Stimulated Raman Scattering Simulation for Imaging Optimization

Abstract

Two simulation programs of a stimulated Raman scattering microscopy (SRS) imaging system with lock-in amplifier (LIA) detection were developed. SRS is an imaging technique based on the vibrational Raman cross-section as the contrast mechanism and enables fast, label-free imaging. Most SRS implementations are based on a LIA detection of a modulated signal. However, building and operating such SRS set-ups still poses a challenge when selecting the LIA parameter settings for optimized acquisition speed or image quality. Moreover, the type of sample, e.g. a sparse sample vs. a densely packed sample, the required resolution as well as the Raman cross-section and the laser powers affect the parameter choice. A simulation program was used to find these optimal parameters. The focal spot diameters of the individual lasers (pump and Stokes) were used to estimate the effective SRS signal focal spot and the (optical) spatial resolution. By calibrating the signal and noise propagation through an SRS system for a known molecule, we estimated the signal and noise input to the LIA. We used a low pass filter model to simulate the LIA behavior in order to find the optimal parameters (i.e. filter order and time constant). Optimization was done for either image quality (expressed as contrast to noise ratio) or acquisition time. The targeted object size was first determined as a measure for the required resolution. The simulation output consisted of the LIA parameters, pixel dwell time and contrast to noise ratio. In a second simulation we evaluated SRS imaging based on the same principles as the optimal setting simulation, i.e. the signals were propagated through an imaging system and LIA detection. The simulated images were compared to experimental SRS images of polystyrene beads. Finally, the same software was used to simulate multiplexed SRS imaging. In this study we modeled a six-channel frequency-encoded multiplexed SRS system demodulated with six LIA channels. We evaluated the inter-channel crosstalk as a function of chosen LIA parameters, which in multiplex SRS imaging also needs to be considered. These programs to optimize the contrast to noise ratio, acquisition speed, resolution and crosstalk will be useful for operating stimulated Raman scattering imaging setup, as well as for designing novel setups.

Effect of Lens Aperture for Analysis of Bubble Image Size Microbubble Generator Aeration System

“…Camera with highperformance imaging through a combination of micro camera and aperture image [40]. The camera focus is on the lens aperture setting [27,41]. The lens aperture speed of 1/125f at an airflow rate of 0.5 Lpm produces a maximum bubble of 77.5 μm, at 1.5 Lpm of 90.3 and 2.5 Lpm of 90 μm.…”

Practical considerations for quantitative and reproducible measurements with stimulated Raman scattering microscopy

“…For complete/built-in systems these settings are usually pre-set and the user can only alter the phase as this is sample dependent. More detailed information can be found in a publication by Zada et al, who describe the effects of various lock-in amplifier settings on SRS signal and image formation, and their freely available simulation programme for SRS imaging [35].…”

“…More detailed information can be found in a publication by Zada et al, who describe the effects of various lock-in amplifier settings on SRS signal and image formation, and their freely available simulation programme for SRS imaging. 35 Image formation: sample vs. beam scanning Most SRS microscopes utilise galvo-mirrors for scanning the beam across the sample. One important consideration is that the transmission of the galvo scanners may not be uniform across the whole wavelength range used, which can cause a slight relative signal loss at certain wavelength ranges.…”