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Top 20 Most Read Articles
October 2010
The 20 articles with the most full-text downloads during the month, in descending order.
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Invited Review Article: IceCube: An instrument for neutrino astronomy Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 081101 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3480478 (24 pages) Online Publication Date: 30 August 2010
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Neutrino astronomy beyond the Sun was first imagined in the late 1950s; by the 1970s, it was realized that kilometer-scale neutrino detectors were required. The first such instrument, IceCube, is near completion and taking data. The IceCube project transforms 1 km3 of deep and ultratransparent Antarctic ice into a particle detector. A total of 5160 optical sensors is embedded into a gigaton of Antarctic ice to detect the Cherenkov light emitted by secondary particles produced when neutrinos interact with nuclei in the ice. Each optical sensor is a complete data acquisition system including a phototube, digitization electronics, control and trigger systems, and light-emitting diodes for calibration. The light patterns reveal the type (flavor) of neutrino interaction and the energy and direction of the neutrino, making neutrino astronomy possible. The scientific missions of IceCube include such varied tasks as the search for sources of cosmic rays, the observation of galactic supernova explosions, the search for dark matter, and the study of the neutrinos themselves. These reach energies well beyond those produced with accelerator beams. The outline of this review is as follows: neutrino astronomy and kilometer-scale detectors, high-energy neutrino telescopes: methodologies of neutrino detection, IceCube hardware, high-energy neutrino telescopes: beyond astronomy, and future projects.
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WSXM: A software for scanning probe microscopy and a tool for nanotechnology Rev. Sci. Instrum. 78, 013705 (2007); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.2432410 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 31 January 2007
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In this work we briefly describe the most relevant features of WSXM, a freeware scanning probe microscopy software based on MS-Windows. The article is structured in three different sections: The introduction is a perspective on the importance of software on scanning probe microscopy. The second section is devoted to describe the general structure of the application; in this section the capabilities of WSXM to read third party files are stressed. Finally, a detailed discussion of some relevant procedures of the software is carried out.
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Femtosecond pulse shaping using spatial light modulators Rev. Sci. Instrum. 71, 1929 (2000); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1150614 (32 pages)
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We review the field of femtosecond pulse shaping, in which Fourier synthesis methods are used to generate nearly arbitrarily shaped ultrafast optical wave forms according to user specification. An emphasis is placed on programmable pulse shaping methods based on the use of spatial light modulators. After outlining the fundamental principles of pulse shaping, we then present a detailed discussion of pulse shaping using several different types of spatial light modulators. Finally, new research directions in pulse shaping, and applications of pulse shaping to optical communications, biomedical optical imaging, high power laser amplifiers, quantum control, and laser-electron beam interactions are reviewed. © 2000 American Institute of Physics. |
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High-performance time-resolved fluorescence by direct waveform recording Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 103101 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3480647 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 15 October 2010
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We describe a high-performance time-resolved fluorescence (HPTRF) spectrometer that dramatically increases the rate at which precise and accurate subnanosecond-resolved fluorescence emission waveforms can be acquired in response to pulsed excitation. The key features of this instrument are an intense (1 μJ/pulse), high-repetition rate (10 kHz), and short (1 ns full width at half maximum) laser excitation source and a transient digitizer (0.125 ns per time point) that records a complete and accurate fluorescence decay curve for every laser pulse. For a typical fluorescent sample containing a few nanomoles of dye, a waveform with a signal/noise of about 100 can be acquired in response to a single laser pulse every 0.1 ms, at least 105 times faster than the conventional method of time-correlated single photon counting, with equal accuracy and precision in lifetime determination for lifetimes as short as 100 ps. Using standard single-lifetime samples, the detected signals are extremely reproducible, with waveform precision and linearity to within 1% error for single-pulse experiments. Waveforms acquired in 0.1 s (1000 pulses) with the HPTRF instrument were of sufficient precision to analyze two samples having different lifetimes, resolving minor components with high accuracy with respect to both lifetime and mole fraction. The instrument makes possible a new class of high-throughput time-resolved fluorescence experiments that should be especially powerful for biological applications, including transient kinetics, multidimensional fluorescence, and microplate formats.
