Elementary analysis in banana samples using X-Ray Fluorescence

This work aims to characterize the elemental concentrations of two banana types gold and silver. In both were analyze in the pulp and peel by X-Ray Fluorescence technique. The results showed that the elements in both types are more concentrated in the peel than in the pulp. In addition, it was also observed that the normalization of the peel and pulp concentrations for the elements K, Fe, Zn, Br, Rb, and Sr is higher in the silver banana compared to the gold banana. The results indicate that banana peels can be used to supplement nutritional deficiencies. The work also demonstrates the potential that X-Ray Fluorescence has in investigation of elemental composition of foods. As the technique has easy instrumentation and data interpretation, it can be implemented as a routine in the investigation of the elemental composition of foods. In addition, the technique has the advantage of carrying out in situ analyzes by portable instruments. These in situ investigations can even be applied to make quality control of bananas at the time of harvest.

On the Hierarchical Use of Colourants in a 15th Century Book of Hours

An illuminated Book of Hours (in use in Chalon-sur-Saône) currently owned by the Museo Civico di Arte Antica and displayed in the prestigious Palazzo Madama in Torino (Italy) was investigated by means of optical microscopy, fibre optic reflectance spectroscopy, fibre optic molecular fluorimetry, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and Raman spectroscopy. The aim of the scientific survey was to expand the knowledge of the manuscript itself and on the materials and techniques employed by Antoine the Lonhy, the versatile itinerant artist who decorated the book in the 15th century. The focus was to reveal the original colourants and to investigate the pigments used in rough retouches which were visible in some of the miniatures. The investigation was carried out in situ by portable instruments according to a non-invasive analytical sequence previously developed. It was evident that the use of different pigments by the master was ruled, at least partially, by a hierarchical scheme in which more precious materials were linked to the most important characters or details in the painted scene.

Application of Multispectral Imaging and Portable Spectroscopic Instruments to the Analysis of an Ancient Persian Illuminated Manuscript

Illuminated manuscripts are, in general, the final products of a wise and complex interaction of different competencies. In particular, each manuscript reflects uses and techniques rooted in the historical and geographical traditions of the area of realization. Defining the characteristics and the materials in these valuable artefacts is an essential element to reconstruct their history and allow a more precise collocation and a possible comparison with other works in similar periods and areas. Non-invasive methods, mainly using portable instruments, offer undoubtedly good support in these studies. Recent analyses of an ancient Persian illuminated manuscript, combining multispectral imaging and spectroscopic measurements made with portable instruments (XRF, FORS, micro-Raman, IR-ATR) on selected points, provided new data for an improved understanding of this rare book. This study details the possibilities offered by combining these non-invasive methods for an in-depth understanding of the techniques and practices behind the realization of Middle Eastern illuminated manuscripts and provided new perspectives for multidisciplinary approaches to research in this field.

Fraud Detection in Batches of Sweet Almonds by Portable Near-Infrared Spectral Devices

One of the key challenges for the almond industry is how to detect the presence of bitter almonds in commercial batches of sweet almonds. The main aim of this research is to assess the potential of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) by means of using portable instruments in the industry to detect batches of sweet almonds which have been adulterated with bitter almonds. To achieve this, sweet almonds and non-sweet almonds (bitter almonds and mixtures of sweet almonds with different percentages (from 5% to 20%) of bitter almonds) were analysed using a new generation of portable spectrophotometers. Three strategies (only bitter almonds, bitter almonds and mixtures, and only mixtures) were used to optimise the construction of the non-sweet almond training set. Models developed using partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) correctly classified 86–100% of samples, depending on the instrument used and the strategy followed for constructing the non-sweet almond training set. These results confirm that NIR spectroscopy provides a reliable, accurate method for detecting the presence of bitter almonds in batches of sweet almonds, with up to 5% adulteration levels (lower levels should be tested in future studies), and that this technology can be readily used at the main steps of the production chain.

