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Abstract: The emission and absorption spectra of Er3+ ions in Er2O3 powder are investigated at room temperature. The crystal field splitting of 4I15/2, 4I13/2, 4I9/2 and 4S3/2 multiplets of Er3+ was calculated using a parameterized Hamiltonian including crystal field terms. A final standard deviation of 5.3cm−1 is obtained between 22 calculated and experimental Stark. The strength crystal field parameters of Er2O3 powder are compared to those of erbium doped Y2O3 single crystal. In addition, the location of the ground and the first excited states of Er3+ in Er2O3 powder is determined. The 4I15/2 ground state of Er3+ is located at 12750cm−1 below the valence band edge. The 4I13/2 and 4I11/2 multiplets are set in resonance with the valence band. A configuration coordinate diagram is proposed for Er3+ in Er2O3 powder. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: X-, Y- and Z-cut congruently grown bulk Er(1.6, 2.0mol%):LiNbO3 crystals have been thermally treated using the vapor transport equilibration (VTE) technique. Optical absorption and X-ray powder diffraction measurements have been carried out to verify the existence of ErNbO4 precipitates induced by the VTE procedure in these crystals. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) has been used for the direct observation of crystallographic morphology of the ErNbO4 precipitates. The results show that the precipitates lie mainly in the (0001) crystallographic plane of the substrate and preferably grow with a crystallographic morphology of flat polyhedrons with rough dimensions of submicron×micron×micron. The precipitates on the surfaces of Z-cut substrates have only three orientations mutually aligned at approximately 60° or 120° angles being nearly parallel to the crystallographic axes of the host matrix. The SEM results show that VTE conditions and the type of crystallographic cut of the substrate remarkably affect the size and density of the precipitates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The formation of ErNbO4 powder, prepared by calcining an Er2O3 (50 mol%) and Nb2O5 (50 mol%) powder mixture at 1100 and 1600 °C for different durations, was investigated by using X-ray diffraction. The experimental results have displayed that although the solid-state reaction had started to some extent when the mixture was pre-calcined at 1100 °C for a duration of 13 h, the two original phases Er2O3 and Nb2O5 still dominated the mixture. When the duration of the calcination reaction was increased to 120 h at the same temperature, the resultant mixture experienced a nearly complete phase transformation. Accordingly, the ErNbO4 phase was dominant phase in the mixture. Nevertheless, a small portion of the raw powder still existed in the mixture. When the calcining temperature was elevated to 1600 °C, ErNbO4 powder with higher purity could be obtained for a relatively much shorter duration (only up to several tens of hours). A simple formation mechanism of ErNbO4, an elevated-temperature-assisted solid-state chemical reaction: Er2O3+Nb2O5⇌2ErNbO4, is suggested. In addition, the present experimental results offer important evidence for the formation of the additional phase ErNbO4 induced in Er:LiNbO3 crystals by vapour transport equilibration (VTE) treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Visible and near infrared absorption and emission (488 nm excitation) characteristics of ErNbO4 powder, which were prepared by calcining the Er2O3 (50 mol%) and Nb2O5 (50 mol%) powder mixture at 1100 and 1600 °C for different durations, have been investigated at room temperature. The absorption and emission characteristics of these calcined ErNbO4 powder were summarized and discussed in comparison with those of Er2O3. Weak emission of Er2O3 relative to the calcined ErNbO4 is mainly conducted with absorption difference at the excitation wavelength 488 nm. The obvious spectral changes from Er2O3 to calcined ErNbO4 samples are related to an elevated-temperature-assisted phase transformation according to the solid-state chemical reaction equation: Er2O3 + Nb2O5 ⇌ 2ErNbO4, which results in the changes of the ion environment of Er3+ and hence changes of the Stark levels of Er3+. The further spectral change as the strengthened calcination results from the improvement of ErNbO4 purity in the calcined mixture. The borders between two green transitions and between two near infrared transitions in the emission spectra of both calcined samples and Er2O3 were tentatively identified by referencing earlier reported emission spectra of the precipitated Z-cut VTE Er(2.0 mol%):LiNbO3 crystal and the match relation between absorption and emission spectra of the ErNbO4 powder. A comparison was performed on the spectra of calcined ErNbO4 powder and those of VTE Er(2.0 mol%):LiNbO3 crystals. The results allow to preliminarily deem the contribution of ErNbO4 precipitates, generated inside these crystals by the VTE procedure, to the spectra of these crystals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Starting with two dimensional, scalar wave equation, a variational equation was established for the fundamental TE and TM modes guided in Ti : LiNbO3 waveguides on the basis of assuming a symmetric Gaussian mode field function in the width direction and two-half Gaussian trial functions in the depth direction. The controllable waveguide fabrication parameters, including channel width, diffusion temperature, initial Ti-strip thickness and diffusion time, dependent of fundamental mode size, effective pump area, coupling efficiency between pump and laser modes, and the coupling loss between a Ti : LiNbO3 waveguide and a fiber were numerically calculated for Z-cut Er : Ti : LiNbO3 channel waveguide lasers at three possible emission wavelengths 1532,1563 and 1576 nm and two possible pump wavelengths 1480 and 980 nm. The calculated results were compared with those of Gaussian/Hermite–Gaussian mode field distribution in detail. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Photonic jet (PJ) is generated by illuminating a dielectric scatterer with symmetric four Airy beams (SFAiB). The PJ properties have been systematically studied as a function of characteristic parameters of both the SFAiB and the scatterer, including the geometric parameter D that controls lateral position of each Airy beam component, decay factor, focal point position of the SFAiB, as well as the refractive index of the scatterer. The results show that the PJ performance can be optimized by all of these parameters as a result that the diffraction and self-focusing effects of the SFAiB itself, and the scatterer's focusing function simultaneously play roles in the PJ generation in case of SFAiB illumination. The illumination by SFAiB has advantages over that by plane wave or Gaussian beam in flexibility of tailoring the PJ performance and in possibility of generating a photonic hook with asymmetric illumination caused by transverse offset of focal point of incident SFAiB. In addition, the SFAiB illumination makes it possible to generate a PJ outside a scatterer in case that the scatterer has a higher refractive index of n s > 2.0, increasing the flexibility in both material choice and structural design of scatterer for generation of a PJ for some potential applications. • Photonic jet (PJ) is generated by symmetric four Airy beams (SFAiB) illumination. • SFAiB's diffraction and self-focusing, scatter's focusing effects enable to tailor PJ performance. • SFAiB illumination has advantages over that by plane wave or Gaussian beam. • The merits include flexibility in tailoring PJ performance and possibility of generating a photonic hook with asymmetric illumination. • SFAiB illumination enables to generate a PJ outside a scatterer with a higher refractive index of n s > 2.0, increasing flexibility in material choice and structural design of scatterer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pathogen of