bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nucleosynthesis of “Light” Heavy Nuclei in Neutrino-driven Winds. Role of (α,n) reactions
Authors: Pereira Jorge , Arcones Almudena , Bliss Julia , Montes Fernando
Published: October 2020

Neutrino-driven winds following core collapse supernovae have been proposed as a suitable site where the so-called light heavy elements (between Sr to Ag) can be synthetized. For moderately neutron-rich winds, (α,n) reactions play a critical role in the weak r process, becoming the main mechanism to drive nuclear matter towards heavier elements. In this paper we summarize the sensitivity of network-calculated abundances to the astrophysical conditions, and to uncertainties in the (α,n) reaction rates. A list of few (α,n) reactions were identified to dominate the uncertainty in the calculated elemental abundances. Measurements of these reactions will allow to identify the astrophysical conditions of the weak r process by comparing calculated/observed abundances in r-limited stars.
Measurement of radiative α-capture cross sections on 98Ru and 144Sm for γ-process nucleosynthesis
Authors: Scholz P. , Wilsenach H. , Blazhev A. , Becker H.-W. , Heim F. , Fotinou V. , Giesen U. , Körschgen M. , Müller M. , Zell K.O. , Zilges A. , Zuber K.
Published: October 2020

Since p isotopes cannot be produced in neutron-capture reaction networks, a production mechanism via photodisintegration reactions was proposed - the γ process. The specifc path of this reaction network, however, depends strongly on the statistically averaged ratios for proton-, neutron-, and α-decay widths.

It was shown in the past, that the uncertainties in the α-decay widths have an impact on the isotopic abundance of the γ-process ashes. Besides systematic studies of the α+nucleus optical-model potential, direct measurements of (α, γ) reaction are needed to reduce the unpredictability of (γ, α) reaction rates.

We present preliminary results from direct measurements of the 98Ru(α,γ) and 144Sm(α,γ) cross sections via in-beam measurements at the University of Cologne and the Ruhr-Universität Bochum and activation experiments at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt in Braunschweig and the Technische Universität Dresden.

The in-beam experiment might help to improve our understanding of the γ-process contribution to the p nuclei in the A ∼ 100 mass region, while the activation experiment is important for the determination of the initial isotopic abundance ratio of the 146Sm/144Sm chronometer.
Towards background-free studies of capture reaction in a heavy-ion storage ring
Authors: Varga László , Davinson Thomas , Glorius Jan , Jurado Beatrix , Langer Christoph , Lederer-Woods Claudia , Litvinov Yuri A. , Reifarth René , Slavkovská Zuzana , Stöhlker Thomas , Woods Phil J. , Xing Yuan Ming
Published: October 2020

Stored and cooled, highly-charged ions offer unprecedented capabilities for precision studies in the realm of atomic, nuclear structure and astrophysics[1]. After the successful investigation of the 96Ru(p,7)97Rh reaction cross section in 2009[2], the first measurement of the 124Xe(p,7)125Cs reaction cross section has been performed with decelerated, fully-ionized 124Xe ions in 2016 at the Experimental Storage Ring (ESR) of GSI[3]. Using a Double Sided Silicon Strip Detector, introduced directly into the ultra-high vacuum environment of a storage ring, the 125Cs proton-capture products have been successfully detected. The cross section has been measured at 5 different energies between 5.5AMeV and 8AMeV, on the high energy tail of the Gamow-window for hot, explosive scenarios such as supernovae and X-ray binaries. The elastic scattering on the H2 gas jet target is the major source of background to count the (p,7) events. Monte Carlo simulations show that an additional slit system in the ESR in combination with the energy information of the Si detector will enable background free measurements of the proton-capture products. The corresponding hardware is being prepared and will increase the sensitivity of the method tremendously.
Energy transmission in the forbidden band-gap of a nonlinear chain with global interactions
Authors: Motcheyo A B Togueu , Macías-Díaz J E
Published: October 2020

The phenomenon of supratransmission in nonlinear systems with global interactions is predicted analytically for the first time. The model considered is a physically significant extension of the classical β-Fermi–Pasta–Ulam–Tsingou (β-FPUT) chain, with power-law interaction of degree α ⩾ 0. Using a relatively simple analytical theory, we derive the threshold that triggers the supratransmission process. The threshold for the short-range model is a particular case of our predictions. Our theoretical derivation shows that supratransmission is present for any power α > 1. We confirm numerically the validity of these results. Moreover, the numerical simulations also confirm the presence of supratransmission in the case of long-range interactions, in spite that the theoretical arguments are not valid for that case. It is worth pointing out that the present approach may be applied to other systems with global interactions.
Spectral statistics for the difference of two Wishart matrices
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Sai Charan S
Published: October 2020

