bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Method for Analyzing Nitrogen in Titanium Alloys
Authors: Mager Mary 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Careful analysis of the composition of the titanium alloys is a very critical part of the overall quality control of all components in modern jet aircraft engines. The engine manufacturing industry is seriously striving for a zero defect rate, which is a very difficult goal indeed. This control is made more difficult by the very reactive nature of titanium when it is heated to its melting point. Titanium reacts with the nitrogen and oxygen in the air to form brittle refractory compounds, so it must be melted and refined in a vacuum. Once these refractories are formed they are very difficult to find or remove and they form the basis for brittle zones in the alloy that can be the initiation site for cracks under the high stress loads found in a jet engine. The presence of nitrogen, in particular, causes a defect called a "hard-aipha", which is an area of nitrogen enrichment containing three to eight percent nitrogen and having a hardness three times that of the alloy.
Microanalysis Made Easy: Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR)
Authors: Tague Thomas 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Reflection microscopy techniques are typically the easiest to employ for routine sample analysis, as they require little or no sample preparation. Included in these methods are reflection- absorption spectroscopy (RAS), which emulates transmission spectroscopy, diffuse reflection infrared spectroscopy (DRIFT), specular or external reflectance, and attenuated total reflectance (ATR). For RAS, DRIFT, and specular reflection, the nature of the resultant spectra is determined by the nature of the sample. These techniques will be discussed in future articles. ATR is primarily a surface technique which provides a high quality absorbance-like infrared spectrum and can be used to readily analyze almost any liquid or solid sample.
Evanescent-Wave Microscopy: Peeking just Under the Surface of the Cell
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
There are many techniques available that enable us to know what is happening at the surface of a living cell. These techniques have allowed us to characterize many aspects of the process of exocytosis, the fnal cellular event in secretion. Patch clamping has given us quantitative measurements of the capacitance changes as the membrane of the secretory vesicle is added to the surface of the cell during exocytosis, and the change in the opposite direction as membrane is retrieved back into the cell during endocytosis. Tiny probes have measured electrochemical changes just outside the surface of the cell as reactive molecules are released into their surroundings. Differential interference contrast microscopy has given us high resolution pictures of the cell surface during exocytosis; real-time images are suggestive of bubbles breaking the surface of a boiling pot of water. However, exocytosis is known to be proceeded by an ordered series of events that occur below the surface of the cell.
Clinical Laboratory Reagents: The Regulatory Hurdle
Authors: Takes Peter A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Today's clinical laboratory has a diversity of reagents and protocols from which to choose: a variety of clinical chemistry reagents, antibodies, and molecular probes, among others. These materials facilitate serum and urine analysis, histology, hematology, cytology, and a host of additional sensitive and specific assays
Regardless of the application, labs may see an array of labeling statements indicating a reagent's general use: "For Laboratory Use Only" [LUO]; "For Research Use Only" [RUO]; "For Investigational Use Only" [IUO]; "For In Vitro Diagnostic Use" [IVD]; and "Analyte Specific Reagent" [ASR]. These preparations are often employed without realizing the course manufacturer's must follow in order to provide reagents, and the reasons for these designations.
Avoiding Etching of Silver When Using Silver Staining With OsO4 Fixation
Authors: Powell Rick 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Post-fixing with osmium tetroxide before silver-staining sections causes problems because the OsCU can etch the deposited silver. However, it is not a good idea to perform silver enhancement after osmium tetroxide treatment because the deposited osmium can also act as a nucleating site for silver deposition, and the osmicated regions of the sample will be silver enhanced. If gold-toning is used after OsO4 post-fixation, the OSO4 can also nucleate gold particles. OsO4 should always come after silver enhancement.
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy By Remote Access
Authors: Youngblom JH , Wilkinson J , Youngblom JJ 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In recent years there have been a growing number of facilities interested in developing remote access capabilities to a variety of microscopy systems. While certain types of microscopes, such as electron microscopes and scanning probe microscopes have been well established for telepresence microscopy, no one has yet reported on the development of similar capabilities for the confocal microscope.
At California State University, home to the CSUPERB (California State University Program for Education and Research in Biotechnology) Confocal Microscope Core Facility, we have established a remote access confocal laser scanning microscope facility that allows users with virtually any type of computer platform to connect to our system.
Combining FIB and Automated Microcleaving Provides Fast, Accurate Cross Sections
Authors: Teshima Janet 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
A large part of the preparation of semiconductor samples for SEM and TEM observations involves the creation of cross sections to expose subsurface defects and three-dimensional structure. A powerful new combination of FIB (FEI Company, Hillsboro, Oregon, http://www.feic.com ) with automated microcleaving technology (SELA, Santa Clara, California, http://www. sela.com ) now offers a comprehensive solution for fast, easy and accurate sample preparation.