angiostrongyliasis is the parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis, and the transcriptome profiling of the male adult was unclear. We aimed to understand how the male adults adapt, so the expression profile of A. cantonensis adult males was analyzed. Methods: In order to improve the understanding of the transcriptome of adult males, RNA from three groups of male adult A. cantonensis was extracted and reverse transcribed to construct cDNA libraries. After sequencing, annotation of unigenes and transcripts was performed by querying the NR (Non- Redundant Protein Sequence Database), GO (Gene Ontology) and COG/ KOG (Clusters of Orthologous Groups of proteins/euKaryotic Ortholog Groups) databases. Results: For each group of adults, 43,260,894 raw reads and 43,200,341 clean reads were obtained. After successful assembly, 87,649 unigenes and 146,895 transcripts were obtained. Annotation of the unigenes and transcripts was identical and male adults expressed a series of genes encoding proteins specific to the male gender at the adult stage, such as proteins involved in energy metabolism, energy synthesis and transport. Expression of the ribosome pathway suggests a relationship with the physical activities during the adult male stage. Conclusion: The transcriptome analysis is a good reference to understand further the expression profile of male adult A. cantonensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Human awareness detection dynamically reacts to high-altitude environment. • Early and late components co-mediate the reaction with exposure duration. • Opposite change of two components as a response to the reduced cognitive resources. • Increased late component and fast reaction resist high-altitude exposure. The psychological effects of long-term exposure to high-altitude environments have attracted great attention. These effects are usually attributed to the diminished cognitive resources due to high-altitude exposure. This study employed electroencephalography (EEG) to investigate the effects of exposure duration on awareness detection tasks. Neither reaction time nor accuracy showed the direct effects of the exposure duration, so did the model indexes obtained from drift diffusion model analysis. However, event-related potentials (ERP) analysis revealed that exposure duration was associated with changes in the visual awareness negativity (VAN) and the late positivity (LP) components, which in turn affected reaction time. Specifically, longer exposure durations were associated with lower VAN and higher LP, resulting in shorter reaction times and greater drift rate. In contrast to previous studies, the reverse relationship between VAN and LP may reflect a compensatory response to the reduced cognitive resources caused by high-altitude exposure. Additionally, increased LP and shorter reaction times with exposure duration may reflect a resistance to the high-altitude environment. We also conducted time–frequency analysis and found that theta power did not vary with exposure duration, suggesting that the reduction in cognitive resources remains stable in these individuals over time. Overall, our study provides new insights into the dynamic effects of high-altitude environments on awareness detection in the presence of reduced cognitive resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusion characteristics of Zr4+ in LiNbO3 single-crystal were studied. Zr4+-doped LiNbO3 crystal plates were prepared by in-diffusion of 100 nm thick ZrO2 film coated onto Z-cut congruent substrates in wet O2 at different temperatures. Zr4+-diffused profile was analyzed by secondary ion mass spectrometry. The results show that the Zr4+ diffusion follows the traditional diffusion theory. From the measured profiles, important diffusion parameters are obtained, such as diffusivity and its temperature dependence, diffusion constant, activation energy, surface concentration, and solubility. The Zr4+ has a diffusivity similar to that of Ti4+, implying that the Zr4+ doping and the Ti4+ diffusion can be performed simultaneously to simplify the fabrication process of a photorefractive-damage-resistant Zr4+-doped Ti-diffused LiNbO3 waveguide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of Li-rich vapor transport equilibration ( VTE) on surface Li2 O-content of 1-mm-thick, congruent X-, and Z-cut LiNbO3 crystal plates was studied against the VTE temperature. The VTE-induced surface Li2 O-content increase was evaluated from measured birefringence. The results show that the increase follows the traditional Arrhenius law with a surface Li2 O-content alteration constant (614 ± 136)/(91 ± 10) mol% and an activation energy (0.76 ± 0.05)/(0.53 ± 0.03) eV for the X/ Z-cut plate. An empirical expression that correlates the VTE-induced surface Li2 O-content alteration with both the VTE temperature and duration is presented. The expression is useful for producing a near-stoichiometric LiNbO3 plate with the desired surface Li2 O-content via balancing the VTE temperature and duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Demonstration of net gain at 1550nm in an erbium-doped polymer mode rib waveguide" that was published in a 2006 issue.

Near-stoichiometric planar and strip LiNbO3 optical waveguides were demonstrated using vapor transport equilibrium process and co-diffusion of titanium metal. Optical confinement is better in z-cut substrates than in x-cut substrates, and the waveguides were characterized optically. Spectral measurements, such as OH- absorption, optical absorption near the fundamental edge, and Raman scattering, were carried out to examine the Li-composition and crystalline phase inside and outside the guiding layer. The results have shown that the vapor transport equilibration process has brought these waveguides toward stoichiometric composition, the Li content inside and outside the waveguide layer is essentially identical, and the LiNbO3 phase is still retained within the waveguide layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Y-junction and T-junction 1 × 2 power splitters based on LNOI platform are designed by an intelligent algorithm. • The combination of GA and FEM based on "Phc-like" structure is proposed. • Symmetric operations and two-dimensional models are used to improve optimization efficiency. • The optimized devices offer good performance and ultra-compact footprints suitable for on-chip use. Optical power splitters are critical components of photonic integrated circuits based on the lithium-niobate-on-insulator (LNOI) platform. However, the lithium niobate power splitters designed by traditional strategies are usually large in size, which limits their practical applications for on-chip high dense integration. Here, we focus on the efficient design of ultra-compact power splitters based on the LNOI platform. The Y-junction and T-junction 1 × 2 power splitters based on photonic-crystal-like (PhC-like) structures are designed by a genetic algorithm. The footprint of the functional region for Y-junction and T-junction power splitters are only 2.6 μm × 2.6 μm and 2.85 μm × 4.94 μm, respectively. Simulation results show that the insertion losses are about 0.1 dB and 0.7 dB at 1550 nm for these two kinds of devices. This work can as a generic approach for designing various ultra-compact functional devices based on LNOI platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polarization beam splitter(PBS) based on LNOI triple-waveguide coupler is proposed. • A plasmonic waveguide is used to exalt modal birefringence and control TM mode coupling. • Good performance of high polarization extinction ratio and low insertion loss is expected. • The device has compact size for on-chip application and definite fabrication tolerance. • Present work offers a promising strategy for compact, efficient PBS based on LNOI. A compact polarization beam splitter based on a triple-waveguide plasmonic directional coupler is proposed and modeled. The directional