Abstract
We present the time variant second order statistics of the depth-scan photocurrent in timedomain optical coherence tomography (TD-OCT) systems using polarized thermal light sources. Our results are prerequisite for future development of statistical image processing techniques for TD-OCT. © 2007 Optical Society of America.

Abstract

Abstract
A versatile time-domain optical coherence tomography system is presented that can generate cross-sectional images by using either transverse priority or depth priority scanning. This is made possible by using a transmissive scanning delay line compatible with balance detection operating at a speed similar to that of the transverse scanner used to scan the beam across the target. In vivo images from the retina are generated and shown using the same system switched to either transverse or depth priority scanning regime, by using the scanning delay line either in slow or fast scanning modes, respectively. A comparative analysis of different scanning regimes depending on image size to fit different areas to be imaged is presented. Safety thresholds due to the different continuous irradiation time per transverse pixel in different scanning regimes are also considered. We present the maximum exposure level for a variety of scanning procedures, employing either A scanning (depth priority) or T scanning (transverse priority) when generating cross-sectional images, en face images, or collecting 3D volumes. (c) 2007 Optical Society of America.

Abstract

Abstract
We show how stationary entanglement between an optical cavity field mode and a macroscopic vibrating mirror can be generated by means of radiation pressure. We also show how the generated optomechanical entanglement can be quantified, and we suggest an experimental readout scheme to fully characterize the entangled state. Surprisingly, such optomechanical entanglement is shown to persist for environment temperatures above 20 K using state-of-the-art experimental parameters.

Abstract
We present a new formulation for the direct laser acceleration of electrons in vacuum based on the Hamiltonian theory, Two different regimes for the snow-plowed, accelerated electrons are identified and characterized, the first pertaining to high-intensity and the second to low-intensity pulses, both leading to efficient electron acceleration. Particle energy yields are shown to be independent of the exact shape of the laser pulse and energy gains are estimated.