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Copyright of Hungarian Medical Journal / Orvosi Hetilap is the property of Akademiai Kiado and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Knowledge of the heterogeneity of aquifers caused by sedimentary processes is essential for preferential flow path and flow time estimations due to the spreading of contaminants and ground water protection. Spectral Induced Polarization (SIP) method is a useful geophysical method that can be used to predict hydraulic properties from surface measurements, as there is a close connection between electrical and hydraulic parameters of rocks. Thus, the influence of aquifer heterogeneities such as sedimentary structures on the relationship between SIP parameters and hydraulic conductivity has been subject of some studies and is still an area of interest. In this paper we present the results of laboratory measurements on defined heterogeneous sand samples with the aim to improve the understanding of that connection. More specifically we investigated the dependence of hydraulic conductivity (K ), as well as several SIP parameters like quadrature conductivity ( σ ′ ′ ), in-phase conductivity ( σ ′ ), phase shift (φ ) and chargeability spectra ( m (τ) ), which were calculated by Debye decomposition, on the composition of samples. For the laboratory experiments a measurement cell was designed to carry out hydraulic flow experiments and 4-electrodes SIP measurements on samples in the decimeter scale. The samples consisted of two different sands with different grain size distributions. The two sands were combined in varying volume shares and geometries as well as in parallel and serial orientation relative to hydraulic and electrical current flow. The experimental results show that the SIP parameters and K are clearly dependent on the volume share of the sand components. In terms of preferential flow paths, known correlations to hydraulic conductivity could be reproduced, however the SIP parameters showed no dependency on the orientation of hydraulic heterogeneities. The results indicate that in samples, where the porosity and thus also the electrical conductivity amplitude are approximately homogeneous and only the grain surface area and hydraulic conductivity vary, the mean electrical parameters determined from the SIP data do not provide any information for recognising preferential flow within the scope of the measurement accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate non-specific and ski-specific performance development in male (M) and female (F) peri-pubertal cross-country skiers and to evaluate their relationship with cross-country skiing (XCS) performance and biological maturation within each age category and sex. Methods: Twenty-one and 19 athletes under 14 and 16 years old, respectively (U14 and U16), were tested for biological maturation; non-specific speed, agility, strength, endurance, and balance; ski-specific speed, agility, and endurance. XCS index was considered as average percentage time-gap from the winner in four official races. Sex and age-category effects were verified and a model predicting XCS index was extrapolated for each group. Results: Performance capacities raised across age categories (p < 0.05) except for non-specific speed, agility, balance, and relative arm strength (p > 0.05). F showed advanced biological maturation and greater balance than M (p < 0.05), while M showed higher performance capacities (p < 0.05). XCS index was not related to biological maturation within each group (p > 0.05); its variance was explained by non-specific speed and ski-specific upper-body endurance in M-U14 (p = 0.014), lower-limb strength and ski-specific agility in M-U16 and F-U14 (both p = 0.001), ski-specific upper-body endurance in F-U16 (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Ski-specific performance capacities still develop during peri-puberty, with peri-pubertal M overperforming with respect to F of comparable performance level. XCS index was not influenced by biological maturation withing each age category, but it was rather explained by specific parameters that commonly undergo the "adolescent spurts", accordingly to the average biological maturation level of M and F athletes of each age category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing the critical need for precise streamflow measurements in hydro-environmental research, this study evaluates large-scale particle image velocimetry (LSPIV) using cost-effective closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, providing a detailed sensitivity analysis in both laboratory and real-world canal settings. In laboratory conditions, a 45° camera angle notably enhanced performance, exhibiting a 12% decrease in MAE and a remarkable 40% reduction in RMSE compared to the performance of orthographic form. Tracer particles further enhanced LSPIV accuracy, decreasing both mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE) by around 0.05 m/s. Optimal velocity coefficients for the lab ranged between 0.85 and 0.90. Nighttime measurements, using projection-based illumination, showed a minor 3% MAE variation and 0.02 RMSE difference versus daytime. In field experiments, a 45° upstream CCTV camera configuration notably improved LSPIV accuracy, achieving a 3% MAE and 0.055 m/s RMSE. For best results across different turbidity levels, we recommend a velocity coefficient range of 0.84 to 0.88. This study highlights the robustness and cost-efficiency of LSPIV as a transformative method for streamflow gauging, demonstrating its wide applicability in diverse hydro-environmental scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPatients with cancer may be at high risk of adverse outcomes from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We analyzed a cohort of patients with cancer and coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) reported to the COVID-19 and Cancer Consortium (CCC19) to identify prognostic clinical factors, including laboratory measurements and anticancer therapies.Patients and methodsPatients with active or historical cancer and a laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis recorded between 17 March and 18 November 2020 were included. The primary outcome was COVID-19 severity measured on an ordinal scale (uncomplicated, hospitalized, admitted to intensive care unit, mechanically ventilated, died within 30 days). Multivariable regression models included demographics, cancer status, anticancer therapy and timing, COVID-19-directed therapies, and laboratory measurements (among hospitalized patients).ResultsA total of 4966 patients were included (median age 66 years, 51% female, 50% non-Hispanic white); 2872 (58%) were hospitalized and 695 (14%) died; 61% had cancer that was present, diagnosed, or treated within the year prior to COVID-19 diagnosis. Older age, male sex, obesity, cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities, renal disease, diabetes mellitus, non-Hispanic black race, Hispanic ethnicity, worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, recent cytotoxic chemotherapy, and hematologic malignancy were associated with higher COVID-19 severity. Among hospitalized patients, low or high absolute lymphocyte count; high absolute neutrophil count; low platelet count; abnormal creatinine; troponin; lactate dehydrogenase; and C-reactive protein were associated with higher COVID-19 severity. Patients diagnosed early in the COVID-19 pandemic (January-April 2020) had worse outcomes than those diagnosed later. Specific anticancer therapies (e.g. R-CHOP, platinum combined with etoposide, and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors) were associated with high 30-day all-cause mortality.ConclusionsClinical factors (e.g. older age, hematological malignancy, recent chemotherapy) and laboratory measurements were associated with poor outcomes among patients with cancer and COVID-19. Although further studies are needed, caution may be required in utilizing particular anticancer therapies.Clinical trial identifierNCT04354701.

