bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Environmental life cycle assessment of production of the non-nutritive sweetener sucralose (E955) derived from cane sugar produced in the United States of America: The SWEET project
Authors: Blenkley E. , Suckling J. , Morse S. , Murphy R. , Raats M. , Astley S. , Halford J. C. G. , Harrold J. A. , Le-Bail A. , Koukouna E. , Musinovic H. , Raben A. , Roe M. , Scholten J. , Scott C. , Westbroek C. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
There is increasing concern about the detrimental health effects of added sugar in food and drink products. Sweeteners are seen as a viable alternative. Much work has been done on health and safety of using sweeteners as a replacement for added sugar, but very little on their sustainability. This work aims to bridge that gap with a life cycle assessment (LCA) of sucralose derived from cane sugar grown in the United States of America (USA).

Methods
An attributional, cradle-to-gate LCA was conducted on sucralose production in the USA. Primary data were derived from literature for the chlorination process, and all other data from background sources. Results are reported via the ReCiPe 2016 (H) method, with focus given to land use, global warming potential (GWP), marine eutrophication, mineral resource scarcity, and water consumption. Because sucralose has a much greater perceived sweetness than sugar, impacts are expressed both in absolute terms of 1 kg mass and in relative sweetness equivalence terms to 1 kg sugar. Scenario modelling explores the sensitivity of the LCA results to change in key parameters. This research was conducted as part of the EU Horizon 2020 project SWEET (Sweeteners and sweetness enhancers: Impact on health, obesity, safety and sustainability).

Results and discussion
GWP for 1 kg sucralose was calculated to be 71.83 kgCO2-eq/kg (sugar from sugarcane is 0.77 kgCO2-eq/kg). However, on a sweetness equivalence basis, GWP of sucralose reduces to 0.12 kgCO2-eq/kgSE. Production of reagents was the main contributor to impact across most impact categories. Sugar (starting material for sucralose production) was not a majority contributor to any impact category, and changing the source of sugar has little effect upon net impact (average 2.0% variation). Instead, uncertainty in reference data is a greater source of variability: reagent use optimization reduces average impact of sucralose production by approximately 45.4%. In general, sucralose has reduced impact compared to sugar on an equivalent sweetness basis, however, due to data uncertainty, the reduction is not significant for all impact categories.

Conclusion
This LCA is the first for sucralose produced from cane sugar produced in the USA. Results indicate that sucralose has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of replacing the sweet taste of sugar. However, data were derived from literature and future collaboration with industry would help in reducing identified uncertainties. Accounting for functional use of sucralose in food and drink formulations is also necessary to fully understand the entire life cycle impact.
Cannabigerol (CBG) signal enhancement in its analysis by gas chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Dawidowicz Andrzej L. , Typek Rafal , Dybowski Michal P. , Holowinski Piotr , Rombel Michal 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
According to recent reports, cannabigerol (CBG) concentration level in blood and body fluids may have forensic utility as a highly specific albeit insensitive biomarker of recent cannabis smoking. While the analytical sensitivity of cannabidiol (CBD), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), cannabichromene (CBC) or cannabinol (CBN) estimation by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) is similar and sufficiently high, it is exceptionally low in the case of CBG (ca. 25 times lower than for the other mentioned cannabinoids). The purpose of this study is to explain the reasons for the extremely low analytical sensitivity of GC–MS in estimating CBG and to present possible ways of its improvement.

Methods
Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data and GC–MS responses to CBG and its various derivatization and transformation products were studied.

Results
The validation data of individual derivatives of CBG and its transformation products were established. CBG silylation/acylation or hydration allows to decrease LOD about 3 times, whereas the formation of pyranic CBG derivative leads to 10-times decrease of LOD. The paper enriches the literature of the subject by providing MS and NMR spectra, not published so far, for derivatives of CBG and its transformation products. The most likely cause of low GC–MS response to CBG is also presented.

Conclusions
The presented results shows that although the signal increase of CBG can be obtained through its derivatization by silylation and/or acylation, the greatest increase is observed in the case of its cyclization to the pyranic CBG form during the sample preparation process. The CBG cyclization procedure is very simple and workable in estimating this cannabinoid in blood/plasma samples.

Graphical abstract
Recent Updates on Predicting Conversion in Youth at Clinical High Risk for Psychosis
Authors: Caballero Noe , Machiraju Siddharth , Diomino Anthony , Kennedy Leda , Kadivar Armita , Cadenhead Kristin S. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose of Review
This review highlights recent advances in the prediction and treatment of psychotic conversion. Over the past 25 years, research into the prodromal phase of psychotic illness has expanded with the promise of early identification of individuals at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis who are likely to convert to psychosis.

