bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Specimen Capsules For Critical-Point Drying
Authors: Sepsenwol Sol 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Since we do a lot of small-sample critical-point drying (CPD) for SEM, we assemble our own drying capsules which can be manufactured easily in quantity. Materials' cost at current prices is about $10 for 50 capsules. About 25 capsules can be manufactured in an hour. The completed capsule consists of a small polypropylene chamber with fine-mesh, stainless-steel screen caps at each end that allow easy exchange of solvents. shows the steps ofthe assembly process. The base of one capsule is cut off with a razor blade, the cap of a second capsule, for a bottom (Figure 1a). Chamber length can be 5 to 14mm. One-quarter-inch holes are punched through the center of each cap using a paper punch whose spring/detente has been removed to pass the caps' rim (Figure 1b). A sheet-metal shim punch is used to create 3/8" disks of 60-mesh stainless steel wire cloth.
A Novel Technique of Hair Removal to Examine the Cuticle of Arthropods
Authors: Philip Benjamin N , Shillington Cara 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The highly structured arthropod cuticle is often adorned with dense hairs that conceal the underlying landscape. Thus, to examine the structures and patterns on the cuticle the overlying hairs must be removed with minimal damage to the cuticle itself. Different methods can be employed to eliminate hairs but the difficulty of this task is compounded by the small size and fragility of the exoskeleton to which the hairs are attached. If the hairs are removed using razor blades or scissors, not only is the debris from the cut hairs and the stubble from the remainder of the shaft left behind, but the cuticle is often broken in the course of gripping the exoskeleton. We developed a unique technique that cleanly removes hairs without leaving debris or damaging the structure. This technique has been successfully used to examine the cuticular surfaces of arthropods of varying sizes including spiders, bees, beetles and moths.
Improving Membrane Staining of Cultured Cells Using Ferrocyanide as a Post-Fixative
Authors: Nizet Stéphane 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Lack of contrast is a common problem encountered when doing TEM of cultured cells, especially of membranes. Using ferrocyanide as a post-fixative can greatly improve membrane fixation and staining. This protocol has been used to study Caco-2 cells grown on PET membranes (the “Caco model”). Caco-2 is a colon cancer cell line that differentiates upon reaching confluency. This allows permeability studies on a cell model, which is reasonably similar to the human intestine.
Basically, the protocol is classical, the only peculiarity consisting in including ferrocyanide in post-fixation. I describe how I prepare and embed the membrane in order to obtain transverse sections of a cell monolayer because I find this is the only way to obtain regular sections with the cells sticking to the membrane (otherwise the ultrathin section splits between the cell and membrane).
Cold Temperature Preparation of XTEM Specimens of Embedded Metallic Nanoparticles
Authors: Johannessen Bernt , Llewellyn David J , Kluth Patrick , Ridgway Mark C 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Nanoparticles (1-10 nm in diameter) are particularly susceptible to disorder, amorphization, deformation and/or dissolution upon ion irradiation as compared to their bulk counterparts, which is a consequence of the enhanced surface area to volume ratio of the former (structural disorder is often observed to be preferentially located at the surface). Synchrotron-radiation-based analytical techniques are ideally suited for the elucidation of structural perturbations as compared to the bulk material. Such techniques are commonly complemented by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM). XTEM offers invaluable information with respect to shape and morphology of the nanoparticles.
For the present work, Cu nanoparticles were synthesized within a 2 μm amorphous SiO2 matrix on a 520 μm Si support by ion implantation and thermal annealing following a procedure described elsewhere. In order to study the influence that ion irradiation has on the nanoparticles, the sample was then irradiated with 1x1015 ions / cm2 high-energy (5 MeV) Sn+ ions.
A ‘Different’ Kind of Microscopy
Authors: Schamber Fred , van Beek Kai 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
At the August M&M-2006 meeting in Chicago, we were standing next to our poster titled A Different Kind of Microscopy: Analyzing Features with an Automated Electron Beam when an acquaintance with long experience in electron microscopy wandered by. After a glance at the poster title, he challenged: “What's different about that?” Upon hearing our summary he asked (with what we took to be an encouraging tone of voice): “Are you going to publish this?” We had enough similar reactions from others to make that seem a good idea, and this is the result.
This discussion should begin by noting that the operative word in the title is “different,” not “new.” In point of fact, the foundations for the technique were laid in the 1970s when some workers began putting scanning electron microscopes and microprobes under software control by interfacing them to the “minicomputers” that powered the computerized x-ray analyzer units then entering the market. Even prior to this, there were a few “hard-wired” image analyzers that mechanized the process of extracting information from microscope images. Thus, automated analysis of features via an electron beam instrument is hardly a new concept.
