bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health‐Based Emergency Guidelines
Authors: Cavender Finis L. , Gordon Terry
Published: September 2023

Emergency health‐based limits were demanded worldwide following the Bhopal, India disaster in December 1984 when 30 tons of methyl isocyanate were released in an act of sabotage killing some 3500 residents. Prior to 1987, the only short‐term limits readily available were the NIOSH IDLHs which were used to assist workers in selecting respiratory protection. No guidance levels existed for the general public. In 1987, the American Industrial Hygiene Association sponsored the development of Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (EPRGs) as health‐based levels for the general public for a 1‐h exposure following an industrial accident, act of terrorism, or transportation incidents such as a train derailment or tanker truck traffic accident. Such incidents would be rare, perhaps once in a lifetime, and would present an exposure scenario in which the dispersion cloud would present an immediate threat to health for 1 h during which the public escape further exposure or shelter in place. EPA and other government agencies developed Acute Emergency Guidance Levels (AEGLs) from 1996–2011. No AEGLs are being developed, completed, or updated since 2011. For ERPGs and AEGLs, there are three levels of concern: Level‐3—threshold for lethality; Level‐2—threshold for incapacitation or irreversible toxicity; and Level‐1—threshold for mild toxicity or offensive odor. Acute inhalation toxicity data in animals provides important information for Level‐3, while incapacitation data and the onset in irreversible toxicity are important Level‐2 considerations. Irritation and annoyance data are important in setting Level‐1.
Flame Retardant Chemicals
Authors: Babich Michael A.
Published: September 2023

Flame retardants (FRs) are chemicals added to natural and synthetic materials to improve their resistance to ignition or reduce flame spread after ignition occurs. There are many different types of FRs. FR chemicals can be inorganic or organic compounds. This chapter provides a broad overview of the toxicity of the major types of non‐polymeric, FR chemicals in use today.
Small Intestinal Permeability and Metabolomic Profiles in Feces and Plasma Associate With Clinical Response in Patients With Active Psoriatic Arthritis Participating in a Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Trial: Exploratory Findings From the FLORA Trial
Authors: Kragsnaes Maja Skov , Miguens Blanco Jesus , Mullish Benjamin H. , Serrano‐Contreras Jose Ivan , Kjeldsen Jens , Horn Hans Christian , Pedersen Jens Kristian , Munk Heidi Lausten , Nilsson Anna Christine , Salam Ash , Lewis Matthew R. , Chekmeneva Elena , Kristiansen Karsten , Marchesi Julian R. , Ellingsen Torkell
Published: September 2023

Objective

We investigated intestinal permeability and fecal, plasma, and urine metabolomic profiles in methotrexate‐treated active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and how this related to clinical response following one sham or fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).

Methods

This exploratory study is based on the FLORA trial cohort, in which 31 patients with moderate‐to‐high peripheral PsA disease activity, despite at least 3 months of methotrexate‐treatment, were included in a 26‐week, double‐blind, 1:1 randomized, sham‐controlled trial. Participants were randomly allocated to receive either one healthy donor FMT (n = 15) or sham (n = 16) via gastroscopy. The primary trial end point was the proportion of treatment failures through 26 weeks. We performed a lactulose‐to‐mannitol ratio (LMR) test at baseline (n = 31) and at week 26 (n = 26) to assess small intestinal permeability. Metabolomic profiles in fecal, plasma, and urine samples collected at baseline, weeks 4, 12, and 26 were measured using 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance.

Results

Trial failures (n = 7) had significantly higher LMR compared with responders (n = 19) at week 26 (0.027 [0.017‐0.33]) vs. 0.012 [0‐0.064], P = 0.013), indicating increased intestinal permeability. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant model for responders (n = 19) versus failures (n = 12) at all time points based on their fecal (P < 0.0001) and plasma (P = 0.005) metabolomic profiles, whereas urine metabolomic profiles did not differ between groups (P = 1). Fecal N‐acetyl glycoprotein GlycA correlated with Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (coefficient = 0.50; P = 0.03) and fecal propionate correlated with American College of Rheumatology 20 response at week 26 (coefficient = 27, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Intestinal permeability and fecal and plasma metabolomic profiles of patients with PsA were associated with the primary clinical trial end point, failure versus responder.
Field‐Free Switching of Spin Crossbar Arrays by Asymmetric Spin Current Gradient
Authors: Deng Yongcheng , Li Weihao , Lan Xiukai , Zhang Enze , Li Runze , Shang Yaxuan , Liu Shuai , Li Baohe , Liu Xionghua , Zheng Houzhi , Wang Kaiyou
Published: September 2023

Spin orbit torque (SOT) devices with the advantages of high speed, low power consumption, and high stability have wide application prospects in the field of spintronics. The SOT‐based crossbar array device is an important extension of SOT devices, but it is not reported so far. Here, the all electrical magnetization switching of Hall crossings based on SOT crossbar array devices is realized. Through analyzing the current distribution and micromagnetic simulations, it is found that this field‐free SOT switching in the array devices comes from the asymmetric current density gradient distribution at the Hall‐crossings due to the shunt effect of grid circuits. All electrical tristate magnetization switching and the write protection of spin crossbar array devices are demonstrated. This work will further promote the application of the efficient memory or edge computing based on spin crossbar array devices.
Hydrophobic Fe‐Based Catalyst Derived from Prussian Blue for Enhanced Photothermal Conversion of Syngas to Light Olefins
Authors: Shi Yiqiu , Li Zhenhua , Hao Quanguo , Li Ruizhe , Li Yuan , Guo Lina , Ouyang Shuxin , Yuan Hong , Zhang Tierui
Published: September 2023