In this work, we consider the weighted difference of two independent complex Wishart matrices and derive the joint probability density function of the corresponding eigenvalues in a finite-dimension scenario using two distinct approaches. The first derivation involves the use of unitary group integral, while the second one relies on applying the derivative principle. The latter relates the joint probability density of eigenvalues of a matrix drawn from a unitarily invariant ensemble to the joint probability density of its diagonal elements. Exact closed form expressions for an arbitrary order correlation function are also obtained and spectral densities are contrasted with Monte Carlo simulation results. Analytical results for moments as well as probabilities quantifying positivity aspects of the spectrum are also derived. Additionally, we provide a large-dimension asymptotic result for the spectral density using the Stieltjes transform approach for algebraic random matrices. Finally, we point out the relationship of these results with the corresponding results for difference of two random density matrices and obtain some explicit and closed form expressions for the spectral density and absolute mean.
Microstructure and properties of Cu-2Ag alloy sheet prepared by ‘Upward + Thermomechanical Treatment’
Authors: Ming-Mao Li , Li Zhao-Xin , Ying-Ying Tang , Ming-Biao Zhu
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the Cu-2Ag sheet is prepared by the new process of upward method, and the alloy sheet was prepared by continuous cold rolling and thermomechanical treatment of solution aging. Through scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, performance testing and other means, the effects of upward, rolling, solid solution, aging and other processes on the forming process of silver-copper alloy is systematically analyzed, so as their microstructure, mechanical properties and electrical properties. The results show that it is feasible to prepare the Cu-2Ag sheet by the upward method, which can meet the requirements of subsequent forming and use performance: Cu-2Ag has a dispersion precipitation effect, and a reasonable heat treatment process that can produce a large number of nano-level spherical silver-rich solid solutions uniformly dispersed in the copper matrix, thereby optimizing the properties of the alloy. After being treated by solution, it has the best performance under 450 °C × 48 h aging, with a hardness of 74.9 HV0.2 and conductivity of 92.7% IACS.
Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Place Names
Authors: Everett-Heath John
Published: October 2020

This dictionary explores the history, meanings, and origin of place names around the world. It covers continents, countries, regions, islands, bays, capes, cities, towns, deserts, lakes, mountains, and rivers, giving the name in the local language as well as key historical facts associated with many place names.

The sixth edition includes final recognition of the name Myanmar in place of Burma. Some amendments reflect changes in spelling and romanization systems. Furthermore, official recognition is being given to the greater use of indigenous names.

In addition to the entries themselves, the dictionary includes a glossary of foreign word elements which appear in place names and their meaning, as well as a list of personalities and leaders who have influenced the naming of places around the world.
The Maya: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Restall Matthew , Solari Amara
Published: October 2020

The Maya: A Very Short Introduction examines the history and evolution of Maya civilization, explaining Maya polities or city-states, artistic expression, and ways of understanding the universe. Study of the Maya has tended to focus on the 2,000 years of history prior to contact with Europeans, and romantic ideas of discovery and disappearance have shaped popular myths about the Maya. However, they neither disappeared at the close of the Classic era nor were completely conquered by Europeans. Independent Maya kingdoms continued until the seventeenth century, and while none exists today, it is still possible to talk about a Maya world and Maya civilization in the twenty-first century.
Silent Film: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Kornhaber Donna
Published: October 2020

Silent Film: A Very Short Introduction covers the full span of the silent era, touching on films and filmmakers from every corner of the globe and focusing on how the public experienced these films. Silent film evolved during three main periods: early, transitional, and classical. First seen as a technological attraction, it rapidly grew into a medium for telling longer stories. Silent film was genuinely global, with countries around the world using cinema to tell stories and develop their own industries. Although sound was introduced to cinema in the late 1920s, elements of silent film persist even into the twenty-first century.
City Planning: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Abbott Carl
Published: October 2020

City Planning: A Very Short Introduction gives an international overview of progress in city planning over the last century. City planning explores the tension between the idea of cities as individually held land-parcels and as representations of community and identity. It has inevitable political and ethical dimensions. Over time, cities have grown and merged, leading to larger-scale thinking about planning, but it remains a regional discipline. Part of city planning involves making cities more resilient to natural disasters and civil conflict. Data, technological developments, commerce, and efficient functioning are important, but human connection is necessary for cities to survive.
Propagule pressure and the establishment of emergent polyploid populations
Authors: Levin Donald A
Published: October 2020

Background

Whereas the incidence or rate of polyploid speciation in flowering plants is modest, the production of polyploid individuals within local populations is widespread. Explanations for this disparity primarily have focused on properties or interactions of polyploids that limit their persistence.

Hypothesis

The emergence of local polyploid populations within diploid populations is similar to the arrival of invasive species at new, suitable sites, with the exception that polyploids suffer interference from their progenitor(s). The most consistent predictor of successful colonization by invasive plants is propagule pressure, i.e. the number of seeds introduced. Therefore, insufficient propagule pressure, i.e. the formation of polyploid seeds within diploid populations, ostensibly is a prime factor limiting the establishment of newly emergent polyploids within local populations. Increasing propagule number reduces the effects of genetic, environmental and demographic stochasticity, which thwart population survival. As with invasive species, insufficient seed production within polyploid populations limits seed export, and thus reduces the chance of polyploid expansion.

