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Plagioclase feldspar is a common mineral in terrestrial rocks and has recently been detected on Mars surface with visible near‐infrared (VNIR) spectroscopy. The presence of plagioclase using this method is determined through the identification of an absorption band centered around 1.3 μm on reflectance spectra, which requires the incorporation of Fe2+ in plagioclase lattice. Previous laboratory studies of powder mixtures showed that plagioclase should only be detectable if present in amounts >90% as its absorption band can be masked by those of mafic minerals. Plagioclase composition, but also the size of the grains and the associated minerals in a rock, influence the spectral signature of plagioclase feldspars. Thus, the analysis of whole, uncrushed rocks appears to be relevant for comparisons with Mars remote sensing observations that have shown plagioclase‐like signatures. In the present work, we performed laboratory measurements on five feldspar‐bearing terrestrial rocks of various nature chosen because they reflect the first order terrestrial magmatic variability. The mineralogical composition of these samples, the chemical composition of feldspar crystals, and total rock spectra as well as spectra of each mineral were determined using microscopy, electron microprobe, and VNIR spectroscopy. Our study shows that plagioclase signature is visible on the spectra of macroscopic rocks containing between 30% and 80% plagioclase of different compositions (An25‐An67). Our findings have strong implications for the interpretation of feldspar signatures on Mars, which can belong to a range of feldspar‐bearing rocks and could thus provide information about the formation of Mars' crust. Plain Language Summary: Plagioclase feldspar is a common mineral of terrestrial rocks that has recently been detected on the surface of Mars with reflectance spectroscopy. In geology, this method allows to non‐quantitatively assess the mineralogical composition of rocks by studying the spectrum of the sunlight reflected by them. Previous laboratory studies of plagioclase powders demonstrated that its spectral signature is quickly masked when mixed with more iron‐rich minerals and that 90% plagioclase content may be needed to observe their diagnostic absorption band around 1.3 μm. In the present study, five terrestrial samples of uncrushed rocks of varied nature, which contain plagioclase, were analyzed with instruments for petrographic and spectral characterization. A diverse set of instruments allowed us to obtain the total rock spectrum, its mineralogy, the spectrum of each mineral group, and the chemical composition of plagioclase for each sample. Our results show that plagioclase signature is present in the spectrum of all five rocks despite them having different compositions, textures, and amounts of plagioclase. We further demonstrate that the position of the plagioclase absorption band varies depending on multiple factors. Our findings have strong implications for the interpretation of feldspar signatures on Mars, which could correspond to a range of feldspar‐bearing rocks. Key Points: Petrographic and visible near‐infrared (VNIR) spectroscopic analyses of both macroscopic samples and powders, of various terrestrial magmatic rocks, are presentedFeldspar VNIR absorption band (variable position) is visible in the spectra of macroscopic rocks containing 30%–80% of plagioclaseA range of rock types and compositions could therefore match VNIR feldspar signatures that were recently observed on Mars [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) is currently undertaking a feasibility study to build the next-generation particle accelerator, named the Future Circular Collider (FCC), hosted in a 90–100 km subsurface infrastructure in the Geneva Basin, extending across western Switzerland and adjacent France. This article represents a preliminary, basin-scale stratigraphic and lithotype analysis using state-of-the-art Swiss and French stratigraphic terminology, set in context with the FCC. Existing stratigraphic information, rock cores and well reports, laboratory analyses and geophysical well-logs from 661 wells representative for the construction area have been integrated to pave the way for a multidisciplinary approach across several geoscientific and engineering domains to guide the FCC’s upcoming technical design phase. Comparisons with well-log data allowed the identification of rock formations and lithotypes, as well as to formulate a preliminary assessment of potential geological hazards. Regional stratigraphic evaluation revealed the FCC’s intersection of 13 geological formations comprising 25 different lithotypes across the Geneva Basin. A lack of data remains for the western to south-western subsurface region of the FCC construction area shown by well-density coverage modelling. The main geological hazards are represented by karstic intervals in the Grand Essert Formation’s Neuchâtel Member, Vallorbe and Vuache formations, associated to fractured limestone lithotypes, and Cenozoic formations represented by the pure to clayey sandstone-bearing Transition zone and Siderolithic Formation. Potential swelling hazard is associated to the presence of anhydrite, and claystone lithotypes of the Molasse Rouge and Grès et Marnes Gris à gypse formations, yielding up to 17.2% of smectite in the Molasse Rouge formation. Hydrocarbon indices in both gaseous and bituminous forms are encountered in the majority of investigated wells, and bear a potential environmental hazard associated with the Molasse Rouge deposits and fractured limestones of the Mesozoic Jura formations.

