The variable UV-fluorescence of minerals is well known, and this is attributed to some defects in crystallographic structure or some admixtures, e.g. REE elements. So far, UV-fluorescence has not been applied to describe the nature of meteorites. The plates of forty-five meteorites were examined in three simultaneous emission spectra under an epi-fluorescence microscope. Meteorites were characterized quantitatively according to twelve colours of fluorescence, arbitrarily identified. A numerical method of non-metric multidimensional scaling was used to put colour characteristics as well as the meteorites into an ordination space. Each colour characteristic carries its own information independent of the others. NWA 4039, Bilanga, Gujba and NWA 5437 are extremes in the ordination space. Sahara 560 and NWA 791 expressed very poor and very rich fluorescence, respectively. UV-fluorescence can be a good screening method to quickly distinguish space minerals with crystallographic defects and/or those which are contaminated by REE elements. In subsequent research, other more advanced methods will have to be used.
Introduction: Injury of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve can cause a hoarse or weak voice due to the functional loss (dysergia) of the cricothyroid muscle. Defining the anatomical variations of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve and estimating their frequency are crucial for surgical interventions. Aim: To reveal the topography of the external branch in the Anatolian population, to prevent injury of it during the surgical intervention in the anterior neck region. Material and methods: 26 bilateral hemilarynges (4 females, 22 males) were dissected. The morphometric and morphological features of the external branch were examined. The obtained results were compared statistically, left and right. Results: Landmarks such as the thyroid gland and laryngeal prominence were determined for the detection of the external branch. The variations of the course of the external branch and the points of piercing the cricothyroid muscle or inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscle were evaluated. Discussion: Although safe approaches have been described for nerve protection during neck surgeries, injuries may occur during preliminary surgery as the mentioned nerve is thinner and more superficial than other branches of the vagus nerve. However, it can be detected more easily and safely by knowing the defined anatomical landmarks and morphological variations of the external branch. Conclusion: The anatomical variations described can be a safe and important guide in surgeries of the anterior neck region.