coupler consists of two usual lithium-niobate-on-insulator (LNOI) ridge waveguides and a metal-capped plasmonic LNOI waveguide located between them. It utilizes stronger polarization dependence of modal birefringence of a plasmonic waveguide. By appropriately designing the plasmonic waveguide geometry, the TM component wave meets the resonant coupling condition and outputs at cross port. Instead, the TE component wave does not meet the resonant coupling condition, cannot be resonant in the triple-waveguide directional coupler and outputs at through port directly. Excellent performance is expected for an optimal device. First, the device shows an ultra-high polarization extinction ratio(PER) of 28.3 dB and an ultra-low insertion loss(IL) of 0.06 dB for the TE-polarized wave, and of 31.7 dB and of 0.31 dB in order for the TM-polarized wave. Second, the working bandwidth with PER > 25 dB and IL < 0.08 dB is 100 nm (1500–1600 nm) for the TE-polarized wave, and that with PER > 20 dB and IL < 0.4 dB is 30 nm (1534–1564 nm) for the TM-polarized wave. Third, the device has a compact structure of 33 μm in length and exhibits definite fabrication tolerance. Overall, the proposed device exhibits ultra-high PER and ultra-low IL, and has a compact size suitable for on-chip use. A comparison shows that present device exhibits advantage in IL and/or size over that based on other LNOI structures or the SOI platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new aluminum ion fluorescent probe (4-(diethylamino)-2-hydroxybenzylidene)isoquinoline-1-carbohydrazide (HL 1 ) has been conveniently synthesized and characterized. HL 1 exhibited a highly selective and pronounced enhancement for Al 3+ in the fluorescence emission over other common cations by forming a 2:1 complex, with a recognition mechanism based on excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) and intramolecular charge transfer (ICT). The strong fluorescent emission can be observed even at ppm level concentration of the probe in the presence of Al 3+ with 41 fold intensity enhancement at 545 nm. HL 1 displays good linear relationship with Al 3+ in the low concentration and the limit of detection is 8.08 × 10 −8  mol/L. Similar molecules with different substituents on salicylaldehyde phenyl ring were synthesized for studying the structure-activity relationship. Density-functional theory (DFT) calculations are in agreement with the proposed mechanism. It is confirmed that HL 1 could be used to detect Al 3+ ions in real sample by fluorescence spectrometry and Al 3+ ions in cells by bioimaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphology of the hippocampus and amygdala can be significantly affected by a long-term hypoxia-induced inflammatory response. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) has a significant effect on the neuroplasticity of the hippocampus and amygdala by countering inflammation. However, the role of CRF is still largely unclear at high altitudes. Here, we investigated brain limbic volumes in participants who had experienced long-term hypoxia exposure in Tibet (3680 m), utilizing high-resolution structural images to allow the segmentation of the hippocampus and amygdala into their constituent substructures. We recruited a total of 48 participants (48 males; aged = 20.92 ± 1.03 years) to undergo a structural 3T MRI, and the levels of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) were measured using a cardiorespiratory function test. Inflammatory biomarkers were also collected. The participants were divided into two groups according to the levels of median VO2max, and the analysis showed that the morphological indexes of subfields of the hippocampus and amygdala of the lower CRF group were decreased when compared with the higher CRF group. Furthermore, the multiple linear regression analysis showed that there was a higher association with inflammatory factors in the lower CRF group than that in the higher CRF group. This study suggested a significant association of CRF with hippocampus and amygdala volume, which may be related to hypoxic stress in high-altitude environments. A better CRF reduced physiological stress and a decrease in the inflammatory response was observed, which may be related to the increased oxygen transport capacity of the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The study found notable distinctions in the visual, somatomotor, dorsal network, as well as in the DMN, frontoparietal network, and cerebellum when comparing EC and EO states. • The graph theory analysis revealed that the weakened degree and functional connectivity in the SFG and the MCC among StD individuals. The SFG and the MCC connections were correlated with perceived stress. • The functional connectivity between the SFG and the SFGmed was discovered to modulate the relationship between perceived stress and StD. Perceived stress is an acknowledged risk factor for subthreshold depression (StD), and fluctuations in perceived stress are thought to disrupt the harmony of brain networks essential for emotional and cognitive functioning. This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between eye-open (EO) and eye-closed (EC) states, perceived stress, and StD. We recruited 27 individuals with StD and 33 healthy controls, collecting resting state fMRI data under both EC and EO conditions. We combined intrinsic connectivity and seed-based functional connectivity analyses to construct the functional network and explore differences between EC and EO conditions. Graph theory analysis revealed weakened connectivity strength in the right superior frontal gyrus (SFG) and right median cingulate and paracingulate gyrus (MCC) among participants with StD, suggesting an important role for these regions in the stress-related emotions dysregulation. Notably, altered SFG connectivity was observed to significantly relate to perceived stress levels in StD, and the SFG connection emerges as a neural mediator potentially influencing the relationship between perceived stress and StD. These findings highlight the role of SFG and MCC in perceived stress and suggest that understanding EC and EO states in relation to these regions is important in the neurobiological framework of StD. This may offer valuable perspectives for early prevention and intervention strategies in mental health disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mid-IR DFG based on mode phase match in a dual-layer LiNbO 3 waveguide is modeled. • The device shows excellent performance of ultra-high efficiency and ultra-broad band. • It is due to two reversed ferroelectric domain orientations in the dual-layer waveguide. • The reversed domain orientations enable to enhance nonlinear interaction and efficiency. • Present work offers a universal strategy towards more efficient on-chip nonlinear devices. Although there is a great breakthrough in second harmonic generation based on the birefringence and quasi phase matching (QPM) concepts, the development of an efficient difference frequency generation (DFG) based on modal phase matching (MPM) is still in its infancy at present. In this paper, we propose an ultra-broadband and ultra-high conversion efficiency mid-infrared DFG on the basis of MPM in a dual-layer waveguide consisting of two reversed poled LiNbO 3 thin-films on sapphire. The ultra-high conversion efficiency is ascribed to significantly enhanced nonlinear interaction realized by making use of spatial profile of optical nonlinearity of LN crystal produced by two reversed ferroelectric domain orientations in the dual-layer waveguide. The proposed DFG device has been modeled on the basis of a 0.98 μm pump wave and a 1.34–1.44 μm signal wave, the frequency difference of which generates a mid-infrared idler wave centered at 3.32 μm wavelength. The results show that the device exhibits excellent DFG performance, including an ultra-high nonlinear conversion efficiency 434.6 % W−1 cm−2 and an ultra-broad tuning band 340 nm