Porous asphalt mixture (PAM) is designed to have high air voids content to let water run-off permeates the pavement surface. In this study, image-based analysis was conducted to evaluate the packing structures of three different PAM gradations, namely PAM-1 (largest proportion of coarse aggregates), PAM-2 (intermediate proportion of coarse aggregates), and PAM-3 (least proportion of coarse aggregates). Three packing parameters were calculated, namely number of contact zones, contact length, and tortuosity. Laboratory tests, namely permeability test, Marshall stability test, indirect tensile stiffness modulus and creep test, were performed to evaluate the properties of PAM. The results showed that contact length has close correlation with mechanical properties of PAM, as a longer contact length indicates better aggregate interlocking. Herein, packing structure of PAM-2 had sufficient number of contact zones with the longest contact length and least tortuosity on the average, indicating that aggregate interlocking in PAM-2 was the sturdiest. The study demonstrates that image-based analysis is a useful technique for studying the quality of the packing structure of PAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Materiały Budowlane is the property of Wydawnictwo SIGMA-NOT and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study contributes to the communal effort to improve understanding of sea spray generation and transport. For the first time, laboratory‐derived sea spray generation functions (SSGFs) are parameterized in the Meso‐NH mesoscale atmospheric model and are field tested. Formulated from the MATE19 laboratory experiments (Bruch et al., 2021, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-021-00636-y) the two SSGFs are driven by the upwind component of the wave‐slope variance 〈Sx2〉 $\langle {S}_{x}^{2}\rangle $ (herein B21A), or both 〈Sx2〉 $\langle {S}_{x}^{2}\rangle $ and the wind friction velocity cubed u∗3 ${u}_{\ast }^{3}$ (herein B21B). In this first attempt to incorporate the SSGFs in Meso‐NH, the simulations are run without a wave model, and the wave‐wind SSGFs are assumed wind‐dependent. Model evaluation is achieved with a new set of sea spray and meteorological measurements acquired over the 0.1–22.75 μm radius range and U10 1–20 m s−1 wind speeds onboard R/V Atalante during the 25 day SUMOS field campaign in the Bay of Biscay. The B21B SSGF offers particularly good sensitivity to a wide range of environmental conditions over the size range, with an average overestimation by a factor 1.5 compared with measurements, well below the deviations reported elsewhere. B21A also performs well for larger droplets at wind speeds above 15 m s−1. Associated with airflow separation and wave breaking, wave‐slope variance allows to represent multiple wave scales and to scale sea spray generation in the laboratory and the field. Using Meso‐NH simulations we find that sea spray may be transported inland and to altitudes well above the marine atmospheric boundary layer. Plain Language Summary: The effects of sea spray on weather and climate remain poorly understood as a result of sparse measurements and large uncertainties in the generation flux. With the aim of improving sea spray transport in atmospheric models, two sea spray generation functions derived from the MATE19 laboratory campaign are parameterized in the Meso‐NH mesoscale atmospheric model. The simulations are run over the Bay of Biscay in February–March 2021, and are compared with super‐micron sea spray concentrations measured during the SUMOS field campaign. Results show that the laboratory‐derived generation functions allow accurate predictions of sea spray concentrations. Furthermore, simulations show that sea spray droplets can be transported far over land, and high into the atmosphere, highlighting their availability to contribute to a wide range of atmospheric processes. Key Points: With comparable wave‐slope variance behavior in laboratory and field conditions we use laboratory‐derived sea spray generation functions in the fieldParameterized with laboratory generation functions and validated using field measurements, Meso‐NH yields accurate sea spray concentrationsBy populating the atmosphere beyond 2.5 km altitude and 100 km inland, sea spray can intervene in a range of weather and cimate processes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the generation of a uniform data base of 2733 non-stationary thermal conductivity laboratory measurements of about 158 soil cores with varying texture, bulk density, soil organic matter, pH, and carbonate content. This data set has been used to validate ten well established pedo-transfer functions for predicting thermal conductivity by using easily available soil information such as soil texture, bulk density, and water content. Models were grouped into (i) physically based and (ii) empirical ones that need measured data for its calibration. The classical physical based transfer-function of deVries et al. has been finally chosen to set up a framework of standard values for the USDA soil classes. For planning purposes, these λ estimates for selected pressure heads only need information on soil texture and bulk density and may be more valuable than single point values of thermal conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the natural radioactivities of eight characteristic rocks from the Opava Mountains region (Eastern Sudetes, Poland) as measured in the laboratory and under in situ field conditions. Activity concentrations for 232Th, 