bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Streamlining the Modern Lab
Authors: Subramanian Radhika 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Imagine what a researcher 50 years ago would think of the technology available in today's modern research labs, where the ability to photograph and videotape live cell images in high resolution has spurred numerous advances in the sciences. Additionally, technology's shift from analog to digital image acquisition has enhanced scientific collaboration and analysis abilities, perhaps in ways our predecessors could never have imagined. However, the massive quantities of data that result from these image acquisition techniques, and subsequent storage requirements, have created unforeseen challenges. While we describe life science applications, the methods described in this article are equally applicable in physical sciences laboratories.
Just Say NO to Microtoming Silicon!
Authors: Anderson Ron 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Arecent discussion on the Microscopy Listserver on the subject of microtoming Si reminded many of us of this decades-old issue. Silicon is one of the easiest materials to prepare for TEM analysis with dozens of protocols available including chemical etching, electropolishing, mechanical polishing with and without ion milling, microcleaving, and the use of a focused ion beam instrument. The time involved in Si preparation can range from minutes to a few hours. Things become more complex if it is desired to prepare a Si semiconductor device with high specimen preparation spatial resolution i.e. prepping a prespecified, very small, structure.
Now and then a technologist, often times in the biological sciences, is asked to prepare a Si TEM specimen and wonders if Si can be microtomed. The results are almost always a pile of Si dust and frequently a damaged diamond knife.
Laser Capture Microdissection: A Punch Biopsy Under the Microscope
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The size and precision af a tissue sample has always been a concern. As it has become possible to analyze smaller and smaller samples with molecular techniques, one must be increasingly concerned that the sample is what we think it is. So how do you dissect out a specific cell or a small group of cells? Whereas several techniques have been suggested, a group at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have come up with an ingenious solution. Robert Bonner, Michael Emmert-Buck, Kristina Cole, Thomas Pohida, Rodrigo Chuaqui, Seth Goldstein, and Lance Liotta have published a technique they have termed Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM).
With LCM, Bonner et. al. have demonstrated that a specific cell can be identified and transferred to an appropriate container for molecular analysis. Using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the genetic material from a single cell can be amplified for analysis. However, data from several cells (about 20) needs to be examined so that variations in the cell cycle, etc., can be averaged.
Safety Considerations Regarding the Use of Propane and Other Liquefied Gases as Coolants for Rapid Freezing Purposes
Authors: Ryan Keith P , Liddicoat Malcolm I 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Liquid propane and similar coolants are used in the rapid freezing of biological specimens. These coolants form explosive gas mixtures with air with a 14,000-fold increase in volume over that of the liquid. The liquefied gases have high vapour pressures and, unless they are maintained below their flashpoint, the vapour above them will reach ignitable concentrations. The flashpoint of liquid propane is -104°C. Ethane has a higher vapour pressure, and vapour mixed with air above liquid ethane can be ignited at a coolant temperature of -130°C. The danger is minimized if the coolant is maintained near its freezing point and under a nitrogen atmosphere, in a fume cupboard. Liquid nitrogen evaporates to a 690-fold increase in volume at room temperature. It is important to ventilate the working area, especially when cryo-sectioning in a small room, otherwise there is a possibility of asphyxiation.
Negative Staining: Historical Background and Technical Development
Authors: Harris J Robin 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
There is a considerable body of information of a technical and review nature on negative staining elsewhere in the literature (Bremner et al., 1992; Harris and Home, 1991, 1994; Hayatand Miller, 1990; Holzenburg, 1988; Home, 1991; Nermut, 1991; Spiess et al., 1987; Valentine and Home, 1962); therefore, I shall attempt to avoid undue repetition and present the current laboratory approaches with which I am personally familiar and have achieved some technical success. After considering the range of procedures necessary for the production of carbon and carbon-plastic support films (sometimes termed substrates) emphasis will be placed upon the droplet negative staining technique (Harris and Agutter, 1970; Harris and Horne, 1991). I was introduced to this approach by Ennio Lucio Benedetti in his laboratory, at the start of my doctoral studies in 1966 (Anderson, 1966; Benedetti and Emmelot, 1965,1968) and with minor variations it is still useful for many biological applications.
Slide Preparations: Heater for Mountants
Authors: Denko James 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In the past, I have used mountants such as DIATEX (which is a synthetic mountant of 40% acrylic resin solids, and 60% toluene), or Canada Balsam in xylene for general purpose mountants. If a tight seal of resin forms around the coverslip, the prep is usually good for some time and may last indefinitely. However, the center of the prep still contains resin mixed with solvent that has not had a chance to evaporate, If the solvent continues to evaporate slowly from the prep, large air bubbles will replace the solvent and ruin the prep.