Although there are many promising works in the field of Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS), it is still a huge challenge to achieve the rational design of FTS catalysts for excellent selectivity toward light olefins with a high olefins/paraffins ratio (o/p ratio). Herein, a hydrophobic core–shell Fe‐based FTS catalyst is developed by calcination and hydrophobic modification of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)‐decorated Prussian blue (PB, Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3) precursor. The hydrophobic modification is achieved by using trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) as the hydrophobic agent. Under light irradiation and near ambient pressure (0.18 MPa), compared with the catalyst without the hydrophobic surface to mainly convert CO to valueless CO2, the optimal catalyst delivers excellent selectivity of 48.0% for value‐added light olefins (C2–4 = ) with a high o/p ratio of 10.1 but low selectivity for CO2 at a CO conversion of 22.6%. The excellent FTS performance can be attributed to that the hydrophobic surface of the catalyst regulates the chemical reaction pathway, which promotes the CO hydrogenation but suppresses the conversion of CO to CO2. The study demonstrates that a rationally designed functional surface of a catalyst can govern the reaction pathway along value‐added solar‐to‐chemicals conversion.
Berry Curvature Dipole Induced Giant Mid‐Infrared Second‐Harmonic Generation in 2D Weyl Semiconductor
Authors: Fu Qundong , Cong Xin , Xu Xiaodong , Zhu Song , Zhao Xiaoxu , Liu Sheng , Yao Bingqing , Xu Manzhang , Deng Ya , Zhu Chao , Wang Xiaowei , Kang Lixing , Zeng Qingsheng , Lin Miao‐Ling , Wang Xingli , Tang Bijun , Yang Jianqun , Dong Zhili , Liu Fucai , Xiong Qihua , Zhou Jiadong , Wang Qijie , Li Xingji , Tan Ping‐Heng , Tay Beng Kang , Liu Zheng
Published: September 2023

Due to its inversion‐broken triple helix structure and the nature of Weyl semiconductor, 2D Tellurene (2D Te) is promising to possess a strong nonlinear optical response in the infrared region, which is rarely reported in 2D materials. Here, a giant nonlinear infrared response induced by large Berry curvature dipole (BCD) is demonstrated in the Weyl semiconductor 2D Te. Ultrahigh second‐harmonic generation response is acquired from 2D Te with a large second‐order nonlinear optical susceptibility (χ(2)), which is up to 23.3 times higher than that of monolayer MoS2 in the range of 700–1500 nm. Notably, distinct from other 2D nonlinear semiconductors, χ(2) of 2D Te increases extraordinarily with increasing wavelength and reaches up to 5.58 nm V−1 at ≈2300 nm, which is the best infrared performance among the reported 2D nonlinear materials. Large χ(2) of 2D Te also enables the high‐intensity sum‐frequency generation with an ultralow continuous‐wave (CW) pump power. Theoretical calculations reveal that the exceptional performance is attributed to the presence of large BCD located at the Weyl points of 2D Te. These results unravel a new linkage between Weyl semiconductor and strong optical nonlinear responses, rendering 2D Te a competitive candidate for highly efficient nonlinear 2D semiconductors in the infrared region.
Recyclable and Robust Optical Nanoprobes with Engineered Enzymes for Sustainable Serodiagnostics
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Wei Zheng , Damian Matteo , Zhu Xingjun , Knaus Tanja , Zhang Hong , Mutti Francesco G. , Loeffler Felix F.
Published: September 2023

Recyclable fluorescence assays that can be stored at room temperature would greatly benefit biomedical diagnostics by bringing sustainability and cost‐efficiency, especially for point‐of‐care serodiagnostics in developing regions. Here, a general strategy is proposed to generate recyclable fluorescent probes by using engineered enzymes with enhanced thermo‐/chemo‐stability, which maintains an outstanding serodiagnostic performance (accuracy >95%) after 10 times of recycling as well as after storage at elevated temperatures (37 °C for 10 days). With these three outstanding properties, recyclable fluorescent probes can be designed to detect various biomarkers of clinical importance by using different enzymes.
Heterodimeric Protein Surface‐Coupling Platform: Immobilization of Conformation Switchable and Functional αIIbβ3 Integrin
Authors: Neves Miguel A. D. , Slavkovic Sladjana , Wang Yiming , Pasman Yfke , Shoara Aron A. , Gallant Reid C. , Zhu Guangheng , Benvenuto Pasquale , Johnson Philip E. , Thompson Michael , Ni Heyu
Published: September 2023