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 093707 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3477996 (7 pages) Online Publication Date: 30 September 2010
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We describe in detail how atomic force microscopy (AFM) images can be routinely achieved with macroscopic silicon-based chips integrating mesoscopic tips, paving the way for the development of new near field devices combining AFM imaging with any kind of functionality integrated on a chip. The chips have been glued at the end of the free prong of 100 kHz quartz tuning forks mounted in Qplus configuration. Numerical simulations by modal analysis have been carried out to clarify the nature of the vibration modes observed in the experimental spectra. It is shown that two low frequency modes can be used to drive the system and scan the surface with a great stability in amplitude modulation as well as in frequency modulation AFM under ultrahigh vacuum. The AFM capabilities are demonstrated through a series of examples including phase and dissipation contrast imaging, force spectroscopy measurements, and investigations of soft samples in weak interaction with the substrate. The lateral resolution with the tips grown by focused ion beam deposition already matches the one achieved in standard amplitude modulation mode AFM experiments.
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Photoacoustic imaging in biomedicine Rev. Sci. Instrum. 77, 041101 (2006); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.2195024 (22 pages) Online Publication Date: 17 April 2006
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Photoacoustic imaging (also called optoacoustic or thermoacoustic imaging) has the potential to image animal or human organs, such as the breast and the brain, with simultaneous high contrast and high spatial resolution. This article provides an overview of the rapidly expanding field of photoacoustic imaging for biomedical applications. Imaging techniques, including depth profiling in layered media, scanning tomography with focused ultrasonic transducers, image forming with an acoustic lens, and computed tomography with unfocused transducers, are introduced. Special emphasis is placed on computed tomography, including reconstruction algorithms, spatial resolution, and related recent experiments. Promising biomedical applications are discussed throughout the text, including (1) tomographic imaging of the skin and other superficial organs by laser-induced photoacoustic microscopy, which offers the critical advantages, over current high-resolution optical imaging modalities, of deeper imaging depth and higher absorption contrasts, (2) breast cancer detection by near-infrared light or radio-frequency–wave-induced photoacoustic imaging, which has important potential for early detection, and (3) small animal imaging by laser-induced photoacoustic imaging, which measures unique optical absorption contrasts related to important biochemical information and provides better resolution in deep tissues than optical imaging.
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 75, 2787 (2004); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1785844 (23 pages) Online Publication Date: 2 September 2004
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Since their invention just over 20 years ago, optical traps have emerged as a powerful tool with broad-reaching applications in biology and physics. Capabilities have evolved from simple manipulation to the application of calibrated forces on—and the measurement of nanometer-level displacements of—optically trapped objects. We review progress in the development of optical trapping apparatus, including instrument design considerations, position detection schemes and calibration techniques, with an emphasis on recent advances. We conclude with a brief summary of innovative optical trapping configurations and applications. |
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 099501 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3488622 (4 pages) Online Publication Date: 16 September 2010
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In order to supplement manufacturers’ information this Department will welcome the submission by our readers of brief communications reporting measurements on the physical properties of materials which supersede earlier data or suggest new research applications.
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 103301 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3488362 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 4 October 2010
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The Pohang Light Source (PLS) storage ring is a synchrotron light source with the emittance of 18.9 nm at 2.5 GeV and has delivered vacuum ultraviolet and soft x-rays during the past 15 years. We investigate a lattice design for the 3 GeV ring for an upgrade project that keeps the existing tunnel. We investigate a double bend achromat (DBA) structure that provides the reduction of emittance by a factor of 3 and the increase of the number of straight section by a factor of 2 than the existing PLS lattice. We present several characteristics on the beam dynamics, dynamic aperture, and optics matching in the low-emittance lattice which includes squeezed space between magnets. Present PLS lattice has 12 long straight sections of 6.8 m long and the lattice is modified to provide the additional 12 short straight sections of 3.7 m long by eliminating a bending magnet in the middle of the cell of the present triplet bending achromat lattice. Thus, the new lattice consists of a total of 24 straight sections that consist of 12×6.8 and 12×3.7 m long straight sections, which can provide the spaces for the 4- and 2-m-long insertion devices. We present the design results in detail for a DBA lattice in 281.82 m long circumference. It is shown that the emittance of 6.2 nm in the lattice can be achieved by allowing nonzero dispersions in the straight sections. The lattice provides high brilliance at the photon energy of a few 10 keV that meets the requirements by synchrotron radiation users; however, it may require a strong focusing and become sensitive to machine errors and effects of insertion devices. Thus, we investigated the dynamic aperture in the lattice by a simulation method and achieved an optimal tune under the strength of sextupole magnets of 500 T/m2 for the low-emittance ring. We also performed the lattice tunings to restore the optics due to the errors in the low-emittance ring. In result, our designed lattice shows a good optimization in terms of emittance, brilliance, and circumference as a light source for a 3 GeV.
