bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation and an Agricultural Pollutant on Morphology and Behavior of Tadpoles (Limnodynastes tasmaniensis)
Authors: Orford Jack T. , Tan Hung , Martin Jake M. , Wong Bob B. M. , Alton Lesley A. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Amphibians are the most threatened vertebrate class globally. Multiple factors have been implicated in their global decline, and it has been hypothesized that interactions between stressors may be a major cause. Increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation, as a result of ozone depletion, has been identified as one such stressor. Exposure to UV radiation has been shown to have detrimental effects on amphibians and can exacerbate the effects of other stressors, such as chemical pollutants. Chemical pollution has likewise been recognized as a major factor contributing to amphibian declines, particularly, endocrine-disrupting chemicals. In this regard, 17β-trenbolone is a potent anabolic steroid used in the agricultural industry to increase muscle mass in cattle and has been repeatedly detected in the environment where amphibians live and breed. At high concentrations, 17β-trenbolone has been shown to impact amphibian survival and gonadal development. In the present study, we investigated the effects of environmentally realistic UV radiation and 17β-trenbolone exposure, both in isolation and in combination, on the morphology and behavior of tadpoles (Limnodynastes tasmaniensis). We found that neither stressor in isolation affected tadpoles, nor did we find any interactive effects. The results from our 17β-trenbolone treatment are consistent with recent research suggesting that, at environmentally realistic concentrations, tadpoles may be less vulnerable to this pollutant compared to other vertebrate classes. The absence of UV radiation–induced effects found in the present study could be due to species-specific variation in susceptibility, as well as the dosage utilized. We suggest that future research should incorporate long-term studies with multiple stressors to accurately identify the threats to, and subsequent consequences for, amphibians under natural conditions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1615–1626. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Differential Toxicity of Arsenic in Daphnia pulex Under Phosphorus and Food Limitation
Authors: Schultz Anthony , Owens Joseph , Demidenko Eugene , Roy Chowdhury Priyanka 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The on-going anthropogenic degradation of freshwater habitats has drastically altered the environmental supply of both nutrients and common pollutants. Most organisms living in these altered habitats experience interactive effects of various stressors that can initiate adjustments at multiple levels impacting their fitness. Hence, studies measuring response to a single environmental parameter fail to capture the complexities of the status quo. We tested both the individual and the interactive effect of arsenic (As) exposure, food quantity, and dietary phosphorus (P)-supply on six life-history traits (Juvenile Growth Rate; Adult Growth Rate; Age and Size at Maturity, Lifespan, and Fecundity) as surrogates for organismal fitness in the keystone aquatic grazer Daphnia pulex. We also tested the effect of food quantity and P-supply on somatic As accumulation in Daphnia. Our results indicated an influence of P-supply on neonatal growth and an influence of As and food quantity on growth and maintenance later in life. Maturation was strongly influenced by all three variables, with no reproduction observed in the presence of two or more environmental stressors. We found a strong interaction between As and dietary P, with increased P-supply intensifing the toxicity effect of As. No such effects were seen between As and food quantity, indicating a differential role of quantity versus quality on As toxicity. We found a nominal effect of diet on somatic As accumulation. The results from the present study emphasize the importance of considering such interactions between co-occurring environmental stressors and the dietary status of organisms, to better predict and manage impacts and risks associated with common environmental toxicants in highly vulnerable ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1807–1819. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Self‐doped conjugated polymers with electron‐deficient quinone units for enhanced electron transport in highly efficient organic solar cells
Authors: Luo Xi , Yu Jiangkai , Tang Haoran , Cai Houji , Xiong Wei , Zhang Kai , Huang Fei , Cao Yong 
Published: June 2024

AbstractOrganic solar cells (OSCs) have attracted significant attention as a burgeoning flexible technology, owing to their advanced power conversion efficiencies. Moreover, interface materials play a crucial role in optimizing energy level alignment between the active layer and electrodes, thereby enhancing carrier extraction within the device and improving efficiency. However, current methodologies for fabricating electron‐transport materials with superior mobility are still limited compared with those for hole‐transport materials. In this study, a benzodifurandione (BFDO)‐derived building block with quinone resonance property and strong electron‐withdrawing capability was synthesized. Two conjugated polymers, namely PBFDO‐F6N and PBFDO‐F6N‐Br, were prepared, both of which exhibited good electron mobility and exceptional interface modification capabilities. A comprehensive investigation of the interaction between the interface layer and the active layer revealed that PBFDO‐F6N induced doping at the acceptor interface. Additionally, the high mobility of PBFDO‐F6N facilitated efficient carrier extraction at the interface. Consequently, the application of PBFDO‐F6N as the cathode interface layer for PM6:BTP‐eC9‐based OSC devices resulted in a remarkable efficiency of 18.11%. Moreover, the device efficiency remained at ∼96% even at a PBFDO‐F6N interface thickness of 50 nm, demonstrating the great potential of this material for large‐scale device preparation.
