. , Miller Bryant D. , Mori Kei , Cohen Limor , Jiang Hua , Molloy Kelly R. , Chait Brian T. , Goggins Michael G. , Bhan Irun , Franses Joseph W. , Yang Xiaoyu , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Wang Xinan , Christiani David C. , Johnson Bruce E. , Meyerson Matthew , Uppaluri Ravindra , Egloff Ann Marie , Denault Elyssa N. , Spring Laura M. , Wang Tian-Li , Shih Ie-Ming , Fairman Jennifer E. , Jung Euihye , Arora Kshitij S. , Yilmaz Osman H. , Cohen Sonia , Sharova Tatyana , Chi Gary , Norden Bryanna L. , Song Yuhui , Nieman Linda T. , Pappas Leontios , Parikh Aparna R. , Strickland Matthew R. , Corcoran Ryan B. , Mustelin Tomas , Eng George , Yilmaz Ömer H. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Chan Andrew T. , Skates Steven J. , Rueda Bo R. , Drapkin Ronny , Klempner Samuel J. , Deshpande Vikram , Ting David T. , Rout Michael P. , LaCava John , Walt David R. , Burns Kathleen H.
Published: January 2024

Nanobody generation
Supplementary Figure 3 from Ultrasensitive Detection of Circulating LINE-1 ORF1p as a Specific Multicancer Biomarker
Authors: Taylor Martin S. , Wu Connie , Fridy Peter C. , Zhang Stephanie J. , Senussi Yasmeen , Wolters Justina C. , Cajuso Tatiana , Cheng Wen-Chih , Heaps John D. , Miller Bryant D. , Mori Kei , Cohen Limor , Jiang Hua , Molloy Kelly R. , Chait Brian T. , Goggins Michael G. , Bhan Irun , Franses Joseph W. , Yang Xiaoyu , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Wang Xinan , Christiani David C. , Johnson Bruce E. , Meyerson Matthew , Uppaluri Ravindra , Egloff Ann Marie , Denault Elyssa N. , Spring Laura M. , Wang Tian-Li , Shih Ie-Ming , Fairman Jennifer E. , Jung Euihye , Arora Kshitij S. , Yilmaz Osman H. , Cohen Sonia , Sharova Tatyana , Chi Gary , Norden Bryanna L. , Song Yuhui , Nieman Linda T. , Pappas Leontios , Parikh Aparna R. , Strickland Matthew R. , Corcoran Ryan B. , Mustelin Tomas , Eng George , Yilmaz Ömer H. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Chan Andrew T. , Skates Steven J. , Rueda Bo R. , Drapkin Ronny , Klempner Samuel J. , Deshpande Vikram , Ting David T. , Rout Michael P. , LaCava John , Walt David R. , Burns Kathleen H.
Published: January 2024

Circulating ORF1p levels in lung cancer patient cohort
Supplementary Figure 16 from Ultrasensitive Detection of Circulating LINE-1 ORF1p as a Specific Multicancer Biomarker
Authors: Taylor Martin S. , Wu Connie , Fridy Peter C. , Zhang Stephanie J. , Senussi Yasmeen , Wolters Justina C. , Cajuso Tatiana , Cheng Wen-Chih , Heaps John D. , Miller Bryant D. , Mori Kei , Cohen Limor , Jiang Hua , Molloy Kelly R. , Chait Brian T. , Goggins Michael G. , Bhan Irun , Franses Joseph W. , Yang Xiaoyu , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Wang Xinan , Christiani David C. , Johnson Bruce E. , Meyerson Matthew , Uppaluri Ravindra , Egloff Ann Marie , Denault Elyssa N. , Spring Laura M. , Wang Tian-Li , Shih Ie-Ming , Fairman Jennifer E. , Jung Euihye , Arora Kshitij S. , Yilmaz Osman H. , Cohen Sonia , Sharova Tatyana , Chi Gary , Norden Bryanna L. , Song Yuhui , Nieman Linda T. , Pappas Leontios , Parikh Aparna R. , Strickland Matthew R. , Corcoran Ryan B. , Mustelin Tomas , Eng George , Yilmaz Ömer H. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Chan Andrew T. , Skates Steven J. , Rueda Bo R. , Drapkin Ronny , Klempner Samuel J. , Deshpande Vikram , Ting David T. , Rout Michael P. , LaCava John , Walt David R. , Burns Kathleen H.
Published: January 2024

