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World Championships 2013 Boxing
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Coverage from the World Amateur Boxing Championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The boxers in action at the biennial event include Olympic welterweight silver medallist Fred Evans.
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Hello, welcome to highlight of the 17th world amateur boxing
Championships, which took place in Kazakhstan. It was a huge event, 500
fighters taking part. It is the first time the best in the world
have come together since we experienced the colour and drama of
the London Olympics. The 10,000 crowd raising the decibel
level. You have got to work, come on! Do you want it? Do you want to
get on the podium? Which boxer can find the moment of inspiration? It
is going to be close. Utterly committed, utterly competitive. This
is going to be a nail-biting last second. What a finish. He has raised
the status of world amateur. Yes, great memories, and successful
for Britain, three gold medals. One of my guests got a bronze medal. We
are also joined by the only British rider to get a gold medal at these
championships. Back in 2007 in Chicago. And we could not do without
a boxing journalist, aficionado and General Noble.
a boxing journalist, aficionado and where the medals have gone between
1974 and 2011. The World Championships is tougher. It is
1974 and 2011. The World that simple to explain, they started
in Havana, and the first medal won by a country
in Havana, and the first medal won in 1999, so we went 12 tournaments
without getting in 1999, so we went 12 tournaments
medal. We would send fighters and we in 1999, so we went 12 tournaments
would get out of in 1999, so we went 12 tournaments
The first couple of tournaments, we did not send teams, because what was
the point? They were fighting professionals from East Germany,
Russia, Cuba, and getting smashed. If you look at the 70s and 80s, the
statistics are staggering. Some of our best fighters were lucky to win
once or twice. We have turned it around since 1999, so that table
only reflects the last 12 years. Is it still a fair reflection? Slightly
less so. Cuba have been affected in the last 15 years by defections.
Boxing was banned by Fidel Castro in 1962, there were some defections in
the 70s and 80s, but there have been some massive ones. One guy, a pro,
untouchable, he would still be winning these titles. And another
half a dozen. They have been hit seriously. There is a lot of money
in Russia, which has been ploughed into amateur sport, especially
boxing. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, they are at the top. Great
Britain are right there, --. Frankly, you have won a gold medal
here, the only British boxer to do so. How tough was it? Because you
have got such a buzz, because you keep winning, you are so happy. I
was ?6 over every night, and I was losing it by the morning. It was
just fluid, so it was coming off. I came out of the arena, came onto the
scales, gutted, I went back to the hotel, I did laps of the hotel. He
would be buzzing. In the final, that is when I felt it. You had to do it
the hard way. I beat the world number one, two and three. When he
was going out to Chicago, we were looking at the draw, and we thought,
if he gets a good break, he will get to the quarterfinals. He will win
twice and lose in the third fight, that would be incredible. He had to
come through one guy, he was unbeaten since 2003. For four years.
He had won the World Championships, the reigning world champion, and
Olympic champion, and as Frankie was coming down one side of the draw, he
knew he would have to meet him. The Russian was knocking everybody out.
People thought that Frank was having a good time, but he has got this
Russian. So Frankie could have a nice time in Chicago! You only
watched it back a few days ago? I did not watch the Italian one,
because it was scrappy, but he would gold in 2009, and the kid I beat in
the second round, he has just won the gold medal here. Tell us about
the current batch of boxes. A lot has moved on. You are one of them.
All gone professional. It is a steep learning curve. The year after the
Olympics is always tough, it is a transitional period. We have lost
some experienced boxers. It is always hard. The performance of some
of the lads, they are the new breed, the new generation. Despite missing
out on a medal in 2012, Andrew Selby has been one of Britain's most
successful amateurs. He won silver in 2011, and in June became the
first British fighter to successfully defend a European
title. A beautiful combination. Catching
the judges' eyes. Such a talented boxer. A great finish. Andrew Selby
has done it. He has successfully defended his European championship
title to be crowned European champion.
The last time we spoke was when you became doubled European champion.
Just been back in the gym, training hard. I knew I had the World
Championships coming up. I am glad Michael Conlan moved up a weight, it
gives me a better chance. How much does it mean this time? It is
everything I trained for, it is why I became a boxer, to be the best I
can be. I have got the taught in the back to do it. When do the nerves
start? I do not get nervous on the day, it is when you are waiting in
the changing rooms to be called out, that is when you get nervous. I was
nervous in my hotel room for this interview! But yes, it is when you
get called into the ring, but when you are in the ring, you are fine. I
won my first fight, and in the second fight, I was telling
everybody how good I was, and I got put down. That is something I
learned from. Paddy Barnes has said that to have six fights over ten
days is too tough. What is your feeling? It is good for some people,
but not for others. I like it. You see the shots easier. You can slip
them easier, I think. You got silver last time, did you think this will
give you the edge, not having the head guard? Yes, I will become world
champion within two days, you will see a new world champion.
He is confident. He is looking to get through to his second successive
World Championship final. He faced yesterday that off in the semifinal.
The number one seed, Andrew Selby, experienced in World Series boxing
as well. Here is his opponent, Jasurbek Latipov. 22 years old. The
bronze medal two years ago, guess who put him out at this stage.
Andrew Selby. This is a rematch at the same stage of the same
competition, the World Championship semifinal. Andrew Selby looking for
a repeat. Jasurbek Latipov looking to overturn the verdict that left
him with a bronze medal two years ago. Andrew Selby came away with a
silver medal. Looking to return to the final here in Almaty 2013. He
would go. The first of a scheduled three three-minute rounds. The boxer
in the red, operating in a southpaw stance, Andrew Selby. The number-1
boxer in the world. His opponent, the man wearing blue, with an
orthodox stance, the number four seed and the reigning bronze
medallist, Jasurbek Latipov of Uzbekistan. It is a bright start by
both boxers. Yes, Jasurbek Latipov has started quite well. Andrew has
got to watch out for his right hand. The key for Andrew is the movement,
he has got to keep it going. He is relaxed and comfortable with
switching. He has gone back to southpaw. The movement is the key to
victory for Andrew. The assessment you put forward of
Andrew Selby, being the best in the world, the Welsh coach told me that
in 2010. If you just look at how he has gone to fulfil the immense
promise that he has always had, the one that he has been on at
international level, said he had started to do the weight
right. In plain terms. His tournament experience reflects that.
Andrew Selby switching back to southpaw.
Jasurbek Latipov started the round quite well, but now Andrew is
starting to get into his stride, he is moving better, he is in and out.
He has increased the work rate, and he has taken the second half of the
round, and I think he is moving ahead now. Andrew Selby forcing his
man back to the ropes. Jasurbek Latipov dropped his hands. Andrew
Selby receiving instruction. A round broken in two phases. Yes, he
finished it a lot better, Andrew. He increased the workrate and tempo. He
got caught with the odd shot. For me, the second part of that round,
Andrew started to pour it on a bit. A fair reflection of the opening
round. The judges remember the second half of the round. You can
win the first half and lose the second half but lose the round.
Andrew finished the round very strongly. Masterful exponents of
finishing a round in strong fashion, sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali.
The number one seed, Andrew Selby, the reigning silver medallist, and
two-time European Championships gold medallist.
Jasurbek Latipov is a reigning bronze medallist, this is a rematch
from the semifinal two years ago in Azerbaijan. They know each other.
Jasurbek Latipov, 22. Andrew Selby is 24, but he has a wealth of
experience at elite level. Latipov is now turning to southpaw himself,
but with no real effect. You will not confuse Andrew Selby with that
style. Latipov is being picked off, mainly because his feet are too
slow. So he is trying to confuse Selby with the southpaw style, but
it is not working. A stiff right hand from Andrew Selby. Latipov just
losing his balance, Selby on him in a flash. Selby is a rare talent in
that he can box as well as a southpaw as he can orthodox. There
are very few boxes in the world, amateur or pro, that can do that
effectively with both styles, but he is one of them. Acquitting himself
incredibly well, Selby. Undefeated during that longer format of boxing,
no head guard. This is a new experience for him.
no head guard. This is a new Selby is trying to force his man
into the corner. He can't afford to get complacent. He has to watch that
he does not move into range to quickly. Turning to the referee and
gesticulating with his right fist to his forehead. He wants the referee
to watch Latipov's head. In the closing moments of that round,
Latipov got through some solid, effective punches. But he did not do
enough to win the round. Andrew started the round very well. It will
be interesting to see which way the judges go. For me, Selby has won the
second round. Two judges are seeing it in favour of Selby, one sees it
in favour of Latipov. So it is all to play for. Everything to box for
in this third and final round. Just got to maintain it now. Into the
third and final round we go. The tournament number one seed is
wearing red, representing Wales, and that is Andrew Selby, the reigning
world championship silver medallist, who takes a strong right across from
his opponent, Jasurbek Latipov of Kazakhstan. He has started round
number three brightly. Then Latipov lost balance and touched down, but
he has made a good start. Important for Andrew Selby to keep his shape.
Once he has landed shots, he must move. In and out. Andrew Selby had a
really tough assignment in his quarterfinal, overcoming the home
fighter after conceding the first round. 2-1, he won that. Kazakhstan
have a really strong team, inspired by this home crowd. They have been a
formidable force during the course of these 2013 World Championships.
Selby overcame that challenge but has a puzzle now. The only way he
can land that shot is if Selby holds his feet. That brings Latipov back
into it. Just don't stay in one place for one second. Beautiful left
hand from Andrew Selby. That was a quality punch. He'd take some risks,
Andrew Selby, but he reacts quickly. That was an example. It was tied
with two judges at 19 points apiece. Judge let ah -- judge C was in
favour of Selby. Latipov looking for a measure of revenge after being
eliminated on this same stage by Andrew Selby two years ago in Baku,
Azerbaijan. Latipov is relying increasingly on that backhand, but
Selby is seeing it coming. An effective foray from either boxer
could be crucial in making the difference here. Closing bell sounds
to conclude round three will stop Andrew Selby feels he has done
enough, things to his haunches, raises his right fist in celebration
after a keenly contested affair in this 52 kilograms flyweight
semifinal. Selby landed a super right-hand. That was the best shot
of the round. Good movement with the head. Beautiful right hand from
Selby, pushing his opponent back. He has won it for me. He should be into
the final. Both boxers enter the centre of the ring. Anxious moments
for the athletes and their corners as we await the official verdict.
Jasurbek Latipov has his place in the world championship final. He is
judged to have taken the third and final round by all three of the
judges ringside. The reigning two-time European champion, Andrew
Selby, has been eliminated at the quarterfinal stage. Jasurbek Latipov
overturns the result from Baku, Azerbaijan, two years ago. He has
revenge and has booked his place in the world championship final, the
gold-medal bout at 52 kilograms. Andrew Selby, the lone Welshman
through to the semifinal stage, tournament number one seed and world
ranked number one, has been eliminated.
Andrew, you punched the air at the end of that bout. But he is walking
into the final. You access to the judges at the end of the day. That
is boxing. Can you see any way that he won that? I thought I was doing
all the work. But the judges thought he was more aggressive or something.
After the quarterfinal, you told us you underperformed. It you feel you
underperformed here? I thought I was sharp. He is a tricky opponent. He
kept moving, making me miss. It was the semifinal, so I knew it would
not be easy. What have you learned from this experience? You are world
number one. I have learnt a lot. Just got to keep my head and keep
training. I am good enough to beat everyone here, he just won on the
day. Huge disappointment for the double European champion come Andrew
Selby. Steve Bunce, was he unlucky? I think he got it wrong in the last
round. He nicked the first two rounds and needed to make sure in
the last round, because he knew Latipov was going to come at him. He
beat him comfortably two years ago. At the end, he goes down on his
knees and raises his hand. I don't think it is in celebration, I think
the corn and says, are you OK? And I think he says, it is my hand. I
don't think he had much left in the tank. He has been a member of this
system now since 2008. He is the most experienced. Plus, he has been
in the World Series of boxing. He has had six fights without head
guards. That was why he was number one seed. Frankie? It was the right
result because of the last round. He stepped off the gas. Maybe he might
have been a bit tired. But he took it like a man. He was there with his
hands aloft before the judge called it. He thought he had it in the bag.
I have travelled the world with Selby, and he is a phenomenal
talent. They are getting used to the new scoring. He needs to fight every
second of every round. He switched off at the last minute, and I think
that cost him. But Andrew Selby will learn from that. The coaches will
teach him not to switch off for the last 30 seconds. You have got to
work. He would have won otherwise. You mention the new scoring system.
The length of rounds has changed. One notable change is, no head
guards. Are you a fan of that? I grew up with 70s boxing, when there
were no head guards. They were made law in 1984 at the Olympics in Los
Angeles. Things had to change. Computer scoring then came in in
1989. It was about one single point. Suddenly, the head guards have come
off for the first time since 1984 and the computer scoring has gone
and it is down to a man or woman sitting at the ringside, scoring
at. He is right. Everyone will have to adjust. Firstly, they have to get
their heads out of the way for cuts. Then they have to work on landing
more punches. You have got to be busier and more like a pro. That was
where Selby blew it. On the old points system, he would have won
that fight. He would be in the final. But that is not how it works
now. One argument is that that it will turn out hardened pros who they
want to cross over. Are you a fan of having no head guards? With no head
guards, it is teaching them more. When you first go in the pro league
with no head guard, it is a big difference. At the same time,
because you are in six fights in how many days, ten days, there are going
to be loads of clashes ahead. It is going to bring an cuts, which might
stop the best ox is going through. I am a fan of amateur boxing being
amateur boxing and pro boxing being pro boxing. There is a difference. I
think now the best boxers will not always win the tournament, because
some might get frustrated and accidentally stick their head on
somebody, and then they are out. I am not the biggest fan of it, but it
will be intriguing. The lads will get back in the gym and learn how to
get their head out of the way. So, disappointment for Andrew. Let's see
where the medals went in that flyweight final. We join it at the
beginning of the third round. Into the third and final round we
go. It is the 52 kilograms flyweight final. The man wearing blue is Misha
Aloian from Russia and his opponent, from Uzbekistan, the number four
seed and world championship bronze medallist Mo Jasurbek Latipov.
Latipov was the man who eliminated Andrew Selby at the semifinal stage
an island's Paddy Barnes at the quarterfinal stage during that
contest. Barnes tumbled to the canvas after getting tangled up.
Barnes actually hit his head on Latipov's me. -- on his knee.
Slowly, but surely, Aloian is gaining control. He is just bring
enough to win. Latipov is so close to being a world champion, but he
has got to do more. He is waiting just a bit too much. He has got to
start hitting the target more often and do more work. That exchange ends
with a good right hand from Aloian. The referee is sending Aloian to a
neutral corner. The ringside doctor is being called into action once
more to inspect the facial injury that has been sustained. -- by
Aloian. When you are having to fight five or six times to get to this
stage, or rather five times to get to the stage, you are going to pick
up cuts here and there without the head guard. Boxers are not used to
boxing without the head guard. All the tournaments before this world
with head guards, so some of these boxers are boxing without head
guards for the first time in their lives. Experience has been apparent
throughout the Championships, so many of the boxers lean in with
their head, like a bull charging out of a gate. They are very
inexperienced. That is why we are getting these cuts. A good left
hand. That was lovely from Jasurbek Latipov. He gets caught there,
though, that is what you have got to get the spot on. The Russian is just
making it again. Increased urgency from Jasurbek Latipov. Morning and
handling at" is. Misha Aloian keen to retain his World Championship
gold medal. He secured it over Andrew Selby two years ago in
Azerbaijan. Their head is continuing to clash with real ferocity. Deep
into the third round. Can Jasurbek Latipov find a big finish? Looking
for a simple potshot. Both men raised their arms, but you feel that
Misha Aloian has done enough to retain his World Championship,
despite conceding the opening round. Another close round. I think
Misha Aloian at work him. But not a lot in it at all. A couple of good
shots from Jasurbek Latipov went in. Overall, I think Misha Aloian just
had the better workrate. Misha Aloian from Russia has retained the
World Championship gold medal, the light in the blue corner. Their
man, the reigning world champion, has repeated his performance, boxing
throughout the entire tournament to emerge undefeated and secure his
position again as champion of the world.
For Britain, more disappointment in the semifinals, as the only other
fighter to make it through to the middle stage was Anthony Fowler. He
had guaranteed himself at least a bronze medal after victories over
the second seed from Ukraine and a quarterfinal points win against his
German opponent. But he was forced to withdraw before his semifinal
with a hand injury, on the advice of his Great Britain coaches. He
reluctantly pulled out of the tournament.
A highly significant achievement, but it is a case of mixed emotions?
Yes, a bronze medal is great, but I wanted a gold medal with all my
heart. I did the right thing, I am happy, but gold would be better.
What happened? I had a cut on my eye. But my hand was killing me. It
ballooned up. It is one of those things, the doctors told me out.
What was the moment like when you were told? It was heartbreaking, it
was a long day, it was playing on my mind. But I knew it was the right
decision. Huge disappointment, you have got to
have sympathy. Having to withdraw because of injury. I really feel for
him, you could see the shape he was in, it is a terrible shame for him,
because he had a couple of good victories. I know him quite well, he
thought he would get the gold medal. He is only young, he has had a great
tournament, he has excelled, and hopefully he can kick on his
progress. It is the only advice he could have taken, to secure his
long-term future. Definitely. I have to come close to him over the past
couple of years, we speak quite a lot, he is so dedicated, he loves
the sport, it is all about being number one. He is similar to myself,
the way he thinks, he wants to win, he will not accept second best. He
would have got in the ring. He would have fought with one hand.
Reflecting on Britain's progress, two bronze medals, but that the
disappointing or a huge success? It is positive. 31 British Isles
boxers, we have come back with four medals. It is positive. Frankie won
the first gold bundle in 2007, but we have sent some of our best
fighters, they do not come back with anything. The fact that we are even
debating this is exceptional. We had a couple of kids crashing out, Sam
Maxwell got disqualified, Charlie Edwards had a cut, Joe Joyce was hit
on the chin, Fred Evans didn't quite perform. With a bit more luck...
With a bit of luck in the jaw, we could have easily, wait with four or
five. Anthony Fowler fought his heart out to get to that stage, he
would have had had to have gone through to good fighters. It is a
saving grace, because there is an inadequate amount of protection with
the bandages that are allowed. Bankers like Anthony Fowler, and he
is a binder, if he is not careful, he will damage his hands
irreparably. It is only his second major tournament, and he has shown
he can compete. His withdrawal meant Zhanibek Alimkhanuly had a day off.
His opponent in the final was Jason Quigley. He has now amassed 32
consecutive victories including the European title in June. Number 32
came in the semifinals, when he beat his Russian opponent. That ensured
that Ireland had its first ever finalist.
Put into words what it means to get into the final. I can't, it has been
my dream since day one, to get to a World Championships was a dream, to
be the national champion was a dream, to get here, everything is a
bonus. I am enjoying every minute. Your opponent has had his feet up
today, is that a concern? It does not matter. I am going to be
prepared for anybody. Let's see how he got on when he
faced the home crowd favourite, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly. It is the
middleweight final. An historic moment for the fighting
nation of Ireland, the fighter wearing red, with the orthodox
stance, Jason Quigley, 22 years old, is contesting their first ever World
Championship final. The European champion going up against the Asian
champion, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly. 20 years old, one of six Kazakhstan
finalist contesting the gold medals here in the final session. Jason
Quigley had a terrific semifinal victory over the 2010 European
Championships. He demonstrated every facet of boxing, he went backwards
for the first two rounds, then in the third round he went forwards and
proved superior in that facet of the sport as well. He really put his
opponent under immense pressure. He was a deserving winner. That is how
he booked his place into the gold-medal bout. Zhanibek
Alimkhanuly, it could not have been easier, because Anthony Fowler... He
takes a hard punch, and Jason Quigley is on the canvas. He will
have to get his mind right. It was a swift straight shot that put him on
the floor. Yes, a good shot. It has been a cagey opening. Jason Quigley
prefers to box on the back foot, but he has waited for too long. He is
against a skilful southpaw. A cagey opening, but Jason Quigley walked
onto the shop. Things will change now. It was more or less a flash
knock-down, but he knows now that he should be behind in this round. He
should be behind, but the ten point system is under operation.
Just because a knock-down has been scored, it will not necessarily be
interpreted as a 10-8 round. We have seen one boxer go on the floor in
these championships, and he was adjudged to have won the round.
Let's see how it is scored. But he will not want to take the chance,
people think he will be behind. That is why he is coming back in the
manner he is. Zhanibek Alimkhanuly, the beneficiary of a walkover in his
semifinal, because Anthony Fowler, after his epic victory over the
German, sustained injury and damage to his right hand, he could not
compete jarring his semifinal. That is the closing bell. A good opening
round from Zhanibek Alimkhanuly. Jason Quigley, he has been on a
terrific run obituaries since the middle of 2011, he found himself on
the floor. Yes, it was a good shot, Jason Quigley was trying to land his
own shots, with his hands have always been low, so he just got
caught. It is a cagey opening, both boxers do not want to come forward.
They are both counterpunches, so it is to make the opponent come over
his front foot, that is the problem they both have. Not a 10-8 round, as
it would be in professional boxing, so Jason Quigley is very much in it.
The reigning European champion taking on Zhanibek Alimkhanuly, the
reigning Asian champion. It is the 75 kilograms middleweight final. A
gold medal at stake at the World Championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Hard punches being exchanged by both boxers. Jason Quigley had the better
of that exchange. He is better when his opponent is coming towards him.
He is in and out. You have got to make the opponent come over the
front foot. He needs to trigger the attack by his opponent and go back
at him. He has targeted the body, he has got a good right hand to the
body, then he has two switch to the left hook to the head. Zhanibek
Alimkhanuly being instructed to watch the use of the four on and
elbow. Running repairs needed. The footwear of Zhanibek Alimkhanuly. A