Assessment of track and turnout condition based on geometry measurement and railhead condition data

The paper presents the procedure of track and turnout geometry condition assessment, taking into account also the deterioration of the rail running surface. Track geometry measurements are made using manual tools, microprocessor-based portable instruments, and geometry cars. Methods of collecting track and turnout geometry data are discussed, and an exemplary equipment design features are presented. Maintaining and possible improvement of the technical condition of the permanent way call for regular inspections providing voluminous data requiring detailed analysis. The approach based on track line-speed dependent geometry parameters analysis is explained. Several synthetic track condition assessment coefficients are described, and analysis of the temporal trend of the track and turnout geometry change. Train operation safety is also affected by changes on the running surface of the rails. In addition to the track geometry, the significant reasons for train operation safety are the railhead wear being affected by the type of transport, traffic intensity and maximum allowable axle load. Determining the permanent way condition with the continuous design and maintenance characteristics is possible if measured on the minimum 200-300 m length with the measurement steps of ca 0.5 m. Comments on employing the Artificial Intelligence tools for track and turnout condition analysis are provided. Most of the inspection data collected using various equipment, like track and turnout geometry measurement data and video inspection information, can be analysed automatically by the dedicated software agents. Such an approach yields analysis results equivalent to the standard inspections, except that the trains and self-propelled trolleys can record data at higher speeds, railways staff could achieve.

Modular MA-XRF Scanner Development in the Multi-Analytical Characterisation of a 17th Century Azulejo from Portugal

A modular X-ray scanning system was developed, to fill in the gap between portable instruments (with a limited analytical area) and mobile instruments (with large analytical areas, and sometimes bulky and difficult to transport). The scanner has been compared to a commercial tabletop instrument, by analysing a Portuguese tile (azulejo) from the 17th century. Complementary techniques were used to achieve a throughout characterisation of the sample in a complete non-destructive approach. The complexity of the acquired X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectra, due to inherent sample stratigraphy, has been resolved using Monte Carlo simulations, and Raman spectroscopy, as the most suitable technique to complement the analysis of azulejos colours, yielding satisfactory results. The colouring agents were identified as cobalt blue and a Zn-modified Naples-yellow. The stratigraphy of the area under study was partially modelled with Monte Carlo simulations. The scanners performance has been compared by evaluating the images outputs and the global spectrum.

Novel near-infrared and Raman spectroscopic technologies for print and photography identification, classification, and authentication

Modern forensics encounters new challenges and demands new analytical methods that would meet variety of prerequisites regarding their accuracy, rapidness, flexibility, and reliability. Vibrational spectroscopic methods, in particular near-infrared spectroscopy, offer such potential and meet an increasing interest in forensics for authentication of various documents. Pittcon 2020 Conference, which took place in Chicago, Illinois, included a Session dedicated to the role of novel tools of investigation in the forensics of tomorrow. This article summarizes and complements the presentation upon how the current state-of-the-art and future prospects of vibrational spectroscopic techniques fits into this role. The application of near-infrared spectroscopy, including the benefits stemming from using novel miniaturized portable instruments, Raman and surface-enhanced Raman scattering techniques, is discussed in detail in the present article.

Exploring Virtual Reality for the Assessment and Rehabilitation of Executive Functions

This article describes how a neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation are typically carried out using paper-and-pencil tools. However, these protocols cannot effectively evaluate the subject's performance of daily activities. More recently, the increasing accessibility of new and powerful technology has presented new possibilities. Virtual reality is one of the most promising tools with the increasing ecologicity in the neuropsychological field. The availability of new portable instruments has increased the accessibility and usability of this technology. Using this frame, the changes that have occurred over time in the neuropsychological practice up to the most recent VR-based tools have been explored. In particular, the focus will be on executive functions as the most sensitive cognitive domain within the ecological validity of the tools. In accordance with the literature, the authors show the potential for the use of virtual reality in the assessment and rehabilitation of executive functions, highlighting the advantages, limitations, and potential future challenges.