Many biotechnologies require direct contact between biomolecules and (semi)solid substrates. However, little information is available regarding site‐directed covalent surface immobilization of heterodimeric proteins. Integrins are heterodimeric, conformationally dependent membrane adhesion‐receptors, which are important in the (patho)biology of almost all human diseases. In this study, a biomimetic‐platform is developed for covalent and site‐directed immobilization of oriented integrin heterodimers onto most hydroxyl bearing surfaces, herein demonstrated on both glass‐slides and silica‐particles. This platform consists of a self‐assembled monolayer, upon which C‐terminal modified αIIbβ3 integrin extracellular domains are oriented and covalently anchored. As with cell surface integrins, the conformation of immobilized αIIbβ3 is switchable and can be modulated to the active ligand‐binding conformation by divalent cations. Furthermore, the αIIbβ3‐coupled silica particles display platelet‐mimetic hemostat function and co‐aggregate with platelets from both wild‐type and fibrinogen/von Willebrand factor double deficient mice, facilitating αIIbβ3‐non‐classical ligand discoveries. This work provides a biomaterial platform for functional multimeric protein‐substrate coupling, which should have broad impact on multiple fields of biology, biotechnology, and clinical diagnosis/therapy.
Polylactide Degradation Activates Immune Cells by Metabolic Reprogramming
Authors: Maduka Chima V. , Alhaj Mohammed , Ural Evran , Habeeb Oluwatosin M. , Kuhnert Maxwell M. , Smith Kylie , Makela Ashley V. , Pope Hunter , Chen Shoue , Hix Jeremy M. , Mallett Christiane L. , Chung Seock‐Jin , Hakun Maxwell , Tundo Anthony , Zinn Kurt R. , Hankenson Kurt D. , Goodman Stuart B. , Narayan Ramani , Contag Christopher H.
Published: September 2023

Polylactide (PLA) is the most widely utilized biopolymer in medicine. However, chronic inflammation and excessive fibrosis resulting from its degradation remain significant obstacles to extended clinical use. Immune cell activation has been correlated to the acidity of breakdown products, yet methods to neutralize the pH have not significantly reduced adverse responses. Using a bioenergetic model, delayed cellular changes were observed that are not apparent in the short‐term. Amorphous and semi‐crystalline PLA degradation products, including monomeric l‐lactic acid, mechanistically remodel metabolism in cells leading to a reactive immune microenvironment characterized by elevated proinflammatory cytokines. Selective inhibition of metabolic reprogramming and altered bioenergetics both reduce these undesirable high cytokine levels and stimulate anti‐inflammatory signals. The results present a new biocompatibility paradigm by identifying metabolism as a target for immunomodulation to increase tolerance to biomaterials, ensuring safe clinical application of PLA‐based implants for soft‐ and hard‐tissue regeneration, and advancing nanomedicine and drug delivery.
Waxman Will Depart CPR At the End of October
Authors: Bleemer Russ
Published: September 2023

CPR President and Chief Executive Officer Allen Waxman (bio at www.cpradr.org/contacts/allen‐waxman) stepped down from his roles in a letter on Aug. 22. Waxman, who also is departing as publisher of Alternatives, told the CPR community:
More Recommendations for Improving Court Mediation, With a Focus on Best Practices for Preparation
Authors: Lande John
Published: September 2023

Last month, author John Lande offered three steps that could help improve the court mediation experience. See “Getting Ready for Mediation Sessions: Recommendations for Federal District Court Websites and Local Rules,” 41 Alternatives 119 (September 2023) (available at https://bit.ly/3Z5wtYP). He suggested that courts use dispute system design processes to maintain their ADR policies; offer clear, easily accessible information about mediation (and provided three sample court informational forms), and require attorneys to consult with their clients and counterparts about use of mediation. Here are five more.
Novel Biocatalysts from Specialized Metabolism
Authors: Kries Hajo , Trottmann Felix , Hertweck Christian
Published: September 2023

Enzymes are increasingly recognized as valuable (bio)catalysts that complement existing synthetic methods. However, the range of biotransformations used in the laboratory is limited. Here we give an overview on the biosynthesis‐inspired discovery of novel biocatalysts that address various synthetic challenges. Prominent examples from this dynamic field highlight remarkable enzymes for protecting‐group‐free amide formation and modification, control of pericyclic reactions, stereoselective hetero‐ and polycyclizations, atroposelective aryl couplings, site‐selective C−H activations, introduction of ring strain, and N−N bond formation. We also explore unusual functions of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, radical SAM‐dependent enzymes, flavoproteins, and enzymes recruited from primary metabolism, which offer opportunities for synthetic biology, enzyme engineering, directed evolution, and catalyst design.
High‐Density Polyethylene with In‐Chain Photolyzable and Hydrolyzable Groups Enabling Recycling and Degradation
Authors: Baur Maximilian , Mast Nina K. , Brahm Jan P. , Habé Rosa , Morgen Tobias O. , Mecking Stefan
Published: September 2023

Polyethylenes endowed with low densities of in‐chain hydrolyzable and photocleavable groups can improve their circularity and potentially reduce their environmental persistency. We show with model polymers derived from acyclic diene metathesis polymerization that the simultaneous presence of both groups has no adverse effect on the polyethylene crystal structure and thermal properties. Post‐polymerization Baeyer–Villiger oxidation of keto‐polyethylenes from non‐alternating catalytic ethylene‐CO chain growth copolymerization yield high molecular weight in‐chain keto‐ester polyethylenes (Mn≈50.000 g mol−1). Oxidation can proceed without chain scission and consequently the desirable materials properties of HDPE are retained. At the same time we demonstrate the suitability of the in‐chain ester groups for chemical recycling by methanolysis, and show that photolytic degradation by extended exposure to simulated sunlight occurs via the keto groups.
A Deeper Understanding of Metal Nucleation and Growth in Rechargeable Metal Batteries Through Theory and Experiment
Authors: Cooper Emily R. , Li Ming , Gentle Ian , Xia Qingbing , Knibbe Ruth
Published: September 2023