Recent Findings
Meta-analyses highlight conversion rates between 20 and 30% within 2–3 years using existing clinical criteria while research into more specific risk factors, biomarkers, and refinement of psychosis risk calculators has exploded, improving our ability to predict psychotic conversion with greater accuracy. Recent studies highlight risk factors and biomarkers likely to contribute to earlier identification and provide insight into neurodevelopmental abnormalities, CHR subtypes, and interventions that can target specific risk profiles linked to neural mechanisms.

Summary
Ongoing initiatives that assess longer-term (> 5–10 years) outcome of CHR participants can provide valuable information about predictors of later conversion and diagnostic outcomes while large-scale international biomarker studies provide hope for precision intervention that will alter the course of early psychosis globally.
Argumentative Delphi Surveys: Lessons for Sociological Research
Authors: Cuhls Kerstin E. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThis contribution explains new variants of Argumentative Delphi surveys that can also be used in sociological research, some examples and the learnings from and limits of argumentative surveys with feedback. Argumentative Delphi surveys are not new. As Christian Dayé explains in his book, the early expert surveys and especially the Delphi surveys used explanations and arguments for exchanging knowledge - but always without direct interation (Dayé, C. (2020). Experts, Social Scientistss and Techniques of Prognosis in cold war of America. Socio-Historical Studies of the Social and Human Sciences, palgrave McMilan, Switzerland:41, see also Cuhls, K. (1998). Technikvorausschau in Japan. Ein Rückblick auf 30 Jahre Delphi-Expertenbefragungen. Physica. [Technology Foresight in Japan]). The very first approaches of Delphi surveys did not only make use of expert knowledge in judging issues under uncertainty or were trying to make accurate predictions with statistical analysis, but there were also tests in groups of students. In some of them, the groups did not only choose and tick boxes, but gave reasons or comments for their judgments. Modern Argumentative Delphi surveys do ask for comments AND use a variety of open questions for adding information to the statistical findings. This way of performing a Delphi survey gets more and more ground and can be analysed in a fast way by new means of text mining and Delphi software tools. But they have their limits - especially as they are very demanding for the participants and the analysts. If many people participate, many arguments are given, and they can quickly go beyond the limits of the participants‘ understanding and their time availability. Some lessons learned from recent Delphi projects are reported. This is closing the cycle to Dayé’s description of expert knowledge inclusion in policy-making - a way of integration of expert opinion without direct interaction.
Darobactine: eine neue Antibiotikaklasse in Entwicklung
Authors: Seyfert Carsten E. , Porten Christoph , Müller Rolf 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe discovery pipeline for novel antibiotics runs dry, while antimicrobial resistances increase, causing 1.3 million deaths per year globally. Even in the European Economic Area with generally intact health care, more than 35,000 people die per year with numbers expected to rise. Especially certain pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria are to blame. Optimized versions of the innovative natural product class of darobactins acting selectively at a novel target on the bacterial outer membrane may provide novel treatment options.
Integral forming of continuous CFRP sandwich sheet by additive manufacturing
Authors: Nishi Kazusa , Sato Yuji , Yanagimoto Jun 
Published: September 2023

AbstractSandwich sheets comprising continuous carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) are applied mainly in the aerospace industry due to their light weight and high rigidity. However, sandwich sheets require separate formation and bonding of the face sheets and core, resulting in high labor costs and early fracture due to delamination of the adhesive layer. The purpose of this study is to overcome these problems by integrating sandwich sheet using additive manufacturing. The mechanical properties of the integrally formed sandwich sheets were compared with those of adhesively formed sandwich sheets using a three-point bending test. The strain distribution was captured by digital image correlation (DIC) during the test. Additionally, the geometric design parameters of a core with superior mechanical properties were investigated. The test results showed that the integrally formed specimens exhibited superior properties compared to those of the adhesively formed specimens. It was also observed that the larger the width angle of the corrugated core, the better the mechanical properties.
Distinct modes and intensity of bird exploitation at the dawn of agriculture in the Upper Euphrates and Tigris River basins
Authors: Pöllath Nadja , Peters Joris 
Published: September 2023