A Personal View of the History of Twin-jet Electropolisher
Authors: Langford George 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Way back in 1966, when I first started my industrial career at U.S. Steel's Edgar C, Bain Laboratory for Fundamental Research (which is what it was called before it became a grease spot in Corporate America) Gene Fischione and Dick Glenn were engaged in a "moon race" of sorts to bring out some of the earliest electrolytic jet polishers. Remy Schoone helped Gene build his model; and Bob Sober helped Dick make the competition, I haven't used either one of these fine instruments in nearly thirty years, so the only connection is historical and the good feelings I have about the four nice guys who made them.
Color Image Analysis In Optical Microscopy
Authors: Laroche Sylvain 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Most of the applications in microscopic image analysis are still salved by a heuristic method that focuses on the specificity of each problem. This is particularly true for applications involving color images. Because of this, the design of robust algorithms has remained time consuming and is usually performed by an image analysis expert with many years of experience. How then can the knowledge of the expert be transferred to the less specialized microscopist? How can the specificity of a typical application be related to general color image analysis tools?
Only a general approach can work towards decreasing the heuristic aspect of the design phase and help the common user perform image analysis without the assistance of an expert.
Does the Scanning Electron Microscope Have an Objective Lens?
Authors: Roth Ivan L 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
No, Virginia, there is no objective lens in the Scanning Electron Microscope.
There is much confusion about the lenses in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). All of the lenses in a SEM are condenser lenses. The fact that some scanning electron microscope manufacturers have labelled the controls for the final condenser “objective lens” is misleading and this may have contributed to the confusion.
To get some perspective on this matter, observe your compound light microscope. Starting with the light source, the first lens encountered is the condenser lens (the lens that handles the light before it interacts with the specimen). Next the light interacts with the specimen on a microscope slide. Then the light enters the objective lens (the first lens the light enters after interacting with the specimen) and finally the light travels through the ocular lens and then it enters your eye.
The Bright Future of Digital Imaging in Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Postek MT , Vladar AE 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
One of the major advancements applied to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) during the past 10 years has been the development and application of digital imaging technology. Advancements in technology, notably the availability of less expensive, high-density memory chips and the development of high speed analog-to-digital converters, mass storage and high performance central processing units have fostered this revolution. Today, most modern SEM instruments have digital electronics as a standard feature. These instruments, generally have 8 bit or 256 gray levels with, at least, 512 X 512 pixel density operating at TV rate. In addition, current slow-scan commercial frame-grabber cards, directly applicable to the SEM, can have upwards of 12-14 bit lateral resolution permitting image acquisition at 4096 X 4096 resolution or greater.
Automated Functions in Electron Microscopy
Authors: Tivol Bill 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The newest generation of computer-controlled electron microscopes incorporates the ability to perform adjustments to microscopy conditions by comparing pairs of images and altering the conditions accordingly. Automation of electron microscope adjustments offers the advantages of accuracy, precision, efficiency, the ability to incorporate the adjustments into other automated procedures, and, for radiation-sensitive specimens, minimal exposure to the beam.
At present, automated functions include determination of eucentric height, focus, astigmatism, orientation and location of the stage tilt axis, centering of an image feature, and rotation center alignment. It is possible to automate other functions, so this list may be incomplete. In general, these functions are accomplished by induced image shifts, and, in many cases, the automated functions are completely analogous to the corresponding manual ones.
Neutralization of Osmium Tetroxide in Case of Accidental Spillage and for Disposal
Authors: Cooper K 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In October 1979, a technician in the electron microscopy laboratory of one of the teaching hospitals in Toronto spilled a bottle containing approximately 500 ml of 2% osmium tetroxide. He asked for help, and four other technicians were involved in the cleanup. They all were exposed to osmium tetroxide vapours for long enough to show signs of acute intoxication. They developed redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, impaired vision, chest pains, breathing difficulties and skin irritation and were taken into Emergency Care at the hospital. The occular symptoms disappeared after two days, but the chest pains and breathing difficulty persisted for approximately one week.
This accident could have had more serious consequences. It has been reported that exposure to osrruum vapour could lead to blindness and serious respiratory trouble. At McMaster University Medical Centre, the safety committee gives precise procedures to be followed in case of accidents with dangerous chemicals. All the occupants of the laboratory have to leave immediately and phone the safety and security team.