Lithium and sodium metal batteries continue to occupy the forefront of battery research. Their exceptionally high energy density and nominal voltages are highly attractive for cutting‐edge energy storage applications. Anode‐free metal batteries are also coming into the research spotlight offering improved safety and even higher energy densities than conventional metal batteries. However, uneven metal nucleation and growth which leads to dendrites continues to limit the commercialisation of conventional and anode‐free metal batteries alike. This review connects models and theories from well‐established fields in metallurgy and electrodeposition to both conventional and anode‐free metal batteries. These highly applicable models and theories explain the driving forces of uneven metal growth and can inform future experiment design. Finally, the models and theories that are most relevant to each anode‐related cell component are identified. Keeping these specific models and theories in mind will assist with rational design for these components.
Simultaneous Chiral Fixation and Chiral Regulation Endowed by Dynamic Covalent Bonds
Authors: Guo Yuquan , Cheng Xiaoxiao , He Zixiang , Zhou Zhenyang , Miao Tengfei , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2023

The construction of chiral superstructures through the self‐assembly of non‐chiral polymers usually relies on the interplay of multiple non‐covalent bonds, which is significantly limited by the memory ability of induced chirality. Although the introduction of covalent crosslinking can undoubtedly enhance the stability of chiral superstructures, the concurrent strong constraining effect hinders the application of chirality‐smart materials. To address this issue, we have made a first attempt at the reversible fixation of supramolecular chirality by introducing dynamic covalent crosslinking into the chiral self‐assembly of side‐chain polymers. After chiral induction, the reversible [2+2] cycloaddition reaction of the cinnamate group in the polymer chains can be further controlled by light to manipulate inter‐chain crosslinking and decrosslinking. Based on this photo‐programmable and dynamic chiral fixation strategy, a novel pattern‐embedded storage mechanism of chiral polymeric materials was established for the first time.
The role of single‐walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with gold to increase radiosensitivity of cancer cells to X‐ray radiation
Authors: Aghaei Afsoon , Shaterian Maryam , Danafar Hossein , Likozar Blaž , Šuligoj Andraž , Gyergyek Saso
Published: September 2023

The improvement of high‐Z‐based metallic nanostructures as radiosensitizers with high monolithicity and versatility by superadditive therapeutic track and the good protective effect is considerable, but they are limited by some problems such as nonideal selectivity for the target tissue. In this study, nanosystems were developed to enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy and reduce cancer cell survival based on innovative gold (Au) functionalized oxygen‐single‐walled carbon nanotubes (O‐SWCNTs). We illustrate the use of folic acid (FA) as a targeting agent and bovine serum albumin (BSA) to stabilize the physiological environment and increase durability. The physical and chemical properties of the nanosystems were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Visible), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. Finally, the MTT assay was used to investigate the therapeutic effects of nanoparticles in the 4 T1 mouse breast cancer model in the presence and absence of X‐rays. So, the cancer cells experienced a more effective reduction in survival after receiving O‐SWCNTs‐Au‐BSA‐FA + 8 Gy than O‐SWCNTs‐BSA, Au‐BSA‐FA, and O‐SWCNTs‐Au‐BSA + 8 Gy groups.
Captive breeding of European freshwater mussels as a conservation tool: A review
Authors: Geist Juergen , Thielen Frankie , Lavictoire Louise , Hoess Rebecca , Altmueller Reinhard , Baudrimont Magalie , Blaize Christine , Campos Miquel , Carroll Paul , Daill Daniel , Degelmann Wolfgang , Dettmer Rainer , Denic Marco , Dury Pierrick , de Eyto Elvira , Grunicke Felix , Gumpinger Clemens , Jakobsen Per J. , Kaldma Katrin , Klaas Kunnar , Legeay Alexia , Mageroy Jon Hamner , Moorkens Evelyn A. , Motte Grégory , Nakamura Keiko , Ondina Paz , Österling Martin , Pichler‐Scheder Christian , Spisar Ondřej , Reis Joaquim , Schneider Lea D. , Schwarzer Arno , Selheim Heidi , Soler Joaquín , Taskinen Jouni , Taylor John , Strachan Ben , Wengström Niklas , Zając Tadeusz
Published: September 2023

Freshwater mussels are declining throughout their range. Their important ecological functions along with insufficient levels of natural recruitment have prompted captive breeding for population augmentation and questions about the usefulness and applicability of such measures.

This article reviews the current state of captive breeding and rearing programmes for freshwater mussels in Europe. It considers the various species, strategies, and techniques of propagation, as well as the different levels of effort required according to rearing method, highlighting the key factors of success.

Within the last 30 years, 46 breeding activities in 16 European countries have been reported, mainly of Margaritifera margaritifera and Unio crassus. Some facilities propagate species that are in a very critical situation, such as Pseudunio auricularius, Unio mancus, and Unio ravoisieri, or multiple species concurrently. In some streams, the number of released captive‐bred mussels already exceeds the size of the remaining natural population.

Rearing efforts range from highly intensive laboratory incubation to lower intensity methods using in‐river mussel cages or silos. Most breeding efforts are funded by national and EU LIFE(+) grants, are well documented, and consider the genetic integrity of the propagated mussels. Limited long‐term funding perspectives, the availability of experienced staff, water quality, and feeding/survival during early life stages are seen as the most important challenges.