Conclusion

The extent to which propagule pressure limits the establishment of local polyploid populations remains to be determined, because we know so little. The numbers of auto- or allopolyploid seed in diploid populations rarely have been ascertained, as have the numbers of newly emergent polyploid plants within diploid populations. Moreover, seed production by these polyploids has yet to be assessed.
Claim-Making Processes in Criminal Justice Social Work in India
Authors: Menezes Sharon , Raghavan Vijay
Published: October 2020

This article discusses approaches and strategies in criminal justice social work that assert the claims of criminal justice clients over welfare and entitlements, in a context where their voices are compromised. It discusses claim-making and the dynamics underlying the process. The article reflects on the field experiences of a social work intervention project that the authors are associated with, that promotes legal rights and social re-entry of marginalised populations in criminal justice. The project’s work highlights the need for claim-making and participatory approaches towards development of policy and programmes in the neoliberal era.
‘Maybe a Maverick, Maybe a Parent, but Definitely Not an Honorary Nurse’: Social Worker Perspectives on the Role and Nature of Social Work in Mental Health Care
Authors: Tucker Laura , Webber Martin
Published: October 2020

In many places in the UK, social work is integral to mental health service delivery. Significant role erosion, however, has left the profession unclear about where it fits within modern mental health services. The 2016 Social Work for Better Mental Health initiative outlines five key mental health roles and has been adopted into national policy in England to combat this uncertainty, but the influence of this has not been explored. This study aimed to develop an understanding of how mental health social workers perceive and explain their role. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with seven social workers based within one English National Health Service mental health trust covering a large geographical area and their responses analysed using Ritchie, Spencer and O’Connor’s Framework thematic model. Findings indicated that social workers only superficially engaged with the aspirational policy roles, instead presenting their own framework for what makes mental health social work distinctive. This was constructed around the context and intentions of practice, rather than around proscribed tasks and responsibilities. This study has significance for individual social workers and for organisations providing and planning mental health services in the UK and beyond, given the influence that practitioner perceptions can have on how they undertake their roles.
Deep brain stimulation of the brainstem
Authors: Elias Gavin J B , Loh Aaron , Gwun Dave , Pancholi Aditya , Boutet Alexandre , Neudorfer Clemens , Germann Jürgen , Namasivayam Andrew , Gramer Robert , Paff Michelle , Lozano Andres M
Published: October 2020

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus, pallidum, and thalamus is an established therapy for various movement disorders. Limbic targets have also been increasingly explored for their application to neuropsychiatric and cognitive disorders. The brainstem constitutes another DBS substrate, although the existing literature on the indications for and the effects of brainstem stimulation remains comparatively sparse. The objective of this review was to provide a comprehensive overview of the pertinent anatomy, indications, and reported stimulation-induced acute and long-term effects of existing white and grey matter brainstem DBS targets. We systematically searched the published literature, reviewing clinical trial articles pertaining to DBS brainstem targets. Overall, 164 studies describing brainstem DBS were identified. These studies encompassed 10 discrete structures: periaqueductal/periventricular grey (n = 63), pedunculopontine nucleus (n = 48), ventral tegmental area (n = 22), substantia nigra (n = 9), mesencephalic reticular formation (n = 7), medial forebrain bundle (n = 8), superior cerebellar peduncles (n = 3), red nucleus (n = 3), parabrachial complex (n = 2), and locus coeruleus (n = 1). Indications for brainstem DBS varied widely and included central neuropathic pain, axial symptoms of movement disorders, headache, depression, and vegetative state. The most promising results for brainstem DBS have come from targeting the pedunculopontine nucleus for relief of axial motor deficits, periaqueductal/periventricular grey for the management of central neuropathic pain, and ventral tegmental area for treatment of cluster headaches. Brainstem DBS has also acutely elicited numerous motor, limbic, and autonomic effects. Further work involving larger, controlled trials is necessary to better establish the therapeutic potential of DBS in this complex area.
Brain Network Simulations Indicate Effects of Neuregulin-1 Genotype on Excitation-Inhibition Balance in Cortical Dynamics
Authors: Klein Pedro Costa , Ettinger Ulrich , Schirner Michael , Ritter Petra , Rujescu Dan , Falkai Peter , Koutsouleris Nikolaos , Kambeitz-Ilankovic Lana , Kambeitz Joseph
Published: October 2020

Neuregulin-1 (NRG1) represents an important factor for multiple processes including neurodevelopment, brain functioning or cognitive functions. Evidence from animal research suggests an effect of NRG1 on the excitation-inhibition (E/I) balance in cortical circuits. However, direct evidence for the importance of NRG1 in E/I balance in humans is still lacking. In this work, we demonstrate the application of computational, biophysical network models to advance our understanding of the interaction between cortical activity observed in neuroimaging and the underlying neurobiology. We employed a biophysical neuronal model to simulate large-scale brain dynamics and to investigate the role of polymorphisms in the NRG1 gene (rs35753505, rs3924999) in n = 96 healthy adults. Our results show that G/G-carriers (rs3924999) exhibit a significant difference in global coupling (P = 0.048) and multiple parameters determining E/I-balance such as excitatory synaptic coupling (P = 0.047), local excitatory recurrence (P = 0.032) and inhibitory synaptic coupling (P = 0.028). This indicates that NRG1 may be related to excitatory recurrence or excitatory synaptic coupling potentially resulting in altered E/I-balance. Moreover, we suggest that computational modeling is a suitable tool to investigate specific biological mechanisms in health and disease.
De Novo Delimitation Lines: A Constitutive Concept of Delimitation
Authors: Kunoy Bjørn
Published: October 2020

