bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Propylene Oxide: To Use or Not to Use in Biological Tissue Processing
Authors: Mascorro Jose A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Propylene oxide (1,2-epoxy propane) has long been utilized as a transitional solvent in the preparation of biological tissues. This compound compound is completely miscible with the various epoxy resins utilized for infiltrating tissues. Ethanol, perhaps the most widely used dehydration agent, does not possess this characteristic and must be removed before the process of infiltration commences. It is common practice amongst biological microscopists to pass tissues for a few minutes through pure propylene oxide (PO) immediately prior to infiltration. The tissues then are pre-infiltrated with various proportions of PO and the embedding medium of choice. For example, one traditional recipe takes the tissues progressively from pure PO to 2:1 PO/resin, 1:1 PO/resin, and 1:2 PO/resin mixtures, with stays of a few minutes at eacil stage. A lengthy procedure such as tills probably is not necessary and has never been favored by this worker.
Photoshop and 12-bit Digital Microscope Camera Images
Authors: Neal Brent 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
One problem facing owners of high-end digital microscope cameras and scanners is dealing with 12-bit TIFF format images. Because of a vagueness in the TIFF specification [1], some prograins do not load 12-bit TIFF images at all, or do not handle them gracefully. Unfortunately, Adobe Photoshop is one such program.
A common problem with 12-bit images that do load in Photoshop is that the image appears to be totally black once loaded. This occurs when the camera stores the most significant bits of the image in the lower 12-bits of a 16-bit data space. Photoshop, when converting to its internal 16-bit representation, does not scale these properly, resulting in a low contrast image. This can present problems with viewing the images, or performing any processing or measurement steps that you might desire.
The Role of Microscopy in Indoor Air Quality Investigations
Authors: Simmons RB 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that fungi are capable of colonizing a range of indoor construction and finishing materials as well as a number of air handling system components. Many of the species found are known to produce mycotoxins and demonstration of the presence of ‘toxic mould’ in both the workplace and in dwellings has become a major issue. Mould issues now are the focus of litigation or are currently in contention in a number of states and hundreds of millions of dollars are at stake.
The indoor environment harbors a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Under normal indoor conditions most of these organisms are present as dormant forms. The fungi persist either as conidia (asexual spores), sexual spores, or hyphal fragments. The presence of water in an environment may lead to the growth and proliferation of fungal species, sometimes resulting in deterioration of the colonized substrates with possible negative effects on IAQ.
Lens Cleaning - Best Practices Review
Authors: Duke CV 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
There is no substitute for good microscope care. A unit that is stored and covered, with its lens protected in a constant temperature/ humidity environment, which is dust free (in the laboratory away from acid wash areas) speaks for itself. During cleaning, oculars in particular, microscope rubes should be covered to prevent entry of dust. A lens should be inspected with a view to cleaning if there is a lack of contrast, cloudiness or poor definition in the images it produces.
While extolling the virtue of cleaning microscope components, it should be emphasized that cleaning can cause considerable damage if it is done incorrectly.
Use of Fishing Weight Putty for Quickly Mounting SEM Specimens
Authors: Stephenson Hans , Gabel Mark 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Projects that require viewing dozens or hundreds of specimens often include countless hours for specimen preparation. Specimens are often affixed to metal or carbon stubs with conductive tape, paint or paste (Rampley, 1976; Witcomb, 1981). The use of conductive paint or paste requires substantial mounting and drying times prior to coating with conductive metal or carbon and observation in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). We here describe a simpler protocol for mounting specimens to expedite specimen preparation.
During a recent study, where cryofractured salmon egg membranes were mounted on edge to view transverse sections, we needed an expedient method of specimen mounting to quickly view hundreds of samples. We experimented with mounting specimens in metal putty, a product used by fishermen for weighting fishing line. The methodology described here solved some of the problems of messy specimen mounting and eliminated the need to wait for curing before coating and observation.
A Homemade Vacuum Forceps For Mounting Small SEM Samples
Authors: Sepsenwol Sol 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Very small samples (under 1 mm) prepared for SEM viewing can be sprinkled randomly on an adhesive-coated stub, or manipulated into position with various tools (fine forceps, pointed stick, cotton applicator, hair brush) under a magnifier or stereo microscope. None of these methods allows reliable, damage-free control over the orientation of the sample. Here follow plans for a simple, portable “Vacuum forceps” to create a mild vacuum th rough a micro-fme tip to hold and orient SEM samples as they are applied to the adhesive. It is also useful for sorting samples. Commercial vacuum forceps with on-board vacuum range in price from $500 to $900. This unit was built from new parts for under $100.
The vacuum pump is from a portable motorized pipetter, such as the Drurnmond Scientific Portable Pipet Aid, or Mano stat Mopet (Figure 1). We have used the Drummond 9V motor and pump assembly.