Successful captive breeding programmes need to be combined with restoration of the habitats into which the mussels are released. This work will benefit from an evidence‐based approach, knowledge exchange among facilities, and an overall breeding strategy comprising multiple countries and conservation units.
Data‐driven integral terminal sliding mode fault‐tolerant control for a collection of discrete‐time nonlinear systems
Authors: Hou Mingdong , Renming Yang , Li Guangye , Han Yaozhen
Published: September 2023

The manuscript proposes a data‐based integral terminal sliding mode control approach to determine fault‐tolerant control (FTC) concerning a class of discrete‐time nonlinear systems (DTNS) containing sensor fault. The proposed scheme can be readily implemented because it purely utilizes the input and output data of the system to employ a model called the compact form dynamic linearization (CFDL) data model, while the one‐step forward approximator is employed to estimate the fault function term in the system. Moreover, the fault diagnosis mechanism utilizes a time‐varying threshold with prescribed performance to judge whether the fault occurs. Hence, the problem of a standard fixed threshold used at the start‐up state of the control system is resolved. Then, the discrete‐time integral terminal sliding mode fault‐tolerant control (DITSM‐FTC) method is proposed. Concurrently, the sturdiness of the proposed method is assured by hypothetical investigation. When compared with the literature, the fundamental features of the proposed method are presented as follows: (1) the problem pertinent to fault utilizing a data‐driven model is resolved; (2) a fault diagnosis mechanism with prescribed performance is proposed, and (3) one step forward approximator is utilized to devise an estimation approach of fault detection. Finally, the efficacy of the proposed method is presented by running simulations.
Poly‐victimization of autistic adults: An investigation of individual‐level correlates
Authors: Gibbs Vicki , Hudson Jennifer L. , Pellicano Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Autistic people experience high rates of violence and victimization which is largely due to structural injustices, including stigma and social attitudes. Identifying and addressing systemic and structural factors is vitally important, however effecting change in embedded social structures is likely to take some time, even with concerted efforts. In the meantime, it is important to understand whether there are other individual‐level factors that may assist in developing preventative and protective strategies for autistic people. The current study investigated the role of individual‐level risk factors in the victimization of autistic people. Specifically, we examined whether characteristics that are common among autistic people that is, lower social competence, higher compliance and emotion regulation difficulties or more ADHD features (inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity) were associated with poly‐victimization in a community sample of 228 adults (118 autistic, 110 non‐autistic). Our results show that only ADHD features were predictive of poly‐victimization once socio‐demographic background variables (age, sexual orientation) were adjusted for. Group status was not a significant predictor in the model and there were no interaction effects between any of the characteristics and group status. These findings suggest that, regardless of whether a person is autistic, ADHD features may place individuals at higher risk of experiencing multiple forms of violence in adulthood. Further research using longitudinal designs and larger, diverse samples is needed. Furthermore, the regression model only accounted for about one‐third of the variance in poly‐victimization which highlights the importance of looking beyond individual‐level risk factors to structural and systemic factors that contribute to disproportionate victimization of autistic people.
Maternal first trimester COVID‐19 vaccination and risk of major non‐genetic congenital anomalies
Authors: Woestenberg Petra J. , de Feijter Maud , Bergman Jorieke E. H. , Lutke L. Renée , Passier Anneke J. L. M. , Kant Agnes C.
Published: September 2023

Background

Information regarding the risk of early pregnancy COVID‐19 vaccination on the development of major congenital anomalies in the offspring is still limited. Here, we study the association between any COVID‐19 vaccination during the 1st trimester and at least one major non‐genetic congenital anomaly in the offspring.

Methods

We used data from the Dutch Pregnancy Drug Register, an ongoing cohort study. We selected participants with a pregnancy that ended after at least 20 weeks gestation. Pregnant participants self‐reported their COVID‐19 vaccination status and the presence of congenital anomalies in the offspring. We used logistic regression analyses to study the association between 1st trimester COVID‐19 vaccination (gestational week 2 + 0 to 12 + 6) and the risk of at least one major non‐genetic congenital anomaly in the offspring. Clustering of anomalies on the ICD10 level by 1st trimester COVID‐19 vaccination status was explored using Fisher exact tests.

Results

We included 3721 participants of whom 795 (21.4%) were COVID‐19 vaccinated during the 1st trimester. The percentage of participants who gave birth to a child with at least one major non‐genetic congenital anomaly was comparable between participants who were 1st trimester vaccinated (1.1%) and participants who were not (1.2%) (adjusted odd ratio 0.78 [95% confidence interval 0.35–1.71]). We found no clustering of major non‐genetic congenital anomalies by 1st trimester COVID‐19 vaccination status (p > .05).

Conclusions

There were no indications of an increased risk of major non‐genetic congenital anomalies in the offspring after maternal 1st trimester COVID‐19 vaccination. Our findings suggest COVID‐19 vaccines are safe during early pregnancy.
Association of perioperative use of statins, metformin, and aspirin with recurrence after curative liver resection in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Khajeh Elias , Aminizadeh Ehsan , Moghadam Arash Dooghaie , Ramouz Ali , Klotz Rosa , Golriz Mohammad , Merle Uta , Springfeld Christoph , Chang De‐Hua , Longerich Thomas , Büchler Markus W. , Mehrabi Arianeb
Published: September 2023

Background

Statins, metformin, and aspirin have been reported to reduce the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the effect of their perioperative use on survival outcomes of HCC patients following curative liver resection still remains unclear.