meanwhile, which far exceed the performance of conventional MPM devices, even the QPM ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generation of multiple photonic hooks (PHs) at THz region in reflection mode by a multi-dielectric structure that consists of periodical or aperiodical scatterer units on top surface of a reflection screen has been systematically studied. The study focuses on effects of geometric and optical parameters of the multi-dielectric structure on characteristics of the PHs generated, especially the bending angle. These geometric and optical parameters include spacing between adjacent scatterer units, length of reflection screen, as well as the size, refractive index and number of scatterer units. The results show that these geometric and optical parameters are key factors in tailoring the performance of the multiple PHs generated. The spacing determines bending direction of PHs and there exists a critical spacing value. Smaller than this critical value, the PHs generated bend outwards. Larger than this critical value, the PHs bend inwards. In addition, the spacing can be also used to effectively adjust the intensity and bending angle of the PHs. Screen length affects mainly PH's bending. The size and refractive index differences between scatterer units introduce additional optical inhomogeneity that leads to the generation of asymmetrical multiple PHs. Finally, the possibility of generation of an arrayed PHs in the reflection mode is demonstrated. • Generation of photonic hooks (PHs) array in reflection mode is studied. • PHs formation is ascribed to optical inhomogeneity of multi-dielectric structure. • PHs performance can be effectively tailored by geometric and optical parameters. • PHs generated at smaller or larger spacing bend in opposite directions. • Optical-axis asymmetric structure generates asymmetrical PHs array. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A theoretical study has been performed on 1.76 μm on-chip amplification characteristics of Tm3+ in a rib waveguide of LiNbO 3 on insulator (Tm:LNOI) under 795 nm wavelength pumping. Steady-state rate equations and propagation equations of signal and pump waves are established on the basis of a three-level model of Tm3+ system with the cross relaxation process 3H 4 →3F 4 : 3H 6 →3F 4 included. The validity of the three-level model is demonstrated by referencing previously reported experiment result of Er3+-doped LNOI waveguide amplifier and by examining the effect of Tm3+ blue upconversion emissions on the 1.76 μm amplification. Besides the relations of signal gain to propagation length, launched pump power and input signal power, the effects of waveguide cross-section geometry and Tm3+ concentration on the gain characteristics are also studied. The results show that the waveguide cross-section geometry affects definitely the gain performance via its effect on mode field. The Tm3+ concentration affects the signal gain also via its effect on the 3H 4 →3F 4 : 3H 6 →3F 4 cross relaxation coefficient, besides the conventional effect that higher active ion concentration yields larger signal gain. A comparison with conventional Ti4+(Zn2+)-diffused Tm3+-doped LN [Ti(Zn):Tm:LN] waveguide shows that the Tm:LNOI waveguide has much better gain performance than the Ti(Zn):Tm:LN waveguide, including much stronger pump power and propagation distance dependences of signal gain, much higher signal gain and much lower threshold pump power. These features are associated with significantly increased Tm3+ population inversion extent due to ultra-compact mode field and larger overlapping factor of mode field and Tm3+ population profiles in the Tm:LNOI waveguide. • 1.8 μm amplification in Tm:LNOI waveguide is simulated based on three-level model. • Quantitative relations of signal gain to controllable parameters are established. • Tm:LNOI amplifier is more efficient than Ti(Zn):Tm:LN due to ultra-compact mode. • Waveguide cross-section geometry affects definitely gain via its effect on mode field. • Tm3+ concentration affects gain via its effect on cross relaxation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-loss gallium(Ga 3+ )-diffused erbium(Er 3+ )-doped LiTaO 3 (Ga:Er:LiTaO 3 ) channel waveguide was fabricated using erbium metal film diffusion followed by photolithographically patterned gallium oxide(Ga 2 O 3 ) strip diffusion. Secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis shows that Er 3+ concentration follows a Gaussian profile, Ga 3+ concentration follows a sum of two error functions at the waveguide surface and a Gaussian profile in the depth direction. Optical studies show that the waveguide supports single-mode propagation at 1.5 μm wavelength with a coupling loss <1 dB and a waveguide loss 0.2(0.3) dB/cm for the TE(TM) mode, and with a small polarization dependence in mode field distribution. Stable optical gain of ∼1.0 dB/cm was measured at 1547 nm wavelength with 220 mW pump power of 980 nm wavelength, indicating good photorefractive damage resistance of the waveguide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Er3+/Yb3+:GdNbO 4 micron-sized phosphor was synthesized by solid-state method. • Er3+ and Yb3+ concentrations have apparent effects on grain morphology. • The phosphor shows strong UCL, good thermal stability and adequate sensitivity. • The phosphor shows good chemical stability in high salinity environment. • The phosphor is promising for both thermometry and maritime protection. Micron-sized GdNbO 4 :Er3+/Yb3+ phosphors were prepared by employing a high-temperature solid-state reaction. The crystalline phase, morphology, composition, spectroscopic properties, and impact of rare-earth ion concentration, temperature and high salinity environment were systematically characterized. The extracted results show that phosphor is dominated by the existence of the GdNbO 4 crystalline phase. Their morphology and agglomeration phenomenon are strongly dependent on the rare-earth concentration. The phosphor exhibits also excellent up-conversion luminescence (UCL) properties under 980 nm excitation, while a two-photon process accounts for UCL. The following optimal concentrations were selected for enhanced UCL intensity: 10 mol% for Yb3+ and 3 mol% for Er3+. The phosphor shows excellent thermometric performances including strong UCL, good thermal stability, appropriate sensitivity and a wide sensitivity response range. To evaluate the accuracy of the present optical thermometer, the temperature of a heated bench has been comparatively measured by using the proposed optical thermometer and a commercial thermocouple with an accuracy of 1 K. By comparing the temperature values measured by the two methods, it can be concluded that the present optical thermometer has an accuracy better than 1.6 K. In addition, the phosphor exhibits good chemical stability in high salinity environment. Interestingly, its crystalline phase, structure, and UCL spectral structure, intensity and color are all preserved after one-month immersion into a high salinity solution. [Display omitted] GdNbO 4 :Er3+/Yb3+ phosphor was prepared by high-temperature solid-state method. Crystalline phase, morphology, composition, spectroscopic properties, and effects of rare-earth concentration, temperature and high salinity environment were fully characterized. The results show that the phosphor is promising for dual-application in thermometry and safety marks for maritime protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Without any templates, hollow structured La 2 Mo 2 O 9 particles are successfully prepared at room temperature by an ageing-assisted salt solvent process. Powder X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy are used to investigate structure and morphologies of the obtained products. It is found that the ageing process has a significant influence on the particle morphology evolution when the mixed precursors are disposed at room temperature. With the ageing time changed