Simple Summary: In the present study, laboratory analyses conducted on unusual forages have been used to calculate various parameters and define some quality indexes using different equations. It was found that the quality of unusual forages decreased during the growth but maintained a high level. Different indexes were used to evaluate the forage quality. The Relative Feed Value and the Relative Forage Quality indexes, when calculated with the formula for legumes, correctly summarized the trend of the nutritional characteristics of the unusual forages at different maturity stages. The quality of a forage influences the production of animals, and it can be defined in many ways. Laboratory analyses are important tools because they can be used to indicate the quality of the forages, and they represent a relatively quick way of defining their nutritive values. However, specific quality indexes are necessary to evaluate and rank forages. The quality of conventional forages is predicted by different indexes, according to whether they are legumes or grasses. However, no indications are given about what formulae should be used for unusual forages. In the present study, laboratory analyses have been conducted on three unusual crops belonging to three different botanical families (amaranth, borage, and camelina) at four growth stages, and conventional quality indexes have been calculated and applied to establish their quality. The obtained results have shown that the nutritive value of the unusual forages modified during the growth, although they always maintained a high quality. Hence, the Relative Feed Value of unusual forages can be measured using the ADF content or digestibility value. The Relative Forage Quality, calculated with the legume formula, seems more appropriate for the considered unusual forages as it was able to reveal any changes that took place during maturity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The operation of the Karašnica Water Treatment Plant, forming part of the water system in Ilijaš Municipality, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is analysed in the paper. Two distinct water treatment lines are described and analysed. The first line consists of an internal circular settling tank and rapid sand gravity filters, while the second line consists of an external circular settling tank and pressure filters. In order to evaluate operating efficiency, a tour of the system facilities was made, interviews with the employees were conducted, the existing documentation was examined, and additional physicochemical and bacteriological analyses of appropriate water samples were conducted. Following analysis of all available data, appropriate conclusions and significant recommendations were made toward more efficient operation of the water treatment plant.

Abstract Background Fluorescein angiography is an important and frequently used diagnostic tool in ophthalmological practice. In this case report we describe a patient who experienced an anaphylactic reaction after the injection of fluorescein. Furthermore, we report an interference with laboratory testing by fluorescein in this patient and summarize the literature on this topic. Case presentation An 86-year old Caucasian woman undergoing fluorescein angiography due to suspected peripapillary neovascularizations collapsed after the injection of fluorescein. The patient developed an anaphylactic reaction. With fluid resuscitation and oxygen therapy, the patient regained consciousness after a few minutes. The patient was admitted to the geriatric ward for observation, and routine blood and urine tests were performed. Urine protein concentration appeared to be falsely increased as a consequence of disturbance of the laboratory analysis by the presence of fluorescein. Conclusions Serious complications can occur with fluorescein angiography, such as an anaphylactic reaction. In the case of anaphylaxis appropriate supportive measures including the use of oxygen and epinephrine (e.g. EpiPen), should be available to prevent morbidity and mortality from this test. Furthermore, these potential complications should be taken into consideration when choosing the healthcare setting for fluorescein angiography, such as the immediate availability of an acute medical team. Several studies have demonstrated the interference of laboratory analyses by fluorescein. The majority of these studies were published 10 to 30 years ago. By presenting this case, the authors hope to bring renewed attention to this phenomenon among clinicians, as falsely increased or decreased laboratory values can result in unnecessary diagnostics and/or therapy.

Japan is one of the countries that has a considerable number of archaeological sites that are dated back to thousands of years and are of value. They, as well as many archaeological sites worldwide, suffer weathering to different limits of damage categories. Specification of damage category of such ancient sites is of value for the decision of conservation. The current study aims to find out the prevailing weathering processes acting on the archaeological sites at the Yoshimi area. Also, it aims to map damage categories defined by field survey using a geographic information system (GIS 10.1) program, numerical specification of rock's damage categories applying the magneto-structive ultrasonic waves for measuring the velocity of the ultrasonic waves (Cp) at specific measuring points in the field. The rock's salt content has also been examined in the laboratory for small size representative rock samples at the Yoshimi region to find out the main reasons behind the prevailing weathering at the study area. Rock's petrography and mineral composition using a transmitting polarizing microscope and a scanning electron microscope indicated meta-sediments at the Yoshimi site with diagenetic kaolinite. The damage category at caves 2 and 3 is higher than that at cave 1 as indicated from field survey as well as laboratory measurements of Cp and rock's salt content. Mapping with GIS confirms that field specification of damage categories is highly matching with laboratory study for these caves. Chemical weathering and mechanical weathering are acting at these sites creating diagenetic kaolinite, micro-cracks, rock deformation up to rock powdering. Salt weathering acts through crystallization of chlorides and hydration of sulfates. Frost weathering as well as biological weathering by algae and plants deforms these sites that are of historical value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of our study was to evaluate the selected biochemical parameters of mouflon depending on gender. For research were used thirty mouflons of both sexes with approximate age in winter season. Blood samples for biochemical analysis were taken from vena jugularis for determination of selected biochemical parameter. Biochemical indicators were measured using the standard automatic analyser. The results of statistical testing of selected biochemical parameters in the experimental group of animals confirmed differences between the genders and at the selected biochemical parameters.

