The "super stars" of analytical spectrometry, ETA-AAS, ICP-AES, and ICP-MS, are compared to the other atomic spectrometric methods. LIBS will be emphasized with regard to its figures of merit with regard to its disadvantages and advantages.

The performance and sensitivity of an intensified CCD array system and a nonintensified CCD array detector system are compared for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). LIBS measurements were recorded in a calcium-based aerosol-seeded gas stream at ambient pressure. The signal-to-noise ratio based on the 393.37-nm calcium emission line was calculated as a function of detector delay with respect to the plasma-initiating laser pulse. Both ensemble-averaging and single-shot spectral analyses were performed. For all conditions, the intensified CCD system provided an enhanced signal-to-noise ratio compared with the nonintensified CCD system.

Laser induced plasma spectroscopy is beginning to find useful applications in the real time in situ detection of particulates and aerosols suspended in gases. Although the technique is almost 40 years old, it has become increasingly practical for this application during the last decade due to the development of more reliable lasers and optical detection systems, an improved understanding of the physical processes involved, and new data collection and analysis strategies. There is a pressing need for such detection techniques for industrial process and atmospheric monitoring. In this review, we examine literature concerned with the process of optical breakdown by focused lasers in gases, the role of particles in this process, and the characterization of particles using laser induced plasmas.

Clinical Scenario: Pain is a common complaint following an orthopedic injury; however, the exact cause of nociception can be complex. Multiple tissues can generate a patient’s complaint of pain, such as the skin, muscle, ligaments, tendon, nerves, and bones. Regarding the somatosensory system, inflammation around the nerve can create pain and alter movement coordination; this information has resulted in increased awareness of neurodynamic assessments and exercises. Neurodynamic assessments and exercises provide a unique paradigm to effectively assess and treat neural tissue, which may not commonly be considered within the traditional orthopedic examination. Clinical Question: In college athletes with musculoskeletal pain and activity impairments, does the use of neurodynamic exercises improve pain or function? Summary of Key Findings: Of the 5 studies, all consisted of chronic injuries with 3 involving upper-extremity pathologies and 2 focusing on lower-extremity pathologies. All 5 studies noted short- and long-term improvement following the incorporation of neurodynamic sliders or tensioners into the treatment plan. Four of the studies had follow-up periods greater than 30 days with sustained improvement on patient outcomes. Only 2 studies described a progression of neurodynamic exercises through sliders and tensioners. Three studies utilized a set/repetition format for exercise prescription, whereas a fourth used a time-based format, and a fifth article utilized both. Finally, 4 studies utilized neurodynamic assessments to identify whether there was a neural component to the patient’s presentation (eg, peripheral nerve mechanosensitivity). Clinical Bottom Line: In individuals with musculoskeletal impairments, evidence exists to support the use of neurodynamic exercises, such as sliders and tensioners, to improve pain and pain-related disability when neural sensitivity exists. Strength of Recommendation: Grade C evidence exists to support the use of neurodynamic exercises in college athletes with a musculoskeletal impairment.

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