from one week to 12 weeks, the particles morphologies evolve gradually from ellipsoid to sphere. The as-prepared hollow structured La 2 Mo 2 O 9 spheres have an average diameter of about 800 nm and shell thickness of about 100 nm. For elucidating the possible formation mechanism, the influences of the single salt on the particles morphologies evolution are also investigated. The final results indicate KCl is a key factor for formation of La 2 Mo 2 O 9 spheres and the formation of the hollow structure should have close relations with the surface tension in the ageing assisted process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has established a strong link between attention and visual mental imagery, but it's remained uncertain whether attention networks influence individual differences in the vividness of visual mental imagery. In our study, we examined 140 participants, assessing the vividness of imagery using the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire in both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. We employed the Attention Network Test, coupled with EEG recording, to characterize three attention sub-networks: alerting, orienting, and executive control. To pinpoint the specific attentional networks associated with the vividness of visual mental imagery, we utilized latent profile analysis to categorize participants into distinct subgroups. Additionally, we constructed a regression mixture model to explore how attention networks predict different latent categories of visual imagery vividness. Our findings revealed that the efficiency of the alerting network, as indicated by the N1 component, demonstrated a positive correlation with the vividness of visual imagery. This electrophysiological evidence underscores the role of the alerting network in shaping individual differences in the vividness of visual mental imagery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• On-chip 1.53 μm amplification in Er:LNOI micro-photonic amplifier was simulated. • The simulation was performed in comparison with Ti:Er:LiNbO 3 waveguide amplifier. • Numerical model is confirmed by consistency of numerical and experimental results. • The Er:LNOI amplifier is more efficient than the Ti:Er:LiNbO 3 waveguide. • Due to higher Er3+ population inversion extent and ultra-compact mode of Er:LNOI. On-chip 1.53 μm amplification in 980-nm-pumped Er3+-doped lithium niobate on insulator (Er:LNOI) photonic wire (PW) has been studied theoretically in comparison with that in Ti:Er:LiNbO 3 waveguide on the basis of three- and six-level models of Er3+. We show that the six-level model gives more accurate analysis and its validity is confirmed by comparing the simulated results with the previously reported experiment data. The study shows that the Er:LNOI PW has a larger Er3+ population inversion extent than the Ti:Er:LiNbO 3 because of larger overlapping factor of mode field and Er3+ population profiles, and ultra-compact mode field. As a result, the Er:LNOI PW displays better gain performance than the Ti:Er:LiNbO 3 as described below. (1) Maximum/saturation gain of Er:LNOI PW can be as much as two/three times higher than that of the Ti:Er:LiNbO 3. (2) Gain of the Er:LNOI PW increases with propagation length more strongly in the initial stage and decreases more slowly beyond optimal length. It also shows stronger dependences on both pump power (in the initial stage) and signal power. (3) Gain in the Er:LNOI PW saturates more easily, and the Er:LNOI PW has a threshold pump power one order of magnitude lower than the Ti:Er:LiNbO 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusion-doping is an effective, practical method to improve material properties and widen material application. Here, we demonstrate a new physical phenomenon: diffusion control of an ion by another in LiNbO3 and LiTaO3 crystals. We exemplify Ti4+/Xn+ (Xn+ = Sc3+, Zr4+, Er3+) co-diffusion in the widely studied LiNbO3 and LiTaO3 crystals. Some Ti4+/Xn+-co-doped LiNbO3 and LiTaO3 plates were prepared by co-diffusion of stacked Ti-metal and Er-metal (Sc2O3 or ZrO2) films coated onto LiNbO3 or LiTaO3 substrates. The Ti4+/Xn+-co-diffusion characteristics were studied by secondary ion mass spectrometry. In the Xn+-only diffusion case, the Xn+ diffuses considerably slower than the Ti4+. In the Ti4+/Xn+ co-diffusion case, the faster Ti4+ controls the diffusion of the slower Xn+. The Xn+ diffusivity increases linearly with the initial Ti-metal thickness and the increase depends on the Xn+ species. The phenomenon is ascribed to the generation of additional defects induced by the diffusion of faster Ti4+ ions, which favors and assists the subsequent diffusion of slower Xn+ ion. For the diffusion system studied here, it can be utilized to substantially shorten device fabrication period, improve device performance and produce new materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescence and absorption spectra at 530 nm (2H11/2→4I15/2), 560 nm (4S3/2→4I15/2), 660 nm (4F9/2→4I15/2), 980 nm (4I11/2→4I15/2), 1530 nm (4I13/2→4I15/2), and 2710 nm (4I11/2→4I13/2) of Er3+ in Gd3Ga5O12 single‐crystal codoped with Pr3+ have been measured. Judd‐Ofelt analysis yields the intensity parameters Ω2 = (0.68 ± 0.03) × 10−20 cm2, Ω4 = (0.60 ± 0.07) × 10−20 cm2, and Ω6 = (0.90 ± 0.17) × 10−20 cm2. A comparison with previously reported values of Er3+‐only doping case shows that Pr3+‐codoping causes slight change of both Ω2 and Ω4, while onefold increase of Ω6. From calculated radiative rates and measured fluorescence spectra, Er3+ emission cross‐section spectra were calibrated at first. Then, the absorption cross‐section spectra were calculated using McCumber relation. In parallel, the absorption cross‐section spectra were also obtained from the measured absorption spectrum, and compared with those obtained from the McCumber relation. The comparison shows that both methods give consistent result of absorption cross‐section spectrum. Further comparison with Er3+‐only doping case shows that Pr3+‐codoping causes considerable change of Er3+ cross‐section value. In spectrally mixing regions of Er3+ and Pr3+, Pr3+ emission affects little the determination of Er3+ emission cross‐section as Pr3+ fluorescence is much weaker than Er3+ fluorescence due to low Pr3+ concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the previous paper "Optical and Judd‐Ofelt spectroscopic study of Er3+‐doped strontium gadolinium gallium garnet single‐crystal" (J Am Ceram Soc. 2019;102:873–878), we have reported optical and Judd‐Ofelt spectroscopic properties of Er3+‐doped strontium gadolinium gallate (SrGdGa3O7) single‐crystal, and the Judd‐Ofelt study was performed on the basis of unpolarized absorption spectrum of the crystal. Present work reports the corrected unpolarized absorption spectrum and Er3+ concentration in the crystal, and hence corrected Judd‐Ofelt spectroscopic properties and cross‐section data. In addition, the polarization effect was considered in the Judd‐Ofelt analysis on the basis of polarization‐resolved absorption spectra. Effective Judd‐Ofelt parameters are presented and discussed in comparison with the results from the unpolarized spectrum, and consistent results have been obtained. This study also considers the effects of some other factors on the Judd‐Ofelt parameters. These include Er3+ concentration and selection of Er3+ absorption bands for the Judd‐Ofelt analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusivity at 1130°C of Li+ in LiNbO3 crystal in off-congruent, Li-deficient regime has been studied as a function of Li2O-content. A diffusion-limited Li2O-content reduction depth profile in an X- or Z-cut plate, ranging from 47.2 to 48.5 mol%, was produced by carrying out Li-poor vapor transport equilibration ( VTE) treatment on 1-mm-thick, initially congruent plates at 1130°C for 150 h. The profile was obtained by alternatively doing the optical polish to one crystal surface and the Li2O-content characterization