Search Results (180)

Arsenic exposure in children and adults has been associated with respiratory symptoms, respiratory infections, and decreased lung function. The goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between environmental arsenic exposure and serum pneumoproteins and lung function. A cross-sectional study was conducted including 175 children exposed to arsenic by drinking water (range: 7.4 to 91 µg/L) and soil (range: 4.76 to 35.93 mg/kg), from some Yaqui villages. Arsenic was analyzed in dust and urine using field-portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and ICP/OES, respectively. Serum was analyzed for Clara Cell protein (CC16) and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) using immunoassays, and lung function was evaluated by spirometry. The results showed that increased arsenic in drinking water was associated with reduced forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio (β = −0.027, p = 0.0000) whereas, contrary to expectations, arsenic in dust was associated with increased FEV₁/FVC (β = 0.004, p = 0.0076). Increased urinary arsenic was associated with reduced % predicted FEV₁ (β = −0.723, p = 0.0152) and reduced FEV₁/FVC ratio (β = −0.022, p = 0.0222). Increased serum MMP-9 was associated with reduced FEV₁/FVC ratio (β = −0.017, p = 0.0167). Children with % predicted FEV₁ values less than 80 had the lowest levels of CC16 (Median 29.0 ng/mL, IQR 21.3, 37.4, p = 0.0148). As a conclusion, our study evidenced an impairment in lung function in children exposed to low arsenic levels. Full article

Eggshell quality inspection plays a pivotal role in enhancing the commercial value of poultry eggs and ensuring their safety. It effectively enables the screening of high-quality eggs to meet consumer demand for premium egg products. This paper analyzes the surface characteristics, ultrastructure, and mechanical properties of poultry eggshells. It systematically reviews current advances in eggshell quality inspection technologies and compares the suitability and performance of techniques for key indicators, including shell strength, thickness, spots, color, and cracks. Furthermore, the paper discusses challenges in non-destructive testing, including individual egg variations, species differences, hardware precision limitations, and inherent methodological constraints. It summarizes commercially available portable and online non-destructive testing equipment, analyzing core challenges: the cost–accessibility paradox, speed–accuracy trade-off, algorithm interference impacts, and the technology–practice gap. Additionally, the paper explores the potential application of several emerging technologies—such as tactile sensing, X-ray imaging, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy—in eggshell quality inspection. Finally, it provides a comprehensive outlook on future research directions, offering constructive guidance for subsequent studies and practical applications in production. Full article

Rock hardness significantly impacts comminution efficiency, one of mining’s most energy-intensive processes. Accurate, rapid, and non-invasive hardness characterization can enhance mine-to-mill optimization and energy management. This study investigates sensor-based technologies, hyperspectral imaging, and portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) integrated with machine learning (ML) algorithms for characterizing rock hardness in open-pit gold mining contexts. A total of 159 rock samples from two Canadian open-pit gold mines were analyzed through Leeb rebound hardness (LRH), short-wave infrared (SWIR) hyperspectral imaging, and a pXRF analyzer for chemical characterization. The most critical spectral features of SWIR images were extracted using a novel and automated feature extraction approach and further refined by applying a recursive feature elimination (RFE) algorithm to reduce the dimensionality of the spectral feature space. Three ML algorithms, including Random Forest Regressor (RFR), Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost), and Multivariate Linear Regression (MLR), were applied to develop predictive hardness models considering three scenarios: using chemical features, using refined spectral features, and their combination. The findings underscore the potential of advanced sensor integration and analytics in remotely characterizing rock hardness, which could contribute to enhancing efficiency and sustainability in modern mining operations. Full article