Project Visual: Facilitating the Connection Between Art and Science
Authors: Strzegowski LM , Russell TP 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Nearly five years ago, Representative Vernon Ehlers, in his report to Congress on a House of Representatives study entitled “Unlocking Our Future: Toward a New National Science Policy,” noted that the American public does not understand science and its practice. A major recommendation that emerged trom this study was the need to “make scientists socially responsible.“ This sentiment was echoed in a National Research Council's report, “Materials in a New Era,”, where Neal Lane, former Director of the National Science Foundation, was quoted as saying, “It is necessary to involve material scientists in a new role, undoubtedly an awkward one for many, that might be called the ‘civic scientist’.” Why the concern? The answer is clear. “Our prosperity, security, and health depend directly on the educational achievement of all students, not only those who will become scientists and engineers, but all workers, voters, parents, and consumers.”
Out with the Old, In with the New
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Temporal resolution has long been a challenge to microscopists. Certainly, spatial resolution has occupied center stage, but we're all concerned about what happens over time in a biologic system, for example, a cell. Tags such as green fluorescent protein (GFP) have been used with confocal microscopy and other light microscopic techniques to achieve outstanding temporal resolution, but good spatial and temporal resolution have proven to be difficult to achieve simultaneously. This has been accomplished in a remarkable study by Guido Gaietta, Thomas Deerinck, Stephen Adams, James Bouwer, Oded Tour, Dale Laird, Gina Sosinsky, Roger Tsien, and Mark Ellisman, who demonstrated a pulse-chase technique that correlates with both fluorescence and electron microscopy.
Pros and Cons of Low Voltage SEM EDX Elemental Analysis
Authors: Boyes Ed 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
It was Castaing who many years ago lamented “First 1 realized that in massive samples which concerned the metallurgists i would have to give up the splendid resolving power that I had cheerfully envisaged, as 1 became aware of the terrific path that my electrons would perform haphazardly in the sample before agreeing to stop. I had to limit my ambitions to analyzing volumes of a few cubic micrometers. This was a big disappointment. ..”. In the early days most instruments for imaging and microanalysis of bulk samples were restricted to operating only at relatively high beam energies (∼30kV) and for many (and perhaps too many) years this became the accepted operating procedure. However, we now know there are substantial advantages (pros) in using lower, and in some cases much lower, voltages; but also some significant limitations (cons). So what is possible?
Segmentation Before Quantization By Using Photoshop: Darkfield Images
Authors: Sedgewick Jerry 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Adobe Photoshop may not come to mind as a program that is useful for segmenting (separating regions of interest from other visual information), but, in many ways, its functions can help scientists gain several end results. These include the ability to fully or partially automate the segmentation of entire directories of image files, the ability to better separate regions of interest from background, and the ability to narrow histograms (making the selection of a grayscale value less subjective when setting a threshold value).
Scan Speed, Mag and Accuracy. That is the Question!
Authors: Harmsen Luc 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In the past few weeks we have been very involved jn setting up new QemSCANs, MLA's and analytical scanning systems and it Is amazing how many times we had to explain the relationship between accuracy, magnification, scan speed, resolution and the resulting time taken to scan over a number of samples.
Let me explain. All the above systems are used to scan over a number of geological samples using a scanning electron microscope and EDX analytical systems. In most cases the users are simply looking for a phase/type of mineral within each sample. They then need to analyse it. The main criteria being that they scan through a large number of such samples in as short a time as possible.
Beyond the Hype - Is 2-Photon Microscopy Right for You?
Authors: Jason Kirk  
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Confocal microscopes have come a long way in the past decade. Not only are they more stable and easier to use than ever before, but their cost has dropped enough that multi-user facilities are finding competition from individual labs using the new breed of "personal" confocals. In fact it has, in some cases, become the de facto standard for fluorescence imaging regardless of whether the user actually has requirements for it or not.
But, researchers always have an ear out for something better. Enter 2-photon microscopy (2PLSM). The “bigger & badder” cousin of the confocal microscope has become a new weapon in the arsenal of a microscopy industry that caters to researchers who can't wait to fill their labs with the latest and greatest imaging systems. Advertised by the industry and researchers alike as a technique that seems to solve most of the problems that plague confocal, “2-photon” has become the new buzzword in the vocabulary of researchers eager to enhance their fluorescence applications.
50 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Optical Microscopy
Authors: Davidson Michael W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
A significant percentage of technical experts who employ optical microscopes have had little or no formal training in optical microscope basics. Some, typically, were required to use microscopes during their technical education but, in general, microscope terminology and technology was a sideline to their major training. As a result, many useful basic microscope technical details were not learned because they were not necessary to accomplish what was needed in order to survive their major class work. At Florida State University, we try to make the [earning of microscope technology an inherent part of the students training. An important part of this training is this compendium of 50 of the most frequently asked questions about Optical Microscopy.