Screening of multimeric nanobodies for ORF1p detection with Simoa.
Supplementary Data 1 from Ultrasensitive Detection of Circulating LINE-1 ORF1p as a Specific Multicancer Biomarker
Authors: Taylor Martin S. , Wu Connie , Fridy Peter C. , Zhang Stephanie J. , Senussi Yasmeen , Wolters Justina C. , Cajuso Tatiana , Cheng Wen-Chih , Heaps John D. , Miller Bryant D. , Mori Kei , Cohen Limor , Jiang Hua , Molloy Kelly R. , Chait Brian T. , Goggins Michael G. , Bhan Irun , Franses Joseph W. , Yang Xiaoyu , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Wang Xinan , Christiani David C. , Johnson Bruce E. , Meyerson Matthew , Uppaluri Ravindra , Egloff Ann Marie , Denault Elyssa N. , Spring Laura M. , Wang Tian-Li , Shih Ie-Ming , Fairman Jennifer E. , Jung Euihye , Arora Kshitij S. , Yilmaz Osman H. , Cohen Sonia , Sharova Tatyana , Chi Gary , Norden Bryanna L. , Song Yuhui , Nieman Linda T. , Pappas Leontios , Parikh Aparna R. , Strickland Matthew R. , Corcoran Ryan B. , Mustelin Tomas , Eng George , Yilmaz Ömer H. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Chan Andrew T. , Skates Steven J. , Rueda Bo R. , Drapkin Ronny , Klempner Samuel J. , Deshpande Vikram , Ting David T. , Rout Michael P. , LaCava John , Walt David R. , Burns Kathleen H.
Published: January 2024

De-identified patient information for survival analysis.
Data from RETRACTED: In Vivo Monitoring of Polycythemia Vera Development Reveals Carbonic Anhydrase 1 as a Potent Therapeutic Target
Authors: Murakami Shohei , Barroca Vilma , Perié Leïla , Bravard Anne , Bernardino-Sgherri Jacqueline , Tisserand Amandine , Devanand Caroline , Edmond Valérie , Magniez Aurélie , Tenreira Bento Sabrina , Torres Claire , Pasquier Florence , Plo Isabelle , Vainchenker William , Villeval Jean-Luc , Roméo Paul-Henri , Lewandowski Daniel
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Current murine models of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) cannot examine how MPNs progress from a single bone marrow source to the entire hematopoietic system. Thus, using transplantation of knock-in JAK2V617F hematopoietic cells into a single irradiated leg, we show development of polycythemia vera (PV) from a single anatomic site in immunocompetent mice. Barcode experiments reveal that grafted JAK2V617F stem/progenitor cells migrate from the irradiated leg to nonirradiated organs such as the contralateral leg and spleen, which is strictly required for development of PV. Mutant cells colonizing the nonirradiated leg efficiently induce PV in nonconditioned recipient mice and contain JAK2V617F hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells that express high levels of carbonic anhydrase 1 (CA1), a peculiar feature also found in CD34+ cells from patients with PV. Finally, genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of CA1 efficiently suppresses PV development and progression in mice and decreases PV patients’ erythroid progenitors, strengthening CA1 as a potent therapeutic target for PV.
Significance:
Follow-up of hematopoietic malignancies from their initiating anatomic site is crucial for understanding their development and discovering new therapeutic avenues. We developed such an approach, used it to characterize PV progression, and identified CA1 as a promising therapeutic target of PV.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 265
TABLE 3 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

HRs and 95% CIs for the association between baseline and longitudinal pain scales and death, IRONMAN Registry 2017–2023 (N = 879; 137 deaths in White participants, 37 deaths in Black participants)
TABLE 2 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Average pain at study enrollment by disease state at enrollment and self-reported race (N = 4 pain scales)
Supplementary Table S9 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Baseline bone pain scale Cox model results from sensitivity analysis for missing indicator values during MICE procedure
Supplementary Table S3 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Correlation coefficients between baseline pain scale scores
Supplementary Methods S1 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Further information guiding the choice of methods and a glossary of technical terms
Supplementary Figure S1 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Longitudinal observation status of questionnaires and reasons for being off-study throughout follow-up
FIGURE 1 from Pain and Its Association with Survival for Black and White Individuals with Advanced Prostate Cancer in the United States
Authors: Rencsok Emily M. , Slopen Natalie , McManus Hannah D. , Autio Karen A. , Morgans Alicia K. , McSwain Lawrence , Barata Pedro , Cheng Heather H. , Dreicer Robert , Gerke Travis , Green Rebecca , Heath Elisabeth I. , Howard Lauren E. , McKay Rana R. , Nowak Joel , Pileggi Shannon , Pomerantz Mark M. , Rathkopf Dana E. , Tagawa Scott T. , Whang Young E. , Ragin Camille , Odedina Folakemi T. , Kantoff Philip W. , Vinson Jake , Villanti Paul , Haneuse Sebastien , Mucci Lorelei A. , George Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Distributions of pain at study enrollment by race. A, Distributions of scores on the EORTC pain scale by race. B, Distributions of scores on the average pain scale by race. C, Distributions of scores on the worst pain scale by race. D, Distributions of scores on the bone pain scale by race.
Eine Dermatomyositis mit ungewöhnlichen Befunden und letalem Ausgang
Authors: Polke Markus
Published: January 2024

Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a frequently observed comorbidity in autoimmune diseases such as dermatomyositis/polymyositis (DM/PM), and it is significantly associated with specific autoantibody types. One unique antibody type is the anti-transcription intermediate factor-1γ antibody (anti-TIF-1γ Ab), which has a positive rate of only 7%. It is often found in combination with malignancy and rarely with ILD, particularly rapidly progressive ILD (RPILD). In some cases, the presence of ILD in individuals with DM may indicate a paraneoplastic syndrome. Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) typically occurs due to intensive immunosuppressive therapy, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, or malignancy, and rarely as an isolated condition. Case presentation: A 52-year-old man with a history of rapid weight loss but non-HIV infected and not immunosuppressed who presented with fever, cough, dyspnea, weakness of the extremities, characteristic rash and mechanic’s hand. Pathogenic tests suggested PJP, laboratory tests suggested a single anti-TIF-1γ Ab positive DM, imaging suggested ILD, and pathology revealed no malignancy. RPILD and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) developed after anti-infection and steroid hormone therapy. After mechanical support therapy such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), the patient developed late-onset cytomegalovirus pneumonia (CMVP), complicated bacterial infection, and ultimately death. Additionally, we discuss the potential causes of rapid weight loss, the mechanisms by which anti-TIF-1γ Ab may lead to ILD, and the possible connection between anti-TIF-1γ Ab positivity, rapid weight loss, immune abnormalities, and opportunistic infections.
Transarterial Chemoembolization Combined with Lenvatinib for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Pei Xiaxia , Zhao Jun , Wang Zhiping
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and lenvatinib individually has shown favorable outcomes, but there is currently no meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to investigate the efficacy and safety of this combined treatment for HCC. The aim of this study was to identify the efficacy and safety of TACE plus lenvatinib for the treatment of HCC. Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE (via PubMed), the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and the Web of Science was conducted on July 31, 2023. RCTs evaluating the efficacy and safety of TACE in combination with lenvatinib for the treatment of HCC were included. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 tool. Outcome measures such as objective response rate (ORR), complete remission (CR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety parameters were extracted from the included studies. Binary outcomes were analyzed using odds ratio (OR), risk ratio, or hazard ratio (HR), while continuous variables were analyzed using mean difference (MD) or standardized MD in RStudio. The quality of the evidence was graded using the GRADE approach. Heterogeneity was considered significant when the I-squared was 50% or less. Results: Five RCTs involving 638 patients were included. The meta-analysis revealed that patients in the TACE plus lenvatinib group had a significantly higher mean ORR compared to the control group (OR: 3.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.50–5.32, fixed-effects model; OR: 3.58, 95% CI: 2.45–5.24, random-effects model, I2 = 0, moderate quality). Specifically, 40.9% of patients in the TACE plus lenvatinib group achieved a PR, which was significantly higher than the control group (OR: 3.51, 95% CI: 2.41–5.13, fixed-effects model; OR: 3.46, 95% CI: 2.36–5.07, random-effects model, I2 = 0, moderate quality). The HR for OS was 0.47 (95% CI: 0.35–0.62, fixed-effects model and random-effects model, I2 = 0, moderate quality). The meta-analysis revealed that the TACE plus lenvatinib group had a significantly higher total adverse effects rate than the control group (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.01–3.43, fixed-effects model; OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.00–3.43, random-effects model, I2 = 0, moderate quality). Conclusion: Our study suggests that the combination of TACE and lenvatinib in the treatment of HCC has shown promising results, with extended OS and improved ORR.
Fetal Spina Bifida Repair in Obese Mothers: Is Maternal and Fetal Safety Compromised?