A cast is an object that results from a fossilization process that is considerably rare in nature. For a cast to be produced, secondary diagenetic processes during and after fossilization are normally involved. Natural casts are formed when minerals are deposited within the fossil mold. Here we describe an exceptional example of the natural cast by gypsum of an ammonite presumably preserved as a limestone-made “half” mold that had previously been transported as an extraclast, deposited and dissolved within Upper Pliocene quartz sandstones of the ancestral Tejo river. Portable X-ray fluorescence was used to analyze and compare the geochemical composition of the ammonite fossil with that of the nodules found within the same bed, reflecting different diagenetic timings. The composition of the ammonite cast reflects the in situ dissolution of limestone and the precipitation of calcium sulfate. High δ³⁴S‰ and Sr values obtained from the ammonite show that the cast was produced by percolating acidic waters in the vadose zone, under marine influence, during the Late Pliocene or already in the Pleistocene. The waters being rich in sulfur resulted more likely from a marine water-influenced water table. Alternatively, it may have resulted from the weathering concentration of sulfur from the Marco Furado ferricretes overlying Santa Marta sandstone. This is, so far, the only testimony of the enormous temporal discontinuity that occurred during the taphonomic history of an ammonite, with a final preservation in the form of a cast made of gypsum, the most didactic example of this type of fossilization ever found in Portugal. Full article

The present study explores a multi-analytical non-invasive approach based on the application of terahertz continuous wave (THz-CW) spectroscopy for the non-invasive characterization of historically produced synthetic copper silicate pigments. For the first time, Han Blue, Han Purple and Egyptian Blue were examined within the THz spectral region using a compact and portable THz-CW spectrometer. The three pigments exhibit distinct absorption features, which facilitate the differentiation of molecular structures within the same chemical and mineralogical category. Moreover, the same compound was analyzed using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF) to determine its elemental composition, alongside Fiber Optics Reflectance Spectroscopy (FORS) in the range 350–2500 nm, providing crucial insights into its optical properties and molecular structure. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study presents the first spectra for these copper silicates at these wavelengths, thereby expanding the shortwave infrared spectral database of Cultural Heritage materials. This synergistic approach enables a comprehensive characterization, offering a deeper understanding of the compounds’ chemical nature and paving the way for potential applications in the Cultural Heritage domain. Furthermore, the findings underscore the potential of THz-CW spectroscopy as an innovative and effective tool for Cultural Heritage research, providing a non-destructive method to investigate artistic materials. Full article

Turmeric powder has gained widespread popularity due to its culinary and medicinal value and has become a target for economically motivated fraud. The history and exportation of turmeric in Africa were reviewed, and the safety issues of some toxic adulterants were discussed. Priority adulterants were determined from global food safety alerts. A systematic bibliographic search on Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science was performed to identify appropriate methods and techniques for authentication and safety. The quality of each study was assessed according to PRISMA guidelines/protocol. African turmeric exportation is on the rise due to recent insights into the suitability of local cultivars, soil and climate for growing high-quality turmeric, with curcumin levels >3%. There are limited data on turmeric adulteration for domestic consumption and export markets. This is important when considering that some turmeric adulterants may serve as risk factors for cancer following exposure. Global alert databases revealed lead chromate as the top hazard identified of all adulterants. Current techniques to detect adulterants are laboratory-based, and while efficient, there is a need for more rapid, field-friendly, non-destructive analytical tools for turmeric fraud/authenticity testing. This enables on-the-spot decision-making to inform rapid alerts. Portable technologies, such as portable X-ray fluorescence, were highlighted as showing potential as a Tier 1 screening tool within a “Food Fortress” systems approach for food safety, combined with validation from mass spectrometry-based Tier 2 testing. Full article

Citriculture has worldwide importance, and monitoring the nutritional status of plants through leaf analysis is essential. Recently, proximal sensing has supported this process, although there is a lack of studies conducted specifically for citrus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the application of portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF) combined with machine learning algorithms to predict the nutrient content (B, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, S, and Zn) of citrus leaves, using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) results as a reference. Additionally, the study aimed to differentiate 15 citrus scion/rootstock combinations via pXRF results and investigate the effect of the sample condition (fresh or dried leaves) on the accuracy of pXRF predictions. The samples were analyzed with pXRF both fresh and after drying and grinding. Subsequently, the samples underwent acid digestion and analysis via ICP-OES. Predictions using dried leaves yielded better results (R² from 0.71 to 0.96) than those using fresh leaves (R² from 0.35 to 0.87) for all analyzed elements. Predictions of scion/rootstock combinations were also more accurate with dry leaves (Overall accuracy = 0.64, kappa index = 0.62). The pXRF accurately predicted nutrient contents in citrus leaves and differentiated leaves from 15 scion/rootstock combinations. This can significantly reduce costs and time in the nutritional assessment of citrus crops. Full article

