Development and validation of the effective CNR analysis method for evaluating the contrast resolution of CT images.

Contrast resolution is an important index for evaluating the signal detectability of computed tomographic (CT) images. Recently, various noise reduction algorithms, such as iterative reconstruction (IR) and deep learning reconstruction (DLR), have been proposed to reduce the image noise in CT images. However, these algorithms cause changes in the image noise texture and blurred image signals in CT images.

Determination of rare-earth elements in a limestone geological standard reference material by ICP-MS following solvent extraction.

Rare-earth elements in a limestone geological standard (JLs-1) were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) using phosphoric acid 2-ethylhexyl ester solvent extraction, which had been established for seawater analysis. First, the limestone sample was divided into two fractions: acetic acid soluble (carbonate fraction) and insoluble (residue). A modification of the method was undertaken to achieve quantitative recovery.