bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Melzer and the Dead Sea Scrolls: Anna Seghers’s GDR novel Die Entscheidung (1959)
Authors: Rupprecht Caroline 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This article is about German-Jewish author Anna Seghers (1900–1983), who spent half of her productive life in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). Though Seghers is known for her works from the 1930s and 1940s such as The Seventh Cross (1942), about a prisoner who escapes from a concentration camp, little has been published about her writings under communism, after she returned from fourteen years of exile, having survived National Socialism while active in the resistance. Her mother and aunt were murdered in the Shoah, and Seghers ostensibly discontinued addressing the National Socialist German past once the GDR was founded (in 1949). However, as this article demonstrates, her ‘socialist realist’ novel, Die Entscheidung (1959), complicates this seeming erasure of Seghers's Jewish identity, which can be seen not only in response to the increasing antisemitism in eastern Europe during the Cold War, but also attests to her actual and continuous—albeit ‘hidden’—engagement with the Jewish culture and history of her childhood and youth. Through the autobiographical character Herbert Melzer, it becomes possible to identify secret references and allusions to the Dead Sea Scrolls, first discovered in Qumran in 1947–1953—the same time at which Seghers set the novel. While she was confronted with surveillance, travel restrictions, and censorship, Seghers maintained her own personal exploration of Judaica, as evidenced by her published letters and the contents of her personal library (now the Anna Seghers Archive). This article argues that Seghers persisted in retaining and expressing her original Jewish self-identification through fiction, even in this, her seemingly most ‘socialist realist’ novel.
Towards a rights-based approach for disabled women’s access to abortion
Authors: Furgalska Magdalena , de Londras Fiona 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This article adds to the still limited scholarship on the impact of abortion laws and policies on people with disabilities and those with diminished capacity who seek abortion. We argue that neither the legal nor policy framework currently operating in England and Wales adequately incorporates and protects the rights of people with disabilities or those experiencing mental ill-health. Rather, the law and policy framework jeopardizes their reproductive agency. We argue that greater attention to and incorporation of standards contained within the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (including the sources produced by its Committee) and implementation of guidelines produced by the World Health Organization would result in a rights-affirming framework that supports disabled women’s reproductive agency, enhances their effective enjoyment of human rights, and supports them in accessing quality abortion care.
Realistic simulated galaxies form [α/Fe]–[Fe/H] knees due to a sustained decline in their star formation rates
Authors: Mason Andrew C , Crain Robert A , Schiavon Ricardo P , Weinberg David H , Pfeffer Joel , Schaye Joop , Schaller Matthieu , Theuns Tom 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT
We examine the stellar [$\alpha$/Fe]–[Fe/H] distribution of $\simeq 1000$ present-day galaxies in a high-resolution EAGLE simulation. Roughly half of the galaxies exhibit the canonical distribution, characterized by a sequence of low-metallicity stars with high [$\alpha$/Fe] that transitions at a ‘knee’ to a sequence of declining [$\alpha$/Fe] with increasing metallicity. This population yields a knee metallicity–galaxy–mass relation similar to that observed in Local Group galaxies, both in slope and scatter. However, many simulated galaxies lack a knee or exhibit more complicated distributions. Knees are found only in galaxies with star formation histories (SFHs) featuring a sustained decline from an early peak ($t\simeq 7~{\rm Gyr}$), which enables enrichment by Type Ia supernovae to dominate that due to Type II supernovae (SN II), reducing [$\alpha$/Fe] in the interstellar gas. The simulation thus indicates that, contrary to the common interpretation implied by analytic galactic chemical evolution (GCE) models, knee formation is not a consequence of the onset of enrichment by SN Ia. We use the SFH of a simulated galaxy exhibiting a knee as input to the vice GCE model, finding it yields an $\alpha$-rich plateau enriched only by SN II, but the plateau comprises little stellar mass and the galaxy forms few metal-poor ([Fe/H] $\lesssim$$-$1) stars. This follows from the short constant gas consumption time-scale typically assumed by GCEs, which implies the presence of a readily enriched low-mass gas reservoir. When an initially longer, evolving consumption time-scale is adopted, vice reproduces the simulated galaxy’s track through the [$\alpha$/Fe]–[Fe/H] plane and its metallicity distribution function.
Dihydroquercetin and biochaga reduce H2O2-induced DNA damage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of obese women in vitro—a pilot study
Authors: Živković Lada , Pirković Andrea , Topalović Dijana , Borozan Sunčica , Bajić Vladan , Srećković Vesna Dimitrijević , Djelić Ninoslav , Petrović Hristina , Milić Mirta , Spremo-Potparević Biljana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Systemic oxidative stress stemming from increased free radical production and reduced antioxidant capacity are common characteristics of obese individuals. Using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to induce DNA damage in vitro, in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from obese subjects and controls, the DNA protective ability of dihidroqercetin (DHQ) and biochaga (B) alone or in combination, were evaluated. The effects of DHQ and B were estimated under two experimental conditions: pre-treatment, where cells were pre-incubated with the substances prior to H2O2 exposure; and post-treatment when cells were first exposed to H2 H2O2, and further treated with the compounds. DNA damage was evaluated using the comet assay. The results of pre- and post-treatment showed a significant decrease in DNA damage produced by H2O2 in the obese group. This decrease was not significant in control group probably due to a small number of subjects in this pilot study. More prominent attenuation was noted in the pre-treatment with DHQ (250 μg/ml). Analysis of antioxidant properties revealed that DHQ’s remarkable reducing power, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, and potent∙OH scavenging properties may contribute to strong attenuation of H2O2-induced DNA damage. Also, B showed strong reducing power, DPPH, and ∙OH scavenging ability, while reducing power and DPPH scavenger effects were increased in the presence of DHQ. Conclusively, DHQ and B may reduce H2O2-induced DNA damage in PBMCs from obese subjects when challenged in vitro, and could be valuable tools in future research against oxidative damage-related conditions.
Beyond T2-FLAIR mismatch sign in isocitrate dehydrogenase mutant 1p19q non-codeleted astrocytoma: Analysis of tumor core and evolution with multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Jen Jian Ping , Li Xuanxuan , Patel Markand , Haq Huzaifah , Pohl Ute , Nagaraju Santhosh , Wykes Victoria , Sanghera Paul , Watts Colin , Sawlani Vijay 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
The T2-FLAIR mismatch sign is an imaging correlate for isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant 1p19q non-codeleted astrocytomas. However, it is only seen in a part of the cases at certain stages. Many of the tumors likely lose T2 homogeneity as they grow in size, and become heterogenous. The aim of this study was to investigate the timecourse of T2-FLAIR mismatch sign, and assess intratumoral heterogeneity using multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging techniques.