real quality match. The number five seed, Jason Quigley, ranked number
seven, 22 years old, he has not lost a contest since 2011. He lost in
Lithuania to the Dutchman. Since then, it has been nothing but
success and victories for Jason Quigley. But he has conceded the
opening round here. There is the left hook. It is a better response
from Jason Quigley, the right hand to the body and the left hook to the
head. He adjusts his feet very well, he has got fast hands, he just has
to get the timing and accuracy right. Zhanibek Alimkhanuly coming
with left hooks out of the southpaw stance. Both of these men engaging
in hard punching exchanges. What a left hand from ten macro once more.
Jason Quigley is fighting back. A free punch combination from Jason
Quigley. Both boxers testing each other's resolve. A left hand to the
midsection from Jason Quigley. And all action in counter. In pursuit of
the world Champion ship gold medal. This will suit Quigley, when they
are standing toe to toe like this. The opportunities are there for him
to land the shots. He has got to make sure the actions are very
quick. When he sees the opening, he has got to punch. The referee tells
him to watch the head, and the action resumes. Alimkhanuly tried to
respond with a body shot. All action stuff here in round number two in
this world championship final. Right hand from Quigley just before the
bell. What a torrid round, enjoyed by both boxers, who planted their
feet in the canvas and just let go with some hard punches to both head
and body. Both landed with good shots. Alimkhanuly's guard was a bit
leaky here and there, but he was throwing punches in bunches. The
referee said he had to keep his head up at one stage. I think this will
suit Quigley. How will the judges score that all action second round?
He can consider himself a bit unlucky, Quigley, in that round.
Into the third and final round we go. You see the confined space that
both of these doctors are operating in. That is the manner in which the
second round was fought, in the confines of that logo. Wearing red,
representing Ireland, the first-ever world championship finalist. Now he
is on the receiving end of April and uppercut from Alimkhanuly. And
again, three punch combination success for the reigning Asian
champion are going against his European championship counterpart.
Right-hand success from Quigley a few moments ago. This is a real toe
to toe war in the middleweight final. Quigley is not accustomed to
losing. This is give and take. Quigley is dragging him into this
toe to toe, but although he has got a high guard, he has got to move the
head. If you choose these tactics, head movement is crucial. The head
movement from his opponent is a bit better. Because Quigley is static
with the head, he is getting caught with shots. It is the right tactic
in terms of growing him in, but you have got to move the head as well.
He was on the floor during the first round, courtesy of a quick left
cross from Alimkhanuly. What a right hand, and N hand to the body from
Alimkhanuly. Jason Quigley will have to come back with some offence of
his own, and immediately does so with a dig into the rib cage of
Alimkhanuly. And attritional contest for both boxers, but that shows you
how much the top spot on the podium is needed. Again, just going at it
and seeing who can give and take the most. Both boxers are now feeling
the pace. Both demonstrating determination of the highest order.
Alimkhanuly on the front foot. Back comes the Irishman, forcing
Alimkhanuly onto the back foot. Both boxers feeling the pace, neither man
giving an inch. Who can produce a grandstand finish in their effort to
stand atop the world championship podium? Give and take from both
men. And there is the closing bell. What an all action encounter we have
had in an effort to determine the outcome of where the gold medal will
go. The 75 kilograms middleweight final was an absolute classic
between island's Jason Quigley, the tournament number five seed, and the
number six seed, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly from Kazakhstan. Total
change of tactics for both boxers compared to the first round. Quigley
has just come short here. Zainab al can is the middleweight champion --
Zhanibek Alimkhanuly. The president demonstrates his delight that his
countrymen will stand on the top spot of the medal podium after a
really absorbing, exhilarating 75 kilograms middleweight final. But
let's take a moment to acknowledge Jason Quigley and the early on
tournament he has had, the tournament number five seed securing
Ireland's first-ever silver medal in the World Championships.
Jason, you are clearly disappointed? Yeah. It is a tough sport, and I
gave my whole life to it. Every minute, every second of the day. But
I don't want to look back, I want to be happy, but I can't take it that
way. At this moment, you can't take any positives, but you will going
forward, surely? Fair play to him. Whatever he achieves, it is hard
when you see somebody else doing it. If you always want something,
you can't have it. I will be back. He may have lost, but well done to
Jason Quigley. He makes history for Ireland, their first silver medal at
the World Championships. That was like watching a pro fight. They went
to to toe. The first minute and a half of the first round was like we
have come to expect from Eastern Block fights and like we have come
to expect from the Irish. They have the best system in Europe. But
suddenly, after he gets knocked down in the first round, it then becomes
like watching some mad Rocky film, two guys slugging. There were
moments in that last round where if you slowed it down, one throws a
shot and Mrs... It was cracking stuff. It was a middleweight final
in Almaty, Kazakhstan. What do you make of that? Yeah, there was great
determination. He is a really likeable guy and he will get a lot
of fans from that. He is going to be fan friendly. He has made huge
improvement in the last couple of years. You fought him twice.
Yeah, he is a top kid, Jason. Takes a lot of battle to get up and
perform so valiantly, so he did well. He is young. He will come
again. He and Anthony Fowler will have a nice few contest is in the
future. It is nice to have two top of from the UK and Ireland. You know
him better than I do. Can he stand it, or do you think he will go up?
Joe Wardle is the heavyweight. He is the middleweight. It is good. We
have always produced good middleweights from these shores.
Darren Sutherland, myself, James did Gail -- games the gale. The future
looks good. Ireland also had a guaranteed medal after light-headed
-- light heavyweight Joe Ward made it through to the last four after a
great win over the European champion. He faced world champion De
la Cruz from Cuba. We join it at the second of -- the start of the second
round. 81 kilograms light heavyweight
final. The man wearing blue is Julio Peraza from Cuba, taking on Joe
Ward, 19 years of age, who has already gone continental
championships gold in 2011. Jury the championships in 2013, he suffered a
leg injury when competing against the Polish oxer, Joe Ward. He won
the contest 3-0 in France, suffered a hand injury and was then drawn
against the same opponent! He must have thought, guy is my nemesis. But
he won the contest 3-0. So Ward is on the front foot. He knows he is
trailing after that company did round of boxing. Very difficult to
get the Cuban to come forward. Ward has got to work more to get a
reaction from the Cuban, make him punch and then go back at him. Ward
is not doing enough with his lead hand. He has got to do more. The
Cuban is in his comfort zone, the way he is working. So Ward has got
to up the workrate a bit more. A hard left right combination from the
la Cruz. Ward will not be found wanting in terms of commitment or
desire. Demonstrated that throughout his career, particularly during
World Series boxing, when he had an epic contest. He had a terrific
contest with the Number Ten seed in this tournament, home De La Cruz
beat at the quarterfinal stage. Good left jab from De La Cruz. Ward
continues to press, but this man is difficult to pin down. That was a
good round of boxing. Joe Ward continues to press, but in doing so,
is being picked off either Cuban as he is coming in. A frustrating round
for Joe Ward. Everything he tried, the Cuban seemed to have an answer.
Typical Cuban style, dictating the pace and the comfort zone.
So we move into the third and final round. Joseph Ward is 19 years of
age, staring down the barrel of elimination from this world
championship tournament at the semifinal stage. He is trailing 2-0
against the man wearing blue, Julio Cesar la Cruz. He won the opening
round, with Joe Ward pressing during the second round. And he is
continuing to press, because he has to do punches in bunches. High
workrate and try to pin the Cuban down if he is to book his place in
the championship final. At all costs, you have got to win that
first round, as is becoming evident. It literally dictates the tactics
for the rest of the contest. Get your nose in front, and you have a
great chance of winning the contest. The Cubans always win that first
round. So do the Kazakhs. And it is difficult then to pull it round.
Disappointment by not making the Olympic Games. After that, he went
on a terrific one -- a terrific run, culminating with a victory over the
man who went on to take Olympic gold, he beat him out of sight. A
good left hand from Joe Ward, but that gives you an idea of the common
level that he possesses. He is only a dumb kid as well. -- a young kid.
In Brazil, he will be quite some boxer. 20 years old at the end of
the month. He has a bright future. He takes a right hand to the chest.
Julio Peraza is also experienced in boxing without the head guard, he
took part in the exhibition match against the Mexico team. That is
significant, because if you consider that professional boxing is back in
Cuba, it has not been on the island since 1961, so it is a significant
move. Joe Ward out of range with that left hand. It is difficult to
get past the range of the Cuban, his arms seem to go down to his boots. A
good performance from the Cuban. Celebration from Julio Peraza, and
the body language of Joe Ward and the shake of the head, it suggests
that he knows his World Championships have come to an end.
Julio Peraza will contest a second consecutive World Championship
final. We wait for the official verdict.
Julio Peraza has beaten Joe Ward on points to book his place in another
World Championship final. Handshakes from the Irish corner for the Cuban
Maestro, because he boxed a brilliant performance against the
Irishman, but he is only 19, contesting his second World
Championships, and he has come away with a place on the podium.
No shame in being beaten by the defending champion. Great movement,
I could not get to him at all, very tricky. I am disappointed, but what
can I do? I had a good tournament, I got my bronze medal, so I have to be
happy enough. What have you learned? It is a huge experience, I
am only 19. He is an exceptional boxer, his movement is very good.
His experience got to me, I could not get to him.
Bronze for Joe Ward, a terrific prospect. The man he has replaced in
the Irish team has been around forever. He won the European gold
eight years ago and he had shrunk opinions on this year's
Championships. Two medals for Ireland, what is your
assessment of how they have got on? Our target was two medals, we have
taken boxers here -- ten boxers here. We had five in the
quarterfinals. If we had got the decisions we wanted, it could have
been five medals. Two medals is a great achievement. It is a time of
transition for amateur boxing, what have you made of the new rules? We
have noticed a lot of cuts and broken hand. I do not agree with
that. I would lock -- I would rather leave the head guards on, there are
too many injuries. You will have good lads going into the ring and
getting cut early and having to go home, it is not fair. Given the
changes, looking ahead to 2016, are you still excited about the prospect
of what Ireland can do and what the sport will look like? It is all
about building, it is about keeping them focused, keeping them
interested. The head guards situation, if that will deter
certain lads, they will think they might as well go professional. It
will be interesting. It was a great World Championships for Ireland, it
could have been more, but two medals are brilliant.
A great outing, that it is a recurring theme, the removal of the
head guards. Come the Olympics, the image of bloodstained boxers is not
the image that the elliptic committee will want to betray. That
is why they were faded in and became law in 1984. It took them 18 months
to take over. I can see there being a serious inquest. Lots of blood,
guts and thunder, great knockouts, but it has been a problem. My
understanding is that the IOC are not happy with the head guards being
dropped, so they could be a request going in. But the boxing body is
powerful, so expect there to be a debate. The boxing body do not want
them, but the IOC might want them back. As for Ireland, a great
showing. They have got a set up in Dublin, next to the National
Stadium, it is brilliant, the envy of the world. The great written
squad used what they were doing and we try to build on it. They are
creating fighters. I was in Belfast last week, five or six of the guys
would all have been there if they had stayed amateur, near to a medal.
They have a great system, amateur boxing in Ireland if the number one
sport. You try and walk down the street with Kenny, you cannot have
it. You cannot do it. It is a bit like walking with you in London! Joe
Ward coming out to the defending champion, Julio Peraza, let's see
what happened to the Cuban in the final when he faced another man from
Kazakhstan, Adilbek Niyazymbetov. We join it at the beginning of the
third round. The light heavyweight final clean
the reigning defending champion, Julio Peraza, operating in the blue
vest, and the orthodox stance, and the men he is going against, Adilbek
Niyazymbetov, the reigning Olympic silver medallist and World
Championship silver medallist. He was consigned to the silver medal by
Julio Peraza two years ago. Adilbek Niyazymbetov's defeat are too slow,
he is waiting to long. He does not want to commit because he will walk
onto the counter, but he has to do things differently. He is starting
to lose the contest, he has got to increased the tempo and put the
Cuban under more pressure. Julio Peraza is allowed to box like this,
he is almost in periods. Again, the Cuban is making the
Kazakhstan under his terms at his pace, so clever at doing it, the
Cubans. The tangle causes Julio Peraza to lose the brilliant
balance. Just continuing to poke away at the abdominals of Adilbek
Niyazymbetov. Not allowing him to set. What a right hand from Julio
Peraza. His hands are also down by his belt line, but luck at how it is
being made to pay. It is accurate. He is keeping him occupied, and will
be registering with the judges. A good left-hander from Adilbek
Niyazymbetov. Adilbek Niyazymbetov has got to double up the jab, that
is how you close down the gap. Most definitely with fast feet. Single
attacks are not enough. Boxing at the Cuban's case, the Cuban is doing
things a bit better, finding the quality work, the right hand here
and there. Keeping his opponent off balance.
Julio Peraza boxing on the back foot, moving wonderfully, side to
side, skipping around the boxing ring. The balletic grace that belies
his muscular physique. Adilbek Niyazymbetov should be working
there. You must work. He is not experienced in that mode of boxing.
The new interpretation of the rules. Julio Peraza picking his man off.
The bell sounds, Julio Peraza raises his arms in anticipation of victory,
because he feels he has done enough to retain his World Championship
gold medal against the man he beat to claim the title two years ago in
Azerbaijan. A good display, in and out boxing from Julio Peraza, but
his general rhythm and the way he controlled the pace, Julio Peraza, I
cannot see how he can give it to Adilbek Niyazymbetov. Julio Peraza
has successfully defended and retained his World Championship gold
medal with a delightful display of boxing over the tournament's number
one seed, Adilbek Niyazymbetov. It was a battle between the number one
and number two seeds, the best to light heavyweight boxers in the
world at the moment, they came together, and the Cuban, Julio
Peraza, has prevailed. Cuba might be the country which will
always be associated with amateur boxing, but in Kazakhstan, the home
nation proved they were the ones to beat, with eight boxers making it
through to the semifinals. With all of the local success, we sent our
man out into Almaty. When they told me I was going to
Kazakhstan, the first thing I thought was Bora. But there is more
to this country than the stereotypes you may have seen.
The city of Almaty is as much about shopping moles as it is about market
stalls. And boy, is this country big, you
can fit France, Finland, Spain, Germany, Italy, Sweden and the UK
all into Kazakhstan. When it comes to sport, they are
bonkers about boxing. TRANSLATION: It is a tradition, it comes from our
ancient roots, our people were really strong infighting. In the
Mongolian boars, we try to win, so our love of boxing comes from the
tradition of fighting from our history. But of course, today,
boxing is very popular, and our people love it. Kazakhstan, a
country bubbling with culture and banged up for it boxing.
Amateur boxing can take you to some obscure places, where has it taken
due, what has been the most enjoyable? I will start with the
worst, Ukraine, when I was in the European cadets, a 5-star hotel, we
got there late at night, and we went out, the top of the flats tore
down, so we were getting chased by dogs. In the middle of a building
site! And the best? The Commonwealth Games, Australia, the highlight of
my career. I did not go to the Olympics. I have never done a mixed
games, nixed sports, and I did there. It was so nice a country, and
all of the sports supported each other, Dean Macey was so
supportive. He came to all of our fights, he was as happy as we were.
You want a Lonsdale Belt outright last month, what is next for you? I
am currently the British and Commonwealth champion. I am European
number two. Hopefully, Lee Purdey will win, because he is from London
and has a good domestic fight. Next year, I definitely want to see a
world title fight. Where are we with you? You are free fights into your
pro career. Yeah, I am still just a baby. I am enjoying it. I had
imaging injury, but I am over that. Which is a shame. Yeah, I was meant
to fight in Vegas, but I decided to pull-out because I did not want to
go there and not docs as well as I could. But I will hopefully be fine
before the end of the year. And then 2014. Me and Steve were saying
earlier that there are loads of Jewish boxers who are unbeaten --
British boxers. Hopefully, I will take some of the unbeaten records
and just progress. I am just enjoying doing what I am doing. We
always like to see the big rise in action, so let's have a look at the
superheavyweight final. Kazakhstan got a fight through. It was the
seven foot tall number two seed and home fighter, taking on the world
number one from Azerbaijan. We join it at the start of the second round.
The gold medallist had the privilege of taking championship gold in front
of his fans to years ago in Baku, Azerbaijan. The man trying to
emulate that is the boxer in blue, who was beaten by Medzhidov in the
semifinal stage two years ago. The incessant pressure applied by
Medzhidov was enough to overcome the tarring figure that is the six foot
nine Dychko. Slower start of the contest than we anticipated by
Medzhidov, who normally was his way forward and makes the opponent pay
will stop instead, he is being kept on the end of a peppering jab from
the figure from Kazakhstan. Perfect tactics again from the Kazakhs.
Winning that opening round is the priority. That then dictate the
tactics. Dychko was attempting the uppercut that you were referring to,
to try and keep Medzhidov at bay. Medzhidov is not fighting with the
same intensity as earlier. That is because he had a hard, long
tournament. You have got to be so fit to win this gold medal. You need
a bit of luck. Dychko is having the luck in terms of beating the German
in the semi. Much easier contest. On the other hand, Medzhidov, totally
different. In his quarterfinal, Dychko was also the beneficiary of a
walkover. The Indian Federation were under suspension, so it was a
relatively comfortable tournament for Dychko. Perhaps that freshness
makes him fresher than a man who was engaged in a really torrid encounter
yesterday. This is as subdued as I have seen Medzhidov in global
competition. Right hand to the body from Medzhidov, but they are all
singles. Where is the marauding energy we have seen? Generally, they
are threes and fours. He is swinging away, but not in punching range.
Dychko appears composed. There is less head movement from Medzhidov.
That speed has gone out of his work. At the end of the second run, one
suspects that Dychko, in the presence of the nation's leader,
will have done enough to open up a two round advantage. Medzhidov just
fell short with that shot. Medzhidov has got an uphill task
now. As we move into the third and final round of this superheavyweight
gold medal bout, the reigning champion, wearing red, Medzhidov,
could well be on the witty losing his crown. Oh, and that right-hand!
One single punch has put Dychko on the floor. The Kazakhstan is in
trouble. The referee is making the mandatory eight ounce. That is the
danger when you face this man. Medzhidov has a haymaker of a right
hand, and lets out a rule of delight, because Ivan Dychko has
been knocked to the canvas and appears to be in bad condition. The
referee immediately called the ringside doctor into the ring. Let's
hope Ivan Dychko is OK. Still doesn't know where he is. It is a
walk on rubbery legs back to his blue corner, aided by the doctor.
What a defending performance that is for this fella. Magomedrasul
Medzhidov has retained his world championship title in the most
explosive fashion. Look at that for a thunderous right-hand, an absolute
thunderbolt. The towering figure of the six foot Dychko went to the
canvas. That was the follow-up after the mandatory count. Magomedrasul
Medzhidov is the winner, and once again champion of the world.
What a finish. Medzhidov came alive in that last round. The it is great
to see. What is what superheavyweight boxing should be
about. I am still not decided on the head guards, but that was classic.
How did the referee allowed that to continue? In pro boxing, it would
have been stopped after the first knock-down. In amateur boxing, it
would be stopped after a slight wobble. But the referee let it
continue. You will not see many knockouts like that in amateur
boxing. It was like something from the 70s. Those guys know each other.
They have bubbly boxed seven or eight times. They are like friends!
That silver medal for Kazakhstan meant they finished on top of the
medal table with four golds, two silver and two bronze.
How did the British team view their world championship experience? We
caught up with the coaching team after the finals.
They are a young team coming into these championships and relatively
inexperienced. But coming away with two medals at one of the toughest
tournaments in the world, we would have taken that before we got on the
plane to come out here. There are a lot of positives to take forward.
What have you made of the new rules in terms of no head guards and the
point-scoring system? You have got a generational doctors who have not
boxed with head guards. Only the referees will take time to adjust.
Hopefully, in time, boxing will get better. At the minute, it is delay
transitional period. But it has been a great learning experience in this
championship. It has been a young team, and they will only benefit
from boxing in these championships. They know now that if this is the
way it is going to be, they will be better next time. If you look at Lee
Fowler, it was his first championships, and he has been a
revelation. That shows the other boxers what can be done. It is
possible to come here and get a medal. How have the guys handled
some of the low points? As a team, the lads have all got round it.
Andrew Selby, the lads all supported him. Same with Anthony Fowler. That
was a big disappointment because of his injury. But it is a happy team.
They live with each other for a long time, so it is a good team spirit.
It looks good for Rio. We are in a much better position than a few
years back. Coming away from this championships with two medals is a
great performance. It is an inexperienced team, because we lost
all our big guns post-London. Things look good for the future. Come Rio,
we will have a strong squad. So two medals for Great Britain.
That puts us in a good place. There are a lot of boys in the GB system.
I would say that some of the coaches are great group of men. They will
look at the 20 or 30 boxers inside the GB system and narrow it down to
about 15. It still has to be narrowed down to ten, but it is a
solid team if we can keep them. No matter how much money we throw at
them, it is still hard to keep them. Not long ago, you were on the
other side of the line. Now you are looking in. Who should we look out
for? I look forward to seeing Sam Maxwell. The talent from Liverpool.
Lovely lad. His tournament was cut short because of the head-butt. He
is a mature lad. I have been lucky to work with those coaches we just
saw. Those lads have got the best coaches in the world looking after
them, and if they knuckle down hard, they can surpass what we did in
London. Frankie, still our only world champion. Who should we be
looking at? Fowler. Definitely. He is only just moving up to
middleweight. By Rio, he will be middleweight. As a lightweight, he
has played 67 and lost three. We have to leave it there. Thanks very
much to all our guests, Frankie, Anthony and Steve. So two bronze
medals signals and encouraging turn for Britain in Kazakhstan. But after
seven bronze medals, Jason Quigley picks up Ireland's first silver at
the World Championships. For the Irish, the bronze age is over. From
all of us, goodbye.
Coverage from the World Amateur Boxing Championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The boxers in action at the biennial event include Olympic welterweight silver medallist Fred Evans, who is representing Wales along with double European champion Andrew Selby. Ireland's squad contains a couple of London 2012 bronze medallists, in the shape of light-flyweight Paddy Barnes and flyweight Michael Conlan.