Authors: Zepf Julia , Vonzun Ladina , Rüegg Ladina , Strübing Nele , Krähenmann Franziska , Meuli Martin , Mazzone Luca , Moehrlen Ueli , Ochsenbein-Kölble Nicole ,   Spina Bifida Study Group Zurich
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) eligibility criteria preclude in utero surgery for fetal spina bifida (fSB) when the maternal body mass index (BMI) is ≥35 kg/m2. Some centers still respect this criterion, while others, like ours, do not. This study aimed to assess whether maternal and fetal safety is compromised with higher maternal BMIs. Methods: Data of 192 patients with open fSB repair at our center were retrospectively analyzed. According to their BMI, patients were divided into three groups: group 1 (BMI <30 kg/m2), group 2 (BMI 30–35 kg/m2), and group 3 (BMI >35 kg/m2). Subgroup analysis was performed to assess differences in maternal and fetal outcomes. Additionally, complications were divided into grades 1 to 5 according to their severity and outcome consequences and compared among groups. Results: Out of 192 patients, 146 (76.0%) had a BMI <30 kg/m2, 28 (14.6%) had a BMI 30–35 kg/m2, and 18 (9.4%) had a BMI >35 kg/m2. Significant differences occurring more often in either group 2 or 3 compared to group 1 were maternal wound seroma (50% or 56% vs. 32%, p = 0.04), amniotic fluid leakage (14% or 6% vs. 2%, p = 0.01) as well as vaginal bleeding (11% or 35% vs. 9%, p = 0.01). On the contrary, duration of tocolysis with atosiban was shorter in patients with BMI >30 kg/m2 (4 or 5 vs. 6 days, p = 0.01). When comparing severity of maternal or fetal complications, grade 1 intervention-related complications occurred significantly more often in group 3 compared to group 1 or 2 (78% vs. 45% or 57%, p = 0.02). Gestational age at delivery was around 36 weeks in all groups without significant differences. Conclusion: This investigation did not identify clinically relevant maternal and/or fetal outcome problems related to BMIs >35 kg/m2. Additional studies are however needed to confirm our results.
Attitudes of Malaysian Speech-Language Pathologists and Speech-Language Pathology Students toward Stuttering
Authors: Ong Ying Qian , Lim Annette , Park Hye Ran , Harrison Elisabeth , McConnell Grace , Lee Jaehoon , Ng Lay Shi , Chu Shin Ying
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Attitudes of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) toward stuttering play an important role in managing stuttering cases. Yet, such studies had not been studied in Malaysia, a country that is still developing the profession of speech-language pathology. This study aimed to explore the attitudes of Malaysian SLPs and speech-language pathology students toward stuttering. Methods: A total of 50 SLPs and 67 speech-language pathology students completed the Clinician Attitudes Toward Stuttering (CATS) inventory. There were eight domains of attitudes toward stuttering: (a) etiology, (b) early intervention, (c) therapeutic efficacy, (d) personalities of people who stutter (PWS), (e) clinician expertise and roles, (f) teacher/counsellor roles and client/public reactions, (g) therapy strategies, and (h) parent attitudes. Descriptive data were presented, and multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to examine the effects of clinical certification on the eight domains of attitudes toward stuttering. Results: Participants who possessed a clinical certification were more accepting toward the personalities of PWS and therapy strategies. On the other hand, participants without a clinical certification were more accepting toward clinician expertise and roles. Conclusions: Current curriculum and professional training should be reevaluated to remediate less accepting stereotypes held by SLPs and students toward PWS and to enhance essential skills such as counseling.
A Genomic Link From Heart Failure to Atrial Fibrillation Risk: FOG2 Modulates a TBX5/GATA4-Dependent Atrial Gene Regulatory Network
Authors: Broman Michael T. , Nadadur Rangarajan D. , Perez-Cervantes Carlos , Burnicka-Turek Ozanna , Lazarevic Sonja , Gams Anna , Laforest Brigitte , Steimle Jeffrey D. , Iddir Sabrina , Wang Zhezhen , Smith Linsin , Mazurek Stefan R. , Olivey Harold E. , Zhou Pingzhu , Gadek Margaret , Shen Kaitlyn M. , Khan Zoheb , Theisen Joshua W.M. , Yang Xinan H. , Ikegami Kohta , Efimov Igor R. , Pu William T. , Weber Christopher R. , McNally Elizabeth M. , Svensson Eric C. , Moskowitz Ivan P.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