238U, and 40K were obtained using an HPGe gamma-ray spectrometry system. Activities for 232Th ranged from 2 to 39 Bq kg-1 as measured in the laboratory and from 5 to 38 Bq kg-1 measured under in situ field conditions. For 238U, the activity concentrations ranged from 4 to 37 Bq kg-1 in the laboratory and from 7 to 42 Bq kg-1 under in situ field conditions. For 40K, activity concentrations ranged from 12 to 820 Bq kg-1 in the laboratory and from 60 to 826 Bq kg-1 under in situ field conditions. Measured activity concentrations were compared with average activity concentrations of radionuclides in similar types of rocks from different global localities. The in situ field measurement and laboratory measurements did not show significant differences indicating that both methods provide reliable 232Th, 238U, and 40K results for different lithologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The established process for oil condition monitoring is to periodically take a sample and have it analysed in an oil laboratory. These laboratory measurements are governed by various technical standards (ASTM, DIN etc) and customers rely on this periodic data to react to oil condition trends and/or step functions, to plan servicing and maintenance and to reduce asset downtime from failure. Real-time oil condition monitoring systems based on dielectric or impedance analysis of the oil have been available for some time but they only provide summary parameters that are hard to interpretate as they do not correlate with the laboratory oil analysis. In this paper we discuss the development of Spectrolytic's Oil Condition Monitoring systems (Fluid-InspectIR®) and how, by working closely with our customers, we have developed a robust and affordable range of oil condition monitoring systems that gives our clients meaningful and understandable real time data of the same parameters and in the same units as they are commonly receive it from their oil laboratory analysis. These systems provide the customer the comfort of having quantitative and accurate key oil condition data at the touch of a button, while still utilising their standard practices through oil laboratory measurement to validate the predicted key oil parameters by the inline system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Façade panel systems with horizontal open joints are commonly used on larger buildings in Nordic countries. Excessive water intrusion through open joints may cause deterioration of the façade, a concern exacerbated by climate change. Previous studies have shown that current design recommendations for open-joint façade panel systems may not be optimal to prevent water intrusion. It is therefore of interest to investigate the watertightness of different design solutions for horizontal joints to inform recommendations for more durable façades. Large-scale measurements are conducted in a driving rain apparatus. Façade panel systems with different joint solutions are tested according to NS-EN 1027:2016. In total, 72 unique tests are conducted, investigating the impact of the four parameters: panel types, joint widths, joint profiles, and bevelled joint designs. All designs performed differently for the different types of panels, making it difficult to draw general conclusions. Smooth panels consistently exhibit higher water intrusion rates than rough panels, because runoff concentrates in streams on a smooth surface, causing localized, great intrusion in the horizontal joints. Modifications of the joints or the insertion of aluminium profiles may reduce or increase water intrusion. The most watertight among the investigated solutions involves an h-shaped profile. Bevelled joints improve overall watertightness but may direct more water towards the wind barrier. For open joints, a narrower joint width was found to decrease water intrusion to the wind barrier. In general, a barrier is needed to protect the joints against water intrusion. However, the effectiveness of protection measures depends on their design and mounting. Some protection measures led to greater water intrusion than no barrier at all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a laboratory experiment on transmission, reflection, and dissipation of irregular waves over smooth impermeable submerged breakwaters. Experiments included 75 JONSWAP-based irregular waves with five different wave characteristics generated at three water depths in a 2D wave flume. The investigated breakwater sections were three rectangular breakwaters with different widths, a toothed rectangular breakwater, and a trapezoidal breakwater with a slope of 1:2.A new comprehensive dimensionless parameter (β) was proposed representing both wave hydrodynamic and breakwater geometry characteristics. This parameter could be employed as a suitable descriptive option to make an accurate estimate of the hydraulic performances of submerged breakwaters. The β parameter is composed of four conventional simple dimensionless variables. However, the results revealed that the relative submergence depth significantly affects the hydraulic responses of submerged breakwaters. The transmission, reflection and dissipation of waves show a logarithmic growth, a logarithmic reduction, and a quadratic decreasing trend against the increasing of β parameter, respectively. The verifications of results revealed the high efficiency of β parameter for data reported by Carevic et al. (2013) with R2 = 0.88 and high agreement with predictions made by Van der Meer et al. (2005) formulation with R2 = 0.93.