This study, based on vegetable production fields, combined soil quality assessed by three approaches (qualitatively by farmers, semi-quantitatively by a researcher and quantitatively by laboratory analyses) with the aim of improving the integration of the different approaches. We interviewed 79 peri-urban vegetable growers in two communities within the Sunyani Municipality, Ghana. Eight of the farmers were selected to participate in the farmer-based assessment of soil quality. Further, visual evaluation of soil quality was conducted by the researcher, followed by laboratory analyses of soil properties to corroborate the farmers' assessment of good and poor soils in their fields. Results showed that the farmers used locally-defined characteristics to describe the physical, biological and crop performance indicators of soil quality. There was, in general, limited use and understanding of soil chemical properties as indicators of soil quality. The farmers' perception on soil quality of their fields largely influenced their decision on the type of crops they cultivate, and application regimes of mineral fertilizers. Results from the visual evaluation by the researcher agreed in some respects with the farmers' assessment of soil quality of the good and poor soils in their respective farms. Laboratory analyses did not show specific trends for the content of chemical properties for neither good nor poor soils. The study highlighted that none of the approaches of soil quality assessment is necessarily superior in and of itself. We emphasized the need for integration to capitalize on the strengths of each approach, enhance mutual learning between farmers and soil scientists, build the capacity of farmers, and improve their decision on soil use for agricultural production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study area is fluviatile deposit which consists of yellow to light gray loose sand, iron oxide, and kaoline spreading from the land shallowing to sea direction. Concentration grade for determining of gold and silver content used a total analysis of the hot mixture HF-HNO3-HClO4 with measurements "Atomic Absorption Spectrofotometry".(AAS). Highest concentration of gold and silver found at sample GCTS-31 that gold 0.096 ppm and silver 2.284 ppm, in muddy sand type sediment, at 3.1 meters depth and arround 1,250 meter length from coast line. While the lowest concentration of the gold was 0.025 ppm found at sample GBTS 14 in very fine sand type sediment located at 1.07 meter depth and approximately 320 meters length from coast line. The lowest concentration of the silver was founded at sample GBTS 25 that is 0.860 ppm in sandy mud sediment type located at 2.49 meters depth and approximately 3,000 meters length from the coast line. The gold placer is may derived from weathering of Pambuang Formation which spreads in the west and north of Sampit Bay, and transported by Mentaya River and longshore current system.

Background: Fluorescein angiography is an important and frequently used diagnostic tool in ophthalmological practice. In this case report we describe a patient who experienced an anaphylactic reaction after the injection of fluorescein. Furthermore, we report an interference with laboratory testing by fluorescein in this patient and summarize the literature on this topic.Case Presentation: An 86-year old Caucasian woman undergoing fluorescein angiography due to suspected peripapillary neovascularizations collapsed after the injection of fluorescein. The patient developed an anaphylactic reaction. With fluid resuscitation and oxygen therapy, the patient regained consciousness after a few minutes. The patient was admitted to the geriatric ward for observation, and routine blood and urine tests were performed. Urine protein concentration appeared to be falsely increased as a consequence of disturbance of the laboratory analysis by the presence of fluorescein.Conclusions: Serious complications can occur with fluorescein angiography, such as an anaphylactic reaction. In the case of anaphylaxis appropriate supportive measures including the use of oxygen and epinephrine (e.g. EpiPen), should be available to prevent morbidity and mortality from this test. Furthermore, these potential complications should be taken into consideration when choosing the healthcare setting for fluorescein angiography, such as the immediate availability of an acute medical team. Several studies have demonstrated the interference of laboratory analyses by fluorescein. The majority of these studies were published 10 to 30 years ago. By presenting this case, the authors hope to bring renewed attention to this phenomenon among clinicians, as falsely increased or decreased laboratory values can result in unnecessary diagnostics and/or therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exposure of historical masonry structures to climatic conditions and to user interventions, as well as the loss of their functionality over time, leads to the divergence of these structures from their original form and their dilapidation into ruin. With the aim of preserving such structures as cultural assets, the material characteristics of the original members are determined in a laboratory and their seismic capacity is determined by means of numerical analyses. The present study covers the works carried out to return to its original form a ruined vault in a historical castle that was built as a defensive structure in early 1800s, but which has in time lost its structural integrity. The study consisted of four stages: field work, laboratory analysis, preservation applications and a numerical simulation of the examined structure. The field study involves a visual inspection of structural deterioration and the gathering of representative samples from various points of the structure. The laboratory study includes mechanical, chemical and mineralogical analyses of the samples taken from the structure. Applications for the restoration of the structure to its original form are presented in the third stage, while the seismic performance level of the structure against seismic effects is defined. The study is important in its presentation of the process of reverting a vault structure that has suffered a deterioration of structural integrity over time into its original form from a geometric and material point of view. Such vaults are of particular importance as elements of castle structures that were used for defensive purposes at the time. The findings obtained from the research have been foreseen to