bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Support for the Death Penalty in Taiwan?: a Study of Value Conflict and Ambivalence
Authors: Jou Susyan , Hebenton Bill 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWhile a substantial number of studies have examined public opinion on the death penalty in the USA, and more recently parts of Asia, including China, very few empirical studies have considered support for the death penalty in Taiwan. This paper examines public attitudes in Taiwan and the role of ‘value conflict’ in attitudes to both death penalty abolition and in the context of alternatives. Using the results of 1016 respondents drawn from a national face-to-face sample (n= 2039) survey conducted by the Taiwan Alliance to End the Death Penalty (TAEDP) in 2014, we demonstrate that public attitudes in Taiwan are simultaneously committed to many underlying values in conflict. The results also indicate that value conflict exists among the majority of the sample (more than 60 per cent) who are prepared to accept alternatives to abolition, and whom we can describe as ambivalent. Recognition of value conflict, ambivalence and the moral psychology underpinning public attitudes to the death penalty is essential, not only conceptually but to allow for a more appropriate and nuanced understanding of the abolitionist/retentionist debate.
Identification of new NBOH drugs in seized blotter papers: 25B-NBOH, 25C-NBOH, and 25E-NBOH
Authors: Machado Yuri , Coelho Neto José , Lordeiro Rogério Araújo , Alves Rosemeire Brondi , Piccin Evandro 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Purpose
The recreational drug market remains dynamic. After the introduction of 25I-NBOH, an N-benzylphenethylamine and new psychoactive substance, as option for LSD and NBOMe drugs, new NBOH substances have been identified in recent years. Herein, we report our efforts for the identification and structural elucidation of three new NBOHs detected in seized blotter papers: 25B-NBOH, 25C-NBOH, and 25E-NBOH.

Methods
Blotter papers seized between 2017 and 2018 by local police force in Brazil were submitted to extraction, purification, identification and characterization using attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography—mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography—tandem mass spectrometry, and one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results
Three new NBOHs were characterized: 2-(((4-ethyl-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol (25E-NBOH, 2C-E-NBOH), 2-(((4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol (25C-NBOH, 2C-C-NBOH), and 2-(((4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol (25B-NBOH, 2C-B-NBOH).

Conclusions
To our knowledge, this is the first report for identification and detailed characterization of 25B-NBOH, 25C-NBOH, and 25E-NBOH in seized samples. NBOH substances are not under United Nations Conventions control. The identification of seized blotter papers between 2014 and beginning of 2019 showed that NBOH substances have become the main hallucinogenic drug in the region. These group are thermolabile under gas chromatographic conditions, demanding other analytical approaches of analysis to avoid misidentifications. Unfortunately, the knowledge about toxicology of NBOHs are limited.
Kommentare und Erwiderung zu: Qualitätszielfunktionen für stark variierende Gemeindegrößen im Zensus 2021
Authors: Bleninger Sara , Fürnrohr Michael , Kiesl Hans , Krämer Walter , Küchenhoff Helmut , Burgard Jan Pablo , Münnich Ralf , Rupp Martin 
Published: December 2019