A Simple Modification of the Stage Insert for Nikon Inverted Microscopes
Authors: MacDonald Glen 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
This article describes a simple, economical modification of the standard stage insert used on the Nikon TMD, Diaphot and E800 models of inverted microscopes to support slide securely without lateral motion or sample compression. The central portion of the stage on these popular microscopes consists of a removable insert that provides sample support and demarks of the imaging area. The insert may be replaced with holders for a variety of culture chambers and other specialized sample supports. This unique design contributes to the adaptability of these microscopes for a wide range of imaging applications such as confocal microscopy, calcium imaging and electrophysiology.
The standard insert is actually constructed of two pieces, an outer ring and a central plate (Figure 1A). The central plate is removed from the modified ring, which is then used in the inverted position (Figures 1B, 3, 4).
A Silicon Multi-Cathode Detector For Microanalysis Applications
Authors: Barkan Shaul , Feng Liangyuan , Iwanczyk Jan S , Patt Bradley E , Tull Carolyn R , Newbury Dale E , Small John A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
A new class of silicon multi-cathode detector (SMCD) has been developed for microanaiysis spectrometry applications. The detector has excellent energy resolution (&lt; 150 eV FWHM) and high count rate capability (&gt;1 Mcps). An energy resolution of 143 eV FWHM at 5.9 keV was measured with the SMCD at 6 μs peaking time.
Microscopical Studies of World Trade Center Disaster Dust Particles
Authors: Millette JR , Boltin R , Few P , Turner W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The terrorist attack and collapse of two towers of the World Trade Center (WTC) in New York City on September 11, 2001 generated tremendous clouds of dust that settled over a wide area. Concern over the potential health effects of breathing this dust made it imperative that the WTC dust be characterized as completely as possible. As part of this characterization, a microscopical examination using several types of microscopes provided key data on the components of the dust. The WTC dust sample that is the primary focus of this report was collected by F.C. Ewing from an outdoor window ledge at 33 Maiden Lane, New York City, NY on October 7, 2001.
A New Look at Cast Iron Microstructure
Authors: Radzikowska Janina M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Cast irons belong to a family of iron-carbon (Fe - C) alloys with free carbon in the form of graphite, a very soft constituent of iron microstructures, that improves machinability and damping properties of castings, or combined carbon, in the form of cementite, that improves wear resistance. Graphitic cast irons include grey iron, compacted iron, malleable iron, and ductile iron, Cementite irons include white cast iron and alloy cast irons. Solidification of graphite directly from molten metal takes place between 1145°C (2093 °F) and 1152 °C (2105 °F), according to the Fe-C equilibrium diagram. The above considerations regard only pure Fe - C alloys.
Support Films with Uniform Hole Size
Authors: Downing Kenneth H 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Holey carbon films mounted on standard EM grids are routinely used as specimen supports in electron cryo-microscopy, Adroplet of the sample containing, for example, a suspension of virus particles or protein molecules, is applied to the grid, blotted to a thin layer and rapidly frozen. The particles are then imaged where the liquid spans the holes, without interference from an underlying carbon support film. Many recipes for holey films have been presented in the literature, generaiiy employing some method of forming bubbles in a layer of solvent in which a material is dissolved that then forms a discontinuous layer as the solvent evaporates.
Zigzag Edges in SEM Micrographs
Authors: Yang AF , Kaláb M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Multiple specimen holders make it possible to examine several (up to 7) specimens by SEM without the need to vent the microscope, replace the specimen, and evacuate the microscope again. Using such a holder in a Philips XL-30 ESEM frequently showed zigzagged outlines of bacteria obtained at magnifications higher than 10,000x. The zigzag outlines were not associated with charging artifacts as the filter edges were painted with a silver-based cement prior to gold coating. The severity of the zigzag lines varied from day to day. Sometimes they were barely noticeable whereas at other times they developed during a half-day session.
Electron Microscopy in Australia
Authors: Munroe Paul 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In spite of its relatively small population, about 20 million people, Australia has, across a large number of fields, made significant contributions to science and technology. Expressed statistically, approximately 2.4% of published science research has its origins 'down-under'. Electron microscopy is no exception. Indeed, a significant number of pioneering developments in microscopy (and prominent microscopists) have originated from Australia. For example, early developments in environmental scanning electron microscopy had their birth at this university (through Viv Robinson and Gerry Danilatos) in the 1970's. Leading figures such as David Cockayne, John Cowley, John Spence. Michael O'Keefe once (still?) called Australia home.