Method

Three hundred and fifty three patients with a first diagnosis of HCC who underwent curative liver resection were included. Propensity score matching analysis with a users: nonusers ratio of 1:2 were performed for each of the medications (statins, metformin, and aspirin). Overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) were evaluated and multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed.

Results

Sixty two patients received statins, 48 patients used metformin, and 53 patients received aspirin for ≥90 days before surgery. None of the medications improved OS. RFS of statin users was significantly longer than that of nonusers (p = 0.021) in the matched cohort. Users of hydrophilic statins, but not lipophilic ones had a significantly longer RFS than nonusers. Multivariable analysis showed that statin use significantly improved RFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17–0.97, p = 0.044). No difference was seen in RFS between metformin users and nonusers. Among patients with diabetes, RFS was nonsignificantly longer in metformin users than in non‐metformin users (84.1% vs. 60.85%, p = 0.069) in the matched cohort. No difference in postoperative RFS was seen between aspirin users and nonusers.

Conclusion

Preoperative use of statins in patients with HCC can increase RFS after curative liver resection, but metformin and aspirin were not associated with improved survival. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the findings of the present study.
Determinants of followers' purchase intentions toward brands endorsed by social media influencers: Findings from PLS and fsQCA
Authors: Foroughi Behzad , Iranmanesh Mohammad , Nilashi Mehrbakhsh , Ghobakhloo Morteza , Asadi Shahla , Khoshkam Mana
Published: September 2023

Given the rise of marketing through social media influencers (SMIs), this study aimed to investigate the influences of source credibility and content validity factors on followers' attitudes and intention to purchase brands endorsed by SMIs through brand engagement and brand expected value. The study assessed the moderating effect of product–influencer congruency. Data were collected from 429 individuals in Iran and were assessed using the “partial least squares” (PLS) and “fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis” (fsQCA) approaches. PLS results affirmed the significance of all direct relationships except the role of entertainment value on brand engagement and informativeness value on brand expected value. Product–influencer congruence positively moderated the effects of trustworthiness and expertise on brand expected value. fsQCA identified five solutions with various combinations of elements that lead to high purchase intention. The results of performing fsQCA revealed that three factors, namely attractiveness, entertainment value, and attitude, are necessary to achieve high purchase intention. fsQCA results challenged the PLS findings, indicating the importance of using an asymmetric approach in conjunction with PLS. Our study provides valuable insight for marketing influencers and practitioners on the importance of source credibility and content value factors in enhancing the effectiveness of SMI marketing activities and persuading customers to purchase endorsed brands.
Catalysts Originating from Tailor‐made Metal Ethylene Glycol Carboxylates
Authors: Scharf Sebastian , Notz Sebastian , Lang Heinrich
Published: September 2023

Ethylene glycol metal carboxylates are suited as low‐temperature precursors for M and MxOy nanoparticle formation, which are applicable in catalytic heterogeneous reactions including hydrogenations, hydrometalations or C,C cross‐couplings. For the synthesis of β‐oxo‐propyl and enol esters [Ru(CO)2(PPh3)2(O2CR)2] complexes are excellent homogeneous catalysts with high regioselectivities. Additionally, applications of the title complexes beyond catalysis are presented.
Systematic in situ Investigation of the Formation of NH3 Cracking Catalysts from Precursor Perovskites ABO3 (A=La,Ca,Sr and B=Fe,Co,Ni) and their Catalytic Performance
Authors: Gallus Simone , Weidenthaler Claudia
Published: September 2023

This work addresses the formation of ammonia (NH3) decomposition catalysts derived from perovskites ABO3 (A=La, Ca, Sr, and B=Fe, Co, Ni) precursors via operando synchrotron X‐ray diffraction experiments. During the reaction in NH3, the perovskite precursors are decomposed and the transition metals are reduced. Depending on their reduction properties, active metallic catalysts are formed in situ on La2O3 as support. The reduction behavior of the perovskites, formation of intermediate phases during activation, and catalytic performance was studied in detail. In addition, microstructure properties such as crystallite sizes and particle morphology were analyzed. Co‐/Ni‐based perovskites decomposed completely during activation to Co0/Ni0 supported on La2O3 while Fe‐based perovskites were fully stable but inactive in catalysis. This difference is due to varying electronic properties of the transition metals, e. g., decreasing electronegativity from Ni to Fe. With decreasing reducibility, the intermediate phases during activation formed more distinct. La3+ was partially substituted by Ca2+/Sr2+ in LaCoO3 to test for advantageous effects in NH3 decomposition. The best performance was observed using the precatalyst La0.8Sr0.2CoO3 with a conversion of 86 % (100 % NH3, 15000 mL g−1 h−1) at 550 °C.
XMe ‐ Xiamen Molecular Electronics Code: An Intelligent and Open‐Source Data Analysis Tool for Single‐Molecule Conductance Measurements†
Authors: Pan Zhichao , Dong Gang , Shang Chi , Li Ruihao , Gao Tengyang , Lin Luchun , Duan Huicong , Li Xiaohui , Bai Jie , Lai Yilin , Wu Wenfeng , Shi Jia , Liu Junyang , Hong Wenjing
Published: September 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Charge transport characterization of single‐molecule junctions is essential for the fundamental research of single‐molecule physical chemistry and the development towards single‐molecule electronic devices and circuits. Among the single‐molecule conductance characterization techniques, the single‐molecule break junction technique is widely used in tens of worldwide research laboratories which can generate a large amount of experimental data from thousands of individual measurement cycles. However, data interpretation is a challenging task for researchers with different research backgrounds, and the different data analysis approaches sometimes lead to the misunderstanding of the measurement data and even reproducibility issues of the measurement. It is thus a necessity to develop a user‐friendly all‐in‐one data analysis tool that automatizes the basic data analysis in a standard and widely accepted way. In this work, we present the XMe Code (Xiamen Molecular Electronics Code), an intelligent all‐in‐one data analysis tool for the comprehensive analysis of single‐molecule break junction data. XMe code provides end‐to‐end data analysis that takes in the original experimental data and returns electronic characteristics and even charge transport mechanisms. We believe that XMe Code will promote the transparency of the data analysis in single‐molecule electronics and the collaborations among scientists with different research backgrounds.
Reactivity to allergenic food contaminants: A study on products on the market
Authors: Fiocchi Alessandro , Monaci Linda , De Angelis Elisabetta , Calandrelli Veronica , Dahdah Lamia , Valluzzi Rocco , Urbani Sara , Mazzuca Carmen , Arasi Stefania , Cafarotti Arianna , Riccardi Carla , Artesani Maria Cristina , Putignani Lorenza , Pecora Valentina , Marzano Valeria , Fierro Vincenzo
Published: September 2023