Recent Developments in CrossBeam® Technology
Authors: Thesen A , Hoffmeister H , Schumann M , Gnauck P 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Recent developments in nano- and semiconductor technology have substantially increased the demand for accurate and efficient site specific cross-sectioning of specimens and preparation of TEM samples. Moreover, nano-research is facing new challenges for manipulation, observation, and modification of devices on a submicron scale. At the same time in materials science a new focus on analytical nanoscale investigations—not only of specimen surfaces and cross sections—but on sample volumes is emerging.
These demanding requirements can be met if a focused ion beam (FIB) column for nanoscale structuring is combined with a high resolution SEM that is used to monitor the FIB milling and deposition process on a nanometer scale. Such an integrated Cross-Beam® system enables the high resolution observation and direct control of the FIB milling process in real time. Using this concept it is possible to prepare site specific TEM samples and cross sections with nano-scale accuracy. Such a system can be complemented with a gas injection system (GIS), for deposition and enhanced etching of specific materials, as well as, in-situ micro manipulation systems, and analytical detectors such as EDX and EBSP systems.
Part Ia: Case Study: Strategic plan for an EM Facility
Authors: Humphrey Elaine 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I took over the facility in 1996. We had aging equipment, no assistance, there were huge budget cuts that year and I was told, “There was no money. The only money you're gonna get are your wages. Everything else has to come from user fees.” I had to find funds for service contracts and we had to increase our user base.
I figured I would have to find an assistant because there is no way one can run a TEM, an SEM and confocal and light microscope facilities alone. So I found a grant called “First Job in Science and Technology” which would give me a graduate student for one year, and we had a summer student who had just graduated and was looking for a job before she went on to graduate school. She learned really fast and by February she was excellent, but by May/June we were back into the same boat again.
Part Ib: How to Make a Business Plan for Facility Maintenance and Growth
Authors: Blewett Donald A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In case you didn't realize it, one of the things that is important about a business plan is to have an enthusiastic champion. I don't know if I've seen a person that has represented what she does more enthusiastically than Elaine did just now.
One of the reasons why I asked Elaine to go first was there's a lot of preparatory work that goes in place before you put together a business plan. Elaine did a very nice job in planning, and one of the key things in her Strategic Plan was that she took planning and made it a part of the business plan. A “S.W.O.T.” Analysis is an exercise that you go through when you are dealing with an enterprise that talks about Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. Elaine put together the S.W.O.T. Analysis in addition to the current facility description and wish lists and that was extremely helpful in putting together her business plan.
Cross-sectional TEM Sample Preparation for Nanowires or Porous Films Grown on a Substrate
Authors: Song Chengyu 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Nanowires or porous films grown on a substrate normally lack mechanical strength, and may be subject to damage during specimen preparation. When we made cross-sectional TEM specimen for this type of sample, we modified the traditional method by covering the sample with epoxy to improve the film strength, and applying single-section ion milling to protect the film from over-milling.
The sample surface is first covered with G1 epoxy. We choose G1 for this application because it is relatively thick and cures at low temperature. For samples with a dense-growth of nanowires or a thick porous film, a brief moment in vacuum helps to get rid of the air bubbles in the epoxy. The glue is cured at 100 degree C for 10 minutes, until its color turns to a reddish brown. To remove the excess glue and flatten the surface, the sample is then ground and polished until the glue is less than 0.1 mm thick.
Do Pathologists Use The Electron Microscope Enough?
Authors: W. Carmichael Stephen 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The compound light microscope has been used by patholo gists for centuries, and remains the common tool for making a diagnosis. A half century ago, the electron microscope (EM) was introduced, and has aiso been proven to be a valuable, but expensive, tool. In the meantime, other tools and methods have worked their way into the pathologists’ armamentarium, with immunohistochemical, genetic, and molecular techniques being the most obvious examples. Josep Lloreta-Truil, Lola Ferrer, Teresa Ribalta, Marco Pavesi, and Sergio Serrano examined the literature to determine the frequency and appropriateness with which pathologists use the EM in their studies.
Nanomechanical Probing With Scanning Force Microscopy
Authors: Tsukruk V V , Gorbunov V V 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Highly localized probing of surface nanomechanical properties with a submicron resolution can be accomplished with scanning probe microscopy (SPM). The SPM ability to probe local surface topography in conjunction with mechanical, adhesive, friction, thermal, magnetic, and electric properties is unique.1 However, the quantitative probing of the nanomechanical materials properties is still a challenge and only a few examples have been published to date.
In this note, we briefly review the latest developments in the nanomechanical probing of compliant materials (predominantly polymers). We solely focus our analysis of SPM-based approach in a so-called static force spectroscopy (SFS) mode.
Why Is My House So Dirty?