text:
Free Talks - UK Parliament Week
Explore stories of restoration and renewal, discover hidden histories and hear fascinating insights from a diverse range of teams working behind the scenes in this year's free talks in UK Parliament.
"Enabling growth through learning" – The Learning & Organisation Development (L&OD) Team
Monday 4 November
From providing training courses, to developing future mangers, and establishing apprenticeships – the L&OD team does this and much more. Come along to meet the team and learn more about the exciting and interesting work they do.
Book your free tickets
Restoring the Palace of Westminster
Restoration and Renewal Programme of the Houses of Parliament is considered to be the biggest and most complex historic building project ever undertaken in the UK. Learn what is involved in this project and get a glimpse of what is proposed for the temporary homes of the House of Commons and House of Lords.
The House of Lords: what the data tells us
Take this opportunity to get to understand the House of Lords better. In this unique analysis of the House of Lords, you can get an insight about the Members of the House of Lords – about the work they do, the impact they have and how they work together with the Commons. This is your chance to discover more about the House of Lords
The Newport Rising: Chartist trials and petitioning Parliament
Dive into our past at this enlightening talk. The UK Parliamentary Archives and Gwent Archives are hosting a panel discussion to mark the 180th anniversary of the Newport Uprising – the last large-scale armed rebellion against authority in Great Britain. Hear about the events of the day, the aftermath and the legacy it has left behind.
Behind the scenes: Westminster Hall and the Encaustic Tiles Conservation Projects
Tuesday 5 November
Ever looked at the scaffolding in and around Westminster Hall and questioned what was going on? Ever wondered what was involved in conserving the tiles inside the Palace? Now is your chance to meet some of the team and hear from the experts about these unique projects.
Big Ben: ticking through time
The world famous Elizabeth Tower is an iconic UK landmark. Learn about the history of the Tower, the bell (Big Ben) and the mechanism of the clock as members of the Big Ben team share their knowledge and experience of working in the Tower.
The inside story: books, briefings and behind the scenes at the Lords Library
The House of Lords Library has a unique role in providing information and resources to help peers participate in Parliament. After last year's sell out panel session, the Lords Library returns to the UK Parliament Week programme with a dazzling new line up.
Explore what it's really like to work in Parliament, ask all your bookish questions and find out how we are digitising our library.
Parliaments and populism
Populism is on the rise and poses a challenge to democracy. What are parliaments already doing about it? And how can they better equip themselves to face challenges arising from this in the future? Find out more as UK and international speakers come together to consider and discuss responses to populism.
Hansard: past to present
Wednesday 6 November
Join us on a journey as the Hansard team compares and contrasts Hansard in the second world war with Hansard as it is today. Researching its history, this talk will also analyse ways that people are using the Hansard in the present to engage with Parliament. Discover exciting new facts in this interesting talk.
Information matters: respecting and protecting your rights
Did you know every click you make on the internet translates to the analysis of your data? This informative talk will touch on various aspects of data protection. Looking at Freedom of Information, the talk will focus on how data is processed and looked after to keep Parliament running. Don't miss this opportunity to find out more.
Looking from within: Working in the Visitor Services team
What is it like to work in the UK Parliament? Get an insight into one of the many teams who keep Parliament running. The Visitor Services Team welcomes the public to parliament. This talk explores the journey the team has undergone over the last twelve years. Hear about the challenges, opportunities and milestones that have been reached so far and what the team hopes to achieve in the future.
Intersectionality in the workplace: ParliREACH Intersectionality Forum
ParliREACH, a UK Parliament race equality network, is hosting the first Intersectionality forum in UK Parliament. Discover more in this informative discussion, as the general issue of intersectionality are explored with emphasis on gender identity and race. Through an awareness of intersectionality, we can better acknowledge and understand the differences among us. Come and be a part of the discussion.
Antarctica and UK Parliament
Thursday 7 November
As we approach the 200th Anniversary of the discovery of Antarctica, join us in a discussion about this remote continent, which has profound effect on the Earth's climate and ocean system.
Dame Jane Francis, Director of the British Antarctic Survey, and a speaker from the Polar Regions Department (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) will share their knowledge and experience in this enlightening talk.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
\section{General introduction}
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is the resonant excitation of the surface electromagnetic wave propagating at the metal-dielectric interface \cite{Raether,Maier2007,Knoll}. This technique  has become an important research tool in biophysics. The interest in it has been spurred by its potential for biosensing, the appearance of  commercial instruments, and the general interest in plasmonics \cite{Maier2005}.  The SPR  technique measures the refractive index or optical absorption with high sensitivity and is particularly advantageous for biosensing  since (i) it is a label-free method \cite{Gauglitz}, and (ii) it can monitor the kinetics of biological processes in real time.  Several overviews summarize  SPR applications in biology and biochemistry  \cite{Homola1999,Homola2003,Homola2008,Phillips,Rich,Haes,Ince,Hoa,Green}. In particular, SPR in the visible range has been used to study membranes  \cite{Alves,Besenicar,Dahlin,Pattnaik,Salamon1997,Salamon2003,Jonsson,Morigaki} and cell cultures \cite{Fang,Giebel,Hide,Yanase}. The SPR technique has been used in several modalities such as SPR-enhanced fluorescence \cite{Liebermann}, SPR imaging \cite{Knoll,Brockman}, and SPR spectroscopy \cite{Kolomenskii,Zangeneh,Zhi,Coe}.