Low-Cost Hot Stage For Crystal Studies
Authors: Silk Ely 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I required a hot stage to do some work with iiquid crystals. Hot stages on the market are very expensive. I decided to try using electro-conductive glass, This is the NESA glass used by automotive manufacturers in electrically operated defrosting windows, A local glazier ordered some of the glass for me in 8 x 8 inch squares, i had the squares cut and edge polished into 2 x 2 inch pieces by a filter manufacturer. One sheet of 8 x 8 inch glass cost me about $15.00. Cut down, I got nine 2 x 2 inch pieces suitable for my experiments at an additional cost of $3.00 per cut piece.
A piece of 2 x 2 inch electro-conductive glass is prepared with two thin copper strips epoxied to the outer margins. One needs a conductive epoxy, and i used a silver epoxy (40-3900 resin and catalyst) obtained from Epoxies, Etc. of Greenville, Rl.
Technical Excellence In Muscle Biopsy Preparation
Authors: Lincoln Clint 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
More than a quarter of a century after the publication of Dubowitz and Brooke's classic Muscle Biopsy; A Modern Approach in 1973, there seems to be a lingering confusion regarding the proper technique for freezing muscle biopsies, and whether or not enzyme activity will be preserved. I have worked with muscle from humans, dogs, and rodents in my quarter of a century in histology, and would like to address the proper technical procedure to follow to insure high quality sections.
The first step is to acquire tissue immediately after excision, as any delay may alter the morphologic and enzymatic characteristics. If there is a slight delay between excision and freezing, keep the tissue covered with a gauze moistened (not soaked) in normal saline.
Detection of Ophiostoma Piceae in Radiata Pine using Immunofluorescence Labeling and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Xiao Ying , Kreber Bernhard , Breuil Colette 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The use of fluorescence microscopy to investigate fungal growth in wood often causes interference due to the strong autofluorescence of wood lignin, unless fluorescent probes which specifically react to fungal hyphae, are used. Techniques to enable differentiation of hyphae from wood have been recently reported (Singh et al., 1997; Xiao et al., 1997). The authors demonstrated that while glutaraldehyde can be used to detect fungal native proteins, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) which reacts with cell wall chitin of hyphae, considerably improved detection of fungi growing in wood.
TEM Sample Preparation for the Semiconductor Industry - Part 2
Authors: Laken Dave 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In the November issue of this publication, we described how focused ion beam (FIB) microsurgery is used to successfully cross-section and prepare material-specific samples for SEM and TEM analysis. Material specific samples have two or more components possessing different characteristics, such as hardness and chemical etch or sputtering rates. Traditional sample preparation techniques (mechanical grinding and polishing, broad ion beam etching, and chemical etching) alter, delaminate, or destroy these samples.
FIB handles the preparation of these difficult samples well because of its milling geometry and the high current density of the small beam.
Forty Years of X-ray Mapping, from the Beginning to Position-Tagged Spectrometry
Authors: Friel John J 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The ability of scanning beam x-ray microanaiysis to show the spatial distribution of elements was recognized quite early. At first it was done one element at a time by wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS), but when energy dispersive spectroscopy was developed, that became the technique of choice. Because there have been several significant improvements in the technology, and also because maps are used so universally, I thought a review of the technology from the early days to the latest technology might be interesting. Though modern maps are ail digital, the original analog “dot” maps are used by a few even to this day. Other names for the technique are sometimes used such as “x-ray image”, which is correct but can be confused with radiography. Compositional image has also been used, but the term is broad and includes more than x-ray maps. Consequently, the universally recognized term “maps” will be used.
Staying Alive: Another View
Authors: Blackwood Andrew W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Al Soeldner's article in the November issue of this publication entitled “Staying Alive” contains a lot of good, solid advice that all of us who operate service laboratories should take to heart. Whether our laboratories are public or private, his advice on sticking to what we know how to do, understanding how to put the client first in the “service” environment and establish a “user friendly” climate is sound and should be clearly heard by all.
There is, however, one point on which I do not agree with Al, and that is the scope of work which is appropriate for various laboratories. While he does discuss the possible problem of “agency policy” which may conflict with offering services to a broader user base, he might not emphasis that the problem created by the agency policy (if it exists) is probably based on a solid understanding of the legal climate in which we all operate.
Some Reflections on How Much Information is there on a Piece of Film, on How Film Compares with CCD Cameras and what Features a Scanner would need to Digitize TEM Negatives
Authors: Eades Alwyn 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The world of electron microscopy is in a period of transition from acquiring images on film to acquiring images digitally, using CCD cameras, for example. It would be useful to know how much information there is on a piece of film, in order to know how film compares with digital methods and to be able to make good judgements on the optimum moment to change from one technology to the other.
This is an attempt to use simple arguments to estimate just how much information there is in an image exposed on film in the transmission electron microscope. The main reason for addressing this issue is that, while many people are affected by it, there seems to be little agreement on the answer.