contribute the understanding of structural behavior and intervention decisions in the restoration process of load-carrying brick vault systems in historical structures. • It is investigated that structural problems and physical deteriorations in the historical ruined vault. • The laboratory tests and in situ analysis have been performed over samples gathered from the ruined structure. • The preservation and repair applications are presented regarding the ruined structure. • Numerical analyses are performed to determine the seismic resistance of the structure after the applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grant project of the USAID Agricultural Program - "Laboratory Tests for the sector of Laurel Culture" was implemented in 2020 by A.Tsereteli State University. The large-scale laboratory study for the laurel sector was conducted for the first time in Georgia in the frames of the project. The article deals with the results of the study executed on different types of soils in 6 municipalities of Samegrelo region, namely: Abasha, Senaki, Khobi, Zugdidi, Tsalenjikha, Chkhorotsku. The physicomechanical properties of the soil (Mechanical composition, fraction) together with complete chemical analysis (PH, exchange process, hydrolytic acidity, carbonate-composition, the consistency of basic nutrients - nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, the total of absorbed bases and the quantify of humus) were investigated during the study. The research performed was aimed at encouraging state agricultural programs to promote breeding of Laurel culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment modalities for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma have improved over the last years. Most patients can be cured with immunochemotherapy, and the question of adequate follow-up for early recognition of relapse has emerged. In this review, we illustrate that routine surveillance imaging and laboratory analysis provide a low yield of asymptomatic relapses and fail to improve the prognosis. Relapse is mostly associated with the development of new findings or symptoms and can be clinically detected. Follow-up should be performed in a symptom-orientated manner, should take place to allow early recognition of late toxicities and to facilitate rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanometre CaO and pure carbon smoke particles were collected at 38-km altitude in the upper stratosphere in the Arctic during June 2008 using DUSTER (Dust in the Upper Stratosphere Tracking Experiment and Retrieval). This balloon-borne instrument was designed for non-destructive collection of solid particles between 200 nm to 40 µm. We report here on micrometre CaCO3 (calcite) grains with evidence of thermal erosion and smoke particles that formed after melting and vaporisation and complete dissociation of some of the CaCO3 grains at temperatures of approximately 3500 K. These conditions and processes suggest that the environment of this dust was a dense dust cloud that had formed after disintegration of a carbonaceous meteoroid during deceleration in the atmosphere. The balloon-borne collector must have coincidentally travelled through the dust cloud of a recent bolide event that had penetrated between 38.5 and 37 km altitude. This work identified a previously unknown meteoric smoke forming process in addition to meteoric smoke particles due to photolysis-driven oxidation of mesospheric metals from meteor ablation that had settled into the upper stratosphere.

We examined and parameterized chlorophyll-specific phytoplankton absorption coefficients (a*ph(λ)) for three turbid productive Estonian lakes on the basis of bio-optical measurements in 2005-2013. A new model parameterization was created that enables to reconstruct the spectra of a*ph(λ) for turbid productive waters with the higher reliability than previous parameterizations for ocean and coastal waters. The coefficients A(λ) and B(λ) of our model differ from those found in seas, coastal waters and other types of lakes. For any water type separately the increase of total chlorophyll concentration accompanied with the decrease of a*ph. Our results showed significant seasonal differences between the model parameters due to diversity of the phytoplankton assemblages. This suggests that season-specific models should be developed and validated. Improving the modelling of chlorophyll-specific phytoplankton absorption spectra for hypertrophic lakes is still pending on the availability of a larger dataset, which includes simultaneous measurements of chlorophyll concentrations, phytoplankton absorption coefficients and phytoplankton species composition. Our results implied that total chlorophyll concentration is not a universal predictor of the magnitude of chlorophyll-specific phytoplankton absorption coefficient. The aph(λ) models are also likely site and season dependent. Further research is needed for quantifying the role of accessory pigments and other optical constituents as well as the cell size of dominant algal species for considering their influence on the modelling outputs.

This paper investigates the effect on compaction and subsidence induced by gas production using two techniques for coupling fluid-flow and geomechanics. To this end, a synthetic case representing a typical, shallow, weakly compacted, multi-layered, off-shore gas reservoir in the Adriatic Sea was set up and its dynamic and mechanic behavior during gas production was analyzed. Three numerical models (i.e., geological; fluid-flow and geomechanical) were built using high quality data set from an existing gas-bearing formation (off-shore Croatia). The laboratory analyses for deformation and strength parameters determination were conducted together with tests to define the coupling law required by the adopted coupling technique. Experimental data showed strong permeability stress-dependent behavior of core samples retrieved from gas bearing layers. Nevertheless, the results showed that the system stress-strain evolution always remains in the elastic domain and the deformation magnitude is extremely narrow (10−4 m/m) due to the limited net effective stress variation induced by the stressed production scenarios. The difference between the coupling techniques is negligible in terms of subsidence evolution at ground level but not in terms of compaction at reservoir level. Furthermore, the two-way coupled technique could be used for better development planning by integrating reservoir, drilling and completion management.