Methods
A total of 128 IDH-mutant gliomas were retrospectively analyzed. Observers blinded to molecular status used strict criteria to select T2-FLAIR mismatch astrocytomas. Pre-biopsy and follow-up standard structural sequences of T2, FLAIR and apparent diffusion coefficient, MR spectroscopy (both single- and multi-voxel techniques), and DSC perfusion were observed.

Results
Nine T2-FLAIR mismatch astrocytomas were identified. 7 had MR spectroscopy and perfusion data. The smallest astrocytomas began as rounded T2 homogeneous lesions without FLAIR suppression, and developed T2-FLAIR mismatch during follow-up with falls in NAA and raised Cho/Cr ratio. Larger tumors at baseline with T2-FLAIR mismatch signs developed intratumoral heterogeneity, and showed elevated Cho/Cr ratio and raised relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV). The highest levels of intratumoral Cho/Cr and rCBV changes were located within the tumor core, and this area signifies the progression of the tumors toward high grade.

Conclusions
T2-FLAIR mismatch sign is seen at a specific stage in the development of astrocytoma. By assessing the subsequent heterogeneity, MR spectroscopy and perfusion imaging are able to predict the progression of the tumor towards high grade, thereby can assist targeting for biopsy and selective debulking.
The COVID-19 pandemic experience for patients with central nervous system tumors: Differences in patient-reported outcomes and practice recommendations
Authors: King Amanda L , Roche Kayla N , Vera Elizabeth , Pillai Valentina , Polskin Lily , Acquaye-Mallory Alvina A , Boris Lisa , Burton Eric , Choi Anna , Grajkowska Ewa , Leeper Heather E , Panzer Marissa , Penas-Prado Marta , Reyes Jennifer , Sahebjam Solmaz , Theeler Brett J , Wu Jing , Gilbert Mark R , Armstrong Terri S 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
This study explored differences in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for patients with central nervous system (CNS) tumors during COVID, compared to pre-pandemic assessments, in light of impacted access to in-person care.

