bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tissue Printing for Scanning Electron Microscopy and Microanalysis
Authors: Reine Barbara A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The study of plant morphology and plant cells in the scanning electron microscope is often compromised by the limitations of specimen preparation techniques. Air drying usually results in unacceptable shrinkage and distortion of the normal surface morphology of plant cells. Chemical fixation followed by critical point drying or chemical drying using fluorocarbon compounds improves morphological results but still imparts artifacts, adds chemical constituents to the specimen, and requires the use of toxic chemicals, a hood, and much time.
One technique that eliminates many of these disadvantages and is even suitable for specimen preparation in the field is tissue printing. For easy, quick recording of stem anatomy and collection of cell exudates for subsequent analysis, its “elegant simlicity” is compelling. Historically, the application of tissue printing has been in connection with optical microscopy. However, this technique works very well for SEM and associated elemental characterization of residues by x-ray microanalysis. The tissue print technique applied to SEM is much the same as for optical microscopy.
Are Microscopes Too Sophisticated?
Authors: Goodhew Peter 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I bought my last useful pocket calculator in 1975 and I still use it regularly. Every time I pick it up I know how to use it, since all the functions I need are printed on its buttons, and I expect to be using it when I retire, if I can still get the batteries. My son bought a “more sophisticated” calculator for his A-levels in 1988 and I inherited it shortly thereafter, it lies in my desk drawer but I cannot use it because it offers so much more than I need and there is too much printed on and around each button. I would need to read the manual every time I wanted to use it. On the desktop close by sits my telephone: It has 46 buttons and a 17-page manual and offers an enticing array of facilities. Unfortunately I only need each of these “facilities” about once a month and have never been able to memorize the necessary procedures. As a result all I can do is answer it when it rings and dial out.
What Is It You Want From Us?
Authors: Soeldner Al 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I manage a university service electron microscope facility which provides transmission, scanning transmission, and scanning electron microscopy, each with X-ray energy spectrometry, as well as feature analysis, specimen preparation, and training services. Clients of the facility do basic and applied research in:
human, animal, and plant health, pharmacy, and bioengineering; air, water, and soil ecology, pollution, and resource development and conservation; forest pathology, productivity, and development and performance of wood products; foods and nutrition: engineering, advanced metallic, ceramic, glass, and polymeric materials development, failure analysis, and tribology: botany, entomology, microbiology, zoology, chemistry, geology, and physics.
Scanned Probe Microscopy in Biology
Authors: Fisher Knute A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Numerous scanned probe microscopes (SPM) have been developed over the past decade. Most are based on the precise positioning of sample and probe using piezoelectric transducers, and some have the capability of imaging flat surfaces with atomic resolution. The first atomic resolution SPM applied to biological samples was the scanning tunneling microscope (STM). The atomic force microscope (AFM) was subsequently developed and over the past few years has become the instrument of choice for biological applications.
The NSOM Technique And It's Significance
Authors: Aden Gary 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Prior to Near-Field Scanning Optical Microscopy (NSOM) there were two major light microscopy techniques; optical and confocal.
In an optical microscope a sample is illuminated with a flood of light. The lighted area is then imaged and magnified by collecting the light that is either reflected from or transmitted through the sample by a series of glass lenses. A color magnified image of the sample may be seen directly or displayed on a TV screen. Even if the lenses could be made perfectly, the resolution and magnification of an optical microscope are limited by diffraction effects to approximately one half of the wavelength of the light that is used. Optical microscopes are used routinely to image the general shape of samples as small as human chromosomes or compact disk bits.
Preparation of 2″ X 2″ Projection Slides From EM And Other Negatives
Authors: Christensen A Kent 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In the early days of biological electron microscopy (the 1950s and 1960s), projection slides of electron micrographs for talks or teaching were generally prepared as 3-1/2″ X 4″ lantern slides, which were shown using large lantern-slide projectors. It was felt by professional electron microscopists that the detail, tones, and general image quality of electron micrographs could be adequately portrayed only in this larger format.
However the large lantern slides were very cumbersome, and most professionals began switching to 2″ X 2″ slides in the early 1970s. Some of us during that period put in a great deal of time trying to work out a procedure for printing EM negatives directly on 2″ X 2″ glass Kodak Projector Slide Plates, following the general approach by which we had previously made the 3-1/4″ X 4″ lantern slides.
Modern Microscopy - On the Light Side! Microanalysis Surprises
Authors: Niemeyer Wayne D 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
How many of the analytical chemists reading this will identify with the following scenario? A customer gives you a sample with a contaminant and asks you to identify the material. Your customer provides a very logical dissertation on what the material is likely to be. With that bias firmly entrenched in your mind, you proceed with the analysis, fully expecting to find what your customer said you should. However, during the course of your analysis, you discover that the contaminant is something completely different than expected. Now you are presented with the dilemma of facing that customer to explain the “unexpected” result. You are immediately put on the defensive by being accused of not having properly calibrated instruments or you have obviously contaminated the sample with something else during sample preparation, etc. These situations occur in laboratories all over the world.