ZusammenfassungBurgard et al. (2020) stellen in ihrem Artikel zu Qualitätszielfunktionen für stark variierende Gemeindegrößen im Zensus 2021 Erweiterungen der Stichproben- und Schätzmethoden des Zensus 2011 vor, die kleine Gemeinden unter 10.000 Einwohnern in den Entscheidungsprozess integrieren. Die Dringlichkeit zur Lösung dieses Problems wurde ebenso im Urteil des Bundesverfassungsgerichts zur Volkszählung 2011 festgestellt. Ziel dieser Erwiderung ist eine eingehende Diskussion der Ergebnisse des vorangegangenen Beitrags mit namhaften Experten auf diesem Gebiet. Insbesondere geht es um eine Einordnung des Artikels in den Wissenschaftskontext (Krämer), die Bedeutung von Nichtstichprobenfehlern für den Zensus (Küchenhoff), den Zensus aus Sicht der Amtsstatistik (Bleninger und Fürnrohr) sowie aus statistisch-methodischer Sicht (Kiesl). Darüber hinaus werden aktuelle Entwicklungen vorgestellt.
Unravelling the variability and causes of smallholder maize yield gaps in Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Banchayehu Tessema , Chamberlin Jordan , Reidsma Pytrik , Silva João Vasco , van Ittersum Martin K. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractEthiopia has achieved the second highest maize yield in sub-Saharan Africa. Yet, farmers’ maize yields are still much lower than on-farm and on-station trial yields, and only ca. 20% of the estimated water-limited potential yield. This article provides a comprehensive national level analysis of the drivers of maize yields in Ethiopia, by decomposing yield gaps into efficiency, resource and technology components, and accounting for a broad set of detailed input and crop management choices. Stochastic frontier analysis was combined with concepts of production ecology to estimate and explain technically efficient yields, the efficiency yield gap and the resource yield gap. The technology yield gap was estimated based on water-limited potential yields from the Global Yield Gap Atlas. The relative magnitudes of the efficiency, resource and technology yield gaps differed across farming systems; they ranged from 15% (1.6 t/ha) to 21% (1.9 t/ha), 12% (1.3 t/ha) to 25% (2.3 t/ha) and 54% (4.8 t/ha) to 73% (7.8 t/ha), respectively. Factors that reduce the efficiency yield gap include: income from non-farm sources, value of productive assets, education and plot distance from home. The resource yield gap can be explained by sub-optimal input use, from a yield perspective. The technology yield gap comprised the largest share of the total yield gap, partly due to limited use of fertilizer and improved seeds. We conclude that targeted but integrated policy design and implementation is required to narrow the overall maize yield gap and improve food security.
The Value of BECCS in IAMs: a Review
Authors: Köberle Alexandre C. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractPurpose of ReviewIntegrated assessment model (IAM) scenarios consistent with Paris Agreement targets involve large negative emission technologies (NETs), mostly bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). Such reliance on BECCS implies IAMs assign it a high value. Past analyses on the value of BECCS in IAMs have not explicitly addressed the role of model structure and assumptions as value drivers. This paper examines the extent to which the value of BECCS in IAMs is enhanced by model structure constraints and assumptions.Recent FindingsPredominant use of high discount rates (3.5–5%) means models opt for delayed-action strategies for emissions mitigation that lead to high levels of cumulative net-negative emissions, while lower discount rates lead to reduce reliance on NETs. Until recently in the literature, most models limited NET options to only BECCS and afforestation, but introduction of other CDR options can reduce BECCS deployment. Constraints on grid penetration of variable renewable energy (VRE) is a determining factor on the level of BECCS deployment across models, and more constrained grid penetration of VREs leads to more BECCS in electricity generation.SummaryThis paper concludes BECCS derives significant value not only from the existing structure of IAMs but also from what isnotrepresented in models and by predominant use of high discount rates. Omissions include NETs other than BECCS and deforestation, low-carbon innovation in end-use technologies, grid resilience to intermittent sources, and energy use in agriculture production. As IAMs increasingly endogenize such constraints, the value of BECCS in resulting scenarios is likely to be dampened.
Penalized inference of the hematopoietic cell differentiation network via high-dimensional clonal tracking
Authors: Pellin Danilo , Biasco Luca , Aiuti Alessandro , Di Serio Maria Clelia , Wit Ernst C. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractBackgroundDuring their lifespan, stem- or progenitor cells have the ability to differentiate into more committed cell lineages. Understanding this process can be key in treating certain diseases. However, up until now only limited information about the cell differentiation process is known.AimThe goal of this paper is to present a statistical framework able to describe the cell differentiation process at the single clone level and to provide a corresponding inferential procedure for parameters estimation and structure reconstruction of the differentiation network.ApproachWe propose a multidimensional, continuous-time Markov model with density-dependent transition probabilities linear in sub-population sizes and rates. The inferential procedure is based on an iterative calculation of approximated solutions for two systems of ordinary differential equations, describing process moments evolution over time, that are analytically derived from the process’ master equation. Network sparsity is induced by adding a SCAD-based penalization term in the generalized least squares objective function.ResultsThe methods proposed here have been tested by means of a simulation study and then applied to a data set derived from a gene therapy clinical trial, in order to investigate hematopoiesis in humans,in-vivo. The hematopoietic structure estimated contradicts the classical dichotomy theory of cell differentiation and supports a novel myeloid-based model recently proposed in the literature.
A new method to simulate restricted variants of polarizationless P systems with active membranes
Authors: Gazdag Zsolt , Kolonits Gábor 
Published: December 2019

AbstractAccording to the P conjecture by Gh. Păun, polarizationless P systems with active membranes cannot solve $${\mathbf {NP}}$$NP-complete problems in polynomial time. The conjecture is proved only in special cases yet. In this paper we consider the case where only elementary membrane division and dissolution rules are used and the initial membrane structure consists of one elementary membrane besides the skin membrane. We give a new approach based on the concept of object division polynomials introduced in this paper to simulate certain computations of these P systems. Moreover, we show how to compute efficiently the result of these computations using these polynomials.
Building a European exposure science strategy
Authors: Fantke Peter , von Goetz Natalie , Schlüter Urs , Bessems Jos , Connolly Alison , Dudzina Tatsiana , Ahrens Andreas , Bridges Jim , Coggins Marie A. , Conrad André , Hänninen Otto , Heinemeyer Gerhard , Kephalopoulos Stylianos , McLachlan Michael , Meijster Tim , Poulsen Veronique , Rother Dag , Vermeire Theo , Viegas Susana , Vlaanderen Jelle , Jeddi Maryam Zare , Bruinen de Bruin Yuri 
Published: December 2019