Methods
Patient-reported outcomes (PROMIS-Anxiety and Depression Short-Forms, EQ-5D-3L, MDASI-BT/Spine, NeuroQoL-Perceived Cognitive Functioning) were collected from 149 participants on the Neuro-Oncology Branch Natural History Study seen during the first year of COVID between March 2020 and February 2021, which were compared to assessments collected pre-COVID. Paired sample t-tests and proportion tests (z-tests) were used to compare PROs with effect sizes reported using Hedges g and Cohen’s h. Logistic regression models with backwards selection were used to identify risk factors for high levels of depression and anxiety pre- and during COVID.

Results
Participants were primarily male (54%) and Caucasian (84%) with a median age of 46 (range 20–79) and 66% had high-grade tumors. More patients reported moderate-severe depressive symptoms during the COVID year, compared to pre-COVID assessments (13% vs 8%, Cohen’s h = 0.17, P = .021), with modest increases in symptom burden and cognitive dysfunction reported as well. Logistic regressions revealed that during COVID, concurrent moderate-severe distress and low tumor grade predicted depression and anxiety, with psychotropic medication use also predicting depression while active treatment predicted anxiety.

Conclusion
During COVID, patients experienced higher levels of depression, which has the potential to negatively influence treatment success and survival. Future work is needed to incorporate innovative tools and interventions that can be utilized remotely to identify and target mood disturbance in these vulnerable patients.
Adaptive evolution of traits for parasitism and pathogen transmission potential in bat flies
Authors: Huang Guangping , Liu Xing , Huang Xin , Gao Chuang , Wang Zhilin , Li Junxia , Wei Xiaocui , Yu Wen-Hua , Wu Yi , Liu Ying , Feng Jiang , Li Yang , Wei Fuwen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Deciphering the mechanisms underlying the transmission and spillover of zoonoses from reservoir hosts is essential in preventing future global pandemics. Bat flies, obligate blood-feeding ectoparasites of bats, are known carriers of diverse viruses. Here, we conducted a de novo assembly of a chromosome-level genome for the bat fly species Phthiridium sp. Comparative genomic analysis unveiled genes associated with specialized traits, such as the loss of eyes and wings, as well as elongated legs, which have adapted to parasitism on the dense fur of bats. Utilizing small RNA (sRNA) sequencing, we identified a spectrum of known and previously unclassified viruses in bat flies. Notably, experimental evidence indicated that bat flies can also feed on mammalian hosts other than bats, suggesting the potential for the spillover of bat-borne viruses. Furthermore, we demonstrated the role of the bat fly's RNA interference pathway in influencing the diversity and evolution of viruses. In summary, this study not only presents a new genome catalog to unveil the evolutionary mechanisms underpinning bat fly parasitism, but also provides a novel research system that can be used to investigate the mechanisms of cross-species transmission of bat-borne viruses and the co-evolution of bats and viruses.
A 90-Day Subchronic Exposure to Heated Tobacco Product Aerosol Caused Differences in Intestinal Inflammation and Microbiome Dysregulation in Rats
Authors: Tian Yushan , Cheng Jiale , Yang Yanan , Wang Hongjuan , Fu Yaning , Li Xianmei , Wang Wenming , Ma Shuhao , Xu Xiaoxiao , Lu Fengjun , Feng Pengxia , Han Shulei , Chen Huan , Hou Hongwei , Hu Qingyuan , Wu Chongming 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Smoking is one of the most important predisposing factors of intestinal inflammatory diseases. Heated tobacco product (HTP) is a novel tobacco category that is claimed to deliver reduced chemicals to humans those reported in combustible cigarette smoke (CS). However, the effect of HTP on the intestine is still unknown.

Aims and Methods
Our study aims to explore the potential effects of HTP on intestine. In the framework of Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines 413 guidelines, Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to HTP aerosol and CS for 13 weeks. The atmosphere was characterized and oxidative stress and inflammation of the intestine were investigated after exposure. Furthermore, the feces we performed with 16S sequencing and metabolomics analysis.

Results
HTP aerosol and CS led to obvious intestinal damage evidenced by increased intestinal proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress in male and female rats After HTP and CS exposure, the abundance that obviously changed were Lactobacillus and Turiciacter in male rats and Lactobacillus and Prevotella in female rats. HTP mainly induces the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acyls such as short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan, while CS is involved in the main metabolism of bile acids, especially indole and derivatives. Although different metabolic pathways in the gut are mediated by HTP and CS, both inflammation and oxidative stress were ultimately induced.

Conclusions
HTP aerosol and CS-induced intestinal damage are mediated by different gut microbiota and metabolites, while both lead to inflammation and oxidative stress.