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Thermal conductivity measurement from 30 to 750 K: the 3ω method Rev. Sci. Instrum. 61, 802 (1990); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1141498 (7 pages)
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An ac technique for measuring the thermal conductivity of dielectric solids between 30 and 750 K is described. This technique, the 3ω method, can be applied to bulk amorphous solids and crystals as well as amorphous films tens of microns thick. Errors from black‐body radiation are calculated to be less than 2% even at 1000 K. Data for a‐SiO2, Pyrex 7740, and Pyroceram 9606 are compared to results obtained by conventional techniques. |
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 78, 031101 (2007); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.2709758 (20 pages) Online Publication Date: 30 March 2007
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The technique of atom probe tomography (APT) is reviewed with an emphasis on illustrating what is possible with the technique both now and in the future. APT delivers the highest spatial resolution (sub-0.3-nm) three-dimensional compositional information of any microscopy technique. Recently, APT has changed dramatically with new hardware configurations that greatly simplify the technique and improve the rate of data acquisition. In addition, new methods have been developed to fabricate suitable specimens from new classes of materials. Applications of APT have expanded from structural metals and alloys to thin multilayer films on planar substrates, dielectric films, semiconducting structures and devices, and ceramic materials. This trend toward a broader range of materials and applications is likely to continue.
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Quantitative scanning probe microscope topographies by charge linearization of the vertical actuator Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 103701 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3488359 (5 pages) Online Publication Date: 14 October 2010
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Many forms of scanning probe microscopy require a piezoelectric actuator to vary the probe-sample distance. Examples include constant-force atomic force microscopy and constant-current scanning tunneling microscopy. In such modes, the topography of the sample is reconstructed from the voltage applied to the vertical piezoelectric actuator. However, piezoelectric actuators exhibit significant hysteresis which can produce up to 14% uncertainty in the reproduced topography. In this work, a charge drive is used to linearize the vertical piezoelectric actuator which reduces the error from 14% to 0.65%.
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 76, 061101 (2005); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1927327 (12 pages) Online Publication Date: 26 May 2005
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Nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) are drawing interest from both technical and scientific communities. These are electromechanical systems, much like microelectromechanical systems, mostly operated in their resonant modes with dimensions in the deep submicron. In this size regime, they come with extremely high fundamental resonance frequencies, diminished active masses,and tolerable force constants; the quality (Q) factors of resonance are in the range Q ∼ 103–105—significantly higher than those of electrical resonant circuits. These attributes collectively make NEMS suitable for a multitude of technological applications such as ultrafast sensors, actuators, and signal processing components. Experimentally, NEMS are expected to open up investigations of phonon mediated mechanical processes and of the quantum behavior of mesoscopic mechanical systems. However, there still exist fundamental and technological challenges to NEMS optimization. In this review we shall provide a balanced introduction to NEMS by discussing the prospects and challenges in this rapidly developing field and outline an exciting emerging application, nanoelectromechanical mass detection.
