Diode-pumped passively mode-locked lasers with high average power

We discuss challenges arising from the quest for high average powers from passively mode-locked diode-pumped lasers. The recently obtained detailed understanding of Q-switching instabilities in passively mode-locked lasers turns out to be a crucial element on the way towards higher powers. We give an overview on results achieved with Nd:YAG (10.7 W, 16 ps and 27 W, 19 ps), Yb:YAG (8.1 W, 2.2 ps and 16 W, 0.7 ps) and Nd:glass (1.4 W, 275 fs).     

Synthesis, characterization and activity of alumina-supported cobalt nitride for NO decomposition

A new type of transition metal nitride, viz. alumina-supported cobalt nitride, was synthesized for the first time by NH₃-temperature-programmed reaction, and its structure was characterized by BET, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) techniques. The supported cobalt nitride performs much better than its bulk counterpart for NO decomposition, owing to its small crystal size, high thermal stability and big surface area.     

The question of gauge dependence of transition probabilities in quantum mechanics: Facts,myths and misunderstandings

We show that, in terms of physical observables, transition probabilities in quantum mechanics can be calculated in a truly gauge invariant way, i.e., independent of the choice of gauge and that recent arguments for the preference of a particular gauge are due to misconceptions.     

Non-relativistic ground state Lamb shift of hydrogenic ions

We present values of the ground state Lamb shifts of hydrogenic ions obtained non-relativistically without any ultraviolet photon cutoff. The results are in good agreement with existing theoretical values for general Z and the current experimental value for hydrogen.     

Adaptive homodyne measurement of optical phase

We present an experimental demonstration of the power of feedback in quantum metrology, confirming the predicted [H. M. Wiseman, Phys. Rev. Lett. 75, 4587 (1995)]] superior performance of an adaptive homodyne technique for single-shot measurement of optical phase. For measurements performed on weak coherent states with no prior knowledge of the signal phase, adaptive homodyne estimation approaches closer to the intrinsic quantum uncertainty than any previous technique. Our results underscore the importance of real-time feedback for reaching quantum limits in measurement and control.     

Cyano-Carbonates (I) Efficient Latent Acyl Carbanions

Cyano-carbonates, conveniently prepared in excellent yields by in-situ trapping of cyanohydrin anions with chloroform[acaron]tes under PTC conditions, have been found to be efficient ketone precursors.