on the polished surface through the measurement on birefringence. The Boltzmann-Matano mathematical analysis was applied to the profile to obtain the Li2O-content dependence of Li+ diffusivity. The results show that the diffusivity decreases with the decreased Li2O-content and the decrease is by at least one order of magnitude as the Li2O-content decreases by 1 mol% from 48.5 mol%. The diffusion shows slight anisotropy and is faster along the optical axis direction of crystal. In combination with previously reported result in the near-stoichiometric regime, the diffusivity over the Li2O-content range from 47 to 50 mol% is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A previous paper [D. K. Sardar et al., J. Appl. Phys. 93(5), 2602 (2003)] has reported Judd–Ofelt (J–O) spectroscopic properties of Er3+ in garnets Y3Al5O12, Y3(Sc2Ga3)O12, and Gd3Ga5O12. In that paper, the possible magnetic-dipole contribution to the oscillator strength, which is non-zero for the 4I13/2 ↔ 4I15/2 (1.5 μm) transition of Er3+, has been erroneously omitted in their J–O calculation, resulting in incorrect results of relevant spectroscopic parameters. In this Comment, we point out the error, perform correct J–O analysis, and report correct results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The shorter access time was more explained by the lower threshold. • The heart rate predicted the access time and threshold at high altitudes. • The cardiac deceleration-acceleration pattern was slightly various at high-altitudes. Many studies have indicated a strong relationship between cardiac and brain activities, both of which are sensitive to high-altitude exposure. This study combined a consciousness access task and electrocardiograms (ECG) to uncover conscious awareness in response to high-altitude exposure and its relation to cardiac activity. When compared with the low-altitude groups, the behavioral results showed that the high-altitude participants shortened the time of access to visual awareness of grating orientation, which was accompanied by a faster heart rate, excluding the influence of pre-stimulus heart rate, extent of cardiac deceleration after presenting the stimulus, and task difficulty. Although there were post-stimulation cardiac deceleration and post-response acceleration at both high and low altitudes, a slight increase in heart rate after stimulation at high altitudes may indicate that participants at high altitudes could quickly readjust their attention to the target stimulus. More importantly, the drift diffusion model (DDM) was used to fit the access time distribution of all participants. These results suggest that shorter time at high altitudes might be due to the lower threshold, suggesting that less evidence in high-altitude participants was required to access visual consciousness. The participants' heart rates also negatively predicted the threshold through a hierarchical drift diffusion modeling (HDDM) regression. These findings imply that individuals with higher heart rates at high altitudes have a greater cognitive burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Visible and infrared absorption and emission spectra of Er3+-doped strontium gadolinium gallate (SrGdGa 3 O 7) single-crystal were measured at room temperature. From the measured fluorescence spectra, the Er3+ emission cross section spectra were calculated at first. Then, by utilizing McCumber relation, the absorption cross section spectra were further calculated. In parallel, the absorption cross section spectra were also calculated from the measured absorption spectra of the crystal, and compared with those spectra calculated from the McCumber relation. The comparison shows that the absorption cross section spectra obtained using the McCumber relation are in reasonable agreement with those deduced from the measured absorption spectrum. Graphical abstract Visible, near-infrared, and mid-infrared emission and absorption cross section spectra of Er3+ in SrGdGa 3 O 7 single-crystal have been calibrated from measured fluorescence spectra using the McCumber theory. The absorption cross-section spectrum was also calibrated from the measured absorption spectrum. Comparison shows that the absorption cross section spectra calibrated from the McCumber theory are reasonably consistent with those from the absorption spectrum. Present work presents complete cross section knowledge of the studied crystal. fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Optical and spectroscopic properties of Er3+/Pr3+-codoped Gd 3 Ga 5 O 12 single-crystal grown by Czochralski method have been studied. Absorption spectrum of the crystal was measured at room temperature and Er3+ absorption cross-section spectral distributions were calibrated from it. The Er3+ spectroscopic properties were analyzed on the basis of the Judd-Ofelt theory. Fundamental spectroscopic parameters were obtained that include absorption coefficient, cross-section spectral distribution, electronic transition oscillator strength, Judd-Ofelt parameters, fluorescence branch ratio, transition probability, radiative and fluorescence lifetimes, and quantum efficiency as well. Study shows that Pr3+-codoping results in substantial change of Er3+ spectroscopic properties, in qualitative consistent with the previous fluorescence studying result. In addition, refractive index of the crystal was measured at different wavelengths using prism coupling method, and the Sellmeier equation reported previously for Er3+-only doped Gd 3 Ga 5 O 12 crystal is corrected. Highlights • Juud-Ofelt spectroscopic properties of Er3+/Pr3+:Gd 3 Ga 5 O 12 crystal were studied. • Pr codoping results in substantial increase of the Judd-Ofelt parameters. • Pr codoping induces shortening of Er3+ 2.7 and 1.5 μm lifetimes from ms to sub-ms. • The effect is related to two resonant energy transfers from Er3+ to Pr3+. • Different efficiencies of the two transfers enable to realize 2.7 μm lasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Er3+‐doped strontium gadolinium gallium garnet (SrGdGa3O7) single‐crystal was grown by Czochralski method. The Er3+ concentration in the crystal was determined as 4.2 × 1021 ions/cm3 by inductively coupled plasma atomic absorption spectroscopy. Refractive index of the crystal was measured at the wavelengths of 633, 1311 and 1553 nm by prism coupling technique. The results show that the crystal is a positive uniaxial crystal with a birefringence of ~0.01, and the Sellmeier equation reported previously for the crystal doped with Nd3+ is also valid for the one doped with Er3+. Unpolarized absorption spectrum of the crystal was measured at room temperature and the Er3+ absorption cross‐section spectrum was calibrated from it. The Er3+ spectroscopic properties were studied by Judd‐Ofelt theory. Some fundamental spectroscopic parameters were obtained that include absorption coefficient and cross‐section spectral distributions, electronic transition oscillator strength, Judd‐Ofelt parameters, fluorescence branch ratio, transition probability, radiative and fluorescence lifetimes, and quantum efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Gallium-diffused lithium niobate (LiNbO 3) channel optical thin-film was fabricated by diffusion of photolithographically patterned gallium-oxide stripes on a Z-cut congruent LiNbO 3 substrate. Composition, optical properties of the channel thin-film and gallium diffusion profiles were characterized. The results show that the thin-film is in congruent composition environment, confines single-mode ordinary and extraordinary waves with a loss <0.5 dB/cm at 1.5 μm wavelength. The confined mode field follows Gaussian/Hermite-Gaussian profile in the width/depth direction of the channel thin-film, and shows definite anisotropy. The diffused gallium ions follow a sum of two error functions in the width and a Gaussian function in the depth direction of the channel optical thin-film. Two-dimensional gallium concentration and