Non-destructive portable techniques for the analysis of cultural heritage items are essential for enhancing our understanding of these objects and providing valuable information for potential restoration interventions. This paper presents a combined use of pulsed thermography, X-ray fluorescence, and Raman spectroscopy to investigate the ancient bronze “Il Togato”, yielding complementary information concerning the techniques used for creating this artefact and its conservation status. Specifically, thermographic analysis has highlighted the presence of many patches of different size used for emending superficial cast defects, weldings used to connect parts separately cast to the main structure, cracks, and defects located in the bronze thickness. On the other hand, XRF provided information on the composition of the gilding which characterises the statue, and supplied an estimate of its thickness through the use of a stratification model. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy has been applied to identify corrosion products. The experimental results presented in the paper provide a comprehensive knowledge of the bronze under investigation and assess the effectiveness of the portable non-destructive techniques employed in the analysis. Full article

The detection of available Cr(VI) in soil is critical due to its high uptake by plants, which enables it to enter the food chain and pose significant health risks to humans. Traditional detection methods are often time-consuming and labor-intensive, limiting their suitability for rapid, on-site measurements. This study introduces a novel approach for the rapid detection of available Cr(VI) in soil, utilizing portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF) in combination with ion-exchange resin. The method was validated using soil samples from three distinct regions, representing three different soil types. Compared to conventional laboratory methods, the detection rates for Cr(VI) ranged from 80.73% to 124.14%, with relative standard deviations for repeated analyses ranging from 3.05% to 5.73%, both of which comply with national standards. Regression analysis confirms a strong linear relationship between spectral values and Cr(VI) concentration in standard solutions (R² = 0.9986). Through resin enrichment, the detection limit (LoD) for Cr(VI) in soil solution reaches 0.070 mg/kg, facilitating trace-level detection of available Cr(VI) in soil. In contrast to traditional methods, the pXRF-ion-exchange resin approach minimizes secondary environmental contamination, is cost-effective and time-efficient, and does not require complex soil pretreatment. Consequently, it is highly suitable for rapid, on-site soil analysis. This study presents an innovative method for the detection of available Cr(VI) in soils. This approach effectively reduced analysis time and simplified sample pretreatment, and thus holds substantial potential for practical application. Full article

The Arthur River magnesite deposit is in the northwestern part of Tasmania, Australia, within the Arthur Metamorphic Complex. Physical, mineralogical, and chemical characteristics of the deposit were studied using geological drill core logging and analytical techniques (scanning electron microscopy, portable x-ray fluorescence, and laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry). The results document variations within the ore body, and three ore types have been identified for the potential production of an economic magnesite concentrate separated from associated gangue minerals (dolomite, quartz, and talc and iron bearing minerals such as pyrite and pyrrhotite). The ore types were identified based on a combination of physical, chemical, and mineralogical differences. Type 1 has a relatively high magnesium content and appears in drill core as hard white crystalline magnesite. Type 2 has relatively lower magnesium and higher iron contents than type 1 and occurs visibly as creamy-yellowish soft magnesite. Type 3 ore has the lowest magnesium and the highest iron content of the three ore types and is reddish brown in color. From the characterization studies, potential beneficiation routes for each ore type are suggested along with potential processing challenges. Examples of processing challenges include magnesium present in both magnesite and in dolomite, and the association of magnesite with quartz and talc results in a relatively high silica content. Full article

Despite notable advancements in the development of borate materials, improving their luminescent efficiency remains an important focus in materials research. The synthesis of lanthanum borates (LaBO₃), doped and co-doped with europium (Eu³⁺) and dysprosium (Dy³⁺), by the solid-state method, has demonstrated significant potential to address this challenge due to their unique optical properties. These materials facilitate efficient energy transfer from UV-excited host crystals to trivalent rare-earth activators, resulting in stable and high-intensity luminescence. To better understand their structural and vibrational characteristics, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were employed to identify functional groups and molecular vibrations in the synthesized materials. Additionally, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was conducted to determine the crystalline structure and phase composition of the samples. All observed transitions of Eu³⁺ and Dy³⁺ in the excitation and emission spectra were systematically analyzed and identified, providing a comprehensive understanding of their behavior. Although smartphone cameras exhibit non-uniform spectral responses, their integration into this study highlights distinct advantages, including contactless interrogation, effective UV excitation suppression, and real-time spectral analysis. These capabilities enable practical and portable fluorescence sensing solutions for applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and food safety. By combining advanced photonic materials with accessible smartphone technology, this work demonstrates a novel approach for developing low-cost, scalable, and innovative sensing platforms that address modern technological demands. Full article