The delimitation process has conceptually been considered to reflect preexisting maritime boundaries. This arises as the delimitation has not been seen to result in de novo lines as the delimitation process has been conceived as a declaratory exercise that necessarily arises from the ab initio nature of coastal States’ rights to the continental shelf. The International Court of Justice and Annex VII arbitral tribunals have followed a declarative understanding of delimitation. Accordingly, the extraction of hydrocarbons by a third State in a yet un-delimited area, which, pursuant to a judicial decision, would be recognized to be part of the continental shelf of the neighboring State, should, it is reasonable to assert, constitute an international wrongful act under international law and engage the international responsibility of the relevant State(s), except if authorized expressly by the relevant coastal State. This a priori uncontroversial understanding appears revisited by the Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in the Ghana/Côte d’Ivoire case. According to the Special Chamber the delimitation consists in giving one entitlement priority over the other and therefore the delimitation of the continental shelf has a constitutive nature rather than declaratory. The approach of the Special Chamber can give rise to numerous intricate legal questions that may arise in future delimitation cases.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection Fatality Rate Among Elderly Danes: A Cross-sectional Study on Retired Blood Donors
Authors: Pedersen Ole Birger , Nissen Janna , Dinh Khoa Manh , Schwinn Michael , Kaspersen Kathrine Agergård , Boldsen Jens Kjærgaard , Didriksen Maria , Dowsett Joseph , Sørensen Erik , Thørner Lise Wegner , Larsen Margit Anita Hørup , Grum-Schwensen Birgitte , Sækmose Susanne , Paulsen Isabella Worlewenut , Frisk Nanna Lond Skov , Brodersen Thorsten , Vestergaard Lasse Skafte , Rostgaard Klaus , Mølbak Kåre , Skov Robert Leo , Erikstrup Christian , Ullum Henrik , Hjalgrim Henrik
Published: October 2020

Background

Although the vast majority of individuals succumbing to infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are elderly, infection fatality rate (IFR) estimates for the age group ≥70 years are still scarce. To this end, we assessed SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among retired blood donors and combined it with national coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survey data to provide reliable population-based IFR estimates for this age group.

Methods

We identified 60 926 retired blood donors aged ≥70 years in the rosters of 3 regionwide Danish blood banks and invited them to fill in a questionnaire on COVID-19–related symptoms and behaviors. Among 24 861 (40.8%) responders, we invited a random sample of 3200 individuals for blood testing. Overall, 1201 (37.5%) individuals were tested for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (Wantai) and compared with 1110 active blood donors aged 17–69 years. Seroprevalence 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were adjusted for assay sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Among retired (aged ≥70 years) and active (aged 17–69 years) blood donors, adjusted seroprevalences were 1.4% (95% CI, .3–2.5%) and 2.5% (95% CI, 1.3–3.8%), respectively. Using available population data on COVID-19–related fatalities, IFRs for patients aged ≥70 years and for 17–69 years were estimated at 5.4% (95% CI, 2.7–6.4%) and .083% (95% CI, .054–.18%), respectively. Only 52.4% of SARS-CoV-2–seropositive retired blood donors reported having been sick since the start of the pandemic.

Conclusions

COVID-19 IFR in the age group >69 years is estimated to be 65 times the IFR for people aged 18–69 years.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Serial Testing Among Hospitalized Patients in a Midwest Tertiary Medical Center, July–September 2020
Authors: Kobayashi Takaaki , Trannel Alexandra , Holley Stephanie A , Alsuhaibani Mohammed A , Abosi Oluchi J , Jenn Kyle E , Meacham Holly , Sheeler Lorinda L , Etienne William , Dains Angelique , Casado Fernando , Kukla Mary E , Ward Emily K , Ford Bradley , Edmond Michael B , Wellington Melanie , Diekema Daniel J , Salinas Jorge L
Published: October 2020

We implemented serial coronavirus disease 2019 testing for inpatients with a negative test on admission. The conversion rate (negative to positive) on repeat testing was 1%. We identified patients during their incubation period and hospital-onset cases, rapidly isolated them, and potentially reduced exposures. Serial testing and infectiousness determination were resource intensive.
The Impact ofNOD2Genetic Variants on the Gut Mycobiota in Crohn’s Disease Patients in Remission and in Individuals Without Gastrointestinal Inflammation
Authors: Nelson Andrew , Stewart Christopher J , Kennedy Nicholas A , Lodge John K , Tremelling Mark ,   UK IBD Genetics Consortium, Probert Chris S , Parkes Miles , Mansfield John C , Smith Darren L , Hold Georgina L , Lees Charlie W , Bridge Simon H , Lamb Christopher A
Published: October 2020

Background and Aims

Historical and emerging data implicate fungi in Crohn’s disease [CD] pathogenesis. However, a causal link between mycobiota, dysregulated immunity, and any impact of NOD2 variants remains elusive. This study aims to evaluate associations between NOD2 variants and faecal mycobiota in CD patients and non-CD subjects.