AbstractEarly Neolithic avifaunas excavated at the sites of Göbekli Tepe and Gusir Höyük illustrate two entirely different modes of bird exploitation in south-eastern Anatolia during the 10th and 9th millennia BCE, which prompted us the re-evaluation of other substantial bird bone assemblages from contemporaneous sites in the upper basins of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. We thus compared the range and diversity of species captured, seasonal aspects of bird hunting, and types of habitats exploited by Near Eastern communities of foragers at the dawn of agriculture. Fowling practices in the Upper Euphrates catchment aimed at multiple avifaunal resources in varied habitats explaining high taxonomic diversity in the respective assemblages. Overall, the proportions of birds, mammals and fish in the diet were similar in all sites. In contrast, meat diet in the Upper Tigris River basin proved less culturally uniform. The contribution of birds, fish and mammals to the diet varied significantly between sites. Our study also showed that avifaunal diversity was very low at some sites in the Tigris basin suggesting an overall limited interest and time commitment to this economic activity there. An intensification of bird hunting in autumn and winter was observed in both areas.
Eco-packaging in organic foods: rational decisions or emotional influences?
Authors: Lombardi Alessia , Califano Giovanbattista , Caracciolo Francesco , Del Giudice Teresa , Cembalo Luigi 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe introduction of biodegradable and compostable packaging has been a significant milestone in reducing conventional plastic use, particularly in sectors that prioritize sustainability like the organic food industry. This study explores the factors influencing the selection of such packaging, with a specific focus on the role of emotions in a representative sample of Italian consumers. Two models, the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Rational-Emotional Model (REM), were evaluated and compared. The TPB model confirms that positive attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence the intention to choose biodegradable and compostable packaging. The REM reveals that environmental concern, cognitive benefits, and emotions significantly impact purchase intentions. The REM explains a greater variance in intention compared to the TPB model, highlighting the importance of combining rational and emotional components. Biodegradable and compostable packaging aligns well with the target consumers of organic food, making it an excellent solution for organic produce. Emotions play a crucial role in shaping consumer intentions and behaviors. Marketing strategies should appeal to consumers’ emotional responses, address cognitive concerns, and highlight the specific benefits of sustainable packaging. This research emphasizes the relevance of bioplastic packaging for organic products and underscores the significance of emotions in influencing consumer behavior.
How to Distribute Charging Requests of Electronic Vehicles? A Reservation-based Approach
Authors: Eggert Mathias , Kling Rene 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe number of electronic vehicles increase steadily while the space for extending the charging infrastructure is limited. In particular in urban areas, where parking spaces in attractive areas are famous, opportunities to setup new charging stations is very limited. This leads to an overload of some very attractive charging stations and an underutilization of less attractive ones. Against this background, the paper at hand presents the design of an e-vehicle reservation system that aims at distributing the utilization of the charging infrastructure, particularly in urban areas. By applying a design science approach, the requirements for a reservation-based utilization approach are elicited and a model for a suitable distribution approach and its instantiation are developed. The artefact is evaluated by simulating the distribution effects based on data of real charging station utilizations.
Diversity and Representation Among United States Participants in Amgen Clinical Trials
Authors: Racadio E. Racquel , Rai Angshu , Kizilirmak Pinar , Agarwal Sonali , Sosa Eloy , Desborough Claire , Adnan Tatheer , Zhou Lei , Balasubramanian Akhila , Sharma Anushree , Motsepe-Ditshego Ponda 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objective
Describe the demographic profile of US participants in Amgen clinical trials over a 10-year period and variations across therapeutic areas, indications, and geographies.

Methods
Cross-sectional retrospective study including participants enrolled (2005–2020) in phase 1–3 trials completed between January 1, 2012 and June 30, 2021.

Results
Among 31,619 participants enrolled across 258 trials, one-fifth represented racial minority populations (Asian, 3%; Black or African American, 17%; American Indian or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, multiracial, each < 1%); fewer than one-fifth (16%) represented an ethnic minority population (Hispanic or Latino). Compared with census data, representation of racial and ethnic groups varied across US states. Across most therapeutic areas (bone, cardiovascular, hematology/oncology, inflammation, metabolic disorders, neuroscience) except nephrology, participants were predominantly White (72–81%). A similar proportion of males and females were enrolled between 2005 and 2016; male representation was disproportionately higher than female between 2016 and 2020. Across most medical indications, the majority of participants were 18–65 years of age.

