Jump to Content
View Cart
Top 20 Most Read Articles
June 2009
The 20 articles with the most full-text downloads during the month, in descending order.
 |
Acousto-optic modulator based frequency stabilized diode laser system for atom trapping Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 053101 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3125029 (4 pages) Online Publication Date: 1 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
|||||||||||||
|
Show Abstract
We report on an inexpensive commercial laser diode stabilized to the D2-line in rubidium using a simple scheme. The linewidth was reduced to 1.3 MHz without an external cavity, making it suitable for laser cooling and trapping. The system is very robust and the laser frequency can be changed rapidly (within 51 μs) while the laser remains in lock. The frequency of the locked laser drifts less than 850 kHz peak-to-peak over 25 h. We demonstrate laser cooling and trapping using our system.
|
||||||||||||||
|
Show PACS
|
||||||||||||||
|
|
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
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
|||
|
Show Abstract
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.
|
||||
|
Show PACS
|
||||
|
|
The tissue diagnostic instrument Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 054303 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3127602 (6 pages) Online Publication Date: 27 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
Tissue mechanical properties reflect extracellular matrix composition and organization, and as such, their changes can be a signature of disease. Examples of such diseases include intervertebral disk degeneration, cancer, atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and tooth decay. Here we introduce the tissue diagnostic instrument (TDI), a device designed to probe the mechanical properties of normal and diseased soft and hard tissues not only in the laboratory but also in patients. The TDI can distinguish between the nucleus and the annulus of spinal disks, between young and degenerated cartilage, and between normal and cancerous mammary glands. It can quantify the elastic modulus and hardness of the wet dentin left in a cavity after excavation. It can perform an indentation test of bone tissue, quantifying the indentation depth increase and other mechanical parameters. With local anesthesia and disposable, sterile, probe assemblies, there has been neither pain nor complications in tests on patients. We anticipate that this unique device will facilitate research on many tissue systems in living organisms, including plants, leading to new insights into disease mechanisms and methods for their early detection.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 063101 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3142443 (5 pages) Online Publication Date: 1 June 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
We present the design of a confocal microscope adapted for optical spectroscopy and imaging at cryogenic temperatures. This system is based on the existing approach of partly inserting the optical components of the microscope inside a helium-bath cryostat. It provides a spatial resolution approaching the diffraction limit with a mechanical stability allowing uninterrupted integration times exceeding 10 h and allows keeping track of a single emitter for unlimited periods of time. Furthermore, our design allows scanning the excitation spot and detection area independently of the sample position. This feature provides the means to perform probeless transport experiments on one-dimensional nanostructures. The scanning capabilities of this microscope are fully detailed and characterized using the photoluminescence of single nitrogen dyads at 4.5 K.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Femtosecond pulse shaping using spatial light modulators Rev. Sci. Instrum. 71, 1929 (2000); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1150614 (32 pages)
Full Text:
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
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. |
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 75, 2787 (2004); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1785844 (23 pages) Online Publication Date: 2 September 2004
Full Text:
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
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. |
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 053702 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3127589 (6 pages) Online Publication Date: 15 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
We present a low-temperature ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) scanning tunneling microscope setup with a combination of a superconducting solenoid coil and two split-pair magnets, providing a rotatable magnetic field up to 500 mT applicable in all spatial directions. An absolute field maximum of B = 7 T(3 T) can be applied perpendicular (parallel) to the sample surface. The instrument is operated at a temperature of 4.8 K. Topographic and spectroscopic measurements on tungsten carbide and indium antimonide revealed a z-noise of 300 fmpp, which barely changes in magnetic field. The microscope is equipped with a tip exchange mechanism and a lateral sample positioning stage, which allows exact positioning of the tip with an accuracy of 5 μm prior to the measurement. Additional contacts to the sample holder allow, e.g., the application of an additional gate voltage. The UHV part of the system contains versatile possibilities of in situ sample and tip preparation as well as low-energy electron diffraction and Auger analysis.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 055101 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3125049 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 4 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
A laser-based system for time-resolved photoemission spectroscopy using up to 6.2 eV photons is presented. The versatility of the laser source permits several combinations of pump and probe photon energies with pulse durations of 50–100 fs. The ultrahigh vacuum system, equipped with evaporators, a low energy electron diffraction system and an Auger spectrometer, grants the possibility to grow and characterize thin films in situ. The electron energy analyzer is a time-of-flight spectrometer with a multianode detector allowing high count rates. The performance of the whole experimental setup is investigated on Cu(100), Cu(111), and Ag(111) single crystals.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Tapered optical fibers as tools for probing magneto-optical trap characteristics Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 053102 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3117201 (5 pages) Online Publication Date: 1 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
We present a novel technique for measuring the characteristics of a magneto-optical trap (MOT) for cold atoms by monitoring the spontaneous emission from trapped atoms coupled into the guided mode of a tapered optical nanofiber. We show that the nanofiber is highly sensitive to very small numbers of atoms close to its surface. The size and shape of the MOT, determined by translating the cold atom cloud across the tapered fiber, is in excellent agreement with measurements obtained using the conventional method of fluorescence imaging using a charge coupled device camera. The coupling of atomic fluorescence into the tapered fiber also allows us to monitor the loading and lifetime of the trap. The results are compared to those achieved by focusing the MOT fluorescence onto a photodiode and it was seen that the tapered fiber gives slightly longer loading and lifetime measurements due to the sensitivity of the fiber, even when very few atoms are present.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Simplified ultrafast pulse shaper for tailored polarization states using a birefringent prism Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 053110 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3130046 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 22 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
A new polarization pulse shaping method utilizing a birefringent prism as both the spectrally dispersing and polarization separating element is presented and analyzed. The method of appropriate prism design is first examined, followed by calibration technique and experimental demonstration of the pulse shaper. Using phase-only modulation by means of a spatial light modulator, we obtain near-transform limited pulses. Furthermore, a sinusoidal spectral phase imparted on the pulse is retrieved and qualitatively compares well with the theoretical target field.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 76, 061101 (2005); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1927327 (12 pages) Online Publication Date: 26 May 2005
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
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.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
A microfluidic mixing system for single-molecule measurements Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 055105 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3125643 (9 pages) Online Publication Date: 14 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
|||||||||||||
|
Show Abstract
This article describes the design and fabrication of a microfluidic mixing system optimized for ultrasensitive optical measurements. Channels are replica-molded in polydimethylsiloxane elastomer and sealed with fused-silica coverglass. The resulting devices have broad chemical compatibility and extremely low fluorescence background, enabling measurements of individual molecules under well-characterized nonequilibrium conditions. Fluid delivery and pressure connections are made using an interface that allows for rapid assembly, rapid sample exchange, and modular device replacement while providing access for high numerical aperture optics.
