Abstract: Nanosensors for detecting analytes and methods of detecting analytes have been developed in which the redox potential of a redox effector in solution is altered thereby causing changes in carbon nanotube conductance. The analyte may be detected in solution, eliminating the need for immobilizing the analyte on a support.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of nanotechnology. Specifically the invention describes a nanosensor for the detection of an analyte in which the redox potential in solution is altered thereby causing changes in carbon nanotube conductance.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of nanotechnology. Specifically the invention describes a nanosensor for the detection of an analyte in which the redox potential in solution is altered thereby causing changes in carbon nanotube conductance.

Abstract: Nanosensors for detecting analytes and methods of detecting analytes have been developed in which the redox potential of a redox effector in solution is altered thereby causing changes in carbon nanotube conductance. The analyte may be detected in solution, eliminating the need for immobilizing the analyte on a support.

Abstract: A piezo-noise microscope for use in examining a sample of piezoelectric material is provided. The piezo-noise microscope improves on existing atomic force microscope (AFM) techniques by generating piezoresponse noise signals which are useful for determining the long-term polarization stability of piezoelectric materials, and in particular ferroelectric materials, without the need to make repeated observations over extended periods of time. A method for detecting piezo-response noise in a sample of piezoelectric material using a piezo-noise microscope, and a method for detecting the stability of polarization in regions of a sample of piezoelectric material, are also provided.

Abstract: A method for reducing imprint in a ferroelectric device which includes the steps of: applying a signal having a bipolar pulse shape for a predetermined time to the ferroelectric device; and decreasing the signal amplitude gradually in predetermined intervals of time and amplitude. Preferably, the bipolar shape signal is a sinusoidal wave, a square wave, or a sawtooth wave and the ferroelectric device is a capacitor of a memory cell in a computer. Also provided is an apparatus for reducing imprint in a ferroelectric device.

Abstract: A method for reducing imprint in a ferroelectric device which includes the steps of: applying a signal having a bipolar pulse shape for a predetermined time to the ferroelectric device; and decreasing the signal amplitude gradually in predetermined intervals of time and amplitude. Preferably, the bipolar shape signal is a sinusoidal wave, a square wave, or a sawtooth wave and the ferroelectric device is a capacitor or a memory cell in a computer. Also provided is an apparatus for reducing imprint in a ferroelectric device.

Abstract: An apparatus for enhanced light transmission through a perforated metal film is provided. The apparatus comprises a metal film having a first surface and a second surface, at least one aperture provided in the metal film and extending from the first surface to the second surface, and first and second dielectric layers. The first dielectric layer is provided substantially adjacent to the first metal film surface, and the second dielectric layer is provided substantially adjacent to the second metal film surface. The respective refractive indices of the first and second dielectric layers are substantially equal. Light incident on one of the surfaces of the metal film interacts with a surface plasmon mode on at least one of the surfaces of the metal film thereby enhancing transmission of light through the at least one aperture in the metal film.