Implementation of high‐performance, freestanding flexible film masks through photosensitive polyimide for arbitrary surface micropatterns creation
Authors: Dong Xuan , Chan Siew Yin , Zhao Ruoqing , Luo Lei , Xu Manzhang , Gao Jiuwei , Ju Xin , Wu Jing , Chi Dongzhi , Loh Xian Jun , Wang Xuewen 
Published: June 2024

AbstractGiven the widespread presence of intricate surfaces, the development of electronics has generated a significant demand for surface patterning techniques capable of creating refined or novel patterns. Nevertheless, present surface patterning techniques suffer from complex processes, limited resolution, stringent conditions, and high manufacturing costs. Herein, we present a novel approach for arbitrary surface micropatterning using photosensitive polyimide (PSPI), enabling the in situ fabrication of electrodes without the need for a pattern‐transferring process. On this basis, we have implemented a high‐performance, freestanding flexible thin‐film mask with high optical transparency that facilitates precise alignment of microelectrode patterns with the target material. It also exhibits exceptional mechanical properties suitable for long‐term use and high‐temperature applications, with a notable glass transition temperature of up to 300°C. The fabricated masks with thicknesses of 5–20 μm are well‐suited for high‐resolution applications, including those requiring sub‐5 μm resolution. Furthermore, the creation of microelectrodes on a variety of surfaces utilizing the fabricated PSPI masks was successfully demonstrated. Our facile method provides a solid foundation for achieving efficient micropatterning for the fabrication of high‐performance flexible electronics on complex surfaces.
Occurrence of common frog (Rana temporaria) and common toad (Bufo bufo) adults and metamorphs in agricultural fields in Germany: Potential for exposure to plant protection products
Authors: Taylor Nadine S. , Sadowski Jan , Schuster Hanna S. , Weyers Arnd , Weltje Lennart 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
To characterize the potential for exposure of amphibian terrestrial life stages to plant protection products (PPP), we studied the occurrence and habitat use of adult and metamorph common frogs (Rana temporaria) and common toads (Bufo bufo) in an agricultural landscape in Germany. The four selected study sites were breeding ponds with approximately 80% agricultural land within a 1-km radius. Adults were monitored by radio tracking for two years, and metamorph numbers were assessed for one summer using pitfall traps alongside drift fences. The results demonstrate that adults were rarely present in arable fields at any of the sites (overall 0.5% and 4% of total observations for frogs and toads, respectively). Metamorph captures in arable fields were more variable, ranging from 1.2% to 38.8% (frogs) and from 0.0% to 26.1% (toads) across study sites. Unsurprisingly, most captures in arable fields for both toad and frog metamorphs occurred at the site where the pond was completely surrounded by arable fields. Overall, the presence of adult amphibians in arable fields was limited and, for the metamorphs, occurred primarily when crops were denser and PPP spray interception higher. Diurnal hiding behavior was observed with the highest activity recorded at night, further reducing the risk of dermal exposure from direct PPP overspraying. In addition, it appeared that alternative habitats, such as woody structures or water bodies in the broader surrounding area, were preferred by the animals over the arable areas. The use of buffer zones around water bodies in agricultural areas would be an effective risk mitigation measure to protect terrestrial adults and metamorphs residing there and would reduce spray drift entry into water bodies during PPP application. It is hoped that these results will contribute to the discussion of risk assessment and mitigation options for amphibians. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2218–2230. © 2024 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Key Points
Relevant potential exposure for both adult and metamorph anuran amphibians (i.e., common frogs and toads) on agricultural land was assessed. The movement and behavior of both adult and metamorph common frogs and common toads exhibited a preference for nonarable habitats and reduced potential for exposure. Landscape management is an option to protect and support amphibian populations effectively.
