Optimizing Identification of Power Injectable Ports on the Scout Images for Multidetector Computed Tomography Procedures.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the impact of tube voltage and image display on the identification of power ports features on anterior-posterior scout images to inform optimal workflow for multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) examinations.

Materials And Methods: Four ports, representing variable material composition (titanium/silicone), shapes, and computed tomography (CT) markings, were imaged on an adult anthropomorphic chest phantom using a dual-source MDCT at variable peak tube voltages (80, 100, 120, 150, and Sn150 kVp). Images were reviewed at variable image display setting by 5 blinded readers to assess port features of material composition, shape, and text markings as well as overall preferred image quality.

Application of Handheld Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) to Geochemical Analysis.

While laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has been in use for decades, only within the last two years has technology progressed to the point of enabling true handheld, self-contained instruments. Several instruments are now commercially available with a range of capabilities and features. In this paper, the SciAps Z-500 handheld LIBS instrument functionality and sub-systems are reviewed.

The synthesis of azadirachtin: a potent insect antifeedant.

We describe in full the first synthesis of the potent insect antifeedant azadirachtin through a highly convergent approach. An O-alkylation reaction is used to unite decalin ketone and propargylic mesylate fragments, after which a Claisen rearrangement constructs the central C8-C14 bond in a stereoselective fashion. The allene which results from this sequence then enables a second critical carbon-carbon bond forming event whereby the [3.