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 61, 3317 (1990); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1141631 (23 pages)
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Gas chromatography is a powerful separation technique for gas and vapor mixtures. Combining separation and on‐line detection permits accurate quantitative analysis of complex mixtures, including traces of compounds down to parts per trillions in some particular cases. The importance of gas chromatography in quality control and process control in the chemical and drug industry, in environmental pollution investigations and in clinical analysis is critical. The principles of the technique are discussed, the main components of a gas chromatograph are described and some idea of the importance of the applications is given. |
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Calibration of atomic‐force microscope tips Rev. Sci. Instrum. 64, 1868 (1993); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1143970 (6 pages)
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Images and force measurements taken by an atomic‐force microscope (AFM) depend greatly on the properties of the spring and tip used to probe the sample’s surface. In this article, we describe a simple, nondestructive procedure for measuring the force constant, resonant frequency, and quality factor of an AFM cantilever spring and the effective radius of curvature of an AFM tip. Our procedure uses the AFM itself and does not require additional equipment. |
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Versatile apparatus for attosecond metrology and spectroscopy Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 093103 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3475689 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 14 September 2010
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We present the AS-2 Attosecond Beamline at the Joint Laboratory for Attosecond Physics of the Max-Planck-Institut für Quantenoptik and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität for time resolved pump/probe experiments with attosecond resolution. High harmonic generation and subsequent filtering of the generated extreme ultraviolet (XUV) continuum by means of metal filters and XUV multilayer mirrors serve for the generation of isolated attosecond laser pulses. After high harmonic generation, the remaining fundamental laser pulse is spatially separated from the attosecond XUV pulse, to what is to our knowledge for the first time, by means of a perforated mirror in a Mach–Zehnder interferometer. Active stabilization of this interferometer guarantees the necessary temporal resolution for tracking attosecond dynamics in real time. As a proof-of-principle, photoelectron streaking experiments are performed and experimental techniques for their realization are summarized. Finally we highlight the potential of the presented beamline system for future experiments in comparison with previously demonstrated attosecond beamlines.
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Single-molecule binding experiments on long time scales Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 083705 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3473936 (9 pages) Online Publication Date: 27 August 2010
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We describe an approach for performing single-molecule binding experiments on time scales from hours to days, allowing for the observation of slower kinetics than have been previously investigated by single-molecule techniques. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy is used to image the binding of labeled ligand to molecules specifically coupled to the surface of an optically transparent flow cell. Long-duration experiments are enabled by ensuring sufficient positional, chemical, thermal, and image stability. Principal components of this experimental stability include illumination timing, solution replacement, and chemical treatment of solution to reduce photodamage and photobleaching; and autofocusing to correct for spatial drift.
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Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 074901 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3458011 (9 pages) Online Publication Date: 14 July 2010
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This article reports on the effect of aluminum (Al) volume fraction concentration on the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of Al nanoparticles suspended in water, ethylene glycol, and ethanol based fluids prepared by the one step method. The Al nanoparticles were independently produced and then mixed with a base fluid to produce the nanoparticles suspension. The thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the nanofluids were measured using the hot wire-laser beam displacement technique. The thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity were obtained by fitting the experimental data to the numerical data simulated for Al in distilled water, ethylene glycol, and ethanol. The thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the nanofluids increase with an increase in the volume fraction concentration.
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Note: Multiscale scanning probe microscopy Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 086101 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3473935 (3 pages) Online Publication Date: 16 August 2010
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Combining the nanoscopic and macroscopic worlds is a serious challenge common to numerous scientific fields, from physics to biology. In this paper, we demonstrate nanometric resolution over a millimeter range by means of atomic-force microscopy using metrological stage. Nanometric repeatability and millimeter range open up the possibility of probing components and materials combining multiscale properties i.e., engineered nanomaterials. Multiscale probing is not limited to atomic-force microscopy and can be extended to any type of scanning probe technique in nanotechnology, including piezoforce microscopy, electrostatic-force microscopy, and scanning near-field optical microscopy.
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On the magnetic field near the center of Helmholtz coils Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 084701 (2010); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3474227 (7 pages) Online Publication Date: 24 August 2010
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We develop a series expansion for the calculation of the magnetic field near the center of Helmholtz coils and apply the result to a magnet of our design. Our analysis considers geometric details of the coils, the magnetic properties of the form and windings, conductor insulation effects, and several winding imperfections. We also consider the relaxation of coil symmetry which happens when the mean radius of each coil and the coil midplane separation distance are unequal. We compute the field uniformity near the coil’s center for three cases, including one where axial symmetry remains but geometric imperfections of the order of 10−3 of the coil “radius” exist.
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