Implications
The concentration of various harmful components in heated tobacco product aerosol is reported lower than that of traditional cigarette smoke, however, its health risk impact on consumers remains to be studied. Our research findings indicate that heated tobacco products and cigarette smoke inhalation induced intestinal damage through different metabolic pathways mediated by the gut microbiome, indicating the health risk of heated tobacco products in the intestine.
High Hepatitis B Prevalence and Vaccination Needs Among Transgender Women and Men Sex Workers in Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Antuori Adrián , Not Anna , Mesías-Gazmuri Jocelyn , González Victoria , Montoro-Fernandez Marcos , Folch Cinta , Saludes Verónica , Villar Marta , Meroño Mercè , Paytubi Sonia , Alemany Laia , Casabona Jordi , Martró Elisa ,   SexCohort Group, Folch C , Ferrer L , González V , Muñoz R , Mesías-Gazmuri J , Egea L , Casabona J , Martró E , Saludes V , Antuori A , Not A , González-Gómez S , Alemany L , Pavón M A , Paytubi S , Esteban A , Vergara M , Rodríguez V , Morey F , Tous S , Montoliu A , de Sanjosé S , Villegas L , Villar M , Adell H , Santander K , Meroño M , Cebrián M , Carrascal C , Longares E , Martínez L , Almirall R , Mansilla R , Lletjós P , Drou-Roget G , Álvarez-Vargas A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Transgender women sex workers (TWSWs) and men sex workers (MSWs) are especially vulnerable to acquiring hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We aimed to describe HBV prevalence (hepatitis B surface antigen [HBsAg] and core antibody [HBcAb]) and associated risk factors for HBV exposure (HBcAb), to assess vaccination status and risk factors for no prior vaccination, and to compare HBV prevalence and vaccination status between TWSWs and MSWs.

Methods
The SexCohort study was advertised to TWSWs and MSWs through several communication channels. At cohort entry through 2 community-based organizations in Barcelona, the study population was screened for HBV and other sexually transmitted infections, and an epidemiological questionnaire was administered (n = 271).

Results
Overall, 93.0% of participants were migrants, mostly from South and Central American countries. HBsAg prevalence was 1.9% (TWSWs, 2.4%; vs MSWs, 0.9%; P = .42), and previous exposure to HBV was 31.8% (TWSWs, 38.5%; vs MSWs, 20.8%; P = .002). Over 5 years of sex work (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 9.35), prior exposure to Treponema pallidum (aOR, 3.49), and treatment with anxiolytic drugs (aOR, 3.23) were associated with HBV exposure. Overall, 33.7% of participants exhibited immunity from vaccination (TWSWs, 30.8%; vs MSWs, 38.61%; P &lt; .001), while 34.4% were candidates to HBV vaccination (TWSWs, 30.8%; vs MSWs, 40.6%; P &lt; .001). Never having been on pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (odds ratio [OR], 4.23) and non-Spanish origin (OR, 5.00) were associated with no prior HBV vaccination.

Conclusions
There is a need to reinforce screening and vaccination programs aimed at TWSWs and MSWs as integrated services offered at the community centers commonly accessed by these populations.
Clinical Predictors of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Lung Disease and Coisolates of Potential Pathogenic Microorganisms in Noncystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis
Authors: Wang Ping-Huai , Shu Chin-Chung , Sheu Chau-Chyun , Chang Chia-Ling , Hsieh Meng-Heng , Hsu Wu-Huei , Chen Ming-Tsung , Ou Wei-Fan , Wei Yu-Feng , Yang Tsung-Ming , Lan Chou-Chin , Wang Cheng-Yi , Lin Chih-Bin , Lin Ming-Shian , Wang Yao-Tung , Lin Ching-Hsiung , Liu Shih-Feng , Cheng Meng-Hsuan , Chen Yen-Fu , Cheng Wen-Chien , Peng Chung-Kan , Chan Ming-Cheng , Chen Ching-Yi , Jao Lun-Yu , Wang Ya-Hui , Chen Chi-Jui , Chen Shih-Pin , Tsai Yi-Hsuan , Cheng Shih-Lung , Lin Horng-Chyuan , Chien Jung-Yien , Wang Hao-Chien 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
In bronchiectasis, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) lung disease (NTM-LD) is a well-known coexisting infection. However, microorganism coisolates and clinical NTM-LD predictors are poorly studied.

Methods
Patients with bronchiectasis diagnosed by means of computed tomography between January 2017 and June 2020 were screened, using the date of computed tomography as the index date. Those with a major bronchiectasis diagnosis in ≥2 follow-up visits after the index date were enrolled in the study, and NTM-LD occurrence and its association with pneumonia and hospitalization within 1 year were analyzed.