refractive index profiles in the channel thin-film are modeled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Under 980 nm wavelength excitation, 530 and 550 nm green upconversion emission spectra of erbium-doped gadolinium gallium garnet single-crystal were measured in the temperature range of 298–423 K for ratiometric thermometry based on fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR). The crystal shows strong emission intensity, highly efficient ratiometric thermometric performance, as well as thermally stable emission spectral structure, it is thus a promising luminescent material for ratiometric thermometry. A multiple ratiometric thermometry is proposed and demonstrated in comparison with the usually adopted ratiometric thermometry based on integrated emission intensity. The multiple ratiometric thermometry considers six FIRs involving two component peaks of the 530 nm emission band and three component peaks of the 550 nm emission band, which result from an electronic transition from one Stark sublevel of the 2H 11/2 or 4S 3/2 state to another of the ground state 4I 15/2 of Er3+. All the six FIR schemes show highly efficient sensing performances with slightly different temperature characteristics. The temperature is overall determined by the six FIR schemes, largely increasing the reliability of temperature measurement. Graphical abstract We have studied ratiometric thermometry based on six fluorescence intensity ratios (FIR) involving two component peaks of 530 nm emission band and three component peaks of 550 nm emission band of erbium-doped gadolinium gallium garnet single-crystal. All the six EIR schemes display higher, slightly different relative sensitivities and thermal resolutions. The temperature is overall and reliably determined by the six EIR schemes. In addition, the crystal shows strong green upconversion emissions and thermally stable spectral structure, it is thus a promising material for the ratiometric thermometry. The multiple ratiometric thermometry based on the material has highly efficient performance, and is thus promising for reliable temperature detection in electromagnetically and/or thermally harsh environments and some industrial processes. fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Noncongruent nearly stoichiometric/lithium‐deficient LiTaO3 crystal was grown by lithium‐rich/lithium‐deficient chemical vapor‐phase‐equilibration (VPE) technique, and low‐cost two‐phase powder LiNbO3‐Li3NbO4 or LiNbO3‐LiNb3O8 instead of expensive LiTaO3‐Li3TaO4 or LiTaO3‐LiTa3O8 was used in the VPE experiments. The LiTaO3 crystalline phase in the lithium‐rich/lithium‐deficient crystal was confirmed by X‐ray analysis. The lithium‐rich/lithium‐deficient VPE‐induced lithium‐oxide (Li2O) molar content increase/reduction was measured as a function of VPE duration using gravimetric method, and empirical relations between them are presented for both cases. We show that both the lithium‐rich and lithium‐deficient VPE techniques based on the two‐phase powder LiNbO3‐Li3NbO4 or LiNbO3‐LiNb3O8 can be successfully used to adjust the lithium‐oxide content in a LiTaO3 crystal and produce a noncongruent nearly stoichiometric or lithium‐deficient crystal plate with desired lithium‐oxide content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under 980 nm wavelength excitation, green upconversion emission spectra of Er 3+ ions in NaYF 4 (NYF) micro-crystals were measured in the temperature range of 298–383 K. A multiple ratiometric thermometry is proposed to realize reliable temperature sensing. It considers six luminescence intensity ratios(LIRs) involving two peaks at 530 nm emission band and three peaks at 550 nm emission band, which concern electronic transitions between crystal-field Stark sublevels of Er 3+ . The six LIR schemes display similar temperature characteristics with high thermometric efficiency. The temperature can be overall determined by the six LIR schemes, largely increasing measurement reliability. The study also shows that the 980 nm excitation power adopted neither induces a detectable temperature change nor has a noticeable effect on the LIR value. In addition, the Er 3+ -doped NYF phosphor displays intense green emissions and thermally stable spectral structure which are desired for the multiple ratiometric thermometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An error in the previous paper "Electro-optic coefficients r 13 and r 33 of singly Er3+-doped and In3+/Er3+-codoped LiNbO 3 crystals" [J. Phys. Chem. Solids 100 (2017) 101–106] is corrected. The electro-optic coefficients γ 33 and γ 13 that were measured by applying a DC voltage to the crystal via the Al films coated onto the crystal surfaces are the unclamped instead of clamped coefficients. Highlights • An error in previous paper [J. Phys. Chem. Solids 100 (2017) 101] is corrected. • r 13 and r 33 were measured by two voltage-applying schemes, named A and B. • In Scheme B, a DC voltage is applied via Al films on sample surfaces. • r 13 and r 33 measured by Scheme B are unclamped instead of clamped. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solubility of 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene (FOX-7) in four binary mixed solvents (Dimethyl sulfoxide+Acetonitrile, Cyclohexanone, 1,2-Dichloroethane, Ethyl acetate) was measured by a laser dynamic method over the temperature range from 298.15 K to 333.15 K under 0.1 MPa. Experimental results showed that the solubility increases monotonously as the temperature increases at a given solvent composition or increases with the increasing of mole fraction of good solvent (Dimethyl sulfoxide) in binary mixed solvents, whereas there exists a maximum solubility value in Dimethyl sulfoxide+ Cyclohexanone system. Solubility data were well correlated by the Apelblat equation, van't Hoff equation, general single model (GSM) and modified Jouyban-Acree model, and the Apelblat equation achieved the best fitting results. Moreover, the thermodynamic properties of FOX-7 dissolution process in the investigated mixed solvents, including standard dissolution enthalpy, standard dissolution entropy and standard Gibbs free energy, were calculated by the van't Hoff and the Gibbs equations. The results demonstrate that the dissolution of FOX-7 is a non-spontaneous and endothermic process. The solubility data, correlation models, and thermodynamics properties presented in this study would provide essential support for the further research of crystallization and spheroidization of FOX-7. • The solubility data of FOX-7 was measured in four binary mixed solvents. • The experimental values were correlated and calculated by four equations. • The thermodynamic parameters (enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy) of FOX-7 were well calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refractive index of optical material of powder is measured not as easily as a bulk material. Here, the prism coupling technique in combination with the immersion method is proposed to measure the refractive index of an optical material of powder. First, the powder material to be measured was dispersed in α-bromonaphthalene (C10H7Br) liquid to form a suspension mixture. The refractive index of the mixture, together with that of pure C10H7Br, was then measured at the wavelengths of 632.8, 1311, and 1553 nm using a commercial prism coupler. From the measured index values of pure C10H7Br and powder-dispersed mixture, the refractive index of the powder material was obtained on the basis of the Maxwell-Garnett model. Microcrystal powder from a LiNbO3 single-crystal, which has the known refractive index values, has been exemplified to demonstrate the method. The results show that the method is feasible with an accuracy of ±0.05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a nano-thermometer based on ratiometric method of green 530 and 550 nm luminescence of Er 3+ /Yb 3+ -codoped NaGd(WO 4 ) 2 nanocrystals for temperature