bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Affirmative action policies in job advertisements for leadership positions: How they affect women's and men's inclination to apply
Authors: Nater Christa , Sczesny Sabine 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThis research investigates how affirmative action policies in job advertisements for leadership positions affect women's and men's inclination to apply. Management students (N = 389) received advertisements that differed in the strictness of announced gender policies: no statement, women explicitly invited to apply, preferential treatment of equally qualified women, or quota of 40% women. When women were treated preferentially, female participants reported higher self‐ascribed fit, which resulted in higher inclinations to apply compared with the control condition and with men. However, when quota regulations were active, female participants showed neither an increased self‐ascribed fit nor higher inclinations to apply. Interestingly, the underlying mechanism was not different when a quota regulation or no statement was announced: participants with higher agency levels reported higher inclinations to apply owing to an increase in self‐ascribed fit. This study provides evidence that only some preferential treatment policies may be successful in increasing women's interest in leadership positions.
The opportunities and challenges of diversity: Explaining its impact on individuals and groups
Authors: Ramos Miguel R. , Hewstone Miles , Barreto Manuela , Branscombe Nyla R. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractDemographic trends reveal that modern societies have become increasingly diverse. Within the social sciences, these changes have been reflected in concerns about the implications of social diversity. Although early research noted that diversity may have negative consequences for societies and individuals, more recent scholarship has indicated that diversity is not always translated into negative outcomes. These inconsistent findings initiated a scholarly debate concerning the impact of many different forms of diversity for a host of social outcomes. It is now clear that the boundary conditions of these effects are yet to be fully understood. This Special Issue offers a collection of research advances identifying mediating and moderating variables addressing when and why diversity impacts intergroup relational outcomes. By focusing on different levels of diversity (i.e., in the society and in groups), this research also sheds light on the effectiveness of ideologies and policies for managing diversity.
Photocoupled Bioanode: A New Approach for Improved Microbial Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Kim Hyeon‐Woo , Lee Kyeong‐Seok , Razzaq Abdul , Lee Sung Hyun , Grimes Craig A. , In Su‐Il 
Published: April 2017

AbstractMicrobial fuel cells (MFCs) received considerable attention because of their ability to provide dual advantages of electricity generation and wastewater treatment. However, their performance is primarily limited by the slow oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). To alleviate this problem, we describe a hybrid MFC in which a conventional bioanode is coupled with a TiO2 photoanode. The photocatalytic photoanode utilizes light to provide additional photogenerated electrons to the external circuit of the MFC, which promotes the ORR, as confirmed by power density curves and electrochemical impedance spectra, resulting in improved power generation (1284±20 mW m−2) compared to that of a normal MFC (850±12 mW m−2). Furthermore, the ability of the TiO2 photoanode to reduce CO2 to methane is demonstrated.
Microplastics as vectors for environmental contaminants: Exploring sorption, desorption, and transfer to biota
Authors: Hartmann Nanna B , Rist Sinja , Bodin Julia , Jensen Louise HS , Schmidt Stine N , Mayer Philipp , Meibom Anders , Baun Anders 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

The occurrence and effects of microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment are receiving increasing attention. In addition to their possible direct adverse effects on biota, the potential role of MPs as vectors for hydrophobic organic chemicals (HOCs), compared to natural pathways, is a topic of much debate. It is evident, however, that temporal and spatial variations of MP occurrence do (and will) occur. To further improve the estimations of the role of MPs as vectors for HOC transfer into biota under varying MP concentrations and environmental conditions, it is important to identify and understand the governing processes. Here, we explore HOC sorption to and desorption from MPs and the underlying principles for their interactions. We discuss intrinsic and extrinsic parameters influencing these processes and focus on the importance of the exposure route for diffusive mass transfer. Also, we outline research needed to fill knowledge gaps and improve model-based calculations of MP-facilitated HOC transfer in the environment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:488–493. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
Concentrations of microplastics (MPs) and environmental conditions change over time, meaning that spatio-temporal hotspots do (and will) occur, potentially changing the relative importance of MPs as hydrophobic organic chemical (HOC) vectors compared to natural pathways (such as water, food, and natural particulate matter). An improved understanding of the governing processes is needed to better evaluate the role of MPs as pathways for HOC transfer into biota under such varying conditions. We point out future research needed and highlight direct contact exposure as a route of HOC transfer process, which should not be overlooked when working toward a better understanding and model-based estimations of microplastic as HOC vectors in the environment.