Background

The frequency and severity of reactions in food‐allergic consumers exposed to unintentional food allergen contamination during production is unknown. To warn allergic consumers, it has been suggested for pre‐packaged foods to be precautionary labelled when the food allergen contamination may exceed the amount to which 1%–5% of the population could react (ED01–ED05). ED01 for hazelnut and milk have been estimated at 0.1 and 0.2 mg, respectively, by the Voluntary Incidental Trace Allergen Labelling (VITAL) initiative. The respective reference doses recommended by the FAO/WHO Codex consultation are 3 and 2 mg. We evaluated the reactivity to potential traces of milk and hazelnut allergens in allergen‐free pre‐packaged products by children affected by severe allergies to milk and hazelnuts.

Methods

Oral Food Challenges with commercially available hazelnut‐free wafer biscuits and milk‐free chocolate pralines were administered to patients with severe food allergies to hazelnut and cow's milk, respectively. Contamination levels of milk or hazelnut allergens were measured using chromatographic separation interfaced with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry.

Results

No hazelnut allergic patient showed allergic reactions to exposure to biscuits, nor any milk allergic patient displayed allergic reactions to the dark chocolate praline. While no hazelnut trace was detected in biscuits, the praline was found to be contaminated by milk at concentrations ranging between 8 and 35 mg total protein/kg food. In our dose model, these amounts exceeded 1.5–10 times the VITAL ED01 and reached the threshold suggested by the FAO/WHO Codex consultation.

Conclusions

Upon the consumption of food products available on the market, many patients with severe food allergies tolerate significantly higher doses of allergen than reference doses indicated in the VITAL system used for precautionary allergen labelling. These doses support the safety of the FAO/WHO recommended reference doses.
Room‐Temperature Aerobic Oxidation of Amines to Nitriles over Ruthenium Oxide Supported on CeO2 Derived from MOFs
Authors: Huang Decai , Sun Hao , Li Jingwen , Zheng Junhao , Yang Darun , Chen Guozhu , Gao Daowei , Zhao Huaiqing
Published: September 2023

Heterogenous BPDC−RuO2−CeO2 catalyst derived from Ce−BPDC MOFs can successfully enable the oxidation of amines to nitriles under mild conditions (1 atm O2, H2O as a solvent, room temperature). The catalytic system has the good compatibility with benzylic and aliphatic amines. Lewis acid‐base pairs [Ru−O−Ce−Vö] formed by the combination of acidic oxygen vacancy and basic oxygen pair Ru−O−Ce on the surface of the catalyst is the key factor for the catalytic activity. The mechanical experiments indicate that amines adopt the step‐by‐step dehydrogenation process to nitriles in this transformation. Moreover, the catalyst could be recycled up to six times without the evident loss of catalytic activity and the change of morphology.
Fe Electron Center Local Regulation of CoFe‐Layered Double Hydroxides Nanosheets for Enhancing the Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Xu Yanqi , Liu Hejun , Wu Yixiong , Wu Qian , Li Cunjun , Wang Xinyu , Qin Haiqing , Qin Aimiao , Wang Linjiang
Published: September 2023

Replacing sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) with electrocatalytic oxidation (ECO) of alcohols was a promising hotspot due to its advantages of requiring low potential, inhibiting mixing of gases, and forming value‐added products. In the ECO of alcohols process, Fe electron centers of Fe‐based layered double hydroxides (LDHs) can regulate the d band of LDHs overlap, optimize the active local structure of LDHs, and then enhance the electrocatalytic oxidation performance. In this work, CoxFey‐LDHs nanosheets with different ratios of Co/Fe were prepared for selective ECO of benzyl alcohol (BA) to benzoic acid (BAC). Comprehensive characterizations revealed that the adjustment of bandgap and OH species adsorption of CoxFey‐LDHs resulted in the appropriate thermodynamic driving force, which improved the electrical conductivity of CoxFey‐LDHs and enhanced their ECO of BA. Especially, the as‐prepared Co3Fe1‐LDH showed intriguing electrocatalytic activity and only required a potential of 1.51 V (vs. RHE) to achieve a total current density of 50 mA cm−2 in alkaline solution containing 10 mM BA with a conversion (96.79 %) of BA and selectivity (94.93 %) of BAC, which was 60 mV lower than that of OER. After six cycles, Co3Fe1‐LDH still achieved 94.74 % conversion of BA and 92.10 % selectivity of BAC without significant degradation.
Effects of Intra‐Base Pair Proton Transfer on Dissociation and Singlet Oxygenation of 9‐Methyl‐8‐Oxoguanine−1‐Methyl‐Cytosine Base‐Pair Radical Cations
Authors: Moe May Myat , Tsai Midas , Liu Jianbo
Published: September 2023