Authors: Benko James J 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Today's newer homes are built to be energy efficient. Better insulation, better caulking, better windows restrict heat and airflow movements. Dust and contamination getting into the house has a harder time getting out. PLM examination of dust is a direct approach to assessing the magnitude of the problem and identifying the contamination responsible. Several actual cases of dust problems in the home and the role of microscopy in solving these problems are discussed.
Recycling Osmium Tetroxide
Authors: Kiernan John A 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Osmium tetroxide is indeed wonderful stuff. Osmium is a rare element, so disposal of used solutions should consist of recycling, not dumping, even though osmium compounds are not considered environmentally hazardous (Smith et al., 1978 Trace Metal in the Environment, vol 4. Ann Arbor Science Publishers). The colorless and soluble toxic tetroxide. is rapidly reduced by almost any kind of dirt to a black, insoluble dioxide, usually in a colloidal form that's readily dispersed by moving water if it isn't firmly stuck to the solid organic matter that brought about the reduction.
Rotary Shadowing Macromolecules
Authors: Keene Douglas R 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
I'm somewhat amazed by how many varied techniques there are for rotary shadowing, and how few seem to agree with what works for us. So, here is our method.
We shadow biological molecules from the connective tissue matrix, usually ranging in size from 16 to 300 kilodaltons. Many are linear but some are globular. We spray the molecules in solution with 70% glycerol. The other 30% is 100 microgram/mL of protein, preferably in a volatile buffer such as 1% acetic acid or 0.1M ammonium bicarbonate, pH 7.8. Other buffers can be used, but salt crystals can be a big problem.
Turning Blood Cells into Oyster Shells
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
The general consensus has been that the shells of mollusks form outside of cells. Akin to bone formation in vertebrates, an organic matrix is secreted by cells and the inorganic material is deposited within this matrix in an organized way. Andrew Mount, A.P. (Hap) Wheeler, Rajesh Paradkar, and Dennis Snider have now found convincing evidence that blood cells (specifically a class of granulocytic hemocytes) may be directly involved in shell crystal production for oysters.
Effects of Abbe Condenser Spherical Aberration on Image Quality
Authors: Clarke Theodore M 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
An earlier article in Microscopy Today, "Rediscovery of Darkfield Dispersion Staining while Building a Universal Student Microscope," noted that the darkfield inserts were made for Peter Cooke (MICA, Chicago, IL) to be used to teach high resolution dispersion staining in his advanced microscopy classes using Olympus BH2 microscopes and the Olympus 1.25 NA Abbe condenser. Peter has asked whether there is a better condenser design that will reduce the time and effort needed to switch between brightfield and darkfield.
Experience with a Dicing Saw for Rapid Pre-FIB TEM Sample Preparation
Authors: Conner Jim , James Beck  , Bryan Tracy  
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Since the publication of the use of a dicing saw for TEM sample preparation, several analytical labs have adopted this method as standard practice for site-specific cross section and plan view samples. In this article, we would like to provide additional practical details of these procedures, and describe several extensions, including useful notes on batch processing, preparing samples with an area of interest very close to the sample edge, and a Focused Ion Beam (FIB)-compatible sample holder. We present an unusual amount of detail in these processes to show some of the evolution of the method since its introduction and to allow others to easily reproduce these results.
Visualizing Gene Expression in Real-Time
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Gene expression has been visualized for a few decades, but in static forms such as blots and gene chips. Susan Janicki, Toshiro Tsukamoto, Sim one Salghetti, William Tansey, Ravi Sachidanandam, Kannanganattu Prasanth, Thomas Ried, Yaron Shav-Tal, Edouard Bertrand, Robert Singer, and David Spector have recently designed a cell line in which gene expression can be observed with stunningly accurate spatial and temporal resolution. Gene expression is a cascade of events beginning with transcription of RNA from the DNA template and ending with translation into a protein sequence. Janicki et al. were able to visualize the entire process at the levels of DNA, RNA, and proteins in living cells!
Ultra High Resolution SEM on Insulators and Contaminating Samples
Authors: Rice Trisha , Knowles Ralph 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Historically, SEM developed as a high vacuum technique requiring sample chamber vacuum of 10-5 Torr or better. Energetic electrons scatter from any molecules they encounter, so their creation and transport from source to sample, through the focusing lenses of the electron column, requires high vacuum. This imposes a number of limitations on the kinds of samples that can be examined. Samples must tolerate the vacuum environment and the vacuum system must tolerate the sample. Generally, samples have to be solid, clean, dry, and not contain volatile components. Furthermore, since the vacuum insulates the sample from everything except the stub that supports it, non-conductive samples require a conductive pathway between the scanned region and ground to prevent the accumulation of charge deposited by the beam electrons.