|
||||||||||||||
|
Show PACS
|
||||||||||||||
|
|
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
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
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.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 053105 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3126422 (4 pages) Online Publication Date: 5 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
We have developed a cold-target recoil-ion momentum spectroscopy apparatus dedicated to the experiments using the extreme-ultraviolet light pulses at the free-electron laser facility, SPring-8 Compact SASE Source test accelerator, in Japan and used it to measure spatial distributions of fundamental, second, and third harmonics at the end station.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Phase-contrast imaging and tomography at 60 keV using a conventional x-ray tube source Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 053701 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3127712 (4 pages) Online Publication Date: 11 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
Phase-contrast imaging at laboratory-based x-ray sources using grating interferometers has been developed over the last few years for x-ray energies of up to 28 keV. Here, we show first phase-contrast projection and tomographic images recorded at significantly higher x-ray energies, produced by an x-ray tube source operated at 100 kV acceleration voltage. We find our measured tomographic phase images in good agreement with tabulated data. The extension of phase-contrast imaging to this significantly higher x-ray energy opens up many applications of the technique in medicine and industrial nondestructive testing.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Cantilever transducers as a platform for chemical and biological sensors Rev. Sci. Instrum. 75, 2229 (2004); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1763252 (25 pages) Online Publication Date: 21 June 2004
Full Text:
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
Since the late 1980s there have been spectacular developments in micromechanical or microelectro-mechanical (MEMS) systems which have enabled the exploration of transduction modes that involve mechanical energy and are based primarily on mechanical phenomena. As a result an innovative family of chemical and biological sensors has emerged. In this article, we discuss sensors with transducers in a form of cantilevers. While MEMS represents a diverse family of designs, devices with simple cantilever configurations are especially attractive as transducers for chemical and biological sensors. The review deals with four important aspects of cantilever transducers: (i) operation principles and models; (ii) microfabrication; (iii) figures of merit; and (iv) applications of cantilever sensors. We also provide a brief analysis of historical predecessors of the modern cantilever sensors. © 2004 American Institute of Physics. |
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 055110 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3129435 (7 pages) Online Publication Date: 22 May 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
We present the design and operation of a novel instrument for the simultaneous three-dimensional measurements of localized properties using optical and mechanical probes. In this instrument the mechanical and optical probes are stationary relative to the instrument frame while the specimen can be navigated in three-dimensional space in the probing field, translating over a range of 64.5 μm by 49.7 μm by 31.5 μm in each axis, respectively, at closed loop speeds of 10 Hz. A large aperture is provided in the center of the moving platform so that an optical lens can image the specimen from below. An additional z-direction translator has been integrated with this instrument to independently move a force probe that contacts the specimen from above with a translation range of 16 μm. Furthermore, there is an additional seven degrees of freedom providing adjustments to independently position and/or align the scanner and force probe relative to the optical imaging lens. Initial results of both optical and mechanical scans demonstrate 6 nm localization from single molecule fluorescence measurements, as well as single pair fluorescence energy transfer measurements indicating molecular separations of about 2 nm.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometer with Improved Resolution Rev. Sci. Instrum. 26, 1150 (1955); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1715212 (8 pages) Online Publication Date: 29 December 2004
Full Text:
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
A new type of ion gun is described which greatly improves the resolution of a nonmagnetic time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer. The focusing action of this gun is discussed and analyzed mathematically. The validity of the analysis and the practicability of the gun are demonstrated by the spectra obtained. The spectrometer is capable of measuring the relative abundance of adjacent masses well beyond 100 amu. |
|||
|
|
Thin film nanocalorimeter for heat capacity measurements of 30 nm films Rev. Sci. Instrum. 80, 063901 (2009); http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3142463 (7 pages) Online Publication Date: 1 June 2009
Full Text:
Read Online (HTML)
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
A silicon nitride membrane-based nanocalorimeter is described for measuring the heat capacity of 30 nm films from 300 mK to 800 K and in high magnetic fields with absolute accuracy ∼ 2%. The addenda heat capacity of the nanocalorimeter is less than 2×10−7 J/K at room temperature and 2×10−10 J/K at 2.3 K. This is more than ten times smaller than any existing calorimeter suitable for measuring thin films over this wide temperature range. The heat capacities of thin Cu and Au films are reported and agree with bulk values. The thermal conductivity of the thin low stress silicon nitride is substantially smaller than thicker membranes while the specific heat is enhanced below 20 K. Design of the nanocalorimeter will be discussed along with fabrication details and calibration results.
|
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
|
|
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)
Full Text:
|
Download PDF
|
||
|
Show Abstract
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. |
|||
|
Show PACS
|
|||
This Publication
Scitation
Google Scholar
PubMed