Multilayer samples are used in a wide range of sectors for their functionality. In the field of cultural heritage, multilayer samples are also common, as in the case of gilded or silvered alloys in the pigment layers in paintings. The X-ray ratios Lα/Lβ, Kα/Kβ, or K/L for an element or for different elements in a multilayer sample depend on the chemical composition and thickness of the superimposed layers and on the chemical composition and thickness of the layer in which the element is situated. Gold decorations of paintings on wood represent examples of multilayered structures and, for this reason, it is important to be able to determine the thickness of the gold layer. In the present paper, gold coatings of several paintings on gilded wood, by Italian artist Taddeo Gaddi (1300–1366 AD), were examined using portable energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) in order to calculate the thickness of the gold layer on ochre by measuring the intensity ratio of the Au-L_α/Fe-K_α X-ray. The experimental results obtained showed that the gold leaves used by the artist have a thickness of approximately 0.3 to 0.4 µm; this also demonstrates the artist’s remarkable ability in creating the gilding. Full article

The restoration of medieval wall paintings often involves the combination of heterogeneous techniques and materials considering their nature and period. One of the many obstacles in the study of the restoration of these types of artifacts is the paucity of sources that remain and the fragmentary nature of the paintings. As support, we can identify information about the modus operandi of the artists and artisans’ workshops that were active in the medieval period. Such information can be derived from important treatises-for example, Theophilus’ mid-12th-century treatise, the Diversarum artium Schedula, and chapter XV of Cennino Cennini’s Book of Art. These all coincide with the paintings presented in this paper, which represent the Virgo Lactans (or Madonna del Latte, Nursing Virgin) and a likely pre-existing figure of a praying woman. The investigated wall paintings are located in the porch of St. Andrew’s church, situated in the neighborhood of Pianoscarano (Viterbo, Central Italy). The historical context and the execution technique of the paintings were carefully studied, supported by a diagnostic and analytical campaign carried out by means of hypercolorimetric multispectral imaging, spot X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy using a portable instrument, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and cross-section analysis. These analyses allowed us to characterize the original materials, the stratigraphic sequence of the paintings, and the previous interventions applied to the paintings’ layers, giving relevant data to support the recently concluded restoration. Full article

This work provides a synthesis of an initial experience in the development of accessible imaging techniques and their implementation on a real case: the analysis of colonial Hispano-American paintings at the Complejo Museográfico Provincial “Enrique Udaondo” (Luján, Buenos Aires). It discusses different aspects related to the possibilities of obtaining, using, and reusing equipment and materials locally, as well as details of the ways of acquiring images for photography on site. It also provides information about the composition and conservation state of selected artworks, complementing image analysis with portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) data, and reflects on articulated/collaborative work in situ as a methodology for transferring knowledge and skills. The project aims to contribute to strengthening Latin American sustainability by creating accessible non-invasive tools for heritage conservation institutions, highlighting the value of regional capacities to approach heritage studies from collaborative and ethical proposals that promote sovereignty and reduce dependence on external inputs. Full article

Strategic metals are indispensable for meeting the needs of modern society. It is then necessary to reassess the potential of such metals in Europe. For the exploration of strategic metals, portable XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) and LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) are powerful techniques allowing their multi-elementary analysis. This paper presents a database providing more than 2000 pXRF data and more than 4000 pLIBS spectra acquired on minerals from the Mineralogy and Petrology Museum of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), selected based on their potential in bearing strategic metals. The combination of these two portable techniques, along with expanding dataset on strategic metal-rich minerals, provides valuable insights into strategic metal affinities and demonstrates the effectiveness of portable tools for exploring strategic raw materials. Indeed, such database allows to strengthen the knowledge on strategic metals by producing statistic and chemometric analyses (e.g., boxplot, PCA, PLS) on their distribution. Full article