Depending on the band position on the electromagnetic spectrum, optical and electronic characteristics, sensors collect the reflected energy by the Earth’s surface and the atmosphere. Currently, the availability of the new generation of medium resolution, such as the Multi-Spectral Instrument (MSI) on board the Sentinel-2 satellite, offers new opportunities for long-term high-temporal frequency for Earth’s surfaces observation and monitoring. This paper focuses on the analysis and the comparison of the visible, the near-infrared (VNIR), and the shortwave infrared (SWIR) spectral bands of the MSI for soil salinity discrimination in an arid landscape. To achieve these, a field campaign was organized, and 160 soil samples were collected with various degrees of soil salinity, including non-saline soil samples. The bidirectional reflectance factor was measured above each soil sample in a goniometric laboratory using an ASD (Analytical Spectral Devices) spectroradiometer. In the laboratory work, pHs, electrical conductivity (EC-Lab), and the major soluble cations (Na+, K+, Ca2++, and Mg2+) and anions (CO32−, HCO3−, Cl−, and SO42−) were measured using extraction from a saturated soil paste, and the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) was calculated using a standard procedure. These parameters, in addition to the field observations, were used to interpret and investigate the spectroradiometric measurements and their relevant transformations using the continuum removed reflectance spectrum (CRRS) and the first derivative (FD). Moreover, the acquired spectra over all the soil samples were resampled and convolved in the solar-reflective spectral bands using the Canadian Modified Herman transfer radiative code (CAM5S) and the relative spectral response profiles characterizing the Sentinel-MSI band filters. The statistical analyses conducted were based on the second-order polynomial regression (p < 0.05) between the measured EC-Lab and the reflectances in the MSI convolved spectral bands. The results obtained indicate the limitation of VNIR bands and the potential of SWIR domain for soil salinity classes’ discrimination. The CRRS and the FD analyses highlighted a serious spectral-signal confusion between the salt and the soil optical properties (i.e., color and brightness) in the VNIR bands. Likewise, the results stressed the independence of the SWIR domain vis-a-vis these soil artifacts and its capability to differentiate significantly among several soil salinity classes. Moreover, the statistical fit between each MSI individual spectral band and EC-Lab corroborates this trend, which revealed that only the SWIR bands were correlated significantly (R2 of 50% and 64%, for SWIR-1 and SWIR-2, respectively), while the R2 between the VNIR bands and EC-Lab remains less than 9%. According to the convergence of these four independent analysis methods, it is concluded that the Sentinel-MSI SWIR bands are excellent candidates for an integration in soil salinity modeling and monitoring at local, regional, and global scales.

Heretofore very little research has been done on a specific soil type in Hungary called „erubáz”, which develops on volcanic rocks. Its largest uniform and unbroken spot is located in the central part of Börzsöny Mountains (High Börzsöny). It is assumed that in reality this spot extends beyond its contours indicated in the soil map of the area. The main objective of the research project was to carry out a detailed analysis of this soil type and to identify its subtypes and varieties. A large scale soil mapping (1:25 000) and geomorphological mapping (1:10 000) was performed in order to determine the spatial distribution of the subtypes and varieties and to investigate the relationship between the territorial extension and geomorphological position. The sampling network was set after a thorough study of environmental conditions (e.g. relief, botanical conditions etc.). 38 soil profiles and 115 boring samples were taken by Pürckhauer auger because of the significant inhomogeneity of the studied area. Our former studies (Madarász, B. 2009) revealed that two varieties of the s-called ‘erubáz’ soil, i.e. the brown and the black erubáz can be distinguished in the study area. Black erubáz soils occur on narrow ridges with high elevations as described in the classical definition by P. Stefanovits. After a few 10 meters from the crest of the ridges downslope they will be replaced by the brown erubáz. The latter can be found on the top of the ridges and on their slopes as well whilst the black erubáz appears only above 700 m a.s.l. except one smaller spot. The occurrence of the brown erubáz is controlled by soil climatic conditions. It develops mainly where enough moisture and heat are available for the decomposition of organic material but they are not sufficient and the geomorphic position is not suitable for the development of forest soils.

We examined and parameterized chlorophyll-specific phytoplankton absorption coefficients [a* ph(λ)] for three turbid productive Estonian lakes on the basis of bio-optical measurements in 2005-2013. A new model parameterization was created that enables to reconstruct the spectra of a* ph(λ) for turbid productive waters with the higher reliability than previous parameterizations for ocean and coastal waters. The coefficients A(λ) and B(λ) of our model differ from those found in seas, coastal waters and other types of lakes. For any water type separately the increase of total chlorophyll concentration accompanied with the decrease of a* ph. Our results showed significant seasonal differences between the model parameters due to diversity of the phytoplankton assemblages. This suggests that season-specific models should be developed and validated. Improving the modelling of chlorophyll-specific phytoplankton absorption spectra for hypertrophic lakes is still pending on the availability of a larger dataset, which includes simultaneous measurements of chlorophyll concentrations, phytoplankton absorption coefficients and phytoplankton species composition. Our results implied that total chlorophyll concentration is not a universal predictor of the magnitude of chlorophyll-specific phytoplankton absorption coefficient. The aph(λ) models are also likely site and season dependent. Further research is needed for quantifying the role of accessory pigments and other optical constituents as well as the cell size of dominant algal species for considering their influence on the modelling outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Point-of-care testing (POCT) refers to any diagnostic test administered outside the central laboratory at or near the location of the patient. By performing the sample collection and data analysis steps in the same location POCT cuts down on transport and