Universal screening of postpartum depression with Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale: A prospective observational study
Authors: Fijean Anne‐Laure , Marçais Marianne , Banasiak Claire , Morel Olivier , Dahlhoff Sandra , Olieric Marie‐France , Mottet Nicolas , Epstein Jonathan , Bertholdt Charline 
Published: June 2024

AbstractObjectivesTo assess the feasibility of universal screening of postpartum depression (PPD), using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) in the general population. To investigate the proportion of women identified as being at risk of PPD and with confirmed PPD or other mental disorders after a psychiatric consultation.MethodsA multicenter prospective cohort study in four French maternities conducted between 2020 and 2023. All women aged over 18 years, who delivered following a singleton pregnancy after 37 weeks of gestation were eligible for inclusion. The exclusion criteria were pre‐existing psychiatric disorders such as depressive syndrome. The EPDS was completed at 8 weeks postpartum via an online self‐administered questionnaire. If the response to the questionnaire suggested a mental disorder, a psychiatric consultation was proposed to the women concerned. The endpoints were the proportion of women completing the EPDS, the EPDS score, the proportion of women at risk of PPD, the proportion of psychiatric consultation, and the subsequent diagnosis.ResultsThe study included 923 women, of whom 55.0% (508/923) completed the EPDS. Among them, 28.1% (143/508) had an EPDS score of 10 or more, and 11.2% (57/508) received a psychiatric consultation. PPD was confirmed in 8.8% (5/57) of women. Other disorders detected were mood disorders, disorders specifically associated with stress, and anxiety/fear‐related disorders, in 33.3%, 28.1%, and 14.0% of the women, respectively.ConclusionsScreening with self‐administered EPDS is feasible, with a good response rate, making it possible to suspect mental disorders, including PPD, and to offer psychological support when needed.
Yield prediction models for some wheat varieties with satellite‐based drought indices and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Akcapınar Muhammed Cem , Çakmak Belgin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIn recent years, frequent drought events in Konya, one of Türkiye's most important cereal production centres, have led to increased pressure on water and soil resources, resulting in yield losses, particularly in wheat production. Alternative yield prediction models, especially those that play a crucial role in agricultural import–export planning in the region, are important for economic contributions and the development of early warning systems. In this context, the aim of this study is to develop models that can be used in the yield prediction of wheat varieties widely grown in the Konya Altınova region. Agricultural drought indices obtained from Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and land surface temperature (LST) products of the Terra Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite were used to obtain model inputs. These indices are the Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Temperature Condition Index (TCI), Vegetation Health Index (VHI) and Vegetation Supply Water Index (VSWI). In obtaining the input parameters for the models, the growth periods of the varieties in the region were also considered. Using various machine learning algorithms, 21 yield prediction models for Bayraktar‐2000, 12 for Kızıltan‐91 and 8 for Bezostaya‐1 were presented as alternatives, with model performances (coefficient of determination, R2) ranging between 0.74 and 0.97, 0.73 and 0.96, and 0.69 and 0.87, respectively.
Energy‐efficient clustering algorithm using distributed fuzzy‐logic to prolong the survivability of wireless sensor networks
Authors: Alkwai Lulwah M. , Yadav Kusum 
Published: June 2024

AbstractEnergy efficiency is critical for prolonging the survivability of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), and clustering algorithms play a significant role in achieving this goal. An application‐specific wireless sensor network requires adapted methods and techniques to meet its requirements. A vast amount of research has been done on optimizing energy consumption and enhancing network lifetime of sensor nodes. To increase the lifetime of WSNs, we present and evaluate an energy‐efficient clustering algorithm based on distributed fuzzy logic (EECADFL). High reliability, low error rates during clustering, and its ability to perform well in large‐scale networks with many nodes are some of the main benefits of this method. In wireless sensor networks, simulation results showed that the scheme provided better lifetime performance while limiting dead nodes and improving cluster head selection.
Matrix‐variate risk measures under Wishart and gamma distributions
Authors: Arias‐Serna María Andrea , Caro‐Lopera Francisco José , Loubes Jean Michel 
Published: June 2024

AbstractMatrix‐variate distribution theory has been instrumental across various disciplines for the past seven decades. However, a comprehensive examination of financial literature reveals a notable gap concerning the application of matrix‐variate extensions to Value‐at‐Risk (VaR). However, from a mathematical perspective, the core requirement for VaR lies in determining meaningful percentiles within the context of finance, necessitating the consideration of matrix c.d.f. This paper introduces the concept of “matrix‐variate VaR” for both Wishart and Gamma distributions. To achieve this, we leverage the theory of hypergeometric functions of matrix argument and integrate over positive definite matrices. Our proposed approach adeptly characterizes a company's exposure by into a comprehensive risk measure. This facilitates a readily computable estimation of the total incurred risk. Notably, this approach enables efficient computation of risk measures under Wishart, exponential, Erlang, gamma, and chi‐square distributions. The resulting risk measures are expressed in closed analytic forms, enhancing their practical utility for day‐to‐day risk management.