Microplastics in the context of regulation of commercial shellfish aquaculture operations
Authors: Schoof Rosalind A , DeNike Jesse 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Shellfish aquaculture in the Salish Sea (encompassing the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Puget Sound, and the Georgia Strait) is a major source of clams, oysters, and mussels in the United States and Canada. Plastic gear is necessary for the viability of many of these operations. During the past few years, shellfish farm permits issued in Washington State have been challenged on various bases that have included allegations that the plastic gear is releasing microplastics, commonly defined as particles less than 5 mm in diameter. Published survey data on sources of marine plastic debris demonstrate the very limited contribution of aquaculture gear. Both permits and industry codes of practice provide procedures to minimize loss of gear to the marine environment. Plastic gear is also designed specifically to maintain its integrity and not degrade in the marine environment. Plastic degradation is greatest on beaches with high UV exposure, whereas aquaculture gear is mostly underwater and/or covered by biofoulants. Available data for microplastics in water, sediment, and biota of the Salish Sea do not suggest significant release of microplastics from shellfish aquaculture operations. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:522–527. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
Shellfish aquaculture in the Salish Sea is a major source of clams, oysters, and mussels in the United States and Canada, and plastic gear is necessary for the viability of many of these operations. Shellfish farmers use plastic gear that is designed to maintain its integrity in the marine environment, and management practices and permit conditions further minimize the potential for generating microplastics. Microplastics are ubiquitous in the marine environment, and both wild and farmed bivalves contain microplastics, with limited evidence indicating that bivalves in direct contact with aquaculture gear may have marginally higher concentrations of microplastic fibers. Available data for the Salish Sea indicate debris was higher near urban areas and appeared to be locally generated, whereas areas with high density of aquaculture activities do not appear to have greater levels of plastic marine debris.
Trophic transfer of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: Identifying critical research needs
Authors: Au Sarah Y , Lee Cindy M , Weinstein John E , van den Hurk Peter , Klaine Stephen J 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

To evaluate the process of trophic transfer of microplastics, it is important to consider various abiotic and biotic factors involved in their ingestion, egestion, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification. Toward this end, a review of the literature on microplastics has been conducted to identify factors influencing their uptake and absorption; their residence times in organisms and bioaccumulation; the physical effects of their aggregation in gastrointestinal tracts; and their potential to act as vectors for the transfer of other contaminants. Limited field evidence from higher trophic level organisms in a variety of habitats suggests that trophic transfer of microplastics may be a common phenomenon and occurs concurrently with direct ingestion. Critical research needs include standardizing methods of field characterization of microplastics, quantifying uptake and depuration rates in organisms at different trophic levels, quantifying the influence that microplastics have on the uptake and/or depuration of environmental contaminants among different trophic levels, and investigating the potential for biomagnification of microplastic-associated chemicals. More integrated approaches involving computational modeling are required to fully assess trophic transfer of microplastics. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:505–509. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
The trophic transfer of microplastics are dependent on a variety of abiotic and biotic factors including the feeding strategies of the organisms within the food web, their exposure to these particles in their habitat, the physical and chemical characteristics of the particles, and their residence times within organisms. Limited field evidence from higher trophic level organisms in a variety of habitats suggests that trophic transfer of microplastics may be occurring concurrently with direct ingestion. Integrated approaches involving computational modeling will be required to fully assess trophic transfer of microplastics.
Determining global distribution of microplastics by combining citizen science and in-depth case studies
Authors: Bosker Thijs , Behrens Paul , Vijver Martina G 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Microplastics (&lt;5 mm) are contaminants of emerging global concern. They have received considerable attention in scientific research, resulting in an increased awareness of the issue among politicians and the general public. However, there has been significant variation in sampling and extraction procedures used to quantify microplastics levels. The difference in extraction procedures can especially impact study outcomes, making it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to directly compare results among studies. To address this, we recently developed a standard operating procedure (SOP) for sampling microplastics on beaches. We are now assessing regional and global variations in beach microplastics using this standardized approach for 2 research projects. Our first project involves the general public through citizen science. Participants collect sand samples from beaches using a basic protocol, and we subsequently extract and quantify microplastics in a central laboratory using the SOP. Presently, we have 80+ samples from around the world and expect this number to further increase. Second, we are conducting 2, in-depth, regional case studies: one along the Dutch coast (close to major rivers, a known source of microplastic input into marine systems), and the other on the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean (in the proximity to a hotspot of plastics in the North Atlantic Ocean). In both projects, we use our new SOP to determine regional variation in microplastics, including differences in physicochemical characteristics such as size, shape, and polymer type. Our research will provide, for the first time, a systematic comparison on levels of microplastics on beaches at both a regional and global scale. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:536–541. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
To minimize procedural variation, we have developed a standard operation procedure (SOP) for the sampling and extraction of microplastics from sand samples. Sampling approaches on depth, distance to tidal line showed smaller differences in outcomes compared to extraction approach executed. We apply this SOP in a citizen science project, in which participants collect beach samples across the world, while extraction occurs in a central laboratory to ensure standardization. In addition, we are conducting 2 in-depth regional case studies to relate potential sources of microplastics to differences in microplastics levels and physicochemical characteristics (size, shape, and polymer type).
