bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wastewater Fines Influence the Adsorption Behavior of Pollutants onto Microplastics
Authors: Nikpay Mitra 
Published: July 2021

AbstractMillions of tons of microplastics (MPs) enter the wastewater collection systems every day and interact with raw sewage. In addition to MPs, varieties of organic and inorganic fines from urban effluents release into the sewer system and provide suitable surfaces for adsorption. To better understand the quantitative assessment of MPs sorption in wastewater and the role of fines, batch reactor experiments were performed using synthetic wastewater solutions containing organic, inorganic, and mixed organic–inorganic fines, and the results compared to a solution without fines. The MPs were two types of clean polypropylene (PP) particles, isotactic (iPP) and atactic (aPP). The results showed in all applied solutions the adsorption of pollutants was higher for the aPP averaging 1.3 mg/g compared with 0.5 mg/g for iPP, indicating that the adsorption varies with the type of polymer and surface properties. Further experiments also revealed a decrease in the sorption values of MPs for solutions containing inorganic fines, measured as the partition coefficient (Kd) and adsorbed concentration at equilibrium (qe). The result of the measured reference conductivity (к25) of the solutions for the same tests showed similar trends indicating that the magnitude of pollution adsorption onto MPs surfaces is controlled by the surface charge potential of the fine particles. The relationship between the qualitative assessments of ion removal, measured in terms of к25, and their quantitative assessment of adsorption values in terms of Kd in several identical tests, verifying that the conductivity of the solution was modified after adsorption of wastewater constituents onto the MPs.
Description of the concrete carbonation process with adjusted depth-resolved thermogravimetric analysis
Authors: Vogler Nico , Drabetzki Philipp , Lindemann Mathias , Kühne Hans-Carsten 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe thermal gravimetric analysis (TG) is a common method for the examination of the carbonation progress of cement-based materials. Unfortunately, the thermal properties of some components complicate the evaluation of TG results. Various hydrate phases, such as ettringite (AFt), C–S–H and AFm, decompose almost simultaneously in the temperature range up to 200 °C. Additionally, physically bound water is released in the same temperature range. In the temperature range between 450 °C and 600 °C, the decomposition of calcium hydroxide and amorphous or weakly bound carbonates takes place simultaneously. Carbonates, like calcite, from limestone powder or other additives may be already contained in the noncarbonated sample material. For this research, an attempt was made to minimise the influence of these effects. Therefore, differential curves from DTG results of noncarbonated areas and areas with various states of carbonation of the same sample material were calculated and evaluated. Concretes based on three different types of cement were produced and stored under accelerated carbonation conditions (1% CO2 in air). The required sample material was obtained by cutting slices from various depths of previously CO2-treated specimen and subsequent grinding. During the sample preparation, a special attention was paid that no additional carbonation processes took place. As reference method for the determination of the carbonation depth, the sprayed application of phenolphthalein solution was carried out. Microscopic analysis was examined to confirm the assumptions made previously. Furthermore, the observed effect of encapsulation of calcium hydroxide by carbonates caused by the accelerated carbonation conditions was examined more closely.
Root engineering in maize by increasing cytokinin degradation causes enhanced root growth and leaf mineral enrichment
Authors: Ramireddy Eswarayya , Nelissen Hilde , Leuendorf Jan Erik , Van Lijsebettens Mieke , Inzé Dirk , Schmülling Thomas 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Key message
Root-specific expression of a cytokinin-degrading CKX gene in maize roots causes formation of a larger root system leading to higher element content in shoot organs.

Abstract
The size and architecture of the root system is functionally relevant for the access to water and soil nutrients. A great number of mostly unknown genes are involved in regulating root architecture complicating targeted breeding of plants with a larger root system. Here, we have explored whether root-specific degradation of the hormone cytokinin, which is a negative regulator of root growth, can be used to genetically engineer maize (Zea mays L.) plants with a larger root system. Root-specific expression of a CYTOKININ OXIDASE/DEHYDROGENASE (CKX) gene of Arabidopsis caused the formation of up to 46% more root dry weight while shoot growth of these transgenic lines was similar as in non-transgenic control plants. The concentration of several elements, in particular of those with low soil mobility (K, P, Mo, Zn), was increased in leaves of transgenic lines. In kernels, the changes in concentration of most elements were less pronounced, but the concentrations of Cu, Mn and Zn were significantly increased in at least one of the three independent lines. Our data illustrate the potential of an increased root system as part of efforts towards achieving biofortification. Taken together, this work has shown that root-specific expression of a CKX gene can be used to engineer the root system of maize and alter shoot element composition.
Climate Mobility and Development Cooperation
Authors: Stojanov Robert , Rosengaertner Sarah , de Sherbinin Alex , Nawrotzki Raphael 
Published: July 2021

