May 16th 2024
A recent study used fluorescence spectroscopy to learn more about scorpions and their exoskeleton.
Key Steps to Follow in a FRET Experiment
August 1st 2022Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is a versatile part of the toolbox of fluorescence methods. This through-space, photon-less energy transfer process between a donor fluorophore and an acceptor chromophore is perhaps most famous for its utility as a “molecular ruler” that can resolve nanometer-scale distances. FRET is also a popular and advantageous basis for biomolecular assays and sensors.
Challenges of Spectrofluorometry, Part 1: Collect Data Right the First Time
October 1st 2021Analysts using fluorescence emission and fluorescence excitation spectroscopy may encounter several common problems in their measurements. This tutorial, the first of a three-part series, provides a procedure to help avoid them.
Narrowband Visible Light: The OPO Reigns
January 1st 2021Tunable narrowband light sources are essential for measuring fluorescence, reaction energetics, and other challenging measurements in chemical, biological, and physical systems. In particular, the optical parametric oscillator (OPO) is an indispensable tool.
Combining Spectroscopy with Microscopy for Advancing the Analysis of Forensically Relevant Traces
July 1st 2020Forensic traces are physical remnants of past events that provide critical information for criminal and civil investigations and adjudications. The scientific examination of traces is an incredibly valuable tool for forensic investigations, because the skilled interpretation of traces yields factual answers to a range of pertinent questions.
Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry for Metals and Nanoparticle Analysis
June 8th 2016Total reflection x-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometry is an energy-dispersive x-ray technique that is used for elemental and chemical analysis, and is especially suitable for small-sample analyses. Ursula Fittschen, an assistant professor at Washington State University, is working on elemental microscopy and micro analysis. She has been using TXRF to analyze stainless steel metal release, and also airborne silver nanoparticles (NPs) from fabrics. Here, she describes the advantages and challenges of this technique.