Methods

Faecal samples were obtained from 34 CD patients [18 NOD2 mutant, 16 NOD2 wild-type] identified from the UK IBD Genetics Consortium. To avoid confounding influence of mucosal inflammation, CD patients were in clinical remission and had a faecal calprotectin <250 μg/g; 47 non-CD subjects were included as comparator groups, including 22 matched household [four NOD2 mutant] and 25 non-household subjects with known NOD2 genotype [14 NOD2 mutant] identified by the NIHR BioResource Cambridge. Faecal mycobiota composition was determined using internal transcribed spacer 1 [ITS1] sequencing and was compared with 16S rRNA gene sequences and volatile organic compounds.

Results

CD was associated with higher numbers of fungal observed taxonomic units [OTUs] [p = 0.033]. Principal coordinates analysis using Jaccard index [p = 0.018] and weighted Bray-Curtis dissimilarities [p = 0.01] showed Candida spp. clustered closer to CD patients whereas Cryptococcus spp. clustered closer to non-CD. In CD, we found higher relative abundance of Ascomycota [p = 0.001] and lower relative abundance Basidiomycota [p = 0.019] phyla. An inverse relationship was found between bacterial and fungal Shannon diversity in NOD2 wild-type which was independent of CD [r = -0.349; p = 0.029].

Conclusions

This study confirms compositional changes in the gut mycobiota in CD and provides evidence that fungi may play a role in CD pathogenesis. No NOD2 genotype-specific differences were observed in the faecal mycobiota.
Long-Distance Migration of the Globe Skimmer Dragonfly to Japan Revealed Using Stable Hydrogen (δ 2H) Isotopes
Authors: Hobson Keith A , Jinguji Hiroshi , Ichikawa Yuta , Kusack Jackson W , Anderson R Charles
Published: October 2020

The globe skimmer dragonfly, Pantala flavescens Fabricius (Odonata: Libellulidae), is a long-distance migrant, well adapted to exploiting ephemeral waterbodies. This species occurs in Japan every summer, but overwintering has only been recorded on subtropical Ishigaki Island. It is not known from where the summer immigrants originate, nor what proportion of the globe skimmers seen in Japan are of local origin. We analyzed stable hydrogen isotope (δ 2H) composition of wings of 189 P. flavescens captured at six sites in Japan from August to September in 2016 (n = 57) and from April to November in 2017 (n = 132). We determined that the majority of individuals were immigrants. Individuals of probable Japanese origin occurred only later in the year and were of lower mass on average than immigrants. Immigrants potentially originated from a broad area as far west as northern India and the Tibetan Plateau and, especially late in the season, as near as northcentral China and the Korean peninsula. However, for April samples, the most parsimonious interpretation suggested southern origins, in northern Myanmar to southern China, or possibly Borneo-Sulawesi. Our investigation underlines the power of combining stable isotope data with other information such as wind speed and direction, arrival dates, and body mass to estimate origins and to understand the life history of this and other insects.
Chronic Pain and Friendship Among Middle-Aged and Older U.S. Adults
Authors: Yang Yulin , Grol-Prokopczyk Hanna
Published: October 2020

Objectives

This study examines how chronic pain affects friendship in later life. We test whether onset of pain leads to social network activation, as suggested by research on other health conditions, or whether pain—an unverifiable and often stigmatizing condition—functions as a “threat to the social self”.

Method

Using longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; N = 4,598; 2006/2008 as Time 1 and 2010/2012 as Time 2), we conducted OLS regressions with a lagged dependent variable approach to assess how new-onset chronic pain predicted (a) respondents’ number of close friends and (b) their frequency of in-person meetings with friends, controlling for sociodemographic variables and health conditions.

Results

New-onset severe pain predicted a decrease in number of friends. New-onset moderate pain, in contrast, predicted more friends and more frequent in-person meetings. (Findings were significant or marginally significant depending on model specifications.) Mild pain showed no significant association with either outcome. Pain had a greater effect on men’s friendship outcomes than women’s.

Discussion

The effects of chronic pain on later-life friendships appear to depend on pain severity, and to differ between men and women. Onset of severe pain serves as a “threat to the social self,” while onset of moderate pain contributes to social network activation; both associations are significantly more pronounced among men. These findings highlight the complex associations between health and social outcomes.
Contextualizing the COVID-19 Era in Puerto Rico: Compounding Disasters and Parallel Pandemics
Authors: García Catherine , Rivera Fernando I , Garcia Marc A , Burgos Giovani , Aranda María P
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The COVID-19 outbreak has worsened the ongoing economic crisis in Puerto Rico by creating “parallel pandemics” that exacerbate socioeconomic and health inequalities experienced by its most vulnerable residents. Unfortunately, conditions on the island have been largely overlooked by national media outlets and the mainland U.S. population. Thus, this research report aims to draw attention to the disparate burden multiple and compounding disasters have on older island-dwelling Puerto Rican adults’ health and well-being.