AbstractDevelopment cooperation actors have been addressing climate change as a cross-cutting issue and investing in climate adaptation projects since the early 2000s. More recently, as concern has risen about the potential impacts of climate variability and change on human mobility, development cooperation actors have begun to design projects that intentionally address the drivers of migration, including climate impacts on livelihoods. However, to date, we know little about the development cooperation’s role and function in responding to climate related mobility and migration. As such, the main aim of this paper is to outline the policy frameworks and approaches shaping development cooperation actors’ engagement and to identify areas for further exploration and investment. First, we frame the concept of climate mobility and migration and discuss some applicable policy frameworks that govern the issue from various perspectives; secondly, we review the toolbox of approaches that development cooperation actors bring to climate mobility; and third, we discuss the implications of the current Covid-19 pandemic and identify avenues for the way forward. We conclude that ensuring safe and orderly mobility and the decent reception and long-term inclusion of migrants and displaced persons under conditions of more severe climate hazards, and in the context of rising nationalism and xenophobia, poses significant challenges. Integrated approaches across multiple policy sectors and levels of governance are needed. In addition to resources, development cooperation actors can bring data to help empower the most affected communities and regions and leverage their convening power to foster more coordinated approaches within and across countries.
Simultaneous approximations to p-adic numbers and algebraic dependence via multidimensional continued fractions
Authors: Murru Nadir , Terracini Lea 
Published: July 2021

AbstractUnlike the real case, there are not many studies and general techniques for providing simultaneous approximations in the field of p-adic numbers $$\mathbb Q_p$$

Q
p

. Here, we study the use of multidimensional continued fractions (MCFs) in this context. MCFs were introduced in $$\mathbb R$$
R
by Jacobi and Perron as a generalization of continued fractions and they have been recently defined also in $$\mathbb Q_p$$

Q
p

. We focus on the dimension two and study the quality of the simultaneous approximation to two p-adic numbers provided by p-adic MCFs, where p is an odd prime. Moreover, given algebraically dependent p-adic numbers, we see when infinitely many simultaneous approximations satisfy the same algebraic relation. This also allows to give a condition that ensures the finiteness of the p-adic Jacobi–Perron algorithm when it processes some kinds of $$\mathbb Q$$
Q
-linearly dependent inputs.
Tailorable and Repeatable Normal Contact Stiffness via Micropatterned Interfaces
Authors: Perris Jack , Xu Yang , Kartal Mehmet E. , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Mulvihill Daniel M. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
An approach to producing interfaces with tailored and repeatable normal contact stiffness using micropatterned surfaces is developed. A finite element model is first used to design square wave interfaces having a range of stiffnesses, and these are fabricated in polycarbonate via a microfabrication process. Results demonstrate that the contact stiffnesses of the fabricated interfaces are both tailorable and repeatable. The approach can be broadened to other materials and is useful for applications requiring specified interface stiffness. Finally, even with these deterministic interfaces, we show that low levels of roughness on the surface features are sufficient to produce a load-dependent contact stiffness at lower loads. Therefore, tailorability is mostly applicable above this limit where total contact stiffness converges to a load-independent value.

Graphic Abstract
Human-Water Dynamics and their Role for Seasonal Water Scarcity – a Case Study
Authors: Lindqvist Andreas Nicolaidis , Fornell Rickard , Prade Thomas , Tufvesson Linda , Khalil Sammar , Kopainsky Birgit 
Published: July 2021

AbstractEnsuring sustainable management and an adequate supply of freshwater resources is a growing challenge around the world. Even in historically water abundant regions climate change together with population growth and economic development are processes that are expected to contribute to an increase in permanent and seasonal water scarcity in the coming decades. Previous studies have shown how policies to address water scarcity often fail to deliver lasting improvements because they do not account for how these processes influence, and are influenced by, human-water interactions shaping water supply and demand. Despite significant progress in recent years, place-specific understanding of the mechanisms behind human-water feedbacks remain limited, particularly in historically water abundant regions. To this end, we here present a Swedish case study where we, by use of a qualitative system dynamics approach, explore how human-water interactions have contributed to seasonal water scarcity at the local-to-regional scale. Our results suggest that the current approach to address water scarcity by inter-basin water transports contributes to increasing demand by creating a gap between the perceived and actual state of water resources among consumers. This has resulted in escalating water use and put the region in a state of systemic lock-in where demand-regulating policies are mitigated by increases in water use enabled by water transports. We discuss a combination of information and economic policy instruments to combat water scarcity, and we propose the use of quantitative simulation methods to further assess these strategies in future studies.
The Effect of Water and Sewage Treatment on Reducing Residues of Selected Organochlorine Pesticides in Szczecin (Poland)
Authors: Cybulski Jacek , Witczak Agata , Pokorska-Niewiada Kamila 
Published: July 2021