Influence of Illumination Conditions on Temperature in Sample Cell and the Output of a Quadrant Detector in an Optical Tweezers System
Authors: Jiang Yuqiang , Guo Honglian , Liu Chunxiang , Li Zhaolin , Cheng Bingying , Zhang Daozhong , Jia Suotang 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In an optical tweezers system, the output signal of a photodiode quadrant detector and the temperature in a sample cell are two key factors for the quantitative measurements of mechanical properties of living biological objects such as cells, organelles and macro-molecules. In order to enhance the output of a quadrant detector and effectively control the temperature in a sample cell, the dependence of the temperature in the sample cell and the output of the quadrant detector for different illumination conditions are studied. The results show that appropriate illumination conditions can ensure both nearly constant temperatures in the cell and the desired output signal, which provides for the possibility of highprecision and damage-free analysis of living biological objects.
Raman Microscopy as an Aid in Failure Analysis — Examples From the Lab
Authors: John Wolfgong W 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Raman spectroscopy, much like the more familiar infrared spectroscopy, reveals chemical information of materials under investigation as a result of molecular vibrations. The result of these techniques, the spectrum, is a chemical "fingerprint" allowing for material identification. While infrared microscopy is well known and well established in the industrial laboratory setting, Raman microscopy has only recently begun a resurgence as a result of technological advances. These include advances in lasers, optical filters (notch filters), and CCD detector technologies.
Is Low Accelerating Voltage Always the Best for Semiconductor Inspection and Metrology?
Authors: Postek M T , Vladár A E 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Low accelerating voltage operation is an excellent mode of scanning electron microscopy and it is extensively used for measurements in semiconductor production. The beam penetration is small, and if properly applied, the specimen charging is kept at acceptable levels. But, is this always enough? Today, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) is being used in photomask metrology and imaging where charging is excessive. Charging is difficult to quantify and control as it varies greatly with instruments, operating conditions and sample. Therefore, it is also very difficult to model accurately. For accurate metrology charging must be overcome because the dynamic charging of the sample deflects the electron beam from its intended position and the intensity of the induced signal may vary uncontrollably. Deflection of the electron beam of even a few nanometers potentially results in a measurement error that is significant to modern semiconductor production.
Fluorescent Speckle Microscopy
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W , Lingle Wilma L 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Whereas too much of a good thing can be bad, too little of a good tiling can be good. In this case, the accidental dilution of X-rhodamine tubulin injected into living cells resulted in a heterogeneous labeling of micro tubules, rather than visualization of continuous structures. This heterogeneous labeling rendered a speckled image, hence the term fluorescent speckle microscopy (FSM) was introduced. It turns out that FSM yields particularly useful information on dynamic events within living cells, for example the assembly and disassembly of microtubules.
There are two recent reviews of FSM by Clare Waterman-Storer and Gaudenz Danuser, one emphasizing the biologic applications of the technique, the other emphasizing the quantitative aspects. For their purposes, they defined a “speckle” as a diffraction-limited region of the image that is significantly brighter than its immediate environment. It can be calculated from the point-spread function (which is determined by the numerical aperture of the lens) that optimally a diffraction-limited region of about 250 nm can be imaged.
Digital Movies for Others to See
Authors: Sedgewick Jerry 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In a departure from traditional articles on Photoshop, this article will provide a look at how to save movies for the purpose of distribution to Macintosh, Windows and Linux operating systems.
More than once, I have been asked to produce and help with the distribution of digital videos that rival those downloadable trailers for big Hollywood productions. I kindly inform the clients that I do not have a staff large enough to tweak each individual frame of their video, and that their expectation must go down a few notches. Upon seeing their baffled look, an explanation ensues, much like what follows:
First of all, digital video must be compressed in order to run seamlessly from a computer. Only the most robust computers can keep up with the number of frames flashing by per second (-30 frames for NTSC), and even these cannot play back for extended periods of time without the loss of some frames (what is called dropped frames in the digital editing world).
Use and Disposal of Uranyl Acetate in the Electron Microscope Laboratory: Glow in the Dark or Walk in the Park?
Authors: Tindall Randy 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Let's face it—uranyl acetate is the perennial bad boy of chemicals, at least from the standpoint of disposal. A necessary evil in the electron microscopy laboratory, it presents a quandary for those trying to comply with hazardous materials regulalions, an effort complicated by its nominal radioactivity. Disposal costs of radioactive materials can be daunting. A past posting to the Microscopy Society of America listserver gave an estimate of US$7000 per liter and local follow up indicated that, although probably high, that may not be an unreasonable figure. In these times of diminished subsidies and expectations of increased cost recovery by academic service facilities like ours, this is of paramount concern.
The Electron Microscopy Core Facility at the University of Missouri-Columbia follows guidelines issued by our campus Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) office regarding hazardous materials and their disposal.