The majority of the SPR applications use laser sources operating in the visible range. Recently, however, several  SPR techniques operating in the near-infrared range have appeared \cite{Brink,Ikehata2003,Ikehata2004,Masson,Patskovsky2003,Patskovsky2004}, some of which use an FTIR spectrometer as a light source \cite{Frutos,Nelson,Lirtsman2005,Ziblat}. In contrast to the conventional SPR technique that operates with a laser source and employs angular interrogation, the FTIR-SPR technique operates with a continuum wavelength source and employs wavelength interrogation.  So far, the FTIR-SPR techniques have utilized glass-based optics that limited its operation to the NIR range. We extended the FTIR-SPR technique to mid-IR range  using a ZnS prism \cite{Lirtsman2008,Yashunsky}. Next,  we will examine new opportunities offered by this technique.

\begin{itemize}
\item \emph{High sensitivity}. Since conductive losses in the infrared range are lower than those in the visible range, the infrared SPR   can be more sensitive than its visible range counterpart.
\item \emph{Penetration depth} of the surface plasmon in the visible range is very short. This is beneficial for studying very thin layers but detrimental for studying cells and cell cultures. The infrared surface plasmon penetrates much deeper and is  more appropriate for studying cells.
\item \emph{Fast multi-wavelength measurements}. The ability to detect SPR at varying wavelengths and/or varying angles allows "tuning" the surface plasmon resonance to any desired spectral range in order to achieve high sensitivity and appropriate penetration depth.
\item \emph{Spectroscopy}.   Since many biomolecules have specific absorption bands in the infrared range ("fingerprints"), performing multiwavelength SPR measurements in the spectral range of fingerprints, in principle, allows these biomolecules to be identified selectively.
\end{itemize}
 Next, we will analyze the SPR in the infrared  and identify those niches  where it is especially useful for biosensing. Then we will discuss several  FTIR-SPR applications developed in our group.

