Abstract
A label-free fiber optic biosensor based on a long period grating (LPG) and a basic optical interrogation scheme using off the shelf components is used for the detection of in-situ DNA hybridization. A new methodology is proposed for the determination of the spectral position of the LPG mode resonance. The experimental limit of detection obtained for the DNA was 62 +/- 2 nM and the limit of quantification was 209 +/- 7 nM. The sample specificity was experimentally demonstrated using DNA targets with different base mismatches relatively to the probe and was found that the system has a single base mismatch selectivity.

Abstract
In this work FZL and FPL fabricated using Focused Ion Beam milling on the top of custom-made optical fibers are presented. Primary, single mode fibers are spliced to a segment of multimode fiber allowing to expand the core region. Subsequently, FZL and FPL with several focusing distances are milled on the top of the fibers. In this regard, the zone and phase plates offer distinct focusing characteristics which are here presented and analyzed. Moreover, the output optical intensity field of the FPL and FZP are evaluated and validated using an implementation of the Finite Differences Time Domain (Lumerical). Lastly, some considerations on the use of the tips as fiber optical tweezers are given.

Abstract
In this work, spiral phase lenses fabricated on the tip of single mode optical fibers are reported. This allows tailoring the fundamental guided mode, a Gaussian beam, into a Laguerre - Gaussian profile without using additional optical elements. The lenses are fabricated using Focused Ion Beam milling, enabling high resolution in the manufacturing process. The phase profiles are evaluated and validated using an implementation of the Finite Differences Time Domain. The output optical intensity profiles matching the numerical simulations are presented and analyzed. Finally, results on cell trapping and manipulation are briefly described.

Abstract
This paper describes the development of a novel microfluidic platform for multifactorial analysis integrating four label-free detection methods: electrical impedance, refractometry, optical absorption and fluorescence. We present the rationale for the design and the details of the microfabrication of this multifactorial hybrid microfluidic chip. The structure of the platform consists of a three-dimensionally patterned polydimethylsiloxane top part attached to a bottom SU-8 epoxy-based negative photoresist part, where microelectrodes and optical fibers are incorporated to enable impedance and optical analysis. As a proof of concept, the chip functions have been tested and explored, enabling a diversity of applications: (i) impedance-based identification of the size of micro beads, as well as counting and distinguishing of erythrocytes by their volume or membrane properties; (ii) simultaneous determination of the refractive index and optical absorption properties of solutions; and (iii) fluorescence-based bead counting.

Abstract
A long-period grating (LPG) written on a standard single mode fiber is investigated as a curvature and vibration sensor. It is demonstrated a high sensitivity to applied curvature and the possibility to monitor vibration in a wide range of frequencies from 30 Hz to 2000 Hz. The system was tested using an intensity based interrogation scheme with the LPG sensor operating in the curvature regime. Results have shown a reproducible frequency discrimination in the 30 Hz to 2000 Hz, with resolutions between 11 mHz and 913 mHz. Frequency retrieval could be perfouned independent of temperature up to 86 degrees C.

Abstract
A clamp-on optical current sensor prototype for metering and protection applications in high power systems was developed and characterized. The system is based on the Faraday effect in a low birefringence, high Verdet constant, 8cm long SF57 Schott glass prism. It was incorporated in a nylon casing suitable for clamp-on applications in the power line. The sensor operation was tested at 630nm, 830nm, and 1550nm to access its applicability in remote interrogation via fiber links. Optimal operation at 830nm is reported with a linear response up to 65.28kA, with 0.1 or 0.2 accuracy class considering a nominal currents of 1.2 and 0.3 kA (root mean square), respectively. Twelve calibrations procedures performed over six days showed an estimated maximum error of 11m A. Preliminary measurements were made from 40 to 400Hz. The sensor was exposed to transient signals less than 10 mu s that demonstrated its use in protection applications.