Abstract: In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for managing services in a communications network. These mechanisms and methods can enable embodiments to manage services provided by third party service providers, for example, to callers establishing communications sessions in a network. The ability of embodiments to control access to, and manage, third party services associated with communications sessions can enable embodiments to provide improved security and enhanced features to callers.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the content of an element having an atomic number higher than 47, in a sample volume, in particular for determining the concentration of an X-ray contrast agent in vivo, employs a radiation source for such excitation of the element in the sample volume with collimated radiation that the element emits its characteristic X-ray radiation. An NaI(T1) scintillation detector is directed towards the sample volume for receiving X-ray radiation therefrom at an angle of from 90.degree. to 135.degree. in relation to the excitation radiation. Both the energy of Copton-scattered photons in the sample and the difference between this energy and 28.5 KeV must be clearly distinguished from the characteristic energy of the element concerned.