The growing significance of renewable energy sources within the electricity market, along with the need to tap into lower head and capacity sites towards achieving recent sustainability goals, has highlighted the need for the development of hydro turbines and reversible machinery that exhibit enhanced performance across a broad operating envelope. This need is further compounded by the rising importance and strictness of environmental regulations, which necessitates the design of turbomachinery with improved environmental characteristics. In this context, Deriaz turbomachines emerge as a promising solution due to their numerous potential benefits. Notably, they can function as reversible pump-turbines, with remarkable hydraulic efficiency across a wide spectrum of operational loads. In this study, a numerical approach aimed at optimizing the design of a Deriaz turbine, in order to achieve high energy efficiency and improved fish-friendly behaviour in both pump and turbine operational modes, is introduced. Using a previously developed versatile design tool, coupled to numerical simulation and optimization tools, a new Deriaz reversible pump-turbine has been designed. Through a rigorous design process, numerous geometry variations have been analysed with the aim of improving the operational characteristics and environmental performance of the machine. The final geometry selected through the optimization procedure, was manufactured, and tested in both turbine and pump operating modes. By comparing the numerical to the experimental results, a remarkable agreement was observed particularly in turbine operation, thereby validating the design methodology and highlighting the efficacy of Deriaz turbines as a means to accomplish net-zero emissions goals. • A numerical approach for optimum design of mixed flow reversible turbines is introduced. • The new machine exhibits high energy efficiency and improved fish-friendly behaviour. • Fewer blades of optimal design can be a successful proposition for this machine type. • A scaled model was manufactured and tested in the Laboratory for both operation modes. • Numerical and experimental results agreement validates the new design methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

East Asia is the second-largest mineral dust source in the world, after the Sahara. When dispersed in the atmosphere, mineral dust can alter the Earth's radiation budget by changing the atmosphere's absorption and scattering properties. Therefore, the mineralogical composition of dust is key to understanding the impact of mineral dust on the atmosphere. This paper presents new information on mineralogical dust during East Asian dust events that were obtained from laboratory dust measurements combined with satellite remote sensing dust detections from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI). However, the mineral dust in this region is lifted above the continent in the lower troposphere, posing constraints due to the large variability in the Land Surface Emissivity (LSE). First, a new methodology was developed to correct the LSE from a mean monthly emissivity dataset. The results show an adjustment in the IASI spectra by acquiring aerosol information. Then, the experimental extinction coefficients of pure minerals were linearly combined to reproduce a Gobi dust spectrum, which allowed for the determination of the mineralogical mass weights. In addition, from the IASI radiances, a spectral dust optical thickness was calculated, displaying features identical to the optical thickness of the Gobi dust measured in the laboratory. The linear combination of pure minerals spectra was also applied to the IASI optical thickness, providing mineralogical mass weights. Finally, the method was applied after LSE optimization, and mineralogical evolution maps were obtained for two dust events in two different seasons and years, May 2017 and March 2021. The mean dust weights originating from the Gobi Desert, Taklamakan Desert, and Horqin Sandy Land are close to the mass weights in the literature. In addition, the spatial variability was linked to possible dust sources, and it was examined with a backward trajectory model. Moreover, a comparison between two IASI instruments on METOP-A and -B proved the method's applicability to different METOP platforms. Due to all of the above, the applied method is a powerful tool for exploiting dust mineralogy and dust sources using both laboratory optical properties and IASI detections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the building industry, the interest into adhesive tape to achieve a more tight and robust building envelope has increased rapidly in recent years. With an increasing demand for energy efficiency in buildings, national building authorities are strengthening building requirements to mitigate and adapt to future climate impacts. This paper studies the water vapour permeability of adhesive tape for building purposes. A water vapour permeable wind barrier is essential to enable drying of the external side of the building envelope. Laboratory measurements have been conducted to evaluate how the drying conditions of the wind barrier layer are affected by the use of wind barrier tape. The results show that all the wind barrier tapes tested can be defined as significantly more vapour tight than the wind barrier itself. The wind barrier used as reference was found to have an sd -value of 0.03 m while tape ranged between 1.1 and 9.24 m. To ensure adequate drying and minimize the risk of moisture damages, the wind barrier layer should be vapour open. In an investigated construction project, the amount of tape constitutes 13% of the area of the building's wind barrier. Further simulations need to be conducted to accurately determine the drying conditions and the following consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio, parameters reflecting the elastic response of a rock to stress, are the key parameters used in many engineering activities, such as hard coal mining and natural gas extraction. The objective of this paper was to present the results of complex laboratory measurements of the static and dynamic Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio for Upper Carboniferous hard coals from the Upper Silesian Coal Basin. The coals differed in geologic age (Mudstone Series—younger coals; Upper Silesian Sandstone Series—older coals) and petrographic structure (vitrain, clarain, and durain lithotype). Elastic parameters of the coals were determined following compression tests under a complex state of stress, as well as using the ultrasonic method in reservoir conditions. On this basis, linear functional dependences between parameters such as UCS, differential stress, confining pressure, strain rate, P- and S-wave velocities, and the static and