Measurement of weak optical transition moments through two-pathway coherent control

We present a full description of the (ω, 2ω) two-pathway coherent control interference technique for measurement of weak, highly forbidden optical transitions. We have recently applied this technique to the measurement of the magnetic dipole transition moment M1 of the 6s 2S1/2 → 7s 2S1/2 transition in atomic cesium. We also demonstrate detailed methods by which this technique may be used for measurement of the electroweak-induced parity nonconserving amplitude in atomic cesium. The principal benefits of this technique include reduced systematic errors related to field reversals often encountered in related measurements, reduced interference from adjacent, noninterfering transitions, and the absence of electric quadrupole transitions. We present a critical evaluation of the effects induced by stray fields and other systematic effects.

Cesium: a bibliography update

A brief outline of both industrial and medicinal uses is given. This is followed by a survey of literature on cesium salts for the period between January 1981 to May 1984. The bibliography searched indicates an interesting pharmacological and behavioral effect for Cs-salts in addition to its well known physiological and itopic effects. A pattern of clinical trials suggests the potential of cesium salts in certain cancer therapies, affective disorders, tumor imaging, radiotherapy and certain cardiovascular usages. The need for continued probing into the biological activity of this alkalimetal is suggested.