Infrared to terahertz identification of chemical substances used for the production of IEDs.

In our modern times, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have become more sophisticated than ever, capable of causing destruction and loss of life. The creative use of homemade substances for IEDs manufactures has led to efforts in developing sensitive detection methods that can anticipate, identify and protect against improvised attacks. Laser-based spectroscopic techniques provide rapid and accurate detection of chemicals in improvised explosives, but no single method can detect all components of all explosives.

The significance of B-type natriuretic peptide in predicting early mortality among pulmonary embolism patients, alongside troponin: insights from a multicentric registry.

Background: Early mortality assessment in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is crucial for treatment decisions. The role of natriuretic peptides in this context is debated. This study explores elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels, relative to the upper normal limit (UNL), predicting mortality in PE, comparing with troponin (Tn).

Non-Contact and Self-Calibrated Photopyroelectric Method for Complete Thermal Characterization of Porous Materials.

A general theory of a photopyroelectric (PPE) configuration, based on an opaque sample and transparent pyroelectric sensor, backing and coupling fluids is developed. A combined back-front detection investigation, based on a frequency scan of the phase of the PPE signals, followed by a self-normalization of the phases' behavior, leads to the possibility of simultaneously measuring both thermal effusivity and diffusivity of a solid sample. A particular case of this configuration, with no coupling fluid at the sample/backing interface and air instead of coupling fluid at the sample/sensor interface (non-contact method) is suitable for simultaneous measurement ofboth thermal diffusivity and effusivity (in fact complete thermal characterization) of porous solids.

Overview of the current use of levosimendan in France: a prospective observational cohort study.

Background: Following the results of randomized controlled trials on levosimendan, French health authorities requested an update of the current use and side-effects of this medication on a national scale.

Method: The France-LEVO registry was a prospective observational cohort study reflecting the indications, dosing regimens, and side-effects of levosimendan, as well as patient outcomes over a year.

Results: The patients included (n = 602) represented 29.