processing delays, resulting in the rapid feedback of test results to medical decision-makers. Over the past decades the availability and use of POCT have steadily increased in Europe and throughout the international community. However, concerns about overall utility and the reliability of benefits to patient care have impeded the growth of POCT in some areas. While there is no agreed-upon standard for how success should be judged, the increases in speed and mobility provided by POCT can lead to substantial advantages over traditional laboratory testing. When properly utilized, POCT has been shown to yield measurable improvements in patient care, workflow efficiency, and even provide significant financial benefits. However, important organizational and quality assurance challenges must be addressed with the implementation of POCT in any health care environment. To ensure maximal benefits it may be necessary to evaluate critically and restructure existing clinical pathways to capitalize better on the rapid test turnaround times provided by POCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present work describes the methods for detecting and classifying calcite in archeological ceramics, the forms of calcite and their interpretation in archeometric terms. Calcite appears in form of coarse granules and fine particles, and its origin can be primary or secondary. Coarse granules can be polycrystalline or mono-crystals of calcite. Fragments of shells, fossils or microfossils are also found. Primary calcite is the initial calcite preserved in low-fired pottery. Secondary calcite, formed after the ceramic firing, may be reformed (re-carbonated) calcite, precipitated calcite or calcite from alteration. The firing can cause the formation of a ‘reaction rim’ around coarse granules of calcite, while strong decomposition of coarse calcite causes the formation of ‘calcite ghosts’. The identification of the forms of calcite gives information on raw materials, the firing temperature and the manufacturing technology of the pottery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cimorné is a decorative cement render that consists of a pigmented cement mortar in which opalescent glass granules are projected to create a unique textured and coloured façade. Plasterer Pierre Pétroons developed and patented this remarkable finish in the early 1930s. Probably inspired by Italian terrazzo finishes, he started to experiment with mass coloured and opalescent glass granules. Cimorné was applied all over Belgium in the inter-war period: both Walloon labourers' cottages and new modernistic villas were covered with cimorné. This craftsmanship, however, developed very locally because of the oral transmission of the formula and application technique. Hence hardly any information or knowledge is available for future restoration. Thus a wide range of sources was consulted in order to reconstruct the origin of raw materials (both cement mortar and opalescent glass), the original formula, possible application methods and the evolution and spread of this remarkable rendering technique. Knowledge obtained from the consultation of archival documents like patents, plasterer and glassmaking manuals, journals and building specifications was supplemented with testimonies of retired plasterera. The historical soureed data were compared with results of laboratory analyses of onsite lifted cimorné and glass samples. This paper contributes to the valorization of cimorné render, providing insight into its origin, development, composition and characteristics, which will result in pilot restoration trials and will contribute to future renovation projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanometre CaO and pure carbon smoke particles were collected at 38-km altitude in the upper stratosphere in the Arctic during June 2008 using DUSTER (Dust in the Upper Stratosphere Tracking Experiment and Retrieval). This balloon-borne instrument was designed for non-destructive collection of solid particles between 200 nm to 40 µm. We report here on micrometre CaCO3 (calcite) grains with evidence of thermal erosion and smoke particles that formed after melting and vaporisation and complete dissociation of some of the CaCO3 grains at temperatures of approximately 3500 K. These conditions and processes suggest that the environment of this dust was a dense dust cloud that had formed after disintegration of a carbonaceous meteoroid during deceleration in the atmosphere. The balloon-borne collector must have coincidentally travelled through the dust cloud of a recent bolide event that had penetrated between 38.5 and 37 km altitude. This work identified a previously unknown meteoric smoke forming process in addition to meteoric smoke particles due to photolysis-driven oxidation of mesospheric metals from meteor ablation that had settled into the upper stratosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the reaction of general practitioners (GPs) to a reform in 2004 in the remuneration system for using laboratory services in general practice. The purpose of this paper is to study whether income motivation exists regarding the use of laboratory services in general practice, and if so, the degree of income motivation among general practitioners (GPs) in Norway. We argue that the degree of income motivation is stronger when the physicians are uncertain about the utility of the laboratory service in question. We have panel data from actual physician-patient encounters in general practices in the years 2001-2004 and use discrete choice analysis and random effects models. Estimation results show that an increase in the fees will lead to a small but significant increase in use. The reform led to minor changes in the use of laboratory analyses in GPs' offices, and we argue that financial incentives were diluted because they were in conflict with medical recommendations and existing medical practice. The patient's age has the most influence and the results support the hypothesis that the impact of income increases with increasing uncertainty about diagnosis and treatment. The policy implication of our results is that financial incentives alone are not an effective tool for influencing the use of laboratory services in GPs' offices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paper summarizes the techniques available for in situ and laboratory testing of natural stones used in historical monuments by combining the results of previous studies and papers published in this volume. From diagnostic studies of decay forms via non-destructive to low-destructive on site test wide ranges of new techniques available for understanding the behaviour of stones under ambient conditions. Laboratory tests facilitate the identification of stones by using petrographic–mineralogical analyses