Results
Of the 2717 participants, 79 (2.9%) had NTM-LD diagnosed. The factors associated with NTM-LD included hemoptysis, postinfectious bronchiectasis, a tree-in-bud score ≥2, a modified Reiff score ≥4, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (adjusted odds ratios, 1.80, 2.36, 1.78, 2.95, and 0.51, respectively). Compared with patients in the non-NTM group, those with NTM-LD had higher rates of hospitalization (15.9% vs 32.9%; P &lt; .001) and pneumonia (9.8% vs 20.3%; P = .003). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common microorganism in those with NTM-LD and those in the non-NTM group (10.1% vs 7.8%; P = .40). However, compared with those in the non-NTM group, Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli were more prevalent in patients with NTM-LD (0.7% vs 3.8% [P = .03%] and 1.0% vs 3.8% [P = .05], respectively).

Conclusions
Postinfectious bronchiectasis with hemoptysis, higher radiological involvement, and a tree-in-bud pattern were associated with NTM-LD risk. The rate of A baumannii and E coli coisolation was higher in bronchiectasis populations with NTM-LD.
Successful Treatment of Refractory Cutaneous Protothecosis With MAT2203, an Oral Lipid Nanocrystal Formulation of Amphotericin B
Authors: Pechacek Joseph , Schmitt Monica M , Ferrè Elise M N , Webb Taura , Goldberg Joel , Pathan Sabina , Banerjee Camellia , Barber Princess , DiMaggio Thomas , Quinn Anne , Matkovits Theresa , Castelo-Soccio Leslie , Nussenblatt Veronique , Lionakis Michail S 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Prototheca wickerhamii is a rare cause of cutaneous and systemic infection that requires long treatment courses with potentially toxic medications. We describe a patient with cutaneous protothecosis refractory to triazole monotherapy who experienced clinical and radiographic improvement with the novel oral lipid nanocrystal formulation of amphotericin B without experiencing toxicity.
Clinical and molecular characteristics of patients with brain metastasis secondary to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yousef Mahmoud , Hurd Mark W , Yousef Abdelrahman , Ludmir Ethan B , Pillai Ashwathy B , Peterson Jennifer , Koay Eugene J , Albarouki Sali , Tzeng Ching-Wei , Snyder Rebecca , Katz Matthew H G , Wang Huamin , Overman Michael J , Maitra Anirban , Pant Shubham , Smaglo Brandon G , Wolff Robert A , Yao James , Shen John P , Zhao Dan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
The prognosis for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is poor. Secondary brain metastasis (Br-M) occurs in less than 1% of patients. Clinical characteristics and molecular alterations have not been characterized in this rare patients’ subset.

Materials and methods
The Foundry software platform was used to retrospectively query electronic health records for patients with Br-M secondary to PDAC from 2005 to 2023; clinical, molecular, and overall survival (OS) data were analyzed.

Results
Br-M was diagnosed in 44 patients with PDAC. Median follow-up was 78 months; median OS from initial PDAC diagnosis was 47 months. Median duration from PDAC diagnosis to Br-M detection was 24 months; median OS from Br-M diagnosis was 3 months. At Br-M diagnosis, 82% (n = 36) of patients had elevated CA19-9. Lung was the most common preexisting metastatic location (71%) with Br-M, followed by liver (66%). Br-M were most frequently observed in the frontal lobe (34%, n = 15), cerebellar region (23%, n = 10), and leptomeninges (18%, n = 8). KRAS mutations were detected in 94.1% (n = 16) of patients who had molecular data available (n = 17) with KRASG12V being the most frequent subtype 47% (n = 8); KRASG12D in 29% (n = 5); KRASG12R in 18% (n = 3). Patients who underwent Br-M surgical resection (n = 5) had median OS of 8.6 months, while median OS following stereotactic radiosurgery only (n = 11) or whole-brain radiation only (n = 20) was 3.3 and 2.8 months, respectively.

Conclusion
Br-M is a late PDAC complication, resulting in an extremely poor prognosis especially in leptomeningeal disease. KRAS was mutated in 94.1% of the patients and the KRASG12V subtype was prevalent.
How inequality undermines institutions
Authors: Posner Eric A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This commentary, on an article by Satz and White, argues that redistribution of wealth for the purpose of advancing equality (rather than improving the worst off) can be provided an institutional defence. The argument is that major institutions of society—the market, the legal system, the educational system, and agency regulation—perform their social functions most effectively when inequality is not too high.