The relationship between heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) is clear, with up to half of patients with HF progressing to AF. The pathophysiological basis of AF in the context of HF is presumed to result from atrial remodeling. Upregulation of the transcription factor FOG2 (friend of GATA2; encoded by
ZFPM2
) is observed in human ventricles during HF and causes HF in mice.

METHODS:

FOG2 expression was assessed in human atria. The effect of adult-specific FOG2 overexpression in the mouse heart was evaluated by whole animal electrophysiology, in vivo organ electrophysiology, cellular electrophysiology, calcium flux, mouse genetic interactions, gene expression, and genomic function, including a novel approach for defining functional transcription factor interactions based on overlapping effects on enhancer noncoding transcription.

RESULTS:

FOG2 is significantly upregulated in the human atria during HF. Adult cardiomyocyte-specific FOG2 overexpression in mice caused primary spontaneous AF before the development of HF or atrial remodeling. FOG2 overexpression generated arrhythmia substrate and trigger in cardiomyocytes, including calcium cycling defects. We found that FOG2 repressed atrial gene expression promoted by TBX5. FOG2 bound a subset of GATA4 and TBX5 co-bound genomic locations, defining a shared atrial gene regulatory network. FOG2 repressed TBX5-dependent transcription from a subset of co-bound enhancers, including a conserved enhancer at the
Atp2a2
locus. Atrial rhythm abnormalities in mice caused by
Tbx5
haploinsufficiency were rescued by
Zfpm2
haploinsufficiency.

CONCLUSIONS:

Transcriptional changes in the atria observed in human HF directly antagonize the atrial rhythm gene regulatory network, providing a genomic link between HF and AF risk independent of atrial remodeling.
Trade-war Tariffs and Supply Chain Trade
Authors: Swenson Deborah L.
Published: January 2024

Although Chinese exports to the United States hit an all-time high in 2022, it would be incorrect to conclude that the U.S.–China trade war had no effects on trade. By exploiting fine product-level information on trade war tariffs, this paper demonstrates how the trade war diminished China's exports to the United States in tariff-impeded products, while expanding opportunities for exports from other countries in a fashion that had some systematic characteristics. First, the impact of the trade war tariffs was not immediate, as trade responses took place with a lag. Second, the responses to trade-war tariffs were heterogenous across countries and regions, with finer distinctions by product categories. Finally, trade that could be viewed as highly tied to global value chains (GVCs), such as trade in information and communication technology products, exhibited stronger reactions to the imposition of trade-war tariffs. These responses, and their implications for the organization of global supply chains, are discussed considering current trade concerns.
The first record of Trichomanes s.s. (Hymenophyllaceae) in Asia and establishment of the new subgenus Asiatrichomanes
Authors: BOUCHERON-DUBUISSON ELODIE , ZHAO YANAN , ROUHAN GERMINAL , EBIHARA ATSUSHI , IWATSUKI KUNIO , DARNAEDI DEDY , DUBUISSON JEAN-YVES
Published: January 2024

Callistopteris superba is a peculiar Asian species within the genus Callistopteris (Hymenophyllaceae). A detailed morphological study of available herbarium specimens was conducted and the species was integrated into a global molecular phylogeny of the family in order to more precisely investigate its taxonomy. Morphological analysis and dated phylogenetic reconstructions demonstrate that the species is not part of Callistopteris and is instead strongly supported as being included in the distinct genus Trichomanes, comprising mainly Neotropical and some Afro-Malagasy species. The uniqueness, within the Hymenophyllaceae and the genus Trichomanes, of an indumentum of glandular-like hairs on the adaxial side of the lamina and on the indusia, allows us to propose Asiatrichomanes as a new subgenus based on this species, which is here also neotypified.
Pseudosperma calciphilum (Inocybaceae), a new Mediterranean species from Sardinia (Italy), Malta, and Valencia (Spain)
Authors: SANNA MASSIMO , MUA ALBERTO , PORCU GIUSEPPE , CASULA MARCO , RINALDI ANDREA C. , MIFSUD STEPHEN , GARRIDO-BENAVENT ISAAC
Published: January 2024