AbstractWater is principally intended for direct consumption and for the production of food and beverages. It is also a valuable raw material in the industry. Despite the use of multi-stage treatment processes, the quality of drinking water may still be a concern in some countries due to the presence of toxic pollutants, often challenging to remove through the conventional treatment process. The presence of even trace amounts of organochlorine pesticides in drinking water is dangerous due to their ability to accumulate in the human body and their effects, especially their capacity for endocrine disruption. The present study aimed to assess the effect of water and sewage treatment on the efficiency of reducing residues of selected organochlorine pesticides in drinking water and treated sewage. It was found that the water treatment process reduced concentrations of these compounds by an average of 80% (46–100%) and that the levels of organochlorine pesticides in the drinking water were no higher than 0.55% the maximum residue limit (MRL). The sewage treatment process led to a reduction in organochlorine pesticide concentration of 37–100%, averaging 85%, and the sums of organochlorine pesticide residues in treated sewage ranged between 0.02 and 14.97 ng/L in annual terms.
Spa therapy interventions for post respiratory rehabilitation in COVID-19 subjects: does the review of recent evidence suggest a role?
Authors: Maccarone Maria Chiara , Masiero Stefano 
Published: July 2021

AbstractPulmonary rehabilitation is essential in post-COVID subjects, reporting respiratory impairment after the discharge from the hospital. Because the number of patients with respiratory outcomes is high and there are few facilities available, we wonder if a spa setting could represent a valid out-of-hospital alternative. We aim to explore recent evidence related to respiratory rehabilitation in the spa environment to understand if it can represent an appropriate setting for respiratory rehabilitation interventions in post-COVID subjects. Studies were found by screening PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar databases from 2011 up to February 2021. Studies were eligible if they were reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or clinical trials, investigating respiratory interventions in the spa environment. Recent evidence has shown that inhalations and mineral-rich water immersions are effective in fighting and preventing multiple chronic respiratory tract diseases. Therefore, these treatments could also be applied to post-COVID patients with medium long-term respiratory outcomes.
Clinical and prognostic 18F-FDG PET/CT role in recurrent vulvar cancer: a multicentric experience
Authors: Albano Domenico , Bonacina Mattia , Savelli Giordano , Ferro Paola , Busnardo Elena , Gianolli Luigi , Camoni Luca , Giubbini Raffaele , Bertagna Francesco 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this retrospective multicentric study was to investigate the diagnostic performance, the prognostic value and the impact of 18F-FDG PET/CT on treatment decision-making in patients with suspected recurrent vulvar cancer (VC).