A Fast-Result Method of Planar Polishing for Optical Microscopy
Authors: Rubin Joseph , Hazeldine Tim 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The planarizing technique of materials lapping and polishing shows many benefits in providing samples for optical microscopy in failure analysis, quality control and related fields. A method is described below which provides both rapid and accurate micro-sections of pcb's, wafers, packaged components and other processed materials, with the use of a novel approach involving a 'calibrated' polishing base and a 'Micropositioner' head. Other benefits include the ability to halt material removal at a predetermined process endpoint and convenient sample mounting techniques.
Warthin-Starry Stain for Spirochetes in Tissue
Authors: Czubek Anne 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I had recently been involved in a computer group discussion about the Warth in-Starry stain. No one seems to like to do it, except me. Here is a procedure that my histology laboratory (The Toledo Hospital, Toledo, Ohio) received from Lee Luna, who was a consultant to our laboratory, just before his death, Any "tips-of-the-trade" I have added.
Toward Quantitative Defect Analysis Using HREM
Authors: Smith David J 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The electron microscope has evolved to the level where it is now straightforward to record high-resolution images from thin samples (t~ to 20 nm) that are directly interpretable in terms of atomic arrangements. Whilst recorded images necessarily represent two-dimensional projections of the structure, many defects such as dislocations and interfaces may be linear or planar in nature and this might be expected to be amenable to detailed characterization. In this review, we briefly consider the recent significant progress that has been made in quantitative defect analysis using the high-resolution electron microscope and then discuss some drawbacks to the technique as well as potential scope for further improvements.
EM Site A.C. Magnetic Field Sources, Surveys and Solutions Part V : Solutions!
Authors: Dunnam Curt 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
This month's installment completes our primer series on magnetic fields by defining conditions where remedial EM site shielding is in fact technically feasible and by illustrating examples of both passive and active shielding methods (or attaining lower site fields. For those readers who may have missed one or more previous articles, we have thus far presented some basic physics describing magnetic source fields [Microscopy Today, November, 1995), examined magnetic survey equipment and methods relevant to EM interference thresholds (Ml, January, 1996), and, in Part IV (“Survey Data Analysis”, MT, May, 1996), suggested techniques for interpretation of typical EM site survey data.
Light Microscopy Criteria for Electronic Imaging
Authors: Clarke Theodore M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Industrial laboratories have traditionally used 4” x 5” (100 x 125 mm) photomicrographs. Polaroid 4” x 5” prints have largely replaced glass plate and sheet film contact prints in industrial laboratories. High resolution 2000 by 3000 pixel imaging systems should be able to match the resolution of the 4” x 5” photomicrographs, typically 6 cycles per mm at a magnification of 500 times N.A., with a significantly larger field size which better utilizes modern, wide field optics. CCD cameras with 1024x 1280 pixel sensor arrays should be able to essentially match Polaroid 4” x 5“ photomicrograph prints in field size and resolution.
SEM Provides Critical Process Information in Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Lich Ben 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
A number of trends in pharmaceutical manufacturing are driving rapid growth in the use of scanning electron microscopes (SEM) for high-resolution imaging and analysis. At the same time, continued development of SEM technology is enhancing system performance while simultaneously reducing usability barriers that have historically limited the acceptance of these techniques in pharmaceutical applications.
Among the most significant industry trends is a concerted effort by governmental regulatory agencies to encourage improvements in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes by applying the same scientific principles and engineering techniques that have lead to successful improvements in other industries, notably automobiles and semiconductors. The exceptionally high requirements for product quality within the pharmaceutical industry have generated a regulatory regime that imposes prohibitively high costs in both time and money to gain approval for process changes, even though the changes result in substantial performance gains.
Reconstructing What Was: Software Applied To Serial Section TEM
Authors: Feinberg Marcia D , Fiala John C 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The well-known recipe for serial reconstruction in microscopy consists of the following six steps: fix and embed specimen, cut and mount sections for microscopy, image sections, align images in the computer, identify and trace profiles in images, generate three-dimensional (3D) visualizations. The free software program Reconstruct facilitates the final steps of this process for many types of microscopy, including scanning electron or ion beam microscopy applied to material and light microscopy applied to biological samples. We describe here how serial sectioning and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) can be combined with the Reconstruct software to generate large volumes of soft tissue ultrastructure for analysis.