A complete description is provided for Pseudosperma calciphilum (Inocybaceae, Agaricales), a new basidiomycete species from Sardinia (Italy), Malta, and Valencia (Spain) in Europe, along with colour photographs of its macro- and microscopic characters and a comparative study of the similarities and differences from its closest allies. The new species occurs on calcareous soils in Mediterranean habitats preferably under Quercus ilex subsp. ilex and Q. ilex subsp. rotundifolia. Pseudosperma conviviale resembles P. calciphilum in some macro- and microscopic features, but the latter is distinguished by having white velar remnants on pileus, larger spores and by its ecology, as it apparently grows exclusively on calcareous soils. The phylogenetic analyses based on nrITS and nrLSU nucleotide sequence data confirmed that the new species is a member of the former Inocybe section Rimosae sensu stricto, whose species are currently placed in the genus Pseudosperma. The closest relatives are P. melleum, P. conviviale, P. melliolens and P. umbrinellum, from which the new Mediterranean species is well distinguished both morphologically and genetically.
Tropospheric Thermal Forcing of the Stratosphere through Quasi-Balanced Dynamics
Authors: Lin Jonathan , Emanuel Kerry
Published: January 2024

The steady response of the stratosphere to tropospheric thermal forcing via an SST perturbation is considered in two separate theoretical models. It is first shown that an SST anomaly imposes a geopotential anomaly at the tropopause. Solutions to the linearized quasigeostrophic potential vorticity equations are then used to show that the vertical length scale of a tropopause geopotential anomaly is initially shallow, but significantly increased by diabatic heating from radiative relaxation. This process is a quasi-balanced response of the stratosphere to tropospheric forcing. A previously developed, coupled troposphere–stratosphere model is then introduced and modified. Solutions under steady, zonally symmetric SST forcing in the linear β-plane model show that the upward stratospheric penetration of the corresponding tropopause geopotential anomaly is controlled by two nondimensional parameters: 1) a dynamical aspect ratio and 2) a ratio between tropospheric and stratospheric drag. The meridional scale of the SST anomaly, radiative relaxation rate, and wave drag all significantly modulate these nondimensional parameters. Under Earthlike estimates of the nondimensional parameters, the theoretical model predicts stratospheric temperature anomalies 2–3 larger in magnitude than that in the boundary layer, approximately in line with observational data. Using reanalysis data, the spatial variability of temperature anomalies in the troposphere is shown to have remarkable coherence with that of the lower stratosphere, which further supports the existence of a quasi-balanced response of the stratosphere to SST forcing. These findings suggest that besides mechanical and radiative forcing, there is a third way the stratosphere can be forced—through the tropopause via tropospheric thermal forcing.

Significance Statement

Upward motion in the tropical stratosphere, the layer of atmosphere above where most weather occurs, is thought to be controlled by weather disturbances that propagate upward and dissipate in the stratosphere. The strength of this upward motion is important since it sets the global distribution of ozone. We formulate and use simple mathematical models to show the vertical motion in the stratosphere can also depend on the warming in the troposphere, the layer of atmosphere where humans live. We use the theory as an explanation for our observations of inverse correlations between the ocean temperature and the stratosphere temperature. These findings suggest that local stratospheric cooling may be coupled to local tropospheric warming.
Asymmetry of the Distribution of Vertical Velocities of the Extratropical Atmosphere in Theory, Models, and Reanalysis
Authors: Kohl Matthieu , O’Gorman Paul A.
Published: January 2024

The vertical velocity distribution in the atmosphere is asymmetric with stronger upward than downward motion. This asymmetry is important for the distribution of precipitation and its extremes and for an effective static stability that has been used to represent the effects of latent heating on extratropical eddies. Idealized GCM simulations show that the asymmetry increases as the climate warms, but current moist dynamical theories based around small-amplitude modes greatly overestimate the increase in asymmetry with warming found in the simulations. Here, we first analyze the changes in asymmetry with warming using numerical inversions of a moist quasigeostrophic omega equation applied to output from the idealized GCM. The inversions show that increases in the asymmetry with warming in the GCM simulations are primarily related to decreases in moist static stability on the left-hand side of the moist omega equation, whereas the dynamical forcing on the right-hand side of the omega equation is unskewed and contributes little to the asymmetry of the vertical velocity distribution. By contrast, increases in asymmetry with warming for small-amplitude modes are related to changes in both moist static stability and dynamical forcing leading to enhanced asymmetry in warm climates. We distill these insights into a toy model of the moist omega equation that is solved for a given moist static stability and wavenumber of the dynamical forcing. In comparison to modal theory, the toy model better reproduces the slow increase of the asymmetry with climate warming in the idealized GCM simulations and over the seasonal cycle from winter to summer in reanalysis.