\section{Theoretical introduction}

\subsection{Surface plasmon -- definition}
Surface plasmon (SP) is an electromagnetic wave $\textbf{E}_{sp}=\textbf{E}_{0}e^{-ik_{x}x-k_{z}z}$ that propagates along the metal-dielectric interface and exponentially decays in the perpendicular direction \cite{Raether,Maier2007,Knoll}. The surface plasmon dispersion relations in  the dielectric and in the metal are correspondingly
\begin{eqnarray}
k_{x}^{2}-k_{zd}^{2}=\epsilon_{d}k_{0}^{2}\\
k_{x}^{2}-k_{zm}^{2}=\epsilon_{m}k_{0}^{2}
\label{dispersion}
\end{eqnarray}
Here, $k_{0}$ is  the wave vector in free space, and $\epsilon_{m},\epsilon_{d}$ are the complex dielectric permittivities of the metal and of the dielectric, correspondingly, where $\epsilon_{m}'<0$. When the  surface plasmon propagates along the interface between two unbounded media (Fig. \ref{fig:SP}), its wave vector  is:
\begin{equation}
k_{x}'+ik_{x}''=k_{0}\left(\frac{\epsilon_{m} \epsilon_{d}}{\epsilon_{m}+\epsilon_{d}}\right)^{1/2}
\label{k-x}
\end{equation}
Surface plasmon is a $TM$ wave. The ratio of the longitudinal and the transverse field components is $|E_{z}/E_{x}|=\sqrt{\epsilon_{d}/|\epsilon_{m}|}$
in the dielectric medium,  and $|E_{z}/E_{x}|=\sqrt{|\epsilon_{m}|/\epsilon_{d}}$ in the metal.

\subsection{Surface plasmon excitation -- Kretschmann geometry}
Because of the limited penetration of the surface plasmon wave into a dielectric medium, it is widely used in monitoring the refractive index of thin dielectric layers.  The most widely used Kretschmann excitation geometry includes  a high-refractive-index prism, a thin metal film,  and a dielectric medium in contact with the this film (Fig. \ref{fig:prism}). The reflectivity as a function of the incident angle (or wavelength) exhibits a sharp minimum at a certain angle $\Theta_{sp}$ corresponding to the surface plasmon excitation \cite{Homola1999}. By measuring the resonant angle/wavelength, one can determine the refractive index of the dielectric medium with high accuracy. The sensitivity of this technique is limited by the angular width of the surface plasmon resonance, $\Delta\Theta_{sp}$. Next, we will develop compact expressions for the SPR angle and width, $\Theta_{sp},\Delta\Theta_{sp}$

The resonance condition is
\begin{equation}
k_{x}=k_{p}\sin{\Theta_{sp}},
\label{excitation}
\end{equation}
where $n_{p}$ is  the refractive index and $k_{p}=n_{p}k_{0}$ is the wave vector in the prism.  Equations \ref{k-x},\ref{excitation} yield the resonant angle
\begin{equation}
\sin{\Theta_{sp}}=\frac{1}{n_{p}}\left(\frac{\epsilon_{m}\epsilon_{d}}{\epsilon_{m}+\epsilon_{d}}\right)^{1/2}.
\label{Theta-SP}
\end{equation}
This angle always exceeds the critical angle
\begin{equation}
\sin{\Theta_{cr}}=\frac{\epsilon_{d}^{1/2}}{n_{p}}.
\label{Theta-cr}
\end{equation}
To recast these expressions using an external angle (see Fig. \ref{fig:prism}), we apply Snell's law and obtain:
\begin{equation}
\sin{(\Theta_{ext}-\Theta_{p})}=n_{p}\sin{(\Theta_{sp}-\Theta_{p})},
\label{external}
\end{equation}
where s $\Theta_{p}$ is the angle at the base of the prism (Fig. \ref{fig:prism}). Figure \ref{fig:example} compares the SPR in the visible ($\lambda=$0.633 $\mu$m) and in the infrared ($\lambda=$1.4 $\mu$m) range. The SPR appears as a pronounced reflectivity dip. In the visible range, this dip is wide and appears  well above the critical angle, whereas in the infrared range, this dip is very narrow and is very close to the critical angle.