Methods

We characterize the lived experiences of the older population in Puerto Rico by incorporating data from multiple sources and contextualizing the effects of compounding disasters, the fiscal pandemic, and health care challenges to provide a more nuanced portrait of existing compounding factors that negatively affect the health and well-being of older adults in the era of COVID-19.

Results

We highlight 2 main factors that exacerbate pre-pandemic inequities experienced by the older adult population amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Puerto Rico: (a) the impact of multiple and compounding disasters; and (b) health care challenges.

Discussion

The human suffering of the Puerto Rican population is compounded by the consequences of fiscal austerity, increasing levels of income and wealth inequality, the debt crisis, significant emigration, and a dysfunctional health care system. Future governmental actions are required to lessen the burden of parallel pandemics on older adults in Puerto Rico.
Genomic Landscape of Early-stage Colorectal Neoplasia Developing From the Ulcerative Colitis Mucosa in the Japanese Population
Authors: Matsumoto Kenta , Urabe Yuji , Oka Shiro , Inagaki Katsuaki , Tanaka Hidenori , Yuge Ryo , Hayashi Ryohei , Kitadai Yasuhiko , Arihiro Koji , Shimamoto Fumio , Tanaka Shinji , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: October 2020

Backgrounds

Colorectal neoplasias (CRN)s developing from the ulcerative colitis (UC) mucosa include both colitic and sporadic neoplasias. Although several genomic analyses of advanced colitis-associated cancer are available, such studies do not distinguish between colitic and sporadic cases, and the early-stage genomic alterations involved in the onset of colitic cancer remain unclear. To address this, we performed a genomic analysis of early-stage CRN developing from the UC mucosa (CRNUC).

Methods

We extracted DNA from 36 early-stage CRNUCs (T1 cancer, 10; dysplasia, 26) from 32 UC patients and performed targeted sequencing of 43 genes commonly associated with colitis-associated cancer and compared the results with sequencing data from the Japanese invasive colitis-associated cancer.

Results

The most frequently mutated gene in the CRNUC cohort was APC (mutated in 47.2% of the cases), followed by TP53 (44.4%), KRAS (27.8%), and PRKDC (27.8%). None of the TP53 mutations occurred at any of the hotspot codons. Although the TP53 mutations in The Cancer Genome Atlas of Colorectal Cancer were dispersed throughout the gene, those detected here in CRNUC cases were concentrated in the amino terminal part of the DNA-binding domain. Interestingly, the mutations in KRAS and TP53 were mutually exclusive in CRNUC, and CRNUCs with KRAS mutations had histologically serrated lesions in the gland duct. Mayo endoscopic subscore was higher in TP53-mutated CRNUCs and lower in KRAS-mutated CRNUCs.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that early-stage CRNUC can be classified into 2 groups: those developing through the carcinogenic pathway via TP53 mutations and those developing through the carcinogenic pathway via KRAS mutations.
Immunosuppressive Therapy and Risk of COVID-19 Infection in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Burke Kristin E , Kochar Bharati , Allegretti Jessica R , Winter Rachel W , Lochhead Paul , Khalili Hamed , Colizzo Francis P , Hamilton Matthew J , Chan Walter W , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin N
Published: October 2020

Background

The effect of immunosuppressive treatment for immune-mediated diseases on risk of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has not been established. We aimed to define the effect of targeted biologic and immunomodulator therapy on risk of COVID-19 in a multi-institutional cohort of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

We identified patients 18 years and older who received care for IBD at Partners Healthcare between January 2019 and April 2020. The primary outcome was development of COVID-19 defined as a positive polymerase chain reaction test for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Multivariable regression models were used to examine the effect of immunosuppression on risk of COVID-19 and its outcomes.

Results

In a cohort of 5302 IBD patients, 39 (0.7%) developed COVID-19. There was no difference in age, sex, or race between IBD patients with and without COVID-19. The rate of COVID-19 was similar between patients treated with immunosuppression (0.8%) compared with those who were not (0.64%; P = 0.55). After adjusting for age, sex, race, and comorbidities, use of immunosuppressive therapy was not associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 (odds ratio, 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.82–3.63). The presence of obesity was associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 (odds ratio, 8.29; 95% confidence interval, 3.72–18.47). There were 7 hospitalizations, 3 intensive care unit stays, and 1 death. Older age and obesity but not immunosuppressive treatment were associated with severe COVID-19 infection.

Conclusions

The use of systemic immunosuppression was not associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 in a multi-institutional cohort of patients with IBD.
COVID-19 emergencies around the globe: China’s experience in controlling COVID-19 and lessons learned
Authors: Jin Hao , Lu Ligong , Liu Junwei , Cui Min
Published: October 2020

Motivation

Nations around the world have been significantly impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. China’s strategies for controlling COVID-19 offer valuable lessons for the global community. By learning from China’s experience and lessons, other countries could also find appropriate methods to control the pandemic.

Problem statement

What measures has China taken to control the pandemic? What lessons has China learned through this pandemic?