Significance Statement

Upward velocities are stronger than downward velocities in the atmosphere, and this asymmetry is important for the distribution of precipitation because precipitation is linked to upward motion. An important and open question is what sets this asymmetry and how much it increases as the climate warms. Past work has shown that current theories greatly overestimate the increase in asymmetry with warming in idealized simulations. In this work, we develop a more complete theory and show that it is able to better reproduce the slow increase of the asymmetry with warming that is found over the seasonal cycle from winter to summer and in idealized simulations of warming climates.
Combined Impacts of Southern Annular Mode and Zonal Wave 3 on Antarctic Sea Ice Variability
Authors: Eabry Michael D. , Goyal Rishav , Taschetto Andréa S. , Hobbs Will , Sen Gupta Alex
Published: January 2024

Large-scale modes of atmospheric variability in the southern midlatitudes can influence Antarctic sea ice concentrations (SIC) via diverse processes. For instance, variability in both the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) and zonal wave 3 (ZW3) have been linked to the abrupt 2015/16 sea ice decline. While SIC responses to each of SAM and ZW3 have been examined previously, their interaction and synchronous impact on Antarctic sea ice has not. Here, we investigate SAM/ZW3 interactions and their associated combined impacts on Antarctic sea ice using a 1200-yr simulation from a state-of-the-art climate model. Our results suggest that zonal wind anomalies associated with SAM drive SIC anomalies in the marginal ice-zone via advection of ice normal to the ice edge and Ekman drift. In contrast, meridional wind anomalies associated with ZW3 can have opposing dynamic and thermodynamic effects on SIC. Both SAM- and ZW3-related SIC anomalies propagate eastward, likely by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. The interaction of SAM and ZW3 leads to interesting regional SIC responses. During negative SAM, ZW3-associated meridional wind anomalies across western Antarctica are closer to the ice edge and have a stronger impact on sea ice overall. ZW3 phase affects meridional wind anomalies across the whole ice edge, whereas it affects SIC anomalies mainly over western Antarctica. In parts of eastern Antarctica, SIC anomalies are less sensitive to ZW3 phase, but are sensitive to SAM, particularly in locations where the ice edge has a prominent angle relative to the SAM-related zonal wind anomalies.

Significance Statement

The Southern Annular Mode (SAM) and zonal wave 3 (ZW3) are large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns affecting midlatitude east–west and north–south winds, respectively, over the Southern Ocean. Variations in winds can affect sea ice formation, which can feed back to influence Southern Hemisphere climate. We examine how variations in SAM and ZW3 affect Antarctic sea ice due to a combination of wind- and ocean-driven ice movement and sea ice growth or melting. Regional variations in ice concentrations are due both to alternating north–south ZW3 winds and to the interaction of SAM-related east–west winds with the ice edge. SAM and ZW3 can also interact, leading to stronger north–south wind and sea ice responses over western Antarctica when SAM-related midlatitude winds weaken.
Influences of the South American Low-Level Jet on the Convective Environment in Central Argentina Using a Convection-Permitting Simulation
Authors: Sasaki Clayton R. S. , Rowe Angela K. , McMurdie Lynn A. , Varble Adam C. , Zhang Zhixiao
Published: January 2024

This study documents the spatial and temporal distribution of the South American low-level jet (SALLJ) and quantifies its impact on the convective environment using a 6.5-month convection-permitting simulation during the Remote Sensing of Electrification, Lightning, And Mesoscale/Microscale Processes with Adaptive Ground Observations and Clouds, Aerosols, and Complex Terrain Interactions (RELAMPAGO-CACTI) campaigns. Overall, the simulation reproduces the observed SALLJ characteristics in central Argentina near the Sierras de Córdoba (SDC), a focal point for terrain-focused upscale growth. SALLJs most frequently occur in the summer with maxima to the northwest and east of the SDC and minima over the higher terrain. The shallower SALLJs (<1750 m) have a strong overnight skew, while the elevated jets are more equally spread throughout the day. SALLJ periods often have higher amounts of low-level moisture and instability compared to non-SALLJ periods, with these impacts increasing over time when the SALLJ is present and decreasing afterward. The SALLJ may enhance low-level wind shear magnitudes (particularly when accounting for the jet height); however, enhancement is somewhat limited due to the presence of speed shear in most situations. SALLJ periods are associated with low-level directional shear favorable for organized convection and an orientation of cloud-layer wind shear parallel to the terrain, which could favor upscale growth. A case study is shown in which the SALLJ influenced both the magnitude and direction of wind shear concurrent with convective upscale growth near the SDC. This study highlights the complex relationship between the SALLJ and its impacts during periods of widespread convection.