The depth of the surface plasmon resonance in Kretschmann geometry is fine-tuned by the careful choice of the metal film thickness, $d$.  Note that the surface plasmon propagating along a thin metal film is not a true surface wave but rather a leaky wave that radiates a considerable part of its energy  back into the prism \cite{Raether,Johansen}. For the optimal metal film thickness,  the reflectivity at the resonant angle achieves its minimum value and approaches zero (the so-called critical coupling regime), whereas radiation losses are equal to intrinsic losses ($\epsilon_{m}'',\epsilon_{d}''$). The radiation  affects the surface plasmon dispersion relation (Eq. \ref{k-x}) as well. The resonant angle (Eq. \ref{Theta-SP}) is slightly shifted by 1-1.5$^o$, whereas  $k_{x}''$ is changed more significantly: in the critical coupling regime it increases by a factor of two with respect to that given by Eq. \ref{k-x} \cite{Raether,Johansen}.

\subsection{IR surface plasmon resonance propagating along a thin metal film - modelling}
Since we focus on the biological applications of the surface plasmon resonance, we will next consider only water-based samples.   We will assume that the metal film is composed of gold and that its thickness  is optimal, i.e., it corresponds to the critical coupling regime. Since the dielectric constant of gold at infrared frequencies is very high, $\epsilon_{m}'>>\epsilon_{d}\sim 1$, losses  are small, $\epsilon_{m}''/\epsilon_{m}'<<1$. If the dielectric losses are  also small, then $\epsilon_{d}''/\epsilon_{d}'<<1$, then $k_{x}'>>k_{x}''$. Under these conditions, we obtain useful expressions for the real and imaginary parts of the surface plasmon wave vector propagating along the gold film with optimal thickness:
\begin{eqnarray}
\label{k-x'}
k_{x}'\approx k_{0}\left(\frac{\epsilon'_{m}\epsilon_{d}'} {\epsilon'_{m}+\epsilon_{d}'}\right)^{1/2}\\
\label{k-x''}
k_{x}''\approx k_{0}\left(\frac{\epsilon'_{m} \epsilon_{d}'}
{\epsilon'_{m}+\epsilon_{d}'}\right)^{3/2}
\left(\frac{\epsilon_{d}''}{\epsilon_{d}'^2}+\frac{\epsilon_{m}''}{\epsilon_{m}'^2}\right)\\
\label{k-zm}
k_{zm}=k_{0}\left(\frac{\epsilon_{m}^2}{-\epsilon_{m}-\epsilon_{d}}\right)^{1/2}\\
\label{k-zd}
k_{zd}=k_{0}\left(\frac{\epsilon_{d}^2} {-\epsilon_{m}-\epsilon_{d}}\right)^{1/2}
\end{eqnarray}
(Note that $\epsilon_{m}'<0$.) The surface plasmon penetration depth into the dielectric is
\begin{equation}
\delta_{zd}=\frac{1}{2k_{zd}}=\frac{\lambda_{0}}{4\pi}\left(\frac{-\epsilon'_{m}- \epsilon_{d}'}
{\epsilon_{d}'^{2}}\right)^{1/2}
\label{delta-z}
\end{equation}
The surface plasmon propagation length along the metal-dielectric interface is \cite{Raether,Johansen}
\begin{equation}
L_{x}=\frac{1}{2k_{x}''}=\frac{\lambda_{0}}{4\pi}\left(\frac{\epsilon'_{m}+ \epsilon_{d}'}
{\epsilon'_{m}\epsilon_{d}'}\right)^{3/2}
\left(\frac{\epsilon_{d}''}{\epsilon_{d}'^2}+\frac{\epsilon_{m}''}{\epsilon_{m}'^2}\right)^{-1}
\label{L-x}
\end{equation}
Since the dielectric constant of the metal  in the infrared range is very high, $|\epsilon_{m}'|>>1$, then $\epsilon_{m}''/\epsilon_{m}'^2<<1$ (this is valid even if the loss tangent of the metal is high, $\epsilon_{m}''/|\epsilon_{m}'|\leq 1$). Therefore, the conductor loss contribution to $L_{x}$ is negligible and it is determined mainly by the dielectric loss.

To estimate the surface plasmon resonance width, $\Delta\Theta_{sp}$, we noted that Eq. \ref{excitation} yields $\delta k_{x}=\cos{\Theta_{sp}}\delta\Theta_{sp}$. We replaced $\delta k_{x}$ by $k_{x}''$.  Thus,
\begin{equation}
\Delta\Theta_{sp}=A \frac{k_{x}''}{k_{p}\cos{\Theta_{sp}}},
\label{width}
\end{equation}
where $A$ is a numerical constant that depends on how the SPR width is defined (FWHM or differently). Using Eqs. \ref{external},\ref{width}, we obtain
\begin{equation}
\Delta\Theta_{ext}=A\frac{\cos{(\Theta_{p}-\Theta_{sp})}}
{\cos{(\Theta_{p}-\Theta_{ext})}\cos{\Theta_{sp}}}
\frac{k_{x}''}{k_{0}}
\label{width-ext}
\end{equation}
For realistic parameters of the prism and the sample ($n_{p}=2-2.3, \Theta_{p}=45^0, n_{d}=1.25-1.45$), the angular dependence of the prefactor, $\frac{\cos{(\Theta_{p}-\Theta_{sp})}}
{\cos{(\Theta_{p}-\Theta_{ext})}\cos{\Theta_{sp}}}$, is very weak and it can be replaced by a numerical constant. Using Eq. \ref{k-x''}, we recast Eq. \ref{width-ext} as follows:
\begin{equation}
\Delta\Theta_{ext}\approx \tilde{A}\epsilon_{d}^{3/2}
\left(\frac{\epsilon_{m}''}{\epsilon_{m}'^2}+\frac{\epsilon_{d}''}{\epsilon_{d}'^2}\right),
\label{width-ext1}
\end{equation}
where $\tilde{A}$ absorbs all numerical constants. A comparison of the exact numerical calculations for the ZnS prism and water as a dielectric medium yields $\tilde{A}=1.85$. An approximate expression for the SPR width is:
\begin{equation}
\Delta\Theta=\sqrt{\Delta\Theta_{ext}^2+\Delta\Theta_{div}^2},
\label{divergence}
\end{equation}
where $\Delta\Theta_{div}$ is the incident beam divergence. Although the SPR width can be calculated exactly using Fresnel reflectivity formulae, Eqs. \ref{width-ext1},\ref{divergence} are more amenable to  analysis.

The SPR width is a crucial factor that determines the sensitivity of the SPR technique. The latter  is  usually \cite{Homola1999,Johansen} defined as  $\frac{\partial R}{\partial n}$, where $R$ is the reflectivity and $n=\epsilon_{d}^{1/2}$.  After recasting this expression using an angular variable, we obtain $S_{bulk}=\frac{\partial R}{\partial \Theta_{ext}}\frac{\partial \Theta_{ext}}{\partial n}$. The maximum sensitivity is achieved at some angle that corresponds to the sloping edge of the surface plasmon resonance, where reflectivity sharply drops from unity to almost zero. Hence
\begin{equation}
S_{bulk}\approx \frac{1}{\Delta \Theta}\frac{\partial \Theta_{ext}}{\partial n}
\label{S-bulk}
\end{equation}
The first factor here is determined by the SPR width  (Eqs. \ref{width-ext},\ref{divergence}), whereas the second factor, $\frac{\partial \Theta_{ext}}{\partial n}$, is a smooth function of the refractive index that is derived from Eqs. \ref{Theta-SP},\ref{external}.

To characterize  thin dielectric layers with a thickness smaller than the surface plasmon penetration depth $\delta_{zd}$  (Eq. \ref{delta-z}, the SPR sensitivity is defined  as follows \cite{Johansen},
\begin{equation}
S_{layer}=\frac{S_{bulk}}{\delta_{zd}}.
\label{S-layer}
\end{equation}

\subsection{IR surface plasmon resonance at the ZnS/Au/water interface - practical aspects}
We will now consider practical aspects of the infrared surface plasmon resonance in the biological, i.e., water-based samples. Although SPR at infrared frequencies can be excited in many metals \cite{Sambles},  the requirement of biocompatibility leaves gold as the only choice.  For the near IR, one can use  BK-7 or SF-11 glass prisms, whereas for  mid-IR, one can use ZnS or ZnSe prisms.

The range of wavelengths/angles where  SPR can be excited is determined by the dielectric losses in water and by the conductive losses in the gold film. Figure \ref{fig:water} shows  dielectric losses (upper panel) and  the refractive index  of water (lower panel).  It is clear that SPR at the Au/water interface can be excited only in several "allowed" spectral windows where water absorption is sufficiently low. Figure \ref{fig:water}  shows the SPR angle vs. the wavelength, as predicted by Eqs. \ref{Theta-SP},\ref{external} (lower panel, right $y$-axis). This dependence  mimics the refractive index of water. Note that in the angular interval, $\Theta_{ext}= 20-25^o$, there are two surface plasmon resonances  at each angle.

Figure \ref{fig:propagation-length} shows surface plasmon propagation length, $L_{x}$, as predicted by Eq. \ref{L-x}. This length should be compared to the surface plasmon wavelength, $\lambda_{sp}=2\pi/k_{x}'$. In the "allowed" spectral ranges, the surface plasmon attenuation is low and surface plasmon propagates to long distances, $L_{x}/\lambda_{sp}>>1$. In the "forbidden" spectral ranges, the surface plasmon resonance is overdamped and the surface plasmon wave quickly attenuates, yielding $L_{x}/\lambda_{sp}<~1$.

In the context of sensing biological cell cultures, it is useful to compare the surface plasmon propagation length, $L_{x}$, to the  lateral size of the cell, $d_{cell}\sim 10-20$ $\mu$m.  In the spectral ranges  $\lambda <1.2$ $\mu$m and   $\lambda >4.5 \mu$m, the surface plasmon propagation length is small, $L_{x}<d_{cell}$, and reflectivity in the SPR regime is the sum of the contributions of individual cells. In the spectral ranges $\lambda_{sp}=1.2 -2.6$ $\mu$m and $\lambda_{sp}\approx 4$ $\mu$m, the surface plasmon propagation length is long, $L_{x}>d_{cell}$; hence, the surface plasmon wave senses an "effective medium"  consisting of cells and gaps between the cells.

Figure \ref{fig:penetration-depth} shows surface plasmon penetration depth into water-based dielectric medium. In the visible and near-infrared ranges, it is exceedingly small, $\delta_{z}< 0.24$ $\mu$m. In the context of cell cultures grown on gold, such a small penetration depth  is advantageous for studying the cell membrane and cell adhesion. However, a small penetration depth precludes studying the cell interior. In the spectral range $\lambda= 2-2.5$ $\mu$m, the surface plasmon penetration depth is $\delta_{zd}=1-2$ $\mu$m. Hence, the surface plasmon wave penetrates deep enough to study events in the cell cytoplasm but not in the nucleus.  For the wavelength range $\lambda=4-6$ $\mu$m, the penetration depth is comparable to the cell size; hence, the whole cell volume is accessible for the surface plasmon.