dynamic Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio were determined. These dependences turned out to be linear, with strong and very strong correlation, as indicated by the high coefficients of determination, R2. These new results significantly broaden the knowledge of elastic properties of Carboniferous hard coals, especially in the field of geoengineering, underground coal gasification, and reservoir stimulation for coal bed methane extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many factors determine the efficient operation of a photovoltaic cell. These factors can be the intensity and spectral composition of illumination, the surface temperature, the ambient temperature, and the amount contaminations in the air and on the surface of the cells. The aim of the present study is to describe the effect of temperature gradient on the voltage and amperage changes, as well as the power output of a commercial solar cell through experimental methods and numerical simulations performed in MATLAB. The transient temperature investigations have allowed better understanding the time-dependent behavior of a solar cell under constant intensity illumination. Measurements prove that an increase in the surface temperature of the solar cell significantly reduces its performance. Measurements performed with the solar simulator show good conformity with simulated results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few laboratory studies have investigated the vapor pressures of the volatiles that may be present as ices in the outer solar system; even fewer studies have investigated these species at the temperatures and pressures suitable to the surfaces of icy bodies in the Saturnian and Uranian systems (<100 K, <10−9 bar). This study adds to the work of Grundy et al. (2024) in extending the known equilibrium vapor pressures of outer solar system ices through laboratory investigations at very low temperatures. Our experiments with ammonia and oxygen ices provide new thermodynamic models for these species' respective enthalpies of sublimation. We find that ammonia ice, and to a lesser degree oxygen ice, are stable at higher temperatures than extrapolations in previous literature have predicted. Our results show that these ices should be retained over longer periods of time than previous extrapolations would predict, and a greater amount of these solids is required to support observation in exospheres of airless bodies in the outer solar system. • Ammonia and oxygen solids were studied at temperatures relevant to outer solar system. • Equilibrium vapor pressures of O 2 and NH 4 ices are lower than previously predicted. • New thermodynamic models are provided for these species' enthalpies of sublimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Façade panel systems with horizontal open joints are commonly used on larger buildings in Nordic countries. Excessive water intrusion through open joints may cause deterioration of the façade, a concern exacerbated by climate change. Previous studies have shown that current design recommendations for open-joint façade panel systems may not be optimal to prevent water intrusion. It is therefore of interest to investigate the watertightness of different design solutions for horizontal joints to inform recommendations for more durable façades. Large-scale measurements are conducted in a driving rain apparatus. Façade panel systems with different joint solutions are tested according to NS-EN 1027:2016. In total, 72 unique tests are conducted, investigating the impact of the four parameters: panel types, joint widths, joint profiles, and bevelled joint designs. All designs performed differently for the different types of panels, making it difficult to draw general conclusions. Smooth panels consistently exhibit higher water intrusion rates than rough panels, because runoff concentrates in streams on a smooth surface, causing localized, great intrusion in the horizontal joints. Modifications of the joints or the insertion of aluminium profiles may reduce or increase water intrusion. The most watertight among the investigated solutions involves an h-shaped profile. Bevelled joints improve overall watertightness but may direct more water towards the wind barrier. For open joints, a narrower joint width was found to decrease water intrusion to the wind barrier. In general, a barrier is needed to protect the joints against water intrusion. However, the effectiveness of protection measures depends on their design and mounting. Some protection measures led to greater water intrusion than no barrier at all.

East Asia is the second-largest mineral dust source in the world, after the Sahara. When dispersed in the atmosphere, mineral dust can alter the Earth’s radiation budget by changing the atmosphere’s absorption and scattering properties. Therefore, the mineralogical composition of dust is key to understanding the impact of mineral dust on the atmosphere. This paper presents new information on mineralogical dust during East Asian dust events that were obtained from laboratory dust measurements combined with satellite remote sensing dust detections from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI). However, the mineral dust in this region is lifted above the continent in the lower troposphere, posing constraints due to the large variability in the Land Surface Emissivity (LSE). First, a new methodology was developed to correct the LSE from a mean monthly emissivity dataset. The results show an adjustment in the IASI spectra by acquiring aerosol information. Then, the experimental extinction coefficients of pure minerals were linearly combined to reproduce a Gobi dust spectrum, which allowed for the determination of the mineralogical mass weights. In addition, from the IASI radiances, a spectral dust optical thickness was calculated, displaying features identical to the optical thickness of the Gobi dust measured in the laboratory. The linear combination of pure minerals spectra was also applied to the IASI optical thickness, providing mineralogical mass weights. Finally, the method was applied after LSE optimization, and mineralogical evolution maps were obtained for two dust events in two different seasons and years, May 2017 and March 2021. The mean dust weights originating from the Gobi Desert, Taklamakan Desert, and Horqin Sandy Land are close to the mass weights in the literature. In addition, the spatial variability was linked to possible dust sources, and it was examined with a backward trajectory model. Moreover, a comparison between two IASI instruments on METOP-A and -B proved the method’s applicability to different METOP platforms. Due to all of the above, the applied method is a powerful tool for exploiting dust mineralogy and dust sources using both laboratory optical properties and IASI detections.