and also allows understanding of the role of micro-fabric in durability. Rock mechanical properties also significantly influence the long-term durability of stones. Testing of responses of stones to external stress factors such as salt or thermal shock is also demonstrated in the published papers by presenting various scenarios and methods of ‘fatigue’ analyses. Finally, the need for a complexity of approaches in stone testing and limitations of available authentic stone resources are also covered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Due to its particular composition, honey has the ability of inhibiting and even destroying microorganisms. However, certain types of micro-organisms persist in honey, usually in latent condition, and some species of yeasts, due to their pronounced osmophilic trait, can multiply and cause fermentation of the product, making him unfit for human consumption. Research has been conducted in 2007 and 2008, being prelevated and examined a total number of 552 samples from 5 sorts (locust tree honey, linden tree honey, sunflower honey, rape honey and polifloral honey). Laboratory analyses have endorsed the determination of the total number of yeasts and moulds, using the colonies counting technique (CFU/g). It was found that the examined honey samples had a minimal contamination, in several ones being detected the presence of pathogenic conditioned bacteria or pathogenic bacteria, and some others presented an yeasts and moulds level higher than 100 CFU/g, the sorts with the highest number of fungi being the sunflower honey and the rape honey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane and glass fiber filters are widely used in laboratory water and wastewater analyses. During sample filtration, some filters release organic compounds, which may interfere with organic analyses. This research investigated the interferences due to organic leaching in the determinations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), biodegradable dissolved organic carbon (BDOC), soluble biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and soluble chemical oxygen demand (COD) and the appropriate cleaning method for the filters. Nineteen filters studied included 16 membrane filters and 3 glass fiber filters. A wide variation was observed on the amount and characteristics of organics leaching from the filters. Some filters showed no organic leaching while some others had very high organic leaching. Soaking the filters in deionized distilled water (DDW) resulted in more leachable organics from the filters compared with filtering DDW through them. Certain filters should be avoided for use in the above analyses and soaking in DDW is a more suitable cleaning method than discarding initial filtration volumes for most filters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this article, the authors report on the analysis of a groundwater sample from an area that has been impacted by cyanide-containing residuals. Several common analytical procedures were used to illustrate and compare the concentrations of cyanide that the various methodologies were able to detect. Replicates of each analysis were run for comparison. In addition, filtered and unfiltered sample aliquots were analyzed to evaluate whether significant differences could be observed with any of the analytical methods that could be attributed to relative solubility differences among the cyanide species present. Special emphasis is placed on the usefulness of the data for manufactured gas plants (MGP) site project applications. The current work opens the gate for future studies into environmental forensic applications of cyanide source identification based on the comparison of the differing analytical methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea salt damage to porous building materials is a well-known problem not only in regions located near the sea but also in continental areas. In walls, sea salts may stem from different sources: they may penetrate from the ground by rising damp, maybe carried by the wind in the form of salt spray, may be due to flooding, occasional or recurrent, or may also be caused by the use of sea water in the preparation of the mortar. Although accelerated crystallization tests performed in laboratory on building materials usually show that sea salts (sodium chloride) are less harmful to masonry than, for example, sodium sulfate, in reality they may cause serious damage. Different decay patterns of sea salt weathering can be found for different sources and conditions. This is shown for a building, with various sources of sea salts present in the same masonry wall: the church of Domburg, located in a coastal area of Zeeland (The Netherlands). According to the sea salt origin a ‘rising damp zone’ showing brick blistering and a ‘sea spray zone’ affected by powdering of the brick can be identified at different height from the ground level. In the first case the effect of sodium chloride is indirect, as the blistering is a result of catalyst effects of sodium chloride on gypsum formation. In the latter case the effect of sodium chloride is direct, as the powdering of the bricks may be caused by a combination of crystallization, differential thermal expansion and hydration. The paper reports the investigation of the two damage mechanisms in which several complementary test techniques were applied: moisture and hygroscopic moisture measurements, ion chromatography, XRD, petrographical analyses and mercury porosimetry. All of them have contributed to provide a complete and clear definition of the different decay mechanisms in relation to the sea salts and moisture sources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: The study was to analyze the relationship laboratory parameters of the blood in acute phase of hemorrhagic stroke and its unfavorable outcomes within 90 days., Material and Methods: We performed retrospective analysis of 122 patients with hemorrhagic stroke from Dyurtyuli district hospital between 2015 and 2020. The laboratory parameters in patients with favorable and unfavorable outcomes were compared. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify the independent predictors of death after hemorrhagic stroke., Results: Death within 90 days after hemorrhagic stroke was registered in 16 cases (13%). In this group of patients the count of RBC, lymphocytes, prothrombin index, hemoglobin level were lower, count of WBC, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and INR were higher ( p <0.05). Patients' age, stroke severity according to NIHSS, hemoglobin level, NLR were the independent predictors of death in patients with hemorrhagic stroke according to multivariate analysis., Conclusion: Standard laboratory analyses can predict the outcome of hemorrhagic stroke.