Significance Statement

Areas of enhanced low-level winds, or low-level jets, likely promote favorable conditions for upscale growth, the processes by which storms grow larger. Central Argentina is an ideal place to study the influence of low-level jets on upscale growth as storms often stay connected to the Sierras de Córdoba Mountain range, growing over a relatively small area. This study uses model data to describe the distribution and impact of the South American low-level jet on the storm environment. The South American low-level jet is frequently found near the Sierras de Córdoba, and moisture and convective instability increase when it is present. However, the jet’s impact on other conditions important for upscale growth, such as vertical wind shear, is not as straightforward.
Why Livelihoods Matter in the Gendering of Household Water Insecurity
Authors: Nébié Elisabeth Kago Ilboudo , Brewis Alexandra , Wutich Amber , Pérenne Yogo , Magassa Kadidiatou
Published: January 2024

One of the most pressing and immediate climate concerns globally is inadequate and unsafe household water. The livelihoods of smallholder crop and livestock farmers are especially vulnerable to these challenges. Past research suggests that water insecurity is highly gendered, and women are theorized to be more aware of and impacted by water insecurity than men. Our study reengages this literature through a livelihood lens, comparing gendered perception of household water insecurity across crop and livestock subsistence modalities in a semiarid region of Burkina Faso in the Sahel region of West Africa, where water insecurity is closely intertwined with both seasonality and rainfall unpredictability. Our mixed-methods ethnographic study sampled matched men and women in households with water insecurity data collected from 158 coresident spousal pairs who engaged primarily in pastoralism or agriculture. Contrary to predictions from the existing literature, men engaged in livestock husbandry perceived greater water insecurity than matched women in the same household. We suggest this reflects men’s responsibility for securing water for the animals—which consume most of the household’s water among livestock farmers. In contrast, men engaged in cropping perceive less water insecurity than women in the same household, aligning with predictions from past research. Our findings suggest that the relationship between gender and water insecurity is more highly nuanced and related to livelihood strategies than previously recognized, with significant implications for how water insecurity is conceptualized theoretically and methodologically in the contexts of people’s everyday management and experience of the most immediate and proximate climate-related challenges.
Factors Involved in Posttraumatic Growth in Mothers Experiencing Fetal and Infant Death
Authors: Casey Shannon , Schneider Alan
Published: January 2024

Factors associated with posttraumatic growth (PTG) are investigated in mothers who have suffered fetal or infant death. Mothers ( N = 66) completed the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI; Tedeschi & Calhoun, 1996 ), the Core Beliefs Inventory (CBI; Cann et al., 2010 ), and answered questions about the severity of their loss, age of fetus or infant, time since loss, social support, finding meaning, and involvement in loss-related behavior. Results indicate a greatly traumatic loss ( M = 4.41), a great degree of core belief disruption ( M = 3.57), and a moderate level of PTG ( M = 2.80). CBI scores are positively correlated with severity of the loss and age of the fetus or infant. PTGI scores are positively related to CBI scores and to social support from family and friends who have suffered similar losses and support groups. PTG and finding meaning are positively correlated with involvement in loss-related activities and supporting others.
A bi-cortical neuroprosthesis to modulate locomotion after incomplete spinal cord injury
Authors: Martinez Marina
Published: January 2024

Neuroprosthetic strategies seek to immediately alleviate deficits and reinstate voluntary control of movement. To facilitate recovery, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved in the return of intentional movement. Nevertheless, the precise relationship between the resurgence of cortical commands and the recovery of locomotion remains somewhat elusive. In the study conducted by Duguay, Bonizzato, Delivet-Mongrain, Fortier-Lebel and Martinez, we introduced a neuroprosthesis designed to deliver precise bi-cortical stimulation in a clinically relevant contusive spinal cord injury model. We conducted experiments in both healthy and spinal cord injured cats, where we fine-tuned the timing, duration, amplitude, and site of stimulation to modulate hindlimb locomotor output. In healthy cats, we observed a wide range of motor programs. However, after spinal cord injury, the induced hindlimb movements became highly stereotyped but were effective in modulating gait and reducing bilateral foot dragging. These results suggest that the neural basis for motor recovery traded off selectivity for effectiveness. Through a series of longitudinal assessments, we found that the restoration of locomotion following spinal cord injury was closely linked to the recovery of the descending neural drive. This underscores the importance of directing rehabilitation interventions toward the cortical target. The study results are discussed in terms of their impact and limitations.