Approach/methods

The literature on China’s lessons and experience in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic was searched and reviewed. Related newspapers and magazines were also searched.

Results

China’s experience can be summed up as establishing temporary hospitals, strict isolation, experts with a knowledge of COVID-19, and measures that increase social distancing.

Conclusions

By learning from the experience of China, other countries in the world could eventually find the methods to control the COVID-19 pandemic. An emergency response system should be established in each country. Doctors and nurses are not alone in fighting COVID-19, and the entire world is helping them. With cooperation, current difficulties could be overcome.
Thirty-day readmission rate of COVID-19 patients discharged from a tertiary care university hospital in Turkey: an observational, single-center study
Authors: UYAROĞLU Oğuz Abdullah , BAŞARAN Nursel Çalik , ÖZIŞIK Lale , DİZMAN Gülçİn Tellİ , EROĞLU İmdat , ŞAHİN Taha Koray , TAŞ Zahİt , İNKAYA Ahmet Çağkan , TANRIÖVER Mıne Durusu , METAN Gökhan , GÜVEN Gülay Saİn , ÜNAL Serhat
Published: October 2020

Background

The 30-day readmission rate is an important indicator of patient safety and hospital’s quality performance. In this study, we aimed to find out the 30-day readmission rate of mild and moderate severity coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) patients discharged from a tertiary care university hospital and to demonstrate the possible factors associated with readmission.

Methods

This is an observational, single-center study. Epidemiological and clinical data of patients who were hospitalized with a diagnosis of COVID-19 were retrieved from a research database where patient information was recorded prospectively. Readmission data were sought from the hospital information management system and the National Health Information System to detect if the patients were readmitted to any hospital within 30 days of discharge. Adult patients (≥18 years old) hospitalized in COVID-19 wards with a diagnosis of mild or moderate COVID-19 between 20 March 2020 (when the first case was admitted to our hospital) and 26 April 2020 were included.

Results

From 26 March to 1 May, there were 154 mild or moderate severity (non-critical) COVID-19 patients discharged from COVID-19 wards, of which 11 (7.1%) were readmitted. The median time of readmission was 8.1 days (interquartile range [IQR] = 5.2). Two patients (18.1%) were categorized to have mild disease and the remaining 9 (81.9%) as moderate disease. Two patients who were over 65 years of age and had metastatic cancers and hypertension developed sepsis and died in the hospital during the readmission episode. Malignancy (18.7% vs. 2.1%, P = 0.04) and hypertension (45.5% vs. 14%, P = 0.02) were more common in those who were readmitted.

Conclusions

This is one of the first studies to report on 30-day readmission rate of COVID-19 in the literature. More comprehensive studies are needed to reveal the causes and predictors of COVID-19 readmissions.
On Reading Buddhist Vinaya: Feminist History, Hermeneutics, and Translating Women’s Bodies
Authors: Langenberg Amy Paris
Published: October 2020

Buddhist monastic law codes (vinaya) are rich sources for writing the history of the early nuns’ community. If we hope to encounter these ascetic women of long ago as full real people, however, we must apply an intentional, transparent, critically informed, and sometimes interstitial reading strategy, not a theoretically naïve historiography cloaked in philological rigor. Confronting head on the issue of what the vinaya actually can tell us about the early nuns’ community, this essay offers a survey of hermeneutical approaches in vinaya studies. It articulates a revised approach based on accepted strategies within vinaya studies enhanced by innovations in the fields of religious studies, gender studies, historical linguistics, comparative law, and dharmaśāstra studies. It also analyzes several vinaya passages based on this revised approach, including a text legislating the nuns’ use of what appears to be an ancient tampon when they are menstruating. Finally, it offers observations about the possible relationship between nuns’ vinayas as texts and the realia of the early nuns’ community. These observations include the possibility that the ancient Buddhist nunnery was a place where monastic women exercised certain types of agency as practitioners, interpreters, and even authors of monastic discipline, despite their oft-mentioned subordination to the male community.
Interdisciplinary Representation of Burn Surgery Journal and Society Leadership
Authors: Kettering Caroline E , Erpenbeck Sarah P , Stofman Guy M , Ziembicki Jenny A , Egro Francesco M
Published: October 2020

Burn care is a complex craft that requires an interdisciplinary approach. It includes a diverse array of specialty providers to provide holistic, specialized care to burn victims. This study aims to evaluate the diverse array of subspecialties involved in burn surgery journal and society leadership. A cross-sectional study was conducted in July 2019 by examining the characteristics of society and journal leaders. Current governance and committee members of the American Burn Association (ABA) and International Society of Burn Injuries (ISBI) were determined, as well as the editors of five major burn journals. Information gathered included occupation, advanced degrees obtained, and type of residency training. Of 384 editorial board members identified, 76% were physicians (n = 291), with specialties including burn surgery (n = 208, 54%) and anesthesiology (n = 22, 6%). Among nonphysicians (n = 78, 20%), 76% were medical researchers (n = 59), 8% physical therapists (n = 6), and 5% nurses (n = 4). Looking at ABA and ISBI governance (n = 29), 82% were physicians (n = 24). Nonphysician ABA and ISBI leaders were nurses (n = 2, 7%) and occupational therapists (n = 2, 7%). Of 467 identified ABA and ISBI committee members, half were physicians (n = 244, 52%). There was a wide array of nonphysician occupations among committee members, from nurses (n = 99, 21%), to occupational therapists (n = 25, 5%), and even firefighters (n = 6, 1%). Burn surgery journal and society leadership reflect the interdisciplinary nature of burn care by including an array of subspecialties. Yet, physicians tend to dominate academic burn leadership in comparison to other disciplines, highlighting the need for more nonphysician representation in leadership positions.
A Systematic Review on Airbag-Induced Burns
Authors: Erpenbeck Sarah P , Roy Eva , Ziembicki Jenny A , Egro Francesco M
Published: October 2020