AbstractExposure information is a critical element in various regulatory and non-regulatory frameworks in Europe and elsewhere. Exposure science supports to ensure safe environments, reduce human health risks, and foster a sustainable future. However, increasing diversity in regulations and the lack of a professional identity as exposure scientists currently hamper developing the field and uptake into European policy. In response, we discuss trends, and identify three key needs for advancing and harmonizing exposure science and its application in Europe. We provide overarching building blocks and define six long-term activities to address the identified key needs, and to iteratively improve guidelines, tools, data, and education. More specifically, we propose creating European networks to maximize synergies with adjacent fields and identify funding opportunities, building common exposure assessment approaches across regulations, providing tiered education and training programmes, developing an aligned and integrated exposure assessment framework, offering best practices guidance, and launching an exposure information exchange platform. Dedicated working groups will further specify these activities in a consistent action plan. Together, these elements form the foundation for establishing goals and an action roadmap for successfully developing and implementing a ‘European Exposure Science Strategy’ 2020–2030, which is aligned with advances in science and technology.
Kirigami-inspired multiscale patterning of metallic structures via predefined nanotrench templates
Authors: Zheng Mengjie , Chen Yiqin , Liu Zhi , Liu Yuan , Wang Yasi , Liu Peng , Liu Qing , Bi Kaixi , Shu Zhiwen , Zhang Yihui , Duan Huigao 
Published: December 2019

AbstractReliable fabrication of multiscale metallic patterns with precise geometry and size at both the nanoscale and macroscale is of importance for various applications in electronic and optical devices. The existing fabrication processes, which usually involve film deposition in combination with electron-beam patterning, are either time-consuming or offer limited precision. Inspired by the kirigami, an ancient handicraft art of paper cutting, this work demonstrates an electron-beam patterning process for multiscale metallic structures with significantly enhanced efficiency and precision. Similar to the kirigami, in which the final pattern is defined by cutting its contour in a paper and then removing the unwanted parts, we define the target multiscale structures by first creating nanotrench contours in a metallic film via an electron-beam-based process and then selectively peeling the separated film outside the contours. Compared with the conventional approach, which requires the exposure of the whole pattern, much less exposure area is needed for nanotrench contours, thus enabling reduced exposure time and enhanced geometric precision due to the mitigated proximity effect. A theoretical model based on interface mechanics allows a clear understanding of the nanotrench-assisted selective debonding behaviour in the peeling process. By using this fabrication process, multiscale metallic structures with sub-10-nm up to submillimetre features can be reliably achieved, having potential applications for anti-counterfeiting and gap-plasmon-enhanced spectroscopy.
Quantitative phase imaging of erythrocytes under microfluidic constriction in a high refractive index medium reveals water content changes
Authors: Park Han Sang , Eldridge Will J. , Yang Wen-Hsuan , Crose Michael , Ceballos Silvia , Roback John D. , Chi Jen-Tsan Ashley , Wax Adam 
Published: December 2019