In this article, the results of pressure coefficient on the atypical object obtained by experimental measurements in a boundary layer wind tunnel (BLWT) of Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava (STU) and computational fluid dynamics simulation (CFD) are presented. The pressure coefficient is one of the most important parameters expressing the wind pressure distribution on the structure. The loading by wind can only be acquired by execution of detailed tests and numerical analyses [1].

Copyright of Agrochemistry & Soil Science / Agrokémia és Talajtan is the property of Akademiai Kiado and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The presented paper focuses on the possibilities of evaluating the acoustic properties of partial noise sources of household washing machines. The introductory parts are focused on the analysis of the use of a new type of properties, so-called customer-oriented acoustic properties of the product. The next part focuses on the design of an evaluation methodology, which is used for laboratory measurements of psychoacoustic properties. This methodology, after laboratory testing, is used for measurements in real conditions of selling, directly in sales premises. A listening test is proposed, the results of which are used to determine the acoustic properties required by customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate friction measurement is vital to apply appropriate friction management techniques to the wheel/rail interface. This work analyses different friction measurement techniques under a variety of conditions in the laboratory and the field. Tests have been carried out using a pendulum tester, hand-push tribometer, twin-disc machine and full-scale rig in the UK and Colombia for a variety of interfacial conditions and rail hardness. The pendulum has been found to be more sensitive to different conditions than the hand-push tribometer. This is due to the area that the pendulum sweeps being smaller, and so it can be more carefully controlled and therefore measure the surface condition being tested. This is in contrast to the push tribometer which needs a long section of rail to take a measurement. Twin-disc and full-scale rig creep curves show good agreement between each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of unique laboratory measurements of remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) of several phytoplankton species typically occurring in high abundances in the Baltic Sea waters are presented. Reflectance spectra for diatoms: Cyclotella meneghiniana and Skeletonema marinoi and cyanobacteria: Dolichospermum sp., Nodularia spumigena and Synechococcus sp. were analysed in terms of assessment of their characteristic features and the differences between them. These species contain similar pigments, which results in general similarities of reflectance spectra, i.e. decrease of reflectance magnitude in the blue and red spectrum regions. However, hyper-spectral resolution of optical measurements let us find differences between optical signatures of diatoms and cyanobacteria groups and between species belonging to one group as well. These differences are reflected in location of local maxima and minima in the reflectance spectrum and changes in relative height of characteristic peaks with changes of phytoplankton concentration. Wide ranges of phytoplankton concentrations were analysed in order to show the persistence of Rrs characteristic features. The picoplankton species, Synechococcus sp. show the most distinct optical signature, which let to distinguish separate cluster in hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). The results can be used to calibrate input data into radiative transfer model, e.g. phase function or to validate modelled Rrs spectra.

Classical eddy viscosity model deviates from the actual mean current profiles, when calculating the mean current profiles over rippled-beds in the presence of non-breaking waves, owing to the neglect of the enhancement of the wave boundary layer thickness by ripples and the wave-induced shear stress (the radiation stress and the wave Reynolds stress). Considering these shortcomings, a semi-empirical one-dimensional vertical (1DV) model is presented in this study. The present model was obtained using the two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations and eddy viscosity assumptions, which differ from those of previous researchers, while a top-to-bottom sequence was adopted to calculate the mean current profiles. Empirical formulae were derived from the laboratory measurements and used in the present model to accurately predict the wave boundary layer thickness and bed roughness. The present model is in satisfactory agreement with the data from laboratory experiments. The factors influencing the mean current profiles were analyzed also. The wave-induced second-order shear stresses were found to be the principal reason for the deviations of the mean current profiles in the near-surface layer; as the influencing factors of wave-induced shear stress, the intensity of the wave relative to the current, the angle between the wave and current, and the size of ripples can also have a non-negligible effect on the mean current profiles.

Estimation and correct determination of vitrinite equivalent reflectance in rock is crucial for the assessment of the source rock in both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon deposits. These parameters can be determined in laboratories on rock samples. Laboratory measurements provide only point information. However, the use of well logs could overcome discontinuities in the data and provide parameters throughout a study interval. Attention has been paid to the estimation of TOC based on well logs. Vitrinite equivalent reflectance estimation is less well discussed and most papers reported cases with high TOC content in analyzed deposits. In this paper, the estimation of improved Ro is presented using a calculated maturity indicator with well logs. As the organic matter content is not high, additional steps were required for the calculation. To improve the quality of the fit and to find similar intervals, the data were grouped using cluster and neural network analysis. The next step was to use the resistivity log to improve the obtained maturity indicator. Due to the changing properties of kerogen with the type and degree of thermal maturity, this approach turned out to be reliable. The use of resistivity significantly increased the correlation coefficient and reduced errors. The method was tested on two wells with different type and maturity of kerogen. The obtained results are satisfactory, which makes it possible to use the method even in formations with a low organic matter content.