8‐Oxoguanosine is the most common oxidatively generated base damage and pairs with complementary cytidine within duplex DNA. The 8‐oxoguanosine−cytidine lesion, if not recognized and removed, not only leads to G‐to‐T transversion mutations but renders the base pair being more vulnerable to the ionizing radiation and singlet oxygen (1O2) damage. Herein, reaction dynamics of a prototype Watson−Crick base pair [9MOG ⋅ 1MC]⋅+, consisting of 9‐methyl‐8‐oxoguanine radical cation (9MOG⋅+) and 1‐methylcystosine (1MC), was examined using mass spectrometry coupled with electrospray ionization. We first detected base‐pair dissociation in collisions with the Xe gas, which provided insight into intra‐base pair proton transfer of 9MOG⋅+ ⋅ 1MC
[9MOG − HN1]⋅ ⋅ [1MC+HN3′]+ and subsequent non‐statistical base‐pair separation. We then measured the reaction of [9MOG ⋅ 1MC]⋅+ with 1O2, revealing the two most probable pathways, C5‐O2 addition and HN7‐abstraction at 9MOG. Reactions were entangled with the two forms of 9MOG radicals and base‐pair structures as well as multi‐configurations between open‐shell radicals and 1O2 (that has a mixed singlet/triplet character). These were disentangled by utilizing approximately spin‐projected density functional theory, coupled‐cluster theory and multi‐referential electronic structure modeling. The work delineated base‐pair structural context effects and determined relative reactivity toward 1O2 as [9MOG − H]⋅>9MOG⋅+>[9MOG − HN1]⋅ ⋅ [1MC+HN3′]+≥9MOG⋅+ ⋅ 1MC.
Green human resource management: A comprehensive investigation using bibliometric analysis
Authors: Shah Priya , Singh Dubey Richa , Rai Shashikant , Renwick Douglas W. S. , Misra Saurabh
Published: September 2023

This study reviews green human resource management (GHRM) via bibliometric analysis of extant literature in the field of business and management. We used bibliometric, R Studio program for descriptive analysis and network analysis, to analyze 595 documents from the Web of Science and Scopus data. The study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolution of GHRM and the structures that define it. This article discusses the emerging keywords and research area along with the growth patterns in the area of GHRM during 2002–2022. The findings suggest that publication on GHRM began over 25 years ago and has continued to grow since then. The number of publications in this field of study has doubled over the last 10 years. Emerging themes include Green human resource practices, corporate social responsibility (CSR), innovation, environmental performance, circular economy, and sustainable development. Potential research areas have been suggested by drawing a complete picture of the conceptual framework. The study will help policy‐makers, corporates and academicians unravel the practical and theoretical aspects of GHRM and identify pertinent issues that require attention.
What do we know about ESG and risk? A systematic and bibliometric review
Authors: De Giuli Maria Elena , Grechi Daniele , Tanda Alessandra
Published: September 2023

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues have become particularly relevant in the agendas of policymakers, investment decisions by companies and asset allocation process of investors. However, the transition to a greener and more sustainable economic system is not without risks. The literature has investigated the relationship between ESG and risk in different ways, through multiple perspectives and approaches. We select all documents with “ESG” and “Risk” in the title, abstracts and keywords available in Scopus and, after removing non‐relevant papers, we are left with a sample of 589 documents published in the period 1983–2022. To provide a view of the most important studies, we also focus on the most cited documents to discuss the methodological approaches and main results. The results show that over time, ESG has gained increasing attention from the literature, but researchers work in isolation and there is no single approach or leading core topic driving academic productivity; a clear taxonomy of ESG risks appears to be missing. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first to discuss research on ESG and risk from a financial perspective. The results highlight some existing gaps in the literature that can provide a hint for the development of the topic by researchers. These include a clearer taxonomy of ESG risks that can affect investors' and companies' decisions, a greater effort to evaluate how ESG risks distribute and spill from one sector to another and the inclusion of emerging economies and small and medium‐sized enterprises in the samples.
CSR transmission modes in the buyer–supplier relationship: The case studies of garment companies in Vietnam
Authors: Dinh Ha Le Hai , Le Duong Thuy , Le Thi Thai Ha , Nguyen Minh Hoang , Nguyen Hung Vu
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the mechanisms under which the transmission of CSR practices and values could be successfully attained in buyer‐supplier relationships, particularly in the context of garment supply chains that involve developing country suppliers. Examining the buyer‐supplier dyadic CSR transmission process through the lens of an inter‐organizational learning perspective rather than the traditional compliance‐based one, this study proposes four distinct CSR transmission modes: Monitoring – Compliance, Capacity building – Internalization, Demonstration – Adaptation, and Role modeling – Imitation. Notably, the findings reveal that without buyers' stringent CSR management techniques, CSR practices and values can still be successfully transmitted to suppliers with the aid of proper learning facilitators. The theoretical and practical contributions of the paper are also provided.