Figure \ref{fig:width} shows the SPR width  vs. wavelength, as given by  Eqs. \ref{width-ext1},\ref{divergence}. The exact calculation, using Fresnel reflectivity formulae,  yields almost the same results.  Note that in the near-infrared range ($\lambda<1.3$ $\mu$m), where water optical absorption is negligible, the SPR width is determined by conductor losses.  On the other hand, at $\lambda> 2.5$ $\mu$m, conductor losses are negligible and the SPR width is determined by water absorption. In the intermediate range, $\lambda=1.3-2.5$ $\mu$m,  the SPR width achieves its minimum value of 0.3$^o$, whereas the contributions of water absorption and conductor losses are comparable. However, to take full advantage of such a narrow resonance, the incident beam should be very well collimated, otherwise the SPR width in this spectral range would be limited by beam divergence.

The inset in  Fig. \ref{fig:width} shows the optimal gold film thickness, $d$, that is required to achieve critical coupling. $d$ decreases with increasing wavelength, in such a way that the operation in mid-IR requires 10-12-nm-thick gold films; this  approaches the practical limit at which continuous gold films can be fabricated. When the film thickness deviates from its optimal value, the SPR is  excited,  although the SPR minimum is not so deep \cite{Raether}. The symbols in Fig. \ref{fig:width} show our experimental results achieved in two experiments with a 12-nm-thick gold film that was optimized for the operation at $\lambda=5$ $\mu$m. At $\lambda>3$ $\mu$m, we observe a good correspondence between the approximate model and experimental SPR values, whereas at $\lambda<2.5$ $\mu$m, the experimental SPR is considerably broadened due to beam divergence and deviation of the film thickness from the optimal value corresponding to this wavelength.

Figure \ref{fig:sens-bulk} shows the bulk sensitivity of the SPR technique estimated according to Eq. \ref{S-bulk}. The bulk sensitivity in the infrared range is considerably higher than that in the visible range. In the range $\lambda=0.6-2.5$ $\mu$m, the sensitivity is more or less constant, whereas in the long-wavelength window, $\lambda=3.3-5$ $\mu$m, it is lower but  is still comparable to that in the visible range. This means that both these spectral windows may be used for SPR-spectroscopy.

Figure \ref{fig:sens-layer} shows the thin layer sensitivity. The maximum sensitivity is achieved in NIR, at $\lambda=$ 800 nm, whereas the sensitivity in the mid-IR is lower. Hence, the NIR range is especially advantageous for studying thin dielectric films on gold substrate.

\subsection{Surface plasmon propagation in biological samples}
We consider several regimes in which the FTIR-SPR technique can be used to study biological objects. These objects (cell membrane, single cell, cell culture, etc.) have different sizes and the surface plasmon propagation there is also different. Indeed, the SP propagation depends on the relation between the spatial extent of the SP wave and the characteristic size of the sample. Hence, by selecting the proper wavelength, the SPR can be made especially sensitive to the processes occurring at a targeted spatial scale. Figure \ref{fig:cells} illustrates several regimes of surface plasmon sensing.
\begin{itemize}
    \item (a,b) Thick and macroscopically uniform biolayers. Here, SP probes the bulk  refractive index of the biolayer. This can be used for monitoring the biologically important molecules in solutions, for example, glucose. An interesting modification is a suspension of floating cells,  for example, erythrocytes.

\item (c) A very thin biolayer attached to the gold film, for example, a membrane, or biomolecular recognition layer with a thickness of only 1-5 nm. Although the surface plasmon penetration depth usually exceeds this thickness, the short-wavelength surface plasmon is sensitive enough to characterize them.

 \item (d) A moderately  thick biolayer  with thickness  comparable to the wavelength. Here, in addition to the surface plasmon wave, additional waveguide modes can appear. These  can be useful for depth-resolved biosensing,  and for probing  cell adhesion and cell-cell attachment.

 \item (e,f) Cell cultures grown directly on metal.  Here, depending on the propagation length, the surface plasmon wave can probe either individual cells or the cell layer as a whole.
\end{itemize}

\section{Experimental}
Next, we will present several biological applications of the FTIR-SPR technique.  Figure \ref{fig:setup}  shows our experimental setup based on the Bruker Equinox 55 FTIR spectrometer.  The light source is a tungsten lamp  equipped with the KBr beam splitter. The infrared beam is emitted from the external port of the spectrometer and passes through a collimator consisting of a pinhole mounted at the common focal plane of two Au-coated off-axis parabolic mirrors with a focal length of 76.2 mm and 25.4 mm, correspondingly. For the 1-mm-diameter pinhole, the beam diameter is 3-4 mm and the beam divergence is $\Delta\Theta_{div}= 0.8^o$. The collimated beam passes through the grid polarizer (Specac, Ltd.) and is reflected from the right-angle  ZnS prism (ISP Optics, Inc.) mounted on a $\Theta-2\Theta$ rotating table.  Another parabolic mirror focuses the reflected beam on the liquid-nitrogen-cooled MCT (HgCdTe) detector. A temperature-stabilized flow chamber (with a volume of 0.5 ml) is in contact with the gold-coated base of the prism. The  gold film thickness is chosen according to the targeted wavelength (Fig. \ref{fig:width}, inset).

To operate this setup, we first choose the desired incident angle. Then we mount the sample and  measure the reflectivity spectrum for the $s$-polarized beam. This  spectrum is used as a background for further measurements. Then we measure the  reflectivity spectrum for the $p$-polarized beam. Normally, this is done with 4- cm$^{-1}$ resolution and 16 scan averaging.

\subsection{Solutions}
\subsubsection{Glucose concentration in water}
We used the FTIR-SPR technique for precisely measuring the refractive index of solutions.  Our motivation was to monitor physiologically important glucose concentrations in water and in human plasma \cite{Lirtsman2008}. Similar studies have been performed earlier using SPR in the visible range  \cite{Lam,Aslan,Hsieh}. Figure \ref{fig:glucose} shows the reflectivity spectra of pure water and of 1$\%$ D-glucose solution measured using our setup. The spectral range  around 4000 cm$^{-1}$ corresponds to the short-wavelength SPR, and the small peak at 2000 cm$^{-1}$ corresponds to the long-wavelength SPR.  Adding glucose affects the whole reflectivity spectrum, in such a way that the SPR resonance is red--shifted. The maximal  reflectivity change occurs at 4600 cm$^{-1}$. The inset shows that the reflectivity  at $4600 cm ^{-1}$  linearly increases with increasing glucose concentration. The slope of this linear dependence yields  sensitivity, $S_{bulk}=\partial R/\partial n=75$ RIU$^{-1}$. Taking into account the actual  beam divergence of 0.8$^o$, the experimental sensitivity is consistent with the approximate expression given by Eq. \ref{S-bulk} (see also Fig. \ref{fig:sens-bulk}).

\subsubsection{Glucose uptake by erythrocytes}
Here we studied glucose uptake by erythrocyte suspension in the PBS medium \cite{buffer}.  Briefly, fresh human red blood cells (RBCs) were washed four times in PBS by centrifugation. The supernatant and buffy coat cells were discarded and RBCs were resuspended in glucose-free PBS to yield $c_{e}=5\%$ v/v. For complete glucose depletion, cells were incubated for 60 min at 22$^o$ C in PBS. Then, RBCs were centrifuged and resuspended in fresh PBS containing the required concentrations of D-glucose supplemented with L-glucose, to keep the total glucose concentration (osmolarity) equal to 20 mM. The SPR measurements were performed at 22$^o$C to slow down cellular glycolysis.

Our measurements were performed using a ZnS prism coated with a 12-nm thick Au film. We chose the wavelength $\lambda=$4 $\mu$m at which the surface plasmon  penetration depth, $\delta _{zd}=$4.5 $\mu$m (Fig. \ref{fig:penetration-depth}), is comparable to the typical erythrocyte diameter. Although the sensitivity at this wavelength is low (Fig. \ref{fig:sens-bulk}), the use of such a long wavelength here is mandatory in order to sense the processes inside erythrocytes.  The average distance between the erythrocytes  is $\sim D_{e}c_{e}^{1/3}=$17 $\mu$m.  The surface plasmon propagation length, $L_{x}=$30 $\mu$m (Fig. \ref{fig:propagation-length}), exceeds the distance between erythrocytes. Hence, in the "coherence area" of the surface plasmon wave, ($\delta_{zd}\times L_{x}$), there are 1-2 erythrocytes.

The erythrocytes intensively absorb D-glucose, which affects their refraction index and probably their shape. The optical reflectivity from the erythrocyte suspension  changes correspondingly.  Indeed, Fig. \ref{fig:erythro} shows that, upon addition of D-glucose,  reflectivity in the SPR regime rapidly increases with time, until saturation occurs. The rate of  this process  increases when cells are exposed to higher glucose concentrations.

In another experiment, cells were exposed to a solution containing 20 mM D-glucose supplemented with 20 $\mu$M of the GLUT-1 inhibitor, cytochalasin B (CB). A negligible reflectivity change was observed in the presence of the inhibitor. Similarly, minor changes in  the reflectivity were detected when cells were exposed to a plain buffer solution. We interpret these results as follows: the erythrocytes absorb D-glucose (but not L-glucose), and this affects their refraction index. Although the exact mechanism by which the surface plasmon wave interacts with the erythrocytes is not yet clear, we believe that the observed SPR variation is associated with D-glucose uptake by erythrocytes because (i) the rate of  SPR change is determined by the glucose concentration and (ii) the SPR change is inhibited by cytochalasin B, as expected.  Therefore, we can conclude that FTIR-SPR measurements specifically sense a glucose-dependent transport process. This conjecture is corroborated by the dielectric spectroscopy measurements on similar suspensions \cite{Livshitz}.

\subsection{Cell culture studied by the SPR - the physics involved}
 We succeeded in growing cell cultures directly on the Au-coated prism \cite{Ziblat,Yashunsky}. These include human Melanoma (MEL 1106), MDCK, and HeLa cells that form monolayers with a typical confluence of 60-80$\%$.
In a typical experiment, the prism with a cell culture was removed from the incubator, attached to a flow chamber, mounted in the FTIR-SPR setup, and then exposed to plain buffer medium (MEM) at 37$^o$C. The temperature in the flow chamber was controlled within 0.1$^o$C while the buffer solution was constantly pushed through the chamber at a flow rate of 5 $\mu$l/min  using a motorized bee syringe pump. After 5-7 minutes of equilibration, we measured the reflectivity in the SPR regime. The measurements  lasted up to 6 hours, after which, the cells usually die, most probably from the lack of CO$_{2}$.

\subsubsection{Surface plasmon propagation in the cell culture}
Understanding surface plasmon propagation in the cell monolayer necessitates further discussion. Indeed, the cells have irregular shapes with a lateral size of $\sim10\times 20$ $\mu$m$^2$ and a  height of 1 to 6 $\mu$m. Since the cells contain up to 25$\%$ organic molecules, their average refractive index exceeds that of water. This results in an angular shift of the SPR resonance (Eq. \ref{Theta-SP}) for the ZnS/Au/cell interface, compared with the ZnS/Au/water interface. However, even at high cell confluence, some parts of the Au-coated prism are still uncovered by cells. These Au patches may exhibit an unshifted SPR, provided their size  exceeds the SP propagation length,  $l_{patch}>L_{x}$.

