Adaptive broadband continuum source at 1200-1400 nm based on an all-fiber dual-wavelength master-oscillator power amplifier and a high-birefringence fiber.

We experimentally analyze the stimulated Raman scattering characteristics of a high-birefringence fiber (HBF), which presents an extraordinary level of spectral broadening incurred by the strong nonlinear interaction between the pump and Stokes pulses via the polarization-mode dispersion and group-velocity dispersion of the fiber. We also investigate the impact of the inter-pulse time-delay on the additional spectra broadening when dual-wavelength pump pulses are used. Exploiting these unique SRS properties of the HBF, we develop a novel Raman continuum source based on an all-fiber dual-wavelength master-oscillator power amplifier that can generate a dip-free spectrum in the 1200-1400-nm spectral range. We finally obtain a broadband continuum having an average power of ~840 mW and a 3-dB bandwidth of ~240 nm centered at 1200-1400 nm, which also represents a good spectral flatness and conversion efficiency. This type of source is very useful and important for optical coherence tomography applications, for example.

Simple determination of ranitidine in dosage forms by in-phase selective AC polarography.

A new AC polarographic method for the determination of pharmaceutical forms of ranitidine is proposed, based on the electroactivity of the ranitidine nitro group. Individual and composite assays as well as recovery studies are described. Results show adequate precision and accuracy. Sample preparation is easy and no excipient separation is required.