Materials and methods
Sixty-three patients affected by VC performed 18F-FDG-PET/CT for restaging purposes in case of suspected clinical and/or radiological recurrence. Histopatology results if available and/or clinical-imaging follow-up for at least 12 months were considered as reference standard. The diagnostic accuracy and the clinical impact of 18F-FDG PET/CT were investigated. Progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results
Fifty-two (82.5%) PET/CT showed the presence of recurrence, while the remaining 11 (17.5%) were negative. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of PET/CT were 100% (95%CI 93–100%), 92% (95%CI 62–100%), 98% (95%CI 89–99%), 100% and 98% (95%CI 92–100%). A relevant impact of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging was registered in 28 cases: in 12 cases moving from local therapy to chemotherapy due to the recognition of disseminate localizations; in 10 showing the site of recurrence in presence of negative conventional imaging, and in 6 cases confirming to be true negative and avoiding unnecessary therapies. Beside advanced age and HPV status, a positive restaging 18F-FDG PET/CT scan was significantly correlated with shorter PFS and OS compared to negative scan (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
18F-FDG PET/CT demonstrated to be an accurate tool in the assessing of recurrent VC with high sensitivity and specificity and with a significant impact on clinical decision-making. Restaging 18F-FDG PET/CT findings were associated with survival.
Chemical, electrochemical, thermodynamic and adsorption study of EN8 dual-phase steel with ferrite-martensite structure in 0.5 M H2SO4 using pectin as inhibitor
Authors: Prabhu P. R. , Hiremath Pavan , Prabhu Deepa , Gowrishankar M. C. , Gurumurthy B. M. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis paper presents the corrosion and inhibition behavior of heat-treated EN8 dual-phase steel with ferrite-martensite structure with pectin in 0.5 M sulphuric acid. The corrosion studies were performed using the weight loss method, electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization measurements, and impedance spectroscopy. The study was done at different concentrations of pectin in the temperature range of 40 to 70 °C and immersion time of 1, 3, 5, and 7 h. The results showed that the inhibition performance of pectin has enhanced with an increase in pectin concentration and decreased with the temperature and time of exposure. From the weight loss study, highest inhibition efficiency of 76.43% was achieved at 5.0 g/L at 1 h of exposure at 40 °C. The maximum inhibition efficiency of 62% was obtained with 5.0 g/L of pectin at 40 °C by potentiodynamic polarization method. The energy, enthalpy, and entropy of activation and also thermodynamic parameters like free energy, enthalpy, and entropy of adsorption were assessed and discussed. Appropriate adsorption isotherm was fit to the obtained experimental outcomes and achieved Langmuir adsorption isotherm to be the best fit and obeyed physical adsorption. Surface analysis: scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction techniques, atomic force microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray were done with and without the addition of pectin. The metal surface appears to be uniform and smooth in the presence of pectin and adsorption was confirmed by surface analysis.
Gas-priming as a novel simple method of seed treatment with ethylene, hydrogen cyanide or nitric oxide
Authors: Kępczyński Jan 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe gases used: ethylene (C2H4), hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and nitric oxide (NO) showed a high activity as inductors of germination in primary dormant or non-dormant seeds exposed to stress or suboptimal temperatures. So far, research on the role of ethylene, hydrogen cyanide and nitric oxide has involved these gases during seed germination. This work describes gas-priming as a novel method for treating air dry seeds of the genusAmaranthusserving as a model. Effects of C2H4, HCN or NO applied to dry seeds were similar to those obtained when the gases were used during seed germination for an identical period of time. Application of the gases to air dry seeds presents a new opportunity to study the role of those gases in germination of dormant and non-dormant seeds and to constrain effects of the gases from time 0. The prolonged treatment time for dry seeds (24 h) is convenient because if the treatment is started in the morning, there is sufficient time the next day for further experiments to begin, e.g. germination test in water or in solutions of other compounds. Moreover, it is important that the gas-treated seeds can be stored or transported prior to use. The gas-priming method allows to prepare treated seed samples which can be used in experiments either immediately or after storage in open air or in a closed container. Gas-priming with C2H4, HCN and NO is a simple and useful treatment of air-dried seeds, which opens up new useful possibilities for basic research on the role of those gases in releasing dormancy and seed germination of various plant species. In addition, the method may prove very useful in horticulture and agriculture in improving germination of gas-sensitive seeds.
Acculturation and Re-entry Culture Confrontation: the Case of Development Workers
Authors: Genkova Petia , Pollinger Johanna 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe study at hand investigated the reintegration of development workers in terms of the sociocultural adaption and societal engagement after the return to the home country. The investigation had a cross-sectional design with 311 returned development workers. The results show that the sociocultural adaption of development workers several years after their return was significantly related to their job-related personality. However, there were no group differences for cultural distance. Results indicate that individuals who are more actively working together with others might be more likely to readapt well after return. Moreover, the results show that experienced social appreciation of the stay abroad is a relevant predictor of further engagement. Considering that appreciation is very likely to be a central motive for development workers, this underlines the importance for organizations to worship the engagement of repatriating development workers by offering support as well as by creating a culture in which extraordinary engagement is honored sufficiently.
Volitional Action Control and Depression in Chronic Pain: Does Action versus State Orientation Moderate the Relations of Pain-Related Cognitions to Depression?
Authors: Buchmann J. , Baumann N. , Meng K. , Semrau J. , Kuhl J. , Pfeifer K. , Vogel H. , Faller H. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn this study, we examined the conditional indirect and direct relations of pain-related cognitions to depression. Subjective helplessness was included as presumably mediating the relations of catastrophizing and thought suppression to depression due to motivational deficits. In addition, moderating effects of dispositional action versus state orientation were analyzed, whereby state orientation indicates volitional deficits in coping with distress. The study was based on self-report data from 536 patients with chronic non-specific low back pain at the beginning of inpatient rehabilitation. Moderated mediation analyses were performed. The indirect catastrophizing- and thought suppression-depression relations were (partially) mediated by subjective helplessness; and moderated by failure-related action versus state orientation. Moreover, action versus state orientation moderated the direct relation of thought suppression to depression. Results suggest that catastrophizing, thought suppression, and subjective helplessness do not lead to depression unless associated with self-regulatory inability (i.e., state orientation). In contrast, action-oriented patients more effectively self-regulate pain-related emotions, disengage from rumination, and distract from pain and thus better avoid the debilitating effects of negative pain-related cognitions on depression. Future research and treatment may more strongly focus on the role of motivational and volitional deficits underlying learned helplessness and depression in chronic pain.