• Critical discussion on caprock reactions due to pure CO 2 injection. • Critical review on the impacts of caprock reactivity due to trace compounds in CO 2. • A comprehensive review on geochemical models to predict the reactions of caprock. • Unsolved problems and suggestions for future studies to find caprock reactions. The long-term CO 2 storage in deep saline aquifers mainly depends on the performance of caprock. However, one of the major concerns with deep saline CO 2 sequestration at geological time scales is the back-migration of injected CO 2 through the caprock due to chemico-mineralogical variations with time. Several studies, including geo-chemical models and laboratory tests, have investigated the behaviours of caprock in the presence of CO 2. This paper reviews laboratory and numerical studies of the geo-chemical properties of caprock, highlights the gaps in research and provides suggestions for future research on caprock characteristics in deep saline aquifers after CO 2 injection. Accordingly, a significant attention should be paid on potential field scale caprock reactivity in long term scale associated with geological CO 2 sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) for optimal pressure management of water distribution networks (WDNs) is proven, but problems and operational limitations have been highlighted by some recent experiences. In this study, we analyse the functioning of a piston-actuated pressure-reducing valve (PA-PRV) with a mechanical pilot which is subjected to low-flow regimes, a condition that is often observed in real water distribution networks. The analyses were carried out by means of laboratory tests featuring two sets of experiments, i.e., (a) by testing the behaviour of the PRV when a pre-established initial value and subsequent variation of flow rate occurs in the system and (b) by testing the PRV against a temporal series of flow rates observed at the inlet section of a real district metered area. The first set of tests showed that the PA-PRV tends not to maintain pressure at the imposed set-point and exhibits an unstable behaviour characterised by significant pressure oscillations under some flow rate conditions. The second set of laboratory tests showed that the anomalous behaviour identified in the first set of tests can occur under ordinary operational conditions of a network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the effect on compaction and subsidence induced by gas production using two techniques for coupling fluid-flow and geomechanics. To this end, a synthetic case representing a typical, shallow, weakly compacted, multi-layered, off-shore gas reservoir in the Adriatic Sea was set up and its dynamic and mechanic behavior during gas production was analyzed. Three numerical models (i.e., geological; fluid-flow and geomechanical) were built using high quality data set from an existing gas-bearing formation (off-shore Croatia). The laboratory analyses for deformation and strength parameters determination were conducted together with tests to define the coupling law required by the adopted coupling technique. Experimental data showed strong permeability stress-dependent behavior of core samples retrieved from gas bearing layers. Nevertheless, the results showed that the system stress-strain evolution always remains in the elastic domain and the deformation magnitude is extremely narrow (10−4 m/m) due to the limited net effective stress variation induced by the stressed production scenarios. The difference between the coupling techniques is negligible in terms of subsidence evolution at ground level but not in terms of compaction at reservoir level. Furthermore, the two-way coupled technique could be used for better development planning by integrating reservoir, drilling and completion management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depending on the band position on the electromagnetic spectrum, optical and electronic characteristics, sensors collect the reflected energy by the Earth’s surface and the atmosphere. Currently, the availability of the new generation of medium resolution, such as the Multi-Spectral Instrument (MSI) on board the Sentinel-2 satellite, offers new opportunities for long-term high-temporal frequency for Earth’s surfaces observation and monitoring. This paper focuses on the analysis and the comparison of the visible, the near-infrared (VNIR), and the shortwave infrared (SWIR) spectral bands of the MSI for soil salinity discrimination in an arid landscape. To achieve these, a field campaign was organized, and 160 soil samples were collected with various degrees of soil salinity, including non-saline soil samples. The bidirectional reflectance factor was measured above each soil sample in a goniometric laboratory using an ASD (Analytical Spectral Devices) spectroradiometer. In the laboratory work, pHs, electrical conductivity (EC-Lab), and the major soluble cations (Na+, K+, Ca2++, and Mg2+) and anions (CO32−, HCO3−, Cl−, and SO42−) were measured using extraction from a saturated soil paste, and the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) was calculated using a standard procedure. These parameters, in addition to the field observations, were used to interpret and investigate the spectroradiometric measurements and their relevant transformations using the continuum removed reflectance spectrum (CRRS) and the first derivative (FD). Moreover, the acquired spectra over all the soil samples were resampled and convolved in the solar-reflective spectral bands using the Canadian Modified Herman transfer radiative code (CAM5S) and the relative spectral response profiles characterizing the Sentinel-MSI band filters. The statistical analyses conducted were based on the second-order polynomial regression (p < 0.05) between the measured EC-Lab and the reflectances in the MSI convolved spectral bands. The results obtained indicate the limitation of VNIR bands and the potential of SWIR domain for soil salinity classes’ discrimination. The CRRS and the FD analyses highlighted a serious spectral-signal confusion between the salt and the soil optical properties (i.e., color and brightness) in the VNIR bands. Likewise, the results stressed the independence of the SWIR domain vis-a-vis these soil artifacts and its capability to differentiate significantly among several soil salinity classes. Moreover, the statistical fit between each MSI individual spectral band and EC-Lab corroborates this trend, which revealed that only the SWIR bands were correlated significantly (R2 of 50% and 64%, for SWIR-1 and SWIR-2, respectively), while the R2 between the VNIR bands and EC-Lab remains less than 9%. According to the convergence of these four independent analysis methods, it is concluded that the Sentinel-MSI SWIR bands are excellent candidates for an integration in soil salinity modeling and monitoring at local, regional, and global scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]