Plasma Cleaning EM Stages, Specimens, and Columns
Authors: Zaluzec Nestor 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In my 20 plus years of experience, I have found that nearly every specimen contaminates to some degree (some slower, some faster) in an electron microscope regardless of the manufacturer. Most of this contamination comes from the specimen, and it's magnitude is a function of the sample (metallic, semiconductor, organic, etc.), the method of preparation (electrochemical chemical, microtoming, ion milling, etc.), the microscope conditions, the probe and probe current - plus a number of less well controlled factors. Reactive gas plasmas can fortunately be used to mitigate the contamination process and frequently reduce the problem to negligible levels. Basically, one places the specimen/stage in a “tow energy plasma” where the gas acts like a catalyst for a localized surface chemical reaction, The energy of the plasma breaks weak bonds of the hydrocarbon compounds on the surface which then make these species somewhat volatile so that they can further react with the gas in the plasma.
How Is The Cytoskeleleton Involved In Mechanical Signal Transduction?
Authors: Strum Judy M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The underlying mechanisms whereby cells sense and respond to external stimuli are not well understood, but for some time it has been known that the extracellular matrix has an influence on the behavior of cells. For example, changing the flexibility and/or adhesiveness of the matrix can change the shape of cells, and determine whether or not they continue to divide or begin to differentiate. Recently, in a series of elegant experiments, a group of cell biologists in Boston have demonstrated the presence of an interconnected molecular network pervading the entire living cell, extending from its outer surroundings into the genes in its nucleus.
The Database Solution to Particle-by-Particle Analysis of Mixed Mineral Dusts
Authors: Strohmeier BR , Bunker KL , Harris KE , Hoch R , Lee RJ 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
This work involves the development and application of a database for the morphological, crystallographic, and chemical characterization of amphibole particles that occur as accessory minerals in the former vermiculite mine in Libby, Montana. The data in the database were collected using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) techniques for particle-by-particle characterization of mixed mineral dust samples.
In the fall of 1999, public attention was focused on the small town of Libby due to health concerns over potential amphibole asbestos exposure that occurred in the now closed vermiculite mine. The vermiculite deposit, located in the Rainy Creek Igneous Complex, about seven miles northeast of Libby, was discovered in 1913 and commercial production of vermiculite began in 1923.
Microscopy for Children
Authors: Schooley Caroline 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Is there's a child in your life? Are you thinking about giving a microscope this holiday season? DO IT! But please think carefully about what you buy. You’re reading Microscopy Today, so you use some sort of microscope professionally; you may be tempted to give the youngster a lab-quality hand-me-down. DON’T! The complexities that you take for granted will only intimidate them. The youngest child will enjoy a magnifiying glass. I still remember the pocket-flashlight-style microscope that I had when I was young; I took it everywhere. After that, the best “first” microscope is a monocular dissecting scope; you can consider a very basic compound microscope later, in the middle school years.
The Blind Showing The Way To The Sighted
Authors: Revel Jean-Paul 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
When one speaks of microscopes one usually imagines devices which produce spatially resolved images. So it is most intriguing when a novel application of microscopic techniques permits discoveries not by forming images but by allowing very precise measurements to be made on very small objects. The blind showing the way to the sighted! A recent paper in Nature is a good example of what I speak. It deals with biological motors, which, as cell biologists are learning, are involved in the movement of cells and the movements of organelles within cells. There are a number of different biological motors, but all are molecules which change shape, as they convert the chemical energy derived from the hydrolysis of high energy molecules such as ATP, into mechanical work. As the motor molecules undergo this conformational change and then return to their original state they take a step away from their starting point, dragging along the structures to which they are attached.
Video Microscopy
Authors: Rawlins DJ 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
There has been a tremendous expansion in the use of video in microscopy in recent years. This is probably not due to the most obvious advantage of video, that of real-time imaging of moving events, but to its use in image analysis systems. The cheapness of PCs and the associated hardware and software to store and manipulate images, coupled with the availability of lowcost CCD cameras has made the analysis of microscope images commonplace. In the article the equipment used and the sorts of analysis which can be performed will be briefly outlined. The standard text on video is that of Inoue; a more recent review is by Weiss et al. while the major video equipment manufacturers will also provide literature and advice on the more up-todate equipment.
Issues in Cathode Performance Part 2 - Cathode Mounting Design
Authors: Heer Damon 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
LaB6 and CeB6 cathodes are widely used as high-brightness, highstability, long-lifetime cathodes in a variety of electron beam appiications. Two of these factors - stability and lifetime - are critically dependent on proper cathode-mounting design.
When the benefits of LaB6 as an emitter material were first investigated, the LaB6 was indirectly heated by an electron bombardment coil. This design was cumbersome and did not perform well. Wire mounts, such as those used for tungsten emitters, were developed (and are stili used today); however, they have many drawbacks. Their stability and lifetime are limited because the thin wire mount moves easily and will eventually break under the changing temperature conditions encountered during operation.