More than One Ever Wanted To Know About X-Ray Detectors Part 3: Who Put Promethium in My Soup?
Authors: Lund Mark W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The combination of electron microscope and x-ray spectrometer is a very powerful tool. Not only can one see a sample in great detail, but one can determine, and even map, the chemical elements, in Part 1, I discussed some of the basics of energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS, EDX). In Part 2,1 went into detail about the construction of the detector, and discussed counting statistics. In this installment I will discuss the interaction between the x-ray and the detecting crystal, things that can go wrong in the process, and the phenomena which can make false peaks in a spectrum.
Orientated Imaging Microscopy
Authors: Field David P 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
With the complexity of polycrystalline materials, a number of techniques have evolved to assist in the resolution of the crystallography of these materials. Conventional methods provide partial information regarding grain size, and can produce estimated orientation distributions. However, these techniques have not been able to provide the spatial placement of lattice orientations, which is necessary for a complete picture of the microstructure of a materials sample. Furthermore, many materials characteristics, such as fracture and corrosion, are determined by site-specific, rather than average, crystal lographic features.
The Making of LaB6 Crystals
Authors: Heer Damon L 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The following image is of a LaB6 crystal formation created at the FEI Company, Hillsboro, Oregon. The photograph was taken through a Bausch & Lomb Stereo Zoom 4 at 30X with a Polaroid MicraCam.
The single crystal LaB6 and CeB6 is grown and fabricated at FEI using a well-defined process known as "Inert Gas Arc Float Zone Refining." This process takes place in an inert gas atmosphere and utilizes an electrical arc to melt the hot, pressed powder sample of LaB6 or CeB6. This not only allows the growth of the crystal, but also hefps to purify the material. Through research and 20 years of experience in the growth of rare-earth boride single crystals, FEI can carefully control the material composition (e.g. stoichiometry of B/La) tor the highest possible ratio of electron emission to evaporation rate.
X-ray Image Compression: 16 Bit Counts Into 8 Bit Space
Authors: Engle PD , Herrington CR , Geller JD 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
One way to improve upon the detection limits for digital images involves increasing the number of counts per pixel. Eight bits, or 1 byte (256 counts), per pixel is most commonly used for monochrome optical, electron and x-ray imaging. This number is well matched to the human eye which can discern approximately 128 gray values, while photographic and some laser printer outputs have the capability of displaying nearly 256 gray values. When the counts exceed 8 bits/pixel the recorded image file size will likely double to 16 bits/pixel. With the better imaging detection limits we are faced with the technical problem of how to view more than 256 gray levels.
Zepto and Yocto: The Missing Marx Brothers
Authors: Levy Gabor B 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
As the need for prefixes for 10-21 and 10-24 arose, “zepto” and “yocto” surfaced. Professor Dovichi, a leader in ultramicroanalytical techniques, jokingly suggested that these units have been named in honor of two lesser known Marx brothers. Indeed, the habits of the International Committee of Weights and Measures are mysterious, as the bastardized Scandinavian femto and atto (10-15 and 10-18) had already proved. Joke aside, the need for having units as small as 10-15 and 10-24 is a serious and dramatic development. After all, a yoctomole is less than a single molecule. It makes sense only as a probability in a quantum mechanical context. It is instructive to visualize the full range of dimensions.
3D Microscopy: Confocal, Deconvolution or Both?
Authors: Pawley JB , Czymmek K 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Over the past 20 years great improvements have been made in the techniques available for doing 3D fluorescent microscopy on living cells. The first approach, generally referred to as image deconvolution, treats the stack of 2D widefield (WF) image data as merely the sum of a number of discrete point-spread functions (PSF) and uses the computer to find the array of emitters'that, when blurred by the PSF, best fits the stored data. If the PSF is known, only presence of statistical and electronic noise in the data, prevents this best-fit set of emitters from being a perfect image of the dye distribution in the specimen. The crucial role played by noise can be appreciated by comparing images from the Hubbell space telescope in its original condition, even after deconvolution, with images taken after the optics had been repaired.
The Unusual Degradation of Recordable Compact Discs
Authors: Martin James 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The recordable compact disc (CDR) is a popular and inexpensive medium for storing and disseminating digital information, such as micrographs and scanned images. This technical note describes unusual degradation that rendered a group of discs unreadable. The discs were purchased as a set. Each disc was packaged in a jewel box and wrapped in clear plastic. Several of the discs were used within weeks of purchase to store data, which included digital micrographs.