Figure \ref{fig:HeLa} summarizes our studies of the HeLa cell monolayers grown on an SF-11 gold-coated glass prism. Here  we used a relatively short wavelength $\lambda=$1.6 $\mu$m. The  corresponding penetration depth is also small, $\delta _{zd}=$0.7 $\mu$m (Fig. \ref{fig:penetration-depth}) but sufficient to probe the cell's interior. The propagation length, $L_{x}=$ 46 $\mu$m (Fig. \ref{fig:propagation-length}), exceeds the average cell size. Figure \ref{fig:HeLa} shows angular-dependent reflectivity for different cell coverages (confluences). In the absence of cells, there is a single dip at $\Theta_{sp}=$ 53.4$^o$ that corresponds to the surface plasmon resonance at the ZnS/Au/water interface. In the presence of HeLa cells,  an additional dip appears at  $\Theta_{sp}=$ 55.8$^o$ that corresponds  to the ZnS/Au/HeLa cell interface. The SPR angular shift corresponds to  $n_{cell}-n_{water} =$ 0.03. For high cell confluence, e.g., 80$\%$, the SPR from uncovered gold patches is barely seen, as expected.

\subsubsection {Guided modes}
Since the refractive index of cells exceeds that of the surrounding aqueous medium ($n_{cell}>n_{water}$), and the cell monolayer thickness is comparable to the mid-infrared wavelength ($d_{cell} \sim \lambda$), the cell monolayer on gold could behave as a metal-clad optical waveguide \cite{Yeh}.  An indication of such behavior is seen in Fig. \ref{fig:waveguide}, which shows an SPR spectra  (i) for a high-confluence human MEL 1106 cell monolayer grown on an Au-coated ZnS prism, and (ii) for the similar Au-coated prism without cells. In both cases, there is a strong surface plasmon resonance at 3920 cm$^{-1}$ ($\lambda=2.55$ $\mu$m). For the prism with cell culture,  a short-wavelength satellite appears at  4385 cm$^{-1}$ ($\lambda=2.28$ $\mu$m). We associate this feature with the waveguide mode propagating in the cell monolayer (Fig. \ref{fig:cells}d).

Indeed, the  cut-off condition for the waveguide modes in the planar metal-clad dielectric waveguide is \cite{Knoll,Yeh}
\begin{equation}
k_{0}d_{cell}\sqrt{n_{cell}^2-n_{water}^2}=\left(m-\frac{1}{2}\right)\pi,
\label{cutoff}
\end{equation}
where $m=1,2...$. We substitute here $n_{water}=1.25$, $n_{cell}-n_{water}=0.03$, $d_{cell}=2$ $\mu$m; for the lowest $TM_{1}$ mode we found  $\lambda_{0}$= 2.3 $\mu$m ($\nu=4348$ cm$^{-1}$). This estimate corresponds fairly well to our observation shown in Fig. \ref{fig:waveguide}.  Note that the surface plasmon propagation length at this wavelength is very long, $L_{x}=73$ $\mu$m (Fig. \ref{fig:propagation-length}), as expected.

\subsection{Cell cultures studied by the SPR technique - the biology involved}
\subsubsection{Cholesterol in the cell membrane}
We studied cholesterol penetration into the plasma membrane of the HeLa cells \cite{Ziblat} using our FTIR-SPR technique (similar studies using SPR in the visible range were performed in Ref. \cite{chol2}). It is well-known that cholesterol enters mostly into the plasma membrane rather than into cytoplasm. Therefore, to achieve high sensitivity to  membrane-related events, we chose the near-infrared wavelength range, $\lambda_{sp}=1-1.08$ $\mu$m, characterized by a relatively low SPR penetration depth.

The HeLa cells were grown on an SF-11 glass prism coated with 35-nm-thick gold film. The prism with cells  was mounted into a flow chamber and was equilibrated in growth medium  for 5-7 minutes  at 37$^o$ C. Then we added 10 mM of m$\beta$CD-chol (methyl-beta-cyclodextrin loaded with cholesterol), which is known to enrich the cells by cholesterol.

We measured FTIR-SPR spectra before and after adding the drugs.
Figure \ref{fig:cholesterol} shows that after exposure to m$\beta$CD-chol,  the SPR is red-shifted. This corresponds to a refractive index increase because cholesterol has a higher refractive index than water. In contrast, when we add to a growth solution a similar chemical, m$\beta$CD,  which is not loaded with cholesterol, the SPR is blue-shifted, which corresponds to a refractive index decrease. This is expected since  m$\beta$CD  depletes plasma membranes from cholesterol. Consistent with this explanation, the SPR reflectivity in the cholesterol-depleted state is lower than  the initial SPR reflectivity.

\subsubsection{Ferrotransferrin uptake}
We applied our FTIR-SPR technique to study transferrin-induced clathrin-mediated endocytic processes that introduce Fe ions into the cell.  Figure \ref{fig:fluorescence} shows a fluorescence image of the Melanoma 1106 cell obtained by confocal microscopy \cite{confocal}. The inset shows the cell interior in black; the red areas indicate Fe penetration, and the green areas indicate extracellular space. It is clearly seen that the fluorescence intensity increases and then achieves saturation, whereas its kinetics in the peripheral part of the cell is faster than that in the whole cell.

We studied the same process using a long-wavelength surface plasmon at $\lambda=$2.54 $\mu$m. Its penetration depth, $\delta_{zd}=1.2$ $\mu$m (Fig. \ref{fig:penetration-depth}), is long enough to penetrate the cells, although it senses mostly the cell periphery.  Figure \ref{fig:holo} shows  SPR reflectivity variation upon introduction of holo-Ft into the solution. The kinetics of the SPR reflectivity closely follows  the  fluorescence kinetics in the cell periphery (Fig. \ref{fig:fluorescence}), as expected. This example demonstrates that the SPR results are consistent with the confocal microscopy observations using fluorescent tags. The obvious advantage of the SPR technique is that it is label-free.

Interestingly,  the SPR here is blue-shifted, indicating that the average refractive index in the measured volume decreases (Fig. \ref{fig:holo}, inset). This rules out the possibility that the SPR shift results from accumulation of organic molecules in the cell (this would increase the refractive index). The blue shift indicates that the cells become "diluted", as if the growth solution penetrates into cells. This is consistent with the biological picture of  endocytosis  that includes transferrin-induced vesicular transport.

\section{Discussion and Conclusions}
\begin{itemize}
    \item In the context of biosensing, the lack of convenient laser sources and of enhanced water absorption were considered as major impediments for  extending the surface plasmon resonance  technique into the mid-IR range. We demonstrated here that there are several spectral windows, whereby clever choice of  wavelength, beam collimation, angle of incidence, and metal film thickness, the SPR technique can achieve sensitivity that is comparable and even higher than that in the visible range.
    \item Surface plasmon resonance in mid-IR  can be used to study cells and cell cultures. This technique is well matched  for the sensing of cells since the surface plasmon  penetration depth in the infrared range is just on the order of the cell size. This is in contrast to the surface plasmon  in the visible range, whose penetration depth is too short to probe the processes inside the cell cytoplasm.  However, to develop the FTIR-SPR technique into a useful tool for studying cells, one must theoretically analyze surface plasmon propagation and scattering in a cell monolayer.
    \item The waveguide modes in cell culture may develop into a useful tool to study cell-cell attachment  and cell adhesion to substrates.
    \item The most challenging task in the field of FTIR-SPR  is to convert it into a spectroscopic tool that allows measuring the FTIR absorption/dispersion spectra in the regime of the surface plasmon resonance. The sensitivity of this technique should surpass that of FTIR-ATR  \cite{Chittur} and  allow detection of biomolecules according to their "fingerprints".
\end{itemize}

\section{Acknowledgments}
We are grateful to  S. Shimron for preparing the cell cultures and  for significantly contributing to the SPR experiments associated with them, to L. Livshitz for his help in erythrocyte studies, as well as to N. Melamed-Book and A. M. Weiss for confocal microscope images and processing. This study was supported in part by the Israel Science Foundation (Grant No. 1337/05),  by Johnson $\&$ Johnson, Inc., and by a Bikura grant.
\pagebreak

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaArXiv


Seconds Sale weekend will begin with our Spice It Up! Preview Party on Friday, June 1st, from 5pm - 10pm.
The Party will be your first chance to shop from hundreds of pieces of pottery, sculpture, and ceramic objects at discounted prices.
Join the fun as you enjoy live music, dancing, face painting, and our great selection of food and beverages available for purchase. There will be 2 food trucks, oysters, Sam's famous jerk chicken, beer, wine, and soft drinks.
Seconds Sale will then continue Saturday and Sunday with free admission.


text:
Sonal Shah
Writer's Lab
Originally from Chitown, the spirited funny-with-heart Sonal Shah was one of the first Indian-American females to appear in a major role on a network comedy (Scrubs). Notable acting credits include Superstore, The PTA, New Girl, The High Note, Definition Please, Mira Royal Detective, The Powerpuff Girls, Costume Quest, and countless stage productions including Goodman Theatre. Most recently, she played a lead in a heist comedy feature, Four Samosas. As a creator, she has a co-exec producer development deal with Disney Plus.
A comedian and advocate for humanity, Sonal co-hosted the APAICS Gala in DC attended by President Obama as well as events for Comcast, NBC Universal, South Asian Network, and the American India Foundation. Her work has been highlighted by multiple outlets, including The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, and Anokhi Magazine where she was listed as one of the top 10 Fascinating South Asians of the year. Sonal teaches at John Rosenfeld Studios and is a member of the acclaimed IAMA Theatre Company, a Second City Conservatory grad, and an NBC Diversity Showcase Alum. She believes representation matters and everyone has a story to tell!


New Delhi: The Indian Air Force will allow its Hindon base to be used for flights operating to tier-2 and tier-3 cities under the government's regional connectivity scheme, civil aviation secretary RN Choubey said today.
"This is being done to overcome slot constraints at the Indira Gandhi International Airport," Mr Choubey said at an ASSOCHAM event in New Delhi.
The civilian operations from the Indian Air Force air base in Ghaziabad, on the outskirts of Delhi, are likely to start during the winter schedule, which comes into effect from the last Sunday of October.
The government is in talks with airport operator Delhi International Airport Limited on reworking a rule which disallows two airports within a radius of 150km.
The government's regional connectivity scheme also known as UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) aims at making flying affordable for the masses by capping airfares on selected short routes — such as from Delhi to Shimla — at Rs. 2500 per hour of flight.
Airlines that are awarded routes under the scheme are offered government subsidy and in return need to set aside 50 per cent of the seating capacity at discounted fares.


The huge dip in the Canadian dollar has made it very advantageous to fish in Canada since the discount on the dollar is at about 25% right now. (Based on the dollar 1/1.33). There are many choices on the coast for places to go fishing, so if you are on the fence of where to go, price might help you decide. When the dollar was almost par or even when the Canadian dollar was stronger for a while, we had people choosing to try Ucluelet. We have had a few customers find the Alaska Chinook fishery slow down and have now switched to us and become repeat guests.
Coming to Ucluelet is also pretty easy so check out our Getting to Ucluelet page. We are should have a good amount of 4 year fish returning to the local rivers based on the good number of three year old Chinook that returned last year. Typically there are more 4 year old Chinook that come back than 3 year olds, so we are excited! Check out our Ucluelet Fishing Packages for more information on pricing.