Microplastics as contaminants in commercially important seafood species
Authors: Santillo David , Miller Kathryn , Johnston Paul 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

The ingestion of microplastic fragments, spheres, and fibers by marine mollusks, crustaceans, and fish, including a number of commercially important species, appears to be a widespread and pervasive phenomenon. Evidence is also growing for direct impacts of microplastic ingestion on physiology, reproductive success and survival of exposed marine organisms, and transfer through food webs, although the ecological implications are not yet known. Concerns also remain over the capacity for microplastics to act as vectors for harmful chemical pollutants, including plastic additives and persistent organic pollutants, although their contribution must be evaluated alongside other known sources. The potential for humans, as top predators, to consume microplastics as contaminants in seafood is very real, and its implications for health need to be considered. An urgent need also exists to extend the geographical scope of studies of microplastic contamination in seafood species to currently underrepresented areas, and to finalize and adopt standardized methods and quality-assurance protocols for the isolation, identification, and quantification of microplastic contaminants from biological tissues. Such developments would enable more robust investigation of spatial and temporal trends, thereby contributing further evidence as a sound basis for regulatory controls. Despite the existence of considerable uncertainties and unknowns, there is already a compelling case for urgent actions to identify, control, and, where possible, eliminate key sources of both primary and secondary microplastics before they reach the marine environment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:516–521. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
Ingestion of microplastics by marine species, including bivalves, crustaceans, and fish of commercial importance, is a widespread and pervasive phenomenon, as is the transfer of these contaminants through food webs. Evidence for direct impacts of microplastics on the physiology and health of marine species is growing, and concerns remain regarding their potential role in accumulating, transferring, and delivering doses of harmful pollutants. It is almost inevitable that humans consuming seafood will also be ingesting some level of microplastic pollution, although the possible health implications are only beginning to be considered. Other urgent priorities include harmonization of methods for isolation and analysis of microplastics from biological tissues, to allow reliable investigation of spatial and temporal trends, as well as efforts to identify, control, and, where possible, eliminate sources of plastic pollution.
Current understanding of microplastics in the environment: Occurrence, fate, risks, and what we should do
Authors: Peng Jinping , Wang Jundong , Cai Liqi 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Microplastics pollution has been documented in the global environment, including at sea, in freshwater and in atmospheric fallout. Ingestion of microplastics by multiple kinds of organisms has been reported and has received increasing attention, because microplastics not only act as a source of toxic chemicals but also a sink for toxic chemicals. To better understand the great concerns about microplastics and associated toxic chemicals potential exposed to the organisms ingesting the debris, we should know more about the occurrence, fate, and risks of microplastics in the environment. What we should do depends on this better understanding. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:476–482. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
Microplastics were found in the marine environment, the freshwater environment, and atmospheric fallout. Microplastics not only act as a source of toxic chemicals but also a sink for toxic chemicals. Fate of microplastics might associate with sedimentation, shore deposition, nanofragmentation, and ingestion. Further research is needed, and what we should do depends on better understanding.
Ingestion of microplastics by fish and its potential consequences from a physical perspective
Authors: Jovanović Boris 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

The European Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the United States Microbead Free Waters Act are credited for being ambitious in their goals for protecting the marine environment from microplastics pollution. As a result, the microplastic pollution of marine environments and the incidence of microplastic ingestion by fish is rapidly receiving an increase in overdue attention. This commentary summarizes recent discoveries regarding the potential negative effects of micro- and nanoplastic ingestion by fish. Analysis shows that the occurrence of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract of fish is ephemeral, with low accumulation potential in the gastrointestinal tract, although translocation to the liver may occur. Nevertheless, the total load of micro- and nanoplastics that will pass through the gastrointestinal tract of a fish in its lifetime is likely high and will keep increasing in the future. This may pose a risk because there is evidence that micro- and nanoplastic ingestion can interfere with fish health. Observed effects of microplastics ingestion include (but are not necessarily limited to) intestinal blockage, physical damage, histopathological alterations in the intestines, change in behavior, change in lipid metabolism, and transfer to the liver. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:510–515. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
The mass of plastic in certain parts of some oceans is already surpassing the mass of plankton, and in the relatively near future, plastic will surpass fish stocks in the oceans by weight while the count of plastic micro- and nanoparticles will be considerably greater than the count of plankton. Occurrence of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract of fish is ephemeral, with low accumulation potential in the gastrointestinal tract, although translocation to the liver may occur. Ingestion of micro- and nanoplastics by fish may lead to physical blockage of the digestive organs and interference with feeding, change in behavior, mechanical injury, histopathological alterations in intestinal tract and liver, and change in lipid metabolism among other problems. Both microplastics quantity and ingestion frequency by fish will rise in the future as the input of microplastics in marine environment is increasing, whereas the cost of ocean cleanup operations from plastic litter is very high and microplastics cleanup, in particular, is highly unfeasible.