3-D Reconstruction of Thick IVEM Samples Using Tuned Aperture Computed Tomography® (TACT®)
Authors: Jerome W Gray , Grant Ken , Yancey Patricia G , Gailany A M Al , Betterman Wolfram , Webber Richard L 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Most objects in our world are 3-dimensionai (3-D), and this is certainly true of cellular ultrastructure. The challenge in microscopy has always been how to analyze this 3-D information. Traditional thin-section microscopy has a minimal ability to view 3-D structure, because it is limited to viewing thin, almost twodimensional (2-D) planes taken from the specimen. The development of high and intermediate voltage electron microscopes (HVEM and IVEM) provides the ability to investigate the ultrastructure of thick biological samples—allowing a unique view of the 3-D interrelationships of cells and organelles.
Anomalous Changes in Tip Height in Tapping AFM
Authors: Cleveland Jason 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
This effect can be understood by considering what happens to the cantilever and tip as the base of the vibrating cantilever is brought closer to the sample (like in a force curve). When the vibrating cantilever first approaches the surface, the tip senses attractive forces. In standard imaging conditions, these are usually due to meniscus forces between a layer of adsorbed liquid (often water) on the surface of the sample and the tip. However, even in clean conditions, other attractive forces like Van der Waals will generally be present. These attractive forces move the resonance of the cantilever downward in frequency. Since the cantilever is being driven at the original resonance frequency of the cantilever, this will cause the cantilever amplitude to decrease as the attractive forces puli the resonance peak out from under the drive frequency. This decrease is often quite linear with distance, but doesn't have to be. In this case the tip is actually turning around some distance (this could typically be a few nanometers) before it touches the surface. This regime is commonly called the “attractive” regime because attractive forces dominate the behavior of the cantilever.
Exploring Infrastructure With Quantitative 3-D Intermediate Voltage Electron Microscopy
Authors: Gray (Jay) Jerome W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The ability to view thick material using accelerating voltages higher than 100 KeV has greatly expanded the usefulness of electron microscopy. At or above 300 KeV, intact cultured cells and tissue sections as thick as 5µm can be visualized. However, under normal viewing conditions this increased depth produces confusing superposition of structures located at different planes along the Z axis. In order to separate spatial information in different planes, specialized procedures such as stereo pairs or animated tilt series have been employed. Although rapid, these procedures do not allow quantitation of parameters such as size, volume, or circumference. Computed Tomography produces a computer generated 3-D reconstruction from which quantitative data can be easily extracted.
Safety Regulations for Alcohol Storage in Laboratories
Authors: Brooks Patrick 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Questions keep arising regarding safety regulations for storage of alcohol and other flammable liquids in a laboratory. I hope what follows sheds some light on this issue.
Ethanol is classified as a Class IB combustible liquid, Class IB liquids have a maximum allowable container capacity of 20 liters in “metal (non-DOT approved) or approved plastic containers, safety cans or DOT specification metal drums.”
The amount of combustible liquids allowable is determined by the size of the “laboratory unit”. For hospitals with sprinkler systems, per 100 square feet of laboratory space, Class I, II and IIIA (including IB) flammable liquids are limited to 4 L (1.1 gallons) not in approved storage containers or safety cans and 7,5 L (2 gallons) total, including quantities in storage cabinets and safety cans.
Some Notes on Re-Embedding EM Samples
Authors: Chiovetti Robert (Bob) 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Most of us have been here more than once: a critical specimen, often the only one of its kind, does not embed properly. Usually the problem is incompletely polymerized resin. After the panic subsides, a limited number of options are left, and if the specimen is irreplaceable, there are no options, other than trying to salvage it the best way you can. I've had this problem before with low viscosity resins, but the following suggestions should work for other resins as well.
First of all, realize that reprocessed specimens are rarely as good as they would be if things went fine the first time around.
Increased Preservation of infrastructure With LR Gold for Immunocytochemistry
Authors: Crowley Hiidegard H 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The acrylic embedding media such as LR White, LR Gold, and others, have long been favored over epoxide embedding media for immunocytochemistry in cases where the antigen is sparse or vulnerable to the chemical activity of epoxy monomers. Since acrylics bond through tissue and not with it as epoxides do (1), Au labeling may increase sharply when acrylics are substituted for epoxides. Unfortunately one serious disadvantage of acrylics is their reduced ability to preserve ultrastructure.
Osmium as an Immunostain Enhancement
Authors: Hawkins Hal 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Since we do our paraffin-section DAB immunostaining in an EM lab, we often use osmium to darken the reaction product. We simply put a drop of our standard 1% cacodylate-buffered osmium tetroxide on each section in a hood and rinse it off in running tap water after about 2 seconds. It makes light DAB reaction product pretty dark brown, and adds a light brownish tint to the rest of the section. The reaction increases the contrast quite a bit.
