Abstract
Despite their extreme sensitivity, speckle-based fiber optical sensors are typically limited by the camera frame rate and dynamic range. In this context, recent developments in event-based sensors make them a promising and affordable tool for high-speed interrogation for such class of sensors, offering a low-latency approach to detecting dynamic changes in illumination patterns, well-suited for fast interrogation with frequency response up to the MHz range. In this manuscript, we investigate the potential of using an event-based vision sensor (EVS) as an interrogator for a speckle-based optical fiber sensor operating at 532nm to detect vibrations induced by an off-the-shelf sound speaker. In contact with the fiber, these vibrations induce dynamic changes in the speckle pattern, which are tracked by the EVS and processed to construct temporal frames with timestamps below 100 mu s. Approximating the differential operator of the deformation in the linear regime, we show a successful reconstruction of the acoustic signal for two illustrative case studies: i)a single-frequency signal at 1.2 KHz and ii)a linear ramp between 300 Hz to 2.5 kHz. The results demonstrate the ability to accurately identify not only the fundamental frequencies but also their harmonics generated by the speaker up to 5 KHz, paving an innovative path to harness the potential of speckle-based sensors in multiple scenarios of optical metrology and dynamic sensing applications.

Abstract
Reinforced concrete structures form the backbone of civil infrastructure due to their durability, longevity, affordability, and availability. However, aging concrete poses challenges, with decay often beginning internally and becoming visible only at advanced stages, leading to costly repairs, restricted functionality, and safety risks. To address these challenges, sensors are crucial for enhancing infrastructure resilience and optimizing repairs. This study employs multimode optical fibers to monitor concrete curing, water ingress, relative humidity (RH), cement paste carbonation, and rebar corrosion. Four sensors monitor changes in reflection at the fiber tip of a 600 mu m multimode fiber (MMF) using LEDs and photodiodes, connected via a fiber bundle containing two 200 mu m MMF. Variations in the refractive index around the fiber tip are used to monitor water throughout the concrete lifecycle, including curing, RH changes and water intrusion. Colorimetric changes in a cement paste layer and an iron-thin film are used to monitor carbonation and corrosion. The curing sensor is temperature-independent and correlates strongly with cumulative heat release from cement hydration (R=0.95). The RH sensor monitors up to and beyond 100% RH, detecting water intrusion. The corrosion sensor detects early corrosion stages and distinguishes between reflection losses from corrosion and mechanical changes. The layer of cement paste for carbonation monitoring increases reflected intensity by 17% due to carbonation, with 63% of the increase occurring in 80 minutes in a 3% CO2 atmosphere. The broad monitoring scope and low implementation cost make this sensor a unique option among commercially available solutions for structural health monitoring of reinforced concrete.

Abstract
A study of an Eocene fish fossil using portable XRF revealed distinct geochemical differences between the fossil and surrounding sediment. Elements like uranium, yttrium, arsenic, and phosphorus were found only in the fossil, while calcium and iron appeared in both regions. These patterns point to selective elemental incorporation during early fossilization and diagenesis processes. The results highlight XRF's usefulness in verifying fossil authenticity, provenance and understanding the chemical processes during fossilization. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

Abstract
Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry analysis was conducted to examine the geochemical composition of Kfeldspars from various aplite-pegmatites in the Barroso-Alv & atilde;o field, focusing on the differences between Li-rich and Li-barren aplite-pegmatites. The study revealed significant variations in the concentrations of minor and trace elements (Rb, Tl, Li, Ga, Pb, Cs, Ba, Be, Ta, and Sn) present in the K-feldspars of Li-barren, spodumene-rich, and petalite-rich aplite-pegmatites. The data also indicate a geographical trend in both mineralogy and geochemistry across the aplite-pegmatites of the Barroso-Alv & atilde;o field. Li-barren aplite-pegmatites are more concentrated in the southeast, spodumene-rich dominate the center, and petalite-rich varieties are more common in the northwest. Additionally, portable X-ray fluorescence analysis was performed on the crystals of the same samples to evaluate the feasibility of in situ geochemical analysis of K-feldspars, aiming to determine whether an aplite-pegmatite can be quickly identified as Li-rich. This approach seeks to provide a rapid field assessment of whether an aplite-pegmatite justifies further exploration for Li mining. Notably, the trace amounts of Li, Sn, P, and Ta found in K-feldspars are likely due to mineral inclusions of spodumene, cassiterite, apatite, and columbite-tantalite minerals, as observed petrographically in one of these Li-rich aplite-pegmatites.

Abstract
Heritage preservation requires innovative sensing technologies to analyze their chemical composition while minimizing damage. This study introduces a Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) system featuring a fiber laser source and optical fiber-based collection system for the analysis of heritage ceramics. Comparative experiments with a conventional Nd:YAG laser LIBS system highlight the advantages and trade-offs of the fiber laser system in terms of ablation capability, spectral mapping, and depth profiling. Results were validated against X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). Experiments demonstrate minimal surface alteration and high-quality spectral data for elements such as Pb, Fe, Zn, Sb, Mn, Ti Na, Ba and Ca. The compact design and good results position this system as a transformative tool for heritage conservation.

Abstract
In recent advancements within sensing technology, driven by the Internet of Things (IoT), significant impacts are observed on health sector applications, notably through wearable electronics like electronic tattoos (e-tattoos). These e-tattoos, designed for direct contact with the skin, facilitate precise monitoring of vital physiological parameters, including body heat, a critical indicator for conditions such as inflammation and infection. Monitoring these indicators can be crucial for early detection of chronic conditions, steering toward proactive healthcare management. This study delves into a thermoelectric sensor e-tattoo designed for detailed skin temperature mapping. Utilizing a novel design, this sensor detects temperature variations across thermoelectric stripes, leveraging screen-printed films of p-type Bi0.35Sb1.65Te3, n-type Bi2Te2.8Se0.2, and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) for enhanced thermoelectric and flexible properties. The application of a prototype printed thermoelectric device on temporary tattoo paper, a pioneering development in wearable health technology is demonstrated. This device, validated through numerical simulations, exhibits significant potential as a non-invasive tool for temperature monitoring, highlighting its value in health diagnostics and management.