AbstractChanges in the deformability of red blood cells can reveal a range of pathologies. For example, cells which have been stored for transfusion are known to exhibit progressively impaired deformability. Thus, this aspect of red blood cells has been characterized previously using a range of techniques. In this paper, we show a novel approach for examining the biophysical response of the cells with quantitative phase imaging. Specifically, optical volume changes are observed as the cells transit restrictive channels of a microfluidic chip in a high refractive index medium. The optical volume changes indicate an increase of cell’s internal density, ostensibly due to water displacement. Here, we characterize these changes over time for red blood cells from two subjects. By storage day 29, a significant decrease in the magnitude of optical volume change in response to mechanical stress was witnessed. The exchange of water with the environment due to mechanical stress is seen to modulate with storage time, suggesting a potential means for studying cell storage.
Blood biomarkers for memory: toward early detection of risk for Alzheimer disease, pharmacogenomics, and repurposed drugs
Authors: Niculescu A. B. , Le-Niculescu H. , Roseberry K. , Wang S. , Hart J. , Kaur A. , Robertson H. , Jones T. , Strasburger A. , Williams A. , Kurian S. M. , Lamb B. , Shekhar A. , Lahiri D. K. , Saykin A. J. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractShort-term memory dysfunction is a key early feature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Psychiatric patients may be at higher risk for memory dysfunction and subsequent AD due to the negative effects of stress and depression on the brain. We carried out longitudinal within-subject studies in male and female psychiatric patients to discover blood gene expression biomarkers that track short term memory as measured by the retention measure in the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test. These biomarkers were subsequently prioritized with a convergent functional genomics approach using previous evidence in the field implicating them in AD. The top candidate biomarkers were then tested in an independent cohort for ability to predict state short-term memory, and trait future positive neuropsychological testing for cognitive impairment. The best overall evidence was for a series of new, as well as some previously known genes, which are now newly shown to have functional evidence in humans as blood biomarkers: RAB7A, NPC2, TGFB1, GAP43, ARSB, PER1, GUSB, and MAPT. Additional top blood biomarkers include GSK3B, PTGS2, APOE, BACE1, PSEN1, and TREM2, well known genes implicated in AD by previous brain and genetic studies, in humans and animal models, which serve as reassuring de facto positive controls for our whole-genome gene expression discovery approach. Biological pathway analyses implicate LXR/RXR activation, neuroinflammation, atherosclerosis signaling, and amyloid processing. Co-directionality of expression data provide new mechanistic insights that are consistent with a compensatory/scarring scenario for brain pathological changes. A majority of top biomarkers also have evidence for involvement in other psychiatric disorders, particularly stress, providing a molecular basis for clinical co-morbidity and for stress as an early precipitant/risk factor. Some of them are modulated by existing drugs, such as antidepressants, lithium and omega-3 fatty acids. Other drug and nutraceutical leads were identified through bioinformatic drug repurposing analyses (such as pioglitazone, levonorgestrel, salsolidine, ginkgolide A, and icariin). Our work contributes to the overall pathophysiological understanding of memory disorders and AD. It also opens new avenues for precision medicine- diagnostics (assement of risk) as well as early treatment (pharmacogenomically informed, personalized, and preventive).
Coordinated transformation of the gut microbiome and lipidome of bowhead whales provides novel insights into digestion
Authors: Miller Carolyn A , Holm Henry C , Horstmann Lara , George John C , Fredricks Helen F , Van Mooy Benjamin A S , Apprill Amy 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Whale digestion plays an integral role in many ocean ecosystems. By digesting enormous quantities of lipid-rich prey, whales support their energy intensive lifestyle, but also excrete nutrients important to ocean biogeochemical cycles. Nevertheless, whale digestion is poorly understood. Gastrointestinal microorganisms play a significant role in vertebrate digestion, but few studies have examined them in whales. To investigate digestion of lipids, and the potential contribution of microbes to lipid digestion in whales, we characterized lipid composition (lipidomes) and bacterial communities (microbiotas) in 126 digesta samples collected throughout the gastrointestinal tracts of 38 bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) harvested by Alaskan Eskimos. Lipidomes and microbiotas were strongly correlated throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Lipidomes and microbiotas were most variable in the small intestine and most similar in the large intestine, where microbiota richness was greatest. Our results suggest digestion of wax esters, the primary lipids in B. mysticetus prey representing more than 80% of total dietary lipids, occurred in the mid- to distal small intestine and was correlated with specific microorganisms. Because wax esters are difficult to digest by other marine vertebrates and constitute a large reservoir of carbon in the ocean, our results further elucidate the essential roles that whales and their gastrointestinal microbiotas play in the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nutrients in high-latitude seas.
Platinum response characteristics of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and a germline BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 mutation
Authors: Wattenberg Max M. , Asch Daniella , Yu Shun , O’Dwyer Peter J. , Domchek Susan M. , Nathanson Katherine L. , Rosen Mark A. , Beatty Gregory L. , Siegelman Evan S. , Reiss Kim A. 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Retrospective studies suggest a survival benefit when platinum-based chemotherapy is administered to patients with pancreatic cancer harbouring a germline mutation in BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 (mut-positive PDAC). However, the objective response rate (ORR) and real-world progression free survival (rwPFS) achieved with such treatment remain ill-defined.

Methods
Twenty-six patients with advanced-stage mut-positive PDAC who had been treated with platinum-based therapy were matched by age, race and sex to 52 platinum-treated control PDAC patients. Responses to therapy were determined by RECIST v1.1, performed by blinded radiology review. Measured outcomes included ORR and rwPFS.

Results
The ORR in mut-positive patients was 58% compared to 21% in the control group (p = 0.0022). There was no significant difference in ORR between platinum regimens in mut-positive patients (p = 0.814), whereas in control patients, the only observed responses were to FOLFIRINOX. rwPFS was 10.1 mo. for mut-positive patients and 6.9 mo. for controls (HR 0.43; 95% CI 0.25–0.74; 0.0068).

Conclusion
Mut-positive PDAC has a high ORR and prolonged rwPFS to platinum-based chemotherapy. These findings may have implications particularly in the neoadjuvant setting, and for future clinical trial design, and highlight the importance of early germline testing in patients with PDAC.