Trends in the burden and determinants of HIV in the Asia‐Pacific region (1990−2019): An age‐period‐cohort analysis of the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Li Jing , Xie Dan‐Dan , Cui Hao‐Liang , Yue Chun , Wang Qin‐Yi , Luo Chuo , Tian Lin , Sheng Zhi‐Feng 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAlthough the burden of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Asia‐Pacific region is increasingly severe, comprehensive evidence of the burden of HIV is scarce. We aimed to report the burden of HIV in people aged 15−79 years from 1990 to 2019 using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019. We analyzed rates of age‐standardized disability‐adjusted life years (ASDR), age‐standardized mortality (ASMR), and age‐standardized incidence (ASIR) in our age‐period‐cohort analysis by sociodemographic index (SDI). According to HIV reports in 2019 from 29 countries in the Asia‐Pacific region, the low SDI group in Papua New Guinea had the highest ASDR, ASMR, and ASIR. From 1990 to 2019, the ASDR, ASIR, and ASMR of persons with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) increased in 21 (72%) of the 29 countries in the Asia‐Pacific region. During the same period, the disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) of AIDS patients in the low SDI group in the region grew the fastest, particularly in Nepal. The incidence of HIV among individuals aged 20−30 years in the low‐middle SDI group was higher than that of those in the other age groups. In 2019, unsafe sex was the main cause of HIV‐related ASDR in the region's 29 countries, followed by drug use. The severity of the burden of HIV/AIDS in the Asia‐Pacific region is increasing, especially among low SDI groups. Specific public health policies should be formulated based on the socioeconomic development level of each country to alleviate the burden of HIV/AIDS.
Short‐range molecular order is the driving factor for starch digestibility and texture of alginate‐encapsulated rice beads
Authors: Cao Senbin , Li Cheng 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDRice grain analogues with slow starch digestibility are commonly associated with an unsatisfactory texture, often leading to consumer dissatisfaction. Alginate encapsulation has been applied to reduce the digestibility of corn and potato starch. The fine molecular structures of rice starch can greatly determine its digestibility and texture. However, it remains unclear whether a combination of alginate encapsulation and varied starch molecular structures can be employed to create rice grain analogues that offer both slow starch digestibility and an appealing texture.RESULTSFor the first time, the present study constructed alginate‐encapsulated rice beads (as a rice grain analogue). A wide range of starch digestion rates were found among alginate‐encapsulated rice beads prepared with different rice varieties, and only certain rice varieties (e.g. Subei and Nanjing) were able to result in rice beads with slower starch digestibility than their parental rice kernels. More importantly, all rice beads showed a relatively softer texture compared to their parental rice kernels. Correlation analysis showed that starch digestion rate, hardness and stickiness were all positively correlated with the ratio of short‐range amorphous regions in rice bead samples, as obtained from Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, but not with the relative crystallinity.CONCLUSIONCollectively, these results suggest that rice beads with slower starch digestion rate and softer texture could be obtained by choosing rice varieties that develop more short‐range ordered structure after cooking. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comprehension of drying kinetics and stone milling process of chestnuts: a focus on moisture content, milling speed, and energy evaluation
Authors: Cappelli Alessio , Fiscella Mattia , Parenti Alessandro , Cini Enrico , Masella Piernicola 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDChestnut flour plays an important role in the production of bread, bakery products, and gluten‐free foods. Most of the references in the literature focus on the drying process itself and not on the effects of the drying and milling processes. Moreover, the literature is lacking recommendations regarding optimal moisture content and milling speed, thus motivating the present study. The first aim is to understand the chestnut drying process through an in‐depth evaluation of drying kinetics; the second aim is to assess the effects of three different moisture content (2%, 4% and 6%) and three different stone rotational speeds (120, 220 and 320 rpm) on operative milling parameters (flour yield, milling time, energy consumption, temperature increase, average power, specific milling energy), flour particle size distribution, and chestnut flours characteristics.RESULTSThe results show that moisture content and stone rotational speed have statistically‐significant effects on milling operative parameters, flour particle size and chestnut flour composition. In particular, stone rotational speed affected almost all the tested variables (mill operative parameters, flour particle size distribution, and flour characteristics). Therefore, as the stone rotational speed increases, energy consumption, average power, specific energy, and damaged starch content significantly increase.CONCLUSIONThese findings clearly show that moisture content and stone rotational speed are powerful tools that allow the exploiation of the milling process to modulate the characteristics of the obtained flours. In conclusion, two different approaches for chestnut milling were suggested depending on the type of flour to be produced. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.