sensing of biological tissues and cells. The thermometer has simple structure and displays excellent sensing performance with a relative sensitivity 1.2% K −1 , a thermal resolution 0.5 K at the physiological temperature 310 K, and a large signal-to-noise ratio. In parallel, the luminescence temperature characteristics were also studied by a spectrometer, and consistent results were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium-diffused lithium tantalate (Ti:LT) multimode planar waveguide was produced by in-diffusion of titanium thin-film deposited onto a Z-cut congruent LT substrate. Titanium concentration (C Ti ) in the titanium-diffused layer was profiled by secondary-ion-mass-spectrometry. Modes guided in the waveguide were characterized by prism coupling technique. Refractive index in the waveguide is profiled on the basis of the measured mode indices, and is related to the C Ti profile. The results show that both the refractive index and the C Ti profiles obey to a Gaussian function. The profiles of titanium-induced extraordinary and ordinary index changes are almost identical, implying that the index change in the Ti:LT waveguide has a small anisotropy and the confinement to the mode field is polarization-insensitive. The ordinary and extraordinary index changes reveal a similar exponential dependence on the C Ti with a power index of ∼0.8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ga 3+ -diffused lithium tantalate (LiTaO 3 ) strip optical waveguide was fabricated by diffusion (at 950 °C for 1.5 h) of 8-μm wide, 112-nm thick Ga 2 O 3 -strips photolithographically patterned onto a Z-cut congruent LiTaO 3 substrate. Crystalline phase, composition, optical properties and profile characteristics of Ga 3+ ions in the waveguide were investigated. We show that the waveguide retains LiTaO 3 crystalline phase and is in congruent composition environment. Optical studies show that the waveguide supports single-mode propagation (at the 1.5 μm wavelength) of not only the extraordinary wave but also the ordinary wave, shows considerable polarization dependence in mode field distribution, and has a loss of 0.2/0.4 dB/cm for the ordinary/extraordinary wave. Secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis shows that the Ga 3+ profile follows a sum of two error functions (a Gaussian function) in the width (depth) direction of the waveguide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti-diffused near-stoichiometric(NS) LiTaO 3 multimode planar waveguide was fabricated by diffusion of Ti-film coated onto a congruent LiTaO 3 substrate and post Li-rich vapor transport equilibration process. The crystalline phase in the Ti-diffused layer was analyzed by powder x-ray diffraction and the Li 2 O-content was evaluated from the measured birefringence. The Ti-concentration profile was analyzed by secondary ion mass spectrometry. The modes guided in the planar waveguide were characterized by prism-coupling technique. The refractive index profile was constructed from the measured mode indices, and correlated with the Ti-concentration profile. The results show that the waveguide retains the LiTaO 3 phase and is in an NS composition environment. Both the refractive index and Ti-concentration follow Gaussian profile. The extraordinary and ordinary index change profiles are almost same, implying that the electric field profile of the mode guided in the NS Ti:LiTaO 3 waveguide would be polarization-insensitive. The ordinary and extraordinary index changes and the Ti-concentration follow a similar exponential relationship with a power index ∼1.3. Comparison shows that the Ti:LiTaO 3 waveguide shows considerable differences from the Ti:LiNbO 3 in Ti diffusivity, index change profile and its relation to Ti-concentration, and polarization dependence of guided mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature characteristics of 980-nm-upconverted green 530 and 550 nm fluorescence of Er 3+ -doped SrGdGa 3 O 7 single crystal have been studied for temperature sensing purposes. To achieve that, a simple experimental setup has been developed that consists of a 980 nm laser diode, two interference filters, two Si-photocells and two multimeters, while without use of monochromator or focusing lens for fluorescence collection. The study shows that the Er 3+ -doped SrGdGa 3 O 7 crystal displays strong green emission intensity (hence good signal-to-noise ratio) and high temperature sensitivity of fluorescence intensity ratio of the 530 and 550 nm emissions, which is (5.6–104.0) × 10 −3 K −1 in the considered temperature range 100–430 K, depending on the temperature. In addition, the experiments were repeated using a spectrometer and consistent results of temperature characteristics were obtained. Present study shows that the Er 3+ -doped SrGdGa 3 O 7 crystal is a promising host material for optical temperature sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a highly efficient optical thermometer based on intensity ratio of upconversion green fluorescence of Er 3 + /Yb 3 + -codoped NaYF 4 microcrystals. The sensor consists simply of a 980 nm laser diode, one narrow-band interference filter, two lenses, one Si-photocell and one multimeter, while being without use of spectrometer and additional electronics. The device not only has a simple, compact structure (hence a low cost), but also displays highly efficient sensing performance, characterized by large signal-to-noise ratio due to strong fluorescence intensity, high thermal resolution and sensitivity, which have the values 1.3 K and 1.24 × 10 − 2 K − 1 , respectively, at the physiological temperature 310 K. The excellent sensing performance of the device was further confirmed by the results of the measurements repeated using a spectrometer. The thermometer is highly generalized that can be applied to other luminescent materials, and shows great potential for the physiological temperature sensing in biological tissues and cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed a simple, low-cost and highly efficient optical temperature sensor based on intensity ratio of down-conversion green fluorescence of Er 3+ ions doped in SrGdGa 3 O 7 single crystal. The sensor consists simply of a 384 nm light emitting diode, two narrow-band interference filters, two Si-photocells and two multimeters, without use of a monochromator or spectrometer or focusing lens. It has a simple, compact structure and is low-cost. The experimental results show that the device displays highly efficient sensing performance with good signal-to-noise ratio and high thermal resolution and temperature sensitivity, which has a value of (5.5-102.1) × 10 −3 K −1 in the considered temperature range of 100–430 K. In addition, the experiments were repeated using a spectrometer and consistent results are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using focused ion beam (FIB) technique, we have fabricated two air-hole-type triangular-lattice photonic crystals (PhCs) cascaded in a Ti-diffused LiNbO 3 strip waveguide. To ease the problem that the FIB-milled air-holes are not sufficiently deep, which results in that the holes cannot overlap most of optical mode and hence no evident stop-band feature is observed, two measures have been taken: a 0.75-μm-deep shallow trench was milled on the waveguide surface prior to the air-holes, and a scheme of two PhCs cascaded in the same waveguide was adopted. The cascaded two PhCs have the same air-hole array of 15 × 15 with a lattice constant 376.57 nm and an air-hole radius 150 nm. Transmission spectrum of the cascaded PhCs was measured, and a stop-band with a contrast ∼10 dB and a 3 dB bandwidth of ∼200 nm is observed in the spectral region 1.0–1.2 μm, in good agreement with the simulated result. Present work opens up the possibility of implementing desired PhC functions for various photonic applications by cascading multi-PhCs with different structure parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]