Microplastics are not important for the cycling and bioaccumulation of organic pollutants in the oceans—but should microplastics be considered POPs themselves?
Authors: Lohmann Rainer 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

The role of microplastic particles in the cycling and bioaccumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is discussed. Five common concepts, sometimes misconceptions, about the role of microplastics are reviewed. While there is ample evidence that microplastics accumulate high concentrations of POPs, this does not result in microplastics being important for the global dispersion of POPs. Similarly, there is scant evidence that microplastics are an important transfer vector of POPs into animals, but possibly for plastic additives (flame retardants). Last, listing microplastics as POPs could help reduce their environmental impact. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:460–465. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
Microplastics accumulate POPs relative to their surroundings, acting as passive samplers, yet there are insufficient microplastic particles to affect the global cycling of POPs. Laboratory experiments exposing clean animals to POP-contaminated microplastics observe the transfer of POPs into the animals but cannot demonstrate that this pathway is relevant in the field. Field observations of POPs in animals show little evidence that the ingestion of microplastics contributed much to their body burden with the exception of plastic additives. Microplastics should be considered as POPs as they share persistence, long-range transport, potential for bioaccumulation, and adverse effects with other POPs.
Microplastics in a freshwater environment receiving treated wastewater effluent
Authors: Lasee Steven , Mauricio Jessica , Thompson William A , Karnjanapiboonwong Adcharee , Kasumba John , Subbiah Seenivasan , Morse Audra N , Anderson Todd A 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Small plastic fragments (microplastics or solid particles &lt;5 mm in size or “microbeads” used in personal care products and cosmetics) may ultimately find their way into aquatic environments. We studied the presence of microplastics (particle sizes 53–105 μm and 106–179 μm) spatially and temporally in 3 connected urban lakes being fed by treated wastewater effluent in Lubbock, Texas. These lakes also serve as drainage during storm events. Water samples from drainage playa wetlands within the city were also collected. Our interest was in determining the presence or absence of microplastics in a freshwater environment as well as the source apportionment between personal care products (via wastewater) and discarded plastics (via runoff). Results showed that average concentrations of microplastics in samples collected from lakes ranged from 0.79 ± 0.88 mg/L to 1.56 ± 1.64 mg/L for the 53–105 μm size fraction and from 0.31 ± 0.72 mg/L to 1.25 ± 1.98 mg/L for the 106–179 μm size fraction. For samples collected from playa wetlands, average microplastic concentrations ranged from 0.64 ± 0.92 mg/L to 5.51 ± 9.09 mg/L for the 53–105 μm size fraction and from nondetectable (ND) to 1.79 ± 3.04 mg/L for the 106–179 μm size fraction. Our results (based on comparison of microplastic masses) suggest that urban runoff also contributes microplastics to surface water in addition to the treated wastewater effluent (in this particular case). The present findings may assist in adopting additional monitoring efforts and provide information on the potential contribution of secondary microplastic input into aquatic environments. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:528–532. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points
Our results suggest that urban runoff contributes microplastics to surface waters in addition to treated effluent. Our findings clarify the potential contribution of secondary microplastics into aquatic environments.
Sonographic detection of a lingual node metastasis from early squamous cell cancer of the tongue
Authors: Nishio Naoki , Fujimoto Yasushi , Hiramatsu Mariko , Yamamoto Yoko , Sone Michihiko 
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACTLingual node metastasis from early‐stage squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue is uncommon and difficult to detect. We present a case of a lingual lymph node metastasis from an early tongue cancer. Sonography demonstrated a small nonpalpable lingual node on the floor of the mouth. The patient underwent complete surgical resection and had no evidence of recurrence 5 years later. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 46:69–72, 2018;