Four-port coupled channel-guide device based on 2D photonic crystal structure

We have fabricated and measured a four-port coupled channel-waveguide device using W1 channel waveguides oriented along ΓK directions in a two-dimensional (2D) hole-based planar photonic crystal (PhC) based on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) waveguide material, at operation wavelengths around 1550 nm. 2D FDTD simulations and experimental results are shown and compared. The structure has been designed using a mode conversion approach, combined with coupled-mode concepts. The overall length of the photonic crystal structure is typically about 39 μm and the structure has been fabricated using a combination of direct-write electron-beam lithography (EBL) and dry-etch processing. Devices were measured using a tunable laser with end-fire coupling into the planar structure

Life-history characteristics of the endangered Aristotle's catfish (Silurus aristotelis Garman, 1890), Lake Pamvotis, north-western Greece

WOS: 000272379800018P>The life history characteristics of Aristotle's catfish, Silurus aristotelis (Agassiz 1856) were studied in Lake Pamvotis (northwestern Greece). Samples were collected on a monthly basis using gillnets, trammel-nets and traps. Total lengths ranged from 11.1 to 36.7 cm. Sex ratio was biased toward females (F : M = 1.8 : 1) and was statistically different from unity (KH2 = 46.94, P < 0.001). Spawning is from April to June. The relationship between total length and total weight showed positive allometric growth for males (TW = 0.0035 x TL3.21, r2 = 0.93, n = 198, P < 0.001) and females (TW = 0.0066 x TL3.02, r2 = 0.95, n = 363, P < 0.001). Age was determined on the annual growth marks formed on the spine of the pectoral fin. Based on cross-section readings of the spine, lifespan of the Aristotle's catfish was 5 years. Age classes 1 and 2 dominated the catches (39.1 and 40.0% of the total sample, respectively). Back-calculated lengths at age showed a rapid increase in fish size during the first year of life, reaching 61.1% of maximum attainable length, and a declining growth rate thereafter. Growth parameters were calculated as L-infinity = 36.12 cm, K = 0.37 year-1, t(0) = -0.76 year based on the observed lengths at age and as L-infinity = 28.19 cm, K = 0.53 year-1, t(0) = -0.62 year based on the back-calculated lengths at age. It seems that some of the life history traits (longevity, growth pattern, reproductive period) are influenced significantly by adverse effects of pollution and eutrophication on the lacustrine ecosystem

Semiconductor-based active and passive nanophotonics

Nano-structured semiconductors will play a vital role in future photonics, providing efficient localised photon generation and various other functions for communications, sensing, imaging and display applications. We shall provide several illustrative examples of possibilities

Photonic crystal and photonic wire device structures

Photonic devices that exploit photonic crystal (PhC) principles in a planar environment continue to provide a fertile field of research. 2D PhC based channel waveguides can provide both strong confinement and controlled dispersion behaviour. In conjunction with, for instance, various electro-optic, thermo-optic and other effects, a range of device functionality is accessible in very compact PhC channel-guide devices that offer the potential for high-density integration. Low enough propagation losses are now being obtained with photonic crystal channel-guide structures that their use in real applications has become plausible. Photonic wires (PhWs) can also provide strong confinement and low propagation losses. Bragg-gratings imposed on photonic wires can provide dispersion and frequency selection in device structures that are intrinsically simpler than 2D PhC channel guides--and can compete with them under realistic conditions