Microplastic analysis in sediments of the Elbe River by electrostatic separation and differential scanning calorimetry.

This study presents the most extensive investigation of microplastic (MP) contents in sediment from the Elbe River. We employed electrostatic separation (ES) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to overcome limitations of sample throughput and time-consuming analysis. In total 43 sediment samples were collected using a Van-Veen grab.

Regression analysis for the determination of microplastics in sediments using differential scanning calorimetry.

This research addresses the growing need for fast and cost-efficient methods for microplastic (MP) analysis. We present a thermo-analytical method that enables the identification and quantification of different polymer types in sediment and sand composite samples based on their phase transition behavior. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was performed, and the results were evaluated by using different regression models.

[Preparedness on Assaults with Highly Toxic Substances in Public Space].

The use of chemical substances in terrorist scenarios is to be feared everywhere, especially in the western world, after the events that have become known in recent years. In order to protect civilian populations in an emergency, it is essential that the poisoning pattern (toxidrome) is recognized as quickly and reliably as possible through further training of the relevant agents and the provision of necessary rescue equipment (antidotes) in prepared facilities. In the event of a chemical attack with terrorist motivation, doctors from the Public Health Service (PHS) will foreseeably play a key role in communicating with decision-makers and the public a spart of a competency network.

Impact of ambient air pollution on the differential white blood cell count in patients with chronic pulmonary disease.

Epidemiologic studies report associations between particulate air pollution and increased mortality from pulmonary diseases. This study was performed to examine whether the exposure to ambient gaseous and particulate air pollution leads to an alteration of the differential white blood cell count in patients with chronic pulmonary diseases like chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma. A prospective panel study was conducted in Erfurt, Eastern Germany, with 12 repeated differential white blood cell counts in 38 males with chronic pulmonary diseases.