Preventing Nuclear Artifact in Hematologic Specimens
Authors: Santoianni Robert 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The bubbled, popcorn or moth-eaten appearance of nuclei hampered accurate microscopic evaluation of bone marrow and lymph node biopsies. This artifact was also noticed in skin biopsies, but had little bearing on diagnosis. All aspects of specimen handling processing and staining were scrutinized and improved morphological detail was attained only after blocks were recut and allowed to dry completely before staining.
A Note On Paraffin Waxes, Their Crystals, And Microtoming
Authors: Allison Russ 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Paraffin wax is a mixture of (virtually) straight chain hydrocarbons. Note the word “mixture”. Unless one goes to the enormous lengths of purifying or searching for a fine chemical supplier, the wax will always be a mixture. I used a “pure” wax once as a standard for gas chromatographic studies on paraffin waxes. There is a relationship between hydrocarbon chain length and melting point, but as the waxes are always mixtures, melting points are never exact, either in the compounding or the measuring.
The Digital Precision Imaging Laboratory Part I: The New Tools of Differential Contrast Imaging
Authors: Peters Klaus-Ruediger 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In recent years, many developments in imaging instrumentation and support technologies have put in question the conventional way of working with images. Conversion from analog to digital imaging is pursued at all levels of microscopy driven by the benefits of new forthcoming digital precision imaging technologies for visualization and quantification of the image information. These developments will revolutionize microscopy by extending the information retrieval from the level of the full-frame image to the level of individual pixels.
An Effective, Cost-Free Holder/Desiccator for Storage of SEM Stubs
Authors: Walker Glenn , Hartenburg Jerry , Edwards Chris 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Two of the aggravations of effectively managing an EM unit are cost containment and effective storage of large numbers of specimens. For the past several years we have enjoyed the benefits of a stub-storage box (for pin-type stubs) available to microscopists without cost. These boxes, which held micro-pipette tips, are regularly discarded by molecular biology and biochemistry labs, in fact, since colleagues have recognized that we use their spent plastic boxes, we have been inundated with boxes originally slated for recycling. While several types of these boxes are available, most measure approximately twelve cm by eight cm and have a plastic platform with ninety-six holes. The boxes hold eight one-inch stubs and six half-inch stubs or thirty-two half-inch stubs.
Computer Control of Transmission Electron Microscopes: Possibilities, Concepts and Present Limitations
Authors: Völki E , Allard LF , Dodson TA , Nolan TA 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The electron microscope laboratory at the High Temperature Materials Laboratory in Oak Ridge National Laboratory runs essentially film free. This is possible due to the use of TV-rate and slow-scan CCD cameras together with fast desktop computers connected through Ethernet to network servers for image storage; and a variety of hard copy output devices. In our experience, the functionality of a film-free laboratory goes beyond the simple replacement of film material with some other storage media. For example, the time and effort to produce a final hardcopy image has been reduced effectively from several hours to several minutes. At the same time, data accuracy has increased due to the high linearity of the CCD cameras and data safety is improved due to automated nightly backups.
Confocal Microscopy Listserver
Authors: Summers Robert 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The Confocal microscopy listserver discussion group was put on the air over 5 years ago by Don Parsons (Albany), Steve Paddock (Wisconsin), P.C. Cheng (Buffalo) and me at the suggestion of Parsons that there should be an open discussion forum for this rapidly developing technology. Parsons is an expert in infomatics (among other things) and appreciated the potential of the “mail reflector” concept at an early stage in its development.
Listserver groups were pretty uncommon then but we figured that since we were dealing with digital microscopists, most of those interested would have computers and access to Bitnet or Internet. For the first month or so Parsons, Paddock, Cheng and I corresponded with one another to work wrinkles out of the system and we then began to publicize the existence of the group at meetings, symposia and through the commercial manufacturers of confocal microscopes and associated hardware.
X-Ray Detectors: Present and Future
Authors: Chernoff Don 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
If you want to collect X-rays on your SEM or TEM you have the choice of using an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) or a wavelength dispersive spectrometer (WDS). Which is better? That depends on what you want to do with it.
WDS is much more sensitive and has much higher resolution than EDS. Sensitivity means that WDS has a much lower minimum detection limit for trace elements. WDS can be up to several orders of magnitude more sensitive. This does not mean it is more accurate. Accuracy of analysis can be just as good for EDS as with WDS if the analyst takes the same care in sample prep, data gathering, and standardizing. Sensitivity simply means that WDS can detect much smaller amounts of a particular element than EDS. Why? Because the superior resolution provides much better signal to noise ratio than with EDS. Noise, in this case, is mostly contributed by background radiation from the sample. Because of its superior resolution, WDS can also resolve peak overlaps.