Confocal Imaging: In Vivo and Clinical Applications
Authors: Beuerman RW , Kaufman SC , Palkama KA 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Confocal microscopy is a collection of optical techniques that are applied in a variety of hardware configurations. Design strategies for the application of these techniques have generally used laser light (Pawley, 1990). In most laboratories, basic research use has employed laser light in conjunction with a fluorescent substrate to generate an optical signal, either through direct application of a fluorescent material to cells or by the stimulation of a chromophore associated with an antibody which will identify a cellular protein under some specified experimental conditions, The use of confocal microscopy in this type of situation generally requires a standard research microscope, and the tissue may be situated on a slide or other type of container that will provide a stable, controlled environment.
Using a Focused Ion Beam (FIB) System to Extract TEM-Ready Samples from Complex Metallic and Ceramic Structures
Authors: Giannuzzi Lucille A , Young Richard , Carleson Pete 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Driven by the analytical needs of microelectronics, magnetic media and micro-fabrication industries, focused ion beam (FIB) systems are now capable of milling and manipulating samples for the analysis of microstructure features having dimensions of 180 nm or less, A technique for locating and extracting site specific specimens for examination by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been developed. An identified feature can be located and precisely milled with an FIB system from two sides to prepare an ultrathin sample, and then extracted from the region with a glass rod micromanipulator onto a grid for TEM analysis. This specimen preparation method has been applied to semiconductor failure analysis and to the study of metallic and ceramic microsiructures with irregular topographies and complex mufti-layered components.
Nobel Metal Microscopes - and Other Extravagances
Authors: Gustav Delly John 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Now you would probably think that I was joking if I were to tell you that there are microscopes made of precious metals, such as silver, rather than brass, and objectives made with diamonds and rubies, rather than glass. But yes, Virginia, prodigal items such as these do actually exist - and not at the end of the rainbow. All right, suppose they do exist, who could afford one? Well, kings for one, Figure 1 shows what is perhaps the most elaborately decorated microscope ever constructed. It was made in 1761 by the wellknown instrument maker George Adams for King George III. George III placed great value on science throughout his long reign, as reflected in his collection of scientific instruments, which can be seen today in the Science Museum at South Kensington in London.
The Art of Tungsten Etching in Semiconductor Chips
Authors: Litz-Montanaro Lisa 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In the course of both physical and failure analysis of semiconductor chips (i.e., verifying what you actually deposited as a layer, vs, what caused the circuit to fail), it is essential to have appropriate deprocessing tools at your disposal in order to evaluate complex semiconductor structures, Deprocessing techniques are developed for each product manufactured and involve multi-step procedures that reveal the layer-by-layer secrets of the chip, These techniques require constant tweaking in duration and procedure as the manufacturing process imposes changes and as the architecture of the semiconductor changes. While there are many tools that assist in these analytical pursuits, such as RIE (reactive ion etching - a dry etching technique), ion milling, and microcleaving, the wet chemical etching of tungsten is sometimes more reproducible than RIE techniques.
Making the Grade Choosing the Right CCD Camera Chip Grade
Authors: Inoue Ted 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Today, charge coupled devices (CCDs) have become the de-facto standard for scientific imaging, In fact, their potential for high resolution, sensitivity, wide dynamic range and low noise has made them the device of choice for most fluorescent microscopy imaging applications, This is especially true for quantitative microscopy applications such as ratio imaging, fluorescent in-situ hybridization and image deconvolution.
However, choosing the most appropriate CCD camera for each application can be quite challenging given the broad range of features and performance specifications. This month's article focuses on a single characteristic of the CCD: the chip grade.
Entangled Microscopy
Authors: van Hook Lee 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The major factor in light microscopy limiting resolution in practice is not so much the wavelength of light and the resolving power of microscope optics, but the scattering of iight by the specimen. This extraneous scattered light interferes with the light used to image the specimen, effectively reducing the contrast of the imaging light and causing other annoying problems, There have been several inventions dedicated to solving this problem: various forms of interference-based microscopies, confocal microscopy, and most recently, multi-photon confocal microscopy.
Virtual Embryology
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Old embryos are now being looked at in a new way. About a hundred years ago, an embryologist by the name of FranMyn Paine Mall devoted his career to collecting human embryos and fetuses (an embryo becomes a fetus after 2 months of gestation) from miscarriages and abortions. These specimens form the core of what is known today as the Carnegie Collection of Human Embryos, housed in the National Museum of Health and Medicine of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, D.C. Whereas this is a priceless national educational resource, how do we extract the information about our embryonic development from these specimens? Classic techniques involve slicing a specimen as thinly as possible on a microtome, then reconstructing the slices in a model large enough to study. The problem is the specimen is effectively destroyed in the process. What is needed is a technique that allows whole embryos to be examined, but not destroyed.