Speaker
Mr
George Okyere Dwapanyin
(Stellenbosch University)
Description
The in-depth study of the basic units of life requires the ability to probe deeper into cells and tissues in order to fully comprehend their functions. In recent years, multiple linear optical imaging techniques (Confocal, STED, Single Molecule Localized Microscopy etc.) have been developed in a number of different laboratories, all aimed at probing deeper into biological tissue and enhancing image quality and resolution. Many of these advantages obtained with these advanced linear imaging modalities are inherent in multiphoton imaging techniques (SHG, two-photon fluorescence, THG, CARS). These nonlinear optical microscopy (NLOM) techniques have the added advantage of intrinsic 3D imaging with submicron spatial resolution, decreased photodamage to tissue, increased depth of penetration as well as the ability to perform label-free imaging. Where linear imaging techniques focus on image enhancement through the manipulation of the spatial properties of the source, NLOM techniques depend nonlinearly on the intensity. Hence, we investigate the temporal shaping, compression and modulation of broad bandwidth laser pulses to manage the intensity of the pulses. In this presentation, we look at how the manipulation of the temporal properties of the excitation source contributes to image enhancement. The processes of supercontinuum generation from a highly nonlinear all normal dispersion fiber, and temporal phase manipulation techniques together with some imaging results, will be discussed.
Primary author
Mr
George Okyere Dwapanyin
(Stellenbosch University)
Co-authors
Prof.
Erich Rohwer
(University of Stellenbosch)
Dr
Gurthwin Bosman
(Stellenbosch University)
Dr
Pieter Neethling
(Laser Research Institute, University of Stellenbosch)