Chemical Imaging with Infrared Microscopy
Authors: McCarthy William J 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The ability of infrared microscopy to combine the chemical fingerprinting of FT-IR (Fourier Transform infrared) spectroscopy with the spatial resolving power of microscopy has led to its widespread use in numerous industries during the past two decades. The recent incorporation of imaging detectors into infrared microscopes has led to an increasing range of applications for the technique. The increase in spatial information provided by FT-IR imaging microscopes has also allowed image analysis techniques developed in light or electron microscopy to be utilized for the first time. This article will discuss FT-IR microspectroscopy and present some of the current applications.The ability of infrared microscopy to combine the chemical fingerprinting of FT-IR (Fourier Transform infrared) spectroscopy with the spatial resolving power of microscopy has led to its widespread use in numerous industries during the past two decades. The recent incorporation of imaging detectors into infrared microscopes has led to an increasing range of applications for the technique. The increase in spatial information provided by FT-IR imaging microscopes has also allowed image analysis techniques developed in light or electron microscopy to be utilized for the first time. This article will discuss FT-IR microspectroscopy and present some of the current applications.
A Novel High-Speed Optical Scanning Microscope for Routine Clinical Applications
Authors: Frekers D , Aksit I , Pilipenko V , Bünger K 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
New and novel fast scanning microscopes with much enhanced image capturing and image analysis tools can dramatically extend the analytical power of traditional light microscopy by converting it to what one may call "virtual microscopy" (VM). One of the most important application fields of VM is connected to medical pathology. Here one can introduce the concept even to routine diagnostics in the day-to-day clinical environment. Further, over an intranet network, VM allows quick and easy access to the "virtual slides" database at any time and at any place. Another important aspect is the prospect that long-term archiving in large regional hospitals will be greatly facilitated.
Easy Guide to Calibrating TEM's and STEM's
Authors: McCaffrey John 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
This guide provides an introduction to calibrating transmission electron microscopes (TEM's) and scanning transmission electron microscopes (STEM's), as well as (S) TEM's - instruments that can perform in both modes. While not technically correct, all these instruments will be collectively referred to as TEM's for the rest of this Guide. As with most things, there is a wealth of interesting facts and insights to be discovered by exploring this topic further. More detailed explanations can be found in the classic monographs by Edington or in textbooks such as Williams and Carter.
Embedding Small Specimens for TEM Examination
Authors: Webster Paul 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
When preparing specimens for TEM analysis, it is important that specimens routinely be large enough to manipulate with forceps and cohesive enough to hold together as a single entity. However, anyone working in EM will have some specimens that are too small to see or centrifuged pellets that easily fall apart during processing. These specimens can easily be lost during a routine dehydration and embedding protocol and therefore cannot be sectioned. If the specimen to be processed is too small to handle or will fall apart, then precautions can be taken to ensure that it can be safely embedded for sectioning. Although this article is written with the main focus on biomedical electron microscopy, these handling protocols can be applied to any small specimens that have to be thin sectioned.
Fluctuation Microscopy: What is it?
Authors: Treacy Michael M J 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Fluctuation microscopy is the enigmatic name given to an otherwise straightforward technique for studying medium range order in highly disordered materials. By medium range, we mean atomic ordering at length scales within the range 0.5-2.0 nm, where traditional imaging and diffraction techniques have the most difficulty detecting structural correlations in amorphous materials. Puzzlement over fluctuation microscopy generally arises not because of the "microscopy" part of the name, but because of the "fluctuation" part. What, exactly, is fluctuating? And, why does it fluctuate?
The fluctuations are simply the variations in scattering between small sub-volumes within a thin sample. These are usually not timevarying fluctuations (although they could be), but instead they are the position-varying fluctuations in local diffraction.
Ex-Situ "Auto Lift" Technique for TEM Sample Preparation
Authors:   Garth "Brian" Cook
Published: March 2018

Abstract
"The most advantageous feature of the ex-situ lift out method is throughput."
A great deal of emphasis is placed on "throughput" in the microprocessor industry. Wafer sizes are getting larger and the costs of building them have increased astronomically. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) has become the essential tool for examining current microprocessor products. The TEM can only be effective if it has properly prepared specimens to put into it. In order to achieve the highest specimen preparation spatial resolution, the microprocessor industry has turned to focused ion beam (FIB) tools, either single or dual column, for TEM specimen preparation in applications ranging from process control to failure analysis, and on to semiconductor device metrology.
Fostering LIMS Development Through Open Standards
Authors: Goodblatt Avrum 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
At the Microscopy and Microanalysis conference in Honolulu this last August a small meeting was convened to share information and knowledge about implementing LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems). The meeting took place at the end of the session on Core Facility Management, through the efforts of Debby Sherman, who is coordinator of the Core Facility Managers Focused Interest Group (http://microscopy.org/MSAUnits/Committees/ Facilities.html). In addition to the meeting, I spoke with several vendors (focusing on those vendors we use here at PathBioResource), as well as others who have made some progress in developing and/or installing LIMS.