Computed X-ray tomography (CT), together with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, pulse- and pressure-decay permeability methods, is a source of comprehensive information about the geometrical parameters of the pore space. Geological material consists of 31 samples of tight, gas-bearing, clastic rocks from different wells and formations. The purpose was to parametrize in detail the pore structure, revealing the relationships between the various parameters and estimating the equation for assessing the fluid flow ability of analyzed tight rocks. Following parameters were taken into consideration in the pore space characterization: thickness mean, equivalent diameter, anisotropy, elongation, sphericity, Feret diameter, Feret coefficient, Feret shape; shape factors: 2nd circularity coefficient, Malinowska coefficient and Danielsson coefficient; as well as parameters from 3D skeleton analysis: junctions, branches, coordination number. It was captured the dependence of logarithmic T2 mean from NMR on junction count from CT, as well as T2 cutoff from NMR on elongation from CT for the all samples. Logarithm of absolute permeability was estimated based on multiple linear regression analysis using only geometrical parameters from X-ray nanotomography, which is a benefit in the times of coring material decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory tests are a common and relatively cheap way to assess the general health status of patients. Various publications showed the potential of laboratory measurements for predicting inpatient mortality using statistical methodologies. However, these efforts are basically limited to the use of logistic regression models. In the present paper we use anonymized data from about 40,000 inpatient admissions to the Inselspital in Bern (Switzerland) to evaluate the potential of powerful pattern recognition algorithms employed for this particular risk prediction. In addition to the age and sex of the inpatients, a set of 33 laboratory measurements, frequently available at the Inselspital, are used as basic variables. In a large empirical evaluation we demonstrate that recent pattern recognition algorithms (such as random forests, gradient boosted trees or neural networks) outperform the more traditional approaches based on logistic regression. Moreover, we show how the predictions of the pattern recognition algorithms, which cannot be directly interpreted in general, can be calibrated to output a meaningful probabilistic risk score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract This paper reports the results of a series of laboratory experiments on forming synthetic methane and tetrahydrofuran (THF) hydrates in sand samples and measuring their acoustic properties, i.e. P- and S-wave velocities. Experimental data were used for validating different effective acoustic velocity models connecting P- and S-wave velocities to the hydrate saturation. The envelope-cementing effective model gives the best fit for the methane gas-hydrate formation using the "excess-gas" method. These results may represent the case of onshore hydrate deposits formed from gas accumulations, e.g. Messoyakha Field in Siberia. The load-bearing effective model gives the best fit for THF hydrate formation that avoids gas phase in the system. These results should be typical to the most widespread hydrate deposits forms in marine sediments from the dissolved methane. We compare our experimental data with a compilation of similar published results to confirm their reliability and support our conclusions. Calibrated effective models can be further used for developing seismic-exploration methods for characterizing as well as confirming the origination history of natural gas-hydrate accumulations of different type. Highlights • Effective acoustic velocity models differ for different natural gas-hydrate deposits. • Load-bearing effective model fits data for THF synthetic hydrates. • Envelope-cementing model fits data for "excess-gas" methane-hydrate formation. • Envelope-cementing effective model corresponds to gas hydrates in Messoyakha Field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Determining the rate at which Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) sulfide oxidation occurs in mining waste products is a central requirement for safe and sustainable long term design of storages, including tails storage facilities, ore stockpiles and waste rock dumps. Inappropriate design can result in AMD acidification, mobilisation of heavy metals and pollution of ground and surface waters. The use of soil gas (oxygen) transport modelling to model AMD based sulfide oxidation and potential acidity loads is widespread, but diffusion coefficients used for modelling are based on existing diffusion coefficient models derived for natural and agricultural soils. Mining wastes are often well sorted due to mineral processing, and differences in soil structure and porosity can impact on diffusion coefficient behaviour compared to natural soils. This study compares a variety of approaches to estimate the diffusion coefficient and compare these results to measured values for comparison and analysis. A diffusion column apparatus is used to compare diffusion coefficient models from the literature with test results from the laboratory in several mining derived AMD materials. The results of the comparison indicate that laboratory testing of diffusion provides more accurate estimation of soil gas diffusion coefficients in mine materials. The use of diffusion coefficient safety factor approaches are explored as possible alternatives, if measurement of mine material matrix soil gas diffusion coefficient is not possible. Highlights • Modelled diffusion coefficient data was compared with measured data for AMD soils. • Mining wastes are strongly sorted in comparison to natural agricultural soils. • Underestimates of diffusion may create AMD treatment problems. • Diffusion coefficient safety factors are recommended if measurement is not possible. • Design of economic < $500 diffusion chamber for mining sector using UPVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aims to characterize the sound insulation properties of a two-layers innovative façade made by a Structural Concrete Wall with Thermal Insulation Properties (SCWTIP). The sound reduction index of the wall has been evaluated through analytical calculation, software simulation and laboratory measurement on a 10 m2 real sample, according to EN ISO 10140-2. Results showed that analytical calculation matches laboratory measurements in terms of sound reduction index, while 