Use of thermal analysis for the detection of calcium oxalate in selected forms of plastering exposed to the effects of Serpula lacrymans

The article discusses the interaction of metabolic products of a wood-destroying fungus of the dry rot species (Serpula lacrymans (Wulfen) P. Karst.) with a commonly used lime mortar. Mortar samples used in the presented experiment were made mostly in laboratory conditions so as to make it possible to set input conditions and to determine initial properties of the examined samples. Matured lime mortar samples were placed in cultivation boxes with a growth of Serpula lacrymans and exposed to its action for a predetermined period of time. For a comparison, mortar samples taken “in situ” from real structures were also subjected to the experiment. The examined samples were subjected to a thermal analysis and a comparative measurement by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results of the measurement of infected samples were compared with the results obtained in the reference (control) samples. The experiment carried out was focused on assessing the presence of calcium oxalate, which is secreted into the surroundings of the mycelium during the active growing of Serpula lacrymans.

An Extended Regional Gender Gaps Index (eRGGI): Comparative Measurement of Gender Equality at Different Levels of Regionality

Gender equality has been widely explored, but there is limited research investigating its variability at regional level. This paper aims to fill this gap by developing and validating a new, regional gender gaps index, compatible with previous indices used to compare gender equality across nations but now fit for the purpose of measuring gender equality across regions, within nations. To this end, we (i) reviewed existing indicators of gender equality; (ii) assessed the contribution of the indicators most frequently used in previous research to measure gender equality; (iii) developed an extended, regional version of the gender gaps index (eRGGI), by extending it to include new indicators able to capture female empowerment in developed countries, like Italy; and, (iv) explored the variability of gender equality across Italian regions. In developing our eRGGI, some indicators traditionally used to measure gender equality were removed and others were introduced to capture new dimensions of gender equality to suit modern conditions regarding contexts where equality is considered important, in contemporary Europe. Results showed that gender equality varies dramatically across regions, also confirming the relevance of the new indicators we proposed to add. Such results call for more caution in interpreting results based on nationally aggregated data to inform policy and practice, arguing for regional comparisons to become more prominent.

Comparative physical activity as a global question to assess physical activity among university students

Background To assess physical activity (PA), a comparative measurement – evaluating one’s own PA compared to others – may be an appropriate method. In previous studies, the use of comparative measurements led to an effect known as unrealistic comparative optimism (UCO) – people being unrealistically optimistic about their behavior. Our aim was to use this comparative measurement in university students to quantify the prevalence of UCO at the group level and to draw conclusions on its validity. Methods We used data from the Nutrition and Physical Activity in Adolescence Study (NuPhA), a cross-sectional online survey that included only self-reports (n = 689). To assess PA among students, they were asked to rate their PA level compared to that of their same-aged fellow students. In addition, we used the Godin-Shephard leisure-time PA questionnaire and other questions on PA for comparisons. We used bivariate and cluster-based analyses to identify potential UCO. Results We found that UCO at the group level led to an uneven distribution, with a higher proportion of students who rated themselves as being more physically active than average. However, the individual assessment of PA with a single and simple comparative question seemed to be valid. Discussion A global single comparative question seems useful for studies where PA is measured as a covariate in university students.

Mobile Coverage in Rural Sweden: Analysis of a Comparative Measurement Campaign

Under the umbrella of 1G to 5G, different technologies have been used to provide mobile communication. Various technologies are being proposed to bring a person in remote area under coverage. However, a statistical analysis on what these users get from already existing technologies has not been carried out. We fill this gap by carrying out such a study using a measurement campaign, where we present a framework for analyzing mobile signal strength experienced at the user end. Measurements are taken throughout the Norrbotten county, the northernmost county in Sweden, using mobile phones recording various parameters at regular intervals. Based on measured signal strength, a coverage map has been made via inverse distance weighting (IDW) interpolation. Based on the coverage map, various analyses are carried out on signal strength over residential areas and roads of Norrbotten. Overall, we lay a framework to analyze and quantify the effect of signal strength on users.

Comparative Measurement of the PPG Signal on Different Human Body Positions by Sensors Working in Reflection and Transmission Modes

The paper deals with the photoplethysmographic (PPG) optical sensor usage for non-invasive acquisition of vital information about the cardiovascular system from different parts of the human skin surface. Finger-ring and ear-clip realizations of the transmission-type PPG sensor were tested first. For the next PPG signal recording, the reflection PPG sensor was placed on fingers and on a wrist. PPG signal properties were described by energetic and temporal parameters and their statistical parameters together with determined instantaneous heart rate values. Our final aim was to find conditions, limitations, and recommendations for development of a wearable PPG sensor working in a magnetic field environment.

Low-Cost Air Quality Sensors: One-Year Field Comparative Measurement of Different Gas Sensors and Particle Counters with Reference Monitors at Tušimice Observatory

With attention increasing regarding the level of air pollution in different metropolitan and industrial areas worldwide, interest in expanding the monitoring networks by low-cost air quality sensors is also increasing. Although the role of these small and affordable sensors is rather supplementary, determination of the measurement uncertainty is one of the main questions of their applicability because there is no certificate for quality assurance of these non-reference technologies. This paper presents the results of almost one-year field testing measurements, when the data from different low-cost sensors (for SO2, NO2, O3, and CO: Cairclip, Envea, FR; for PM1, PM2.5, and PM10: PMS7003, Plantower, CHN, and OPC-N2, Alphasense, UK) were compared with co-located reference monitors used within the Czech national ambient air quality monitoring network. The results showed that in addition to the given reduced measurement accuracy of the sensors, the data quality depends on the early detection of defective units and changes caused by the effect of meteorological conditions (effect of air temperature and humidity on gas sensors and effect of air humidity with condensation conditions on particle counters), or by the interference of different pollutants (especially in gas sensors). Comparative measurement is necessary prior to each sensor’s field applications.

Effect of the Changes in Bulk Density and Granulometric Properties on the Strength Properties of the Moulding Sand Mixtures

Foundry technology uses a lot of several natural materials. Sands use for preparing mixtures whereby making moulds or cores. Sand is defined as a granular, refractory major portion of mixture (90 – 98% in dependence on used binder). Sand properties depend on it has chemical and mineralogical composition; mainly particle size distribution and shape of grains and its size and sand surface texture. A comparative measurement of two quartz sand with different surface quality was carried out. Greensand mixtures were prepared to measure their permeability, compressive strength and wet tensile strength. The strength of sand mixtures has two main components. One of them is the cohesion of the binder; the other one is the adhesion between the binder and the foundry sand. The aim of this research is to determine the ratio of cohesion and adhesion within the strength values.