Digital Imaging for TEM - Part III Characterizing Digital Images
Authors: Buonaquisti Anthony D 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Last months issue of this publication contained the second article article in this series on digital imaging far TEM - and listed factors that may be stimulating the recent interest in digilal imaging for TEM. Most of the factors are concerned with issues of functionality. A digital imaging system can enhance TEM operation, image storage, image processing and communication. Significantly, the surge in interest was not linked to claims that digital images have better detail than images captured using sheet film. This is a pivotal issue for some microscopists. Nevertheless, my experience has been that many rnicroscopists, even skeptical microscopists, are surprised at the quality of output from a modern digital imaging system when using a high quality output device to produce hard copy images.
Use of Floor Polish in Mounting Sections for Light Microscopy
Authors: Imel Kevin M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Over the years a number of methods have been described to mount tissue sections on glass slides (for example see Humason 1979). This paper presents a novel mounting medium that is inexpensive and readily available at the nearest grocery store - floor polish. This floor polish is available under a variety of trade names (e.g., Brite® and Future® both from S.C. Johnson and Son. Racine, WI) labeled for use with "no-wax" floors. It has been found that this product is well suited to use as a mounting medium for both gelatin/albumin embedded sections as well as epoxy sections. The floor polish has demonstrated a much lesser degree of tissue distortion in some tissues as compared to the mounting media previously used in our laboratory, including Permount® (Fisher Chemical, Fair Lawn, NJ) and 30% sucrose in distilled H2O.
Three Hundred Years After Hooke and Van Leeuwenhoek: Optical Microscopy in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Isaacson M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
We are always trying to extend our vision through the four senses of sight, sound, touch and smeil. The microscopy devised by Hooke and Van Leeuwenhoek more than three centuries ago are examples of methods used to extend our visible vision, in fact, instrument designers since then have constructed microscopes using each one of our senses to give us peeks into the microworid. When Robert Hooke took some scrapings from his teeth and viewed the bacteria in these scrapings in his primitive microscope,1 a whole new view of the world ensued. It would, however, have been difficult to predict how microscopy would evolve in the following centuries.
The Mystery of the Turin Shroud
Authors: McCrone Walter C 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In 1355, or close thereto, a 3-foot wide and 14-foot long linen cloth suddenly appeared in history. Greeted rapturously by millions of Christians, it has maintained its acceptance as the true Shroud of Christ from 1300 years earlier. In 1978, a group of about 30 U.S. scientists and engineers studied the Shroud in great detail. All but one concluded the cloth is the burial Shroud of Christ.
A Novel Approach to Reembedding Thick Resin Sections for Ultramicrotomy
Authors: Imel Kevin M , Helmick Consetta M , Bailey J Franklin 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In transmission electron microscopy (TEM), it is often desirable to focus our attention on certain cells or structures that are sparsely distributed throughout a large tissue block. One method that is often used is to serially section through a large tissue block and then scan each thin section on the TEM for the cell or structure of interest. A much simpler and far less tedious method is to cut thick sections of the resin block, screen the sections using light microscopy for the cells or structures of interest and then somehow reembed only those sections with the cell or structure of interest so that they can be thin sectioned for TEM.
Depth Information Available from the Backscattered Electron Signal
Authors: Robinson VNE 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Although the secondary electron (SE) signal is still the most commonly used signal in scanning electron microscopes (SEMs), the backscattered electron (BSE) signal is now in wide use. Imaging both atomic number and surface topography have been the major applications of BSE detectors, with some applications in channelling, magnetic contrast and similar specialized applications. Over the last few years, low voltage BSE imaging has been used for imaging surface features to a depth of a few nm. But the BSE signal contains much more information and new techniques are being developed to take advantage of its versatility.
Tricks and Treats in Photomicrography
Authors: Zieler H Wolfgang , McCrone Walter C 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Success in photomicrography depends, not only upon the acquisition of a technique, but also upon the selection of equipment. Unless the equipment is provided with certain facilities and controls, it is impossible to create optimum final image quality in the object plane.
We shall direct our attention to that part of the equipment which - next to the performance of objective and eyepiece - has the greatest influence upon the quality of the image, viz., the illumination system.
More Than One Ever Wanted To Know About X-ray Detectors Part IV: Windows for Elements Heavy and Light
Authors: Lund Mark W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I attend a local entrepreneur's luncheon once a month. Since the small town 1 live is the home of Word Perfect Corporation, and Novell, inc. is just down the road, you can imagine that mamy members are doing exciting things with software. When I tell them that MOXTEK makes windows (or X-ray detectors they really light up, until I tell them that! mean real windows.
X-ray detectors are used in electron microscopy to add chemical element analysis to the imaging capability of the microscope. A typical energy dispersive spectrometer uses a silicon crystal about the si2e of a shirt button to detect and measure the energy of incoming X-rays.