1 dB increase has been found with software simulation. Software simulations have also been carried out in order to compare the sound insulation index of the tested wall with walls in which the mechanical properties or the thicknesses of the concrete layers have been varied, in consideration of the commercially available options. Calculation of the standardized sound level difference of façade according to EN ISO 12354-3 for a typical dwelling room showed that a lightweight concrete façade made with this technology satisfies the requirements of the higher class set by the COST Action TU0901 for sound insulation of dwellings. The requirement set by French laws, which is not included in the Action framework, has been also accomplished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper considers the results of a series of laboratory experiments (more than 100) on the formation of synthetic sand samples containing water/ice and methane or tetrahydrofuran hydrates in the pore space and of the measurement of their acoustic properties (velocities and attenuation of acoustic waves). The main aim of the experiments was to establish the relationship between the velocities of acoustic waves and the ice or hydrate saturation of the samples. An increase in the content of ice and hydrates always leads to a velocity increase. However, the rate of the velocity increase is determined by the localization of ice and hydrates in the samples: at the contacts between the sand grains ("cementing" model) or in the pore space ("filling" model). It has been established that the "cementing" model, characterized by a drastic initial increase in velocities, works for ice or gas hydrates formed from free methane and localized in the pores. On the contrary, tetrahydrofuran hydrates form by the "filling" model and cause a slow increase in velocities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Not for nothing it is said that "a good roof is priceless." Although it may lead to discussions, which roof is good, because there are a lot of requirements and criteria for the functional characterization. It must be understood that the roof structure defines the durability of the building as a unit, therefore it defines lifetime of other parts of the building and also the function of space that is covered by the roof. Therefore it is very important to pay particular attention to the design, as well as the realization of the roof structure. The aim of this publication is to judge the physical and technical parameters in the design of the roof coating module in a climatic chamber.

Pitched roofs with a ventilated air cavity to avoid snow melt and ensure dry conditions beneath the roofing are a widely used construction in northern parts of Europe and America. The purpose of this study has been to determine pressure losses at the inlet (eaves) and inside the air cavity consisting of friction losses and passing of tile battens. These results are necessary to increase the accuracy of ventilation calculations of pitched roofs. Laboratory measurements, numerical analysis as well as calculations by use of empirical expressions have been used in the study. A large difference in the local loss coefficients depending on the edge design and height of the tile batten was found. The local loss coefficients of the round-edged tile battens were approximately 40% lower than the local loss coefficients of the sharp-edged tile battens. Furthermore, the local loss factor increased by increasing height of the tile batten. The numerical analysis was found to reliably reproduce the results from the measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the discovery of the first extrasolar planet more than twenty years ago, nearly four thousand planets orbiting stars other than the Sun (http://exoplanet.eu/) have been discovered. Current observational instruments (on board the Hubble Space Telescope, Spitzer, and on ground-based facilities) have allowed the scientific community to obtain important information on the physical and chemical properties of these planets. However, for a more in-depth characterisation of these worlds, more powerful telescopes are needed. Thanks to the high sensitivity of their instruments, the next generation of space observatories (e.g. JWST, ARIEL) will provide observations of unprecedented quality, allowing us to extract far more information than what was previously possible. Such high quality observations will provide constraints on theoretical models of exoplanet atmospheres and lead to a greater understanding of their physics and chemistry. Important modelling efforts have been carried out during the past few years, showing that numerous parameters and processes (such as the elemental abundances, temperature, mixing, etc.) are likely to affect the atmospheric composition of exoplanets and subsequently the observable spectra. In this manuscript, we review the different parameters that can influence the molecular composition of exoplanet atmospheres. We show that the high-precision of ARIEL observations will improve our view and characterisation of exoplanet atmospheres. We also consider future developments that are necessary to improve atmospheric models, driven by the need to interpret the available observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We measured P-wave velocity, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity on 26 sandstone samples under dry and water-saturated conditions. Subsequently, we compared these measurements with predictions by frequently used models. Overall, these three properties decrease with porosity and increase with water saturation. Comparing data sets and models, we distinguish three main groups of sandstone samples: From the difference in the intrinsic elastic and thermal properties of the dominant mineral, two tendencies attributed to either quartz or another rock forming mineral are identified, which separate class 1 sandstone and samples from class 2 sandstones. Within class 1 clean sandstones, a sub-class ( sub-class 1a ) consists of similarly porous samples having different elastic and thermal properties. Based on elasticity, we attribute this effect to microcracks or grain contacts in the samples. While this feature does not affect the total porosity, it affects all of three physical properties strongly and in a similar way. Additionally, we define a second sub-class ( sub-class 1b ) for Fontainebleau sandstone with porosities above 13%. For these four samples, the effect of water saturation on the elastic and thermal properties is different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]