Conclusions and Relevance
While the clinical research community is striving to achieve diversity and proportional representation across clinical trials, certain populations remain underrepresented. Our data provide a baseline assessment of the diversity and representation of US participants in Amgen-sponsored clinical trials and add to a growing body of evidence on the importance of diversity in clinical research. These data provide a foundation for strategies aimed at supporting more equitable and representative research, and a baseline from which to assess the impact of future strategies to advance health equity.
Black Americans’ Diminished Return of Educational Attainment on Tobacco Use in Baltimore City
Authors: Barsha Rifath Ara Alam , Assari Shervin , Hossain Mian B. , Apata Jummai , Sheikhattari Payam 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Socioeconomic status (SES) indicators such as educational attainment are fundamental factors affecting health. One mechanism through which education affects health is by reducing the likelihood of engaging in high-risk behaviors such as smoking. However, according to the marginalization-related diminished returns (MDRs) theory, the association between education and health may be weaker for marginalized populations such as Black than White, primarily due to racism and discrimination. However, little is known about the racial variations in the differential associations between educational attainment and tobacco use in a local setting.

Aim
This study aimed to investigate the differential association between educational attainment and tobacco use among racial groups in a community sample in Baltimore City.

Methods
This cross-sectional study used data from a community survey conducted in 2012–2013 in Baltimore City among adults aged 18 years or older. The participants were 3501 adults. Univariate, bivariate, and logistic regression analyses were performed using Stata to investigate the racial difference in the association between education and two outcomes: current smoking status and menthol tobacco product use.

Results
The study found that adults with a graduate degree were less likely to be current smokers (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.10, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.08–0.13) and menthol tobacco users (AOR: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.07–0.14) compared to those with less than high school diploma. The inverse associations between educational attainment and current smoking (AOR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.05–3.21) and menthol tobacco product use (AOR: 4.73, 95% CI: 2.07–10.80) were weaker for Back individuals than those who were White.

Conclusion
Due to MDRs of educational attainment, while highly educated White adults show a low risk of tobacco use, educated Black adults remain at a disproportionately increased risk. The study emphasizes the need for better policies and programs that address minorities’ diminished return of education for tobacco use.
Association Between Nominal Categorical Variables: New Measure Formulation Based on Metric Distances and Value Validity
Authors: Kvålseth Tarald O. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractWhen dealing with nominal categorical data, it is often desirable to know the degree of association or dependence between the categorical variables. While there is literally no limit to the number of alternative association measures that have been proposed over the years, they all yield greatly varying, contradictory, and unreliable results due to their lack of an important property: value validity. After discussing the value-validity property, this paper introduces a new measure of association (dependence) based on the mean Euclidean distance between probability distributions, one being a distribution under independence. Both the asymmetric form, when one variable can be considered as the explanatory (independent) variable and one as the response (dependent) variable, and the symmetric form of the measure are introduced. Particular emphasis is given to the important 2 × 2 case when each variable has two categories, but the general case of any number of categories is also covered. Besides having the value-validity property, the new measure has all the prerequisites of a good association measure. Comparisons are made with the well-known Goodman–Kruskal lambda and tau measures. Statistical inference procedure for the new measure is also derived and numerical examples are provided.
A lattice theoretical interpretation of generalized deep holes of the Leech lattice vertex operator algebra
Authors: Lam Ching Hung , Miyamoto Masahiko 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
We give a lattice theoretical interpretation of generalized deep holes of the Leech lattice VOA

$V_\Lambda $

. We show that a generalized deep hole defines a ‘true’ automorphism invariant deep hole of the Leech lattice. We also show that there is a correspondence between the set of isomorphism classes of holomorphic VOA V of central charge

$24$

having non-abelian

$V_1$

and the set of equivalence classes of pairs

$(\tau , \tilde {\beta })$

satisfying certain conditions, where

$\tau \in Co.0$

and

$\tilde {\beta }$

is a

$\tau $

-invariant deep hole of squared length

$2$

. It provides a new combinatorial approach towards the classification of holomorphic VOAs of central charge

$24$

. In particular, we give an explanation for an observation of G. Höhn, which relates the weight one Lie algebras of holomorphic VOAs of central charge

$24$

to certain codewords associated with the glue codes of Niemeier lattices.
Are rural attitudes just Republican?
Authors: Lin Jennifer , Lunz Trujillo Kristin 
Published: September 2023

AbstractRural residents are typically construed as being more conservative than urban residents. Is this true, or do rural residents carry unique interests from Republicans or conservatives? Using the 2020 ANES, we compare responses from 22 national issues by interacting urban and rural residency with Republican and Democrat identification. We find that issue preferences are partisan, not place-based: rural Democrats resemble their urban counterparts and urban Republicans resemble their rural counterparts, rather than rural areas specifically being more Republican. However, rural Democrats are more conservative than urban Democrats on issues relating to immigration, transgendered people in the military, and income inequality. These results point to partisan nationalization in issue stances, with exceptions, and that rural is not always Republican.