Airbags significantly reduce fatalities and injuries in automobile crashes, but they have been found to be associated with burns. Specifically, airbags can cause burns through thermal or chemical mechanisms and commonly affect the arms, hands, face, and eyes. While most airbag-induced burns are minor, some may cause unfavorable outcomes. Our study aimed to systematically review airbag-induced burns to assess etiology, type, and treatment of these injuries. A systematic review of case reports pertaining to airbag-induced cutaneous and ocular burns was conducted. Data reviewed included type/location of burns, severity of burn, total number of patients, treatment, complications, and outcome after treatment. We identified 21 case reports that met our inclusion criteria with a total of 24 patients reported in the studies. Of the studies identified, 38% were chemical burns and 25% were thermal burns. Most commonly the upper extremities were burned in 42% of cases, followed by eyes (25%) and face (21%). Most burns identified were superficial partial thickness (58%). Treatment outcomes were good for cutaneous burns, with 95% healing without complication. However, ocular injuries lead to permanent impaired eye function in 71% of cases. In our systematic review, we highlighted the common risk factors, prognosis, and treatment for thermal, chemical, and ocular burns. Airbag-induced burns have a relatively good prognosis but must be recognized and treated immediately to reduce the risk of serious sequelae.
Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation in Burn Reconstruction: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Gray Kelsey M , Peterson Joshua M , Padilla Pablo L , Smith Jeffrey M , Zapata-Sirvent Ramón L , Branski Ludwik K , Norbury William B , Dziewulski Peter
Published: October 2020

Vascularized composite allotransplantation has been successfully employed for burn reconstruction since 2003. However, its safety in this population has been questioned due to high levels of alloimmunization from burn care-related tissue exposures. To investigate this, a systematic review of vascularized composite allotransplantation employed for burn reconstruction was conducted, evaluating literature from January 2000 to September 2019. Articles containing vascularized composite allotransplantation, composite tissue allotransplantation, and burn reconstructive surgery were included; articles without published outcomes were excluded. Observational meta-analysis of pooled mortality and acute rejection episodes relative to allograft type (face vs extremity) and reconstruction type (burn vs non-burn) was performed. Twenty-four of the 63 identified articles met the criteria for inclusion, with 5 more articles added after secondary review. To date, 152 allotransplantations have been performed in 117 patients: 45 face transplants and 107 extremity transplants. Of these, 34 (22%) were performed for burn reconstruction in 25 patients (21%) with an overall higher 1-year mortality rate (12.0% vs 1.1%, P  = .030). Of these deaths, 75% received three or more simultaneous allografts. Additionally, more episodes of acute rejection occurred compared to non-burn patients (4.4 vs 2.4, P  = .035). Vascularized composite allotransplantation performed for burn reconstruction was found to be associated with a greater risk of 1-year mortality and nearly twice the number of episodes of acute rejection. Future studies should seek to identify unique risk factors of burn patients undergoing this operation and evaluate the relationship between antigenic burden and surgical outcomes.
Integrative analysis supports a new species of the Oecomys catherinae complex (Rodentia, Cricetidae) from Amazonia
Authors: Saldanha Juliane , Rossi Rogério Vieira
Published: October 2020

The sigmodontine rodent Oecomys catherinae has been recognized as a species complex that includes five different lineages distributed throughout Brazil south of the Amazon river, named in literature according to their geographic position (central, eastern, northern, western, and westernmost). The western lineage also has been referred as Oecomys aff. catherinae in the literature, because it may represent a distinct species. Herein, we used molecular and morphological data to investigate the possible species distinctiveness within the O. catherinae complex. From molecular analyses, we recovered the western lineage as a monophyletic group with high genetic divergence from the other lineages of the complex. This lineage can be differentiated from other lineages of the O. catherinae complex and other congeners through a combination of mensural and morphological characters that includes: smaller size; posterior margin of nasals usually surpassing the maxillary–frontal suture; supraorbital crest moderately developed, similar to the temporal crest; parietal slightly expanded laterally; subsquamosal fenestra present; alisphenoid strut absent; and anterior cingulum of M1 present. The western lineage occurs in the southern Amazonia, in sympatry with the westernmost lineage and other species of Oecomys. Herein we describe this lineage as a new species, increasing to 19 the number of species within Oecomys.