Virtual scanning tunneling microscopy: A local spectroscopic probe of two-dimensional electron systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sciambi, A.; Pelliccione, M.; Bank, S. R.; Gossard, A. C.; Goldhaber-Gordon, D.

2010-09-01

We propose a probe technique capable of performing local low-temperature spectroscopy on a two-dimensional electron system (2DES) in a semiconductor heterostructure. Motivated by predicted spatially-structured electron phases, the probe uses a charged metal tip to induce electrons to tunnel locally, directly below the tip, from a "probe" 2DES to a "subject" 2DES of interest. We test this concept with large-area (nonscanning) tunneling measurements, and predict a high spatial resolution and spectroscopic capability, with minimal influence on the physics in the subject 2DES.

Cathodoluminescence of stacking fault bound excitons for local probing of the exciton diffusion length in single GaN nanowires

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nogues, Gilles, E-mail: gilles.nogues@neel.cnrs.fr; Den Hertog, Martien; Inst. NEEL, CNRS, F-38042 Grenoble

We perform correlated studies of individual GaN nanowires in scanning electron microscopy combined to low temperature cathodoluminescence, microphotoluminescence, and scanning transmission electron microscopy. We show that some nanowires exhibit well localized regions emitting light at the energy of a stacking fault bound exciton (3.42 eV) and are able to observe the presence of a single stacking fault in these regions. Precise measurements of the cathodoluminescence signal in the vicinity of the stacking fault give access to the exciton diffusion length near this location.

Method for local temperature measurement in a nanoreactor for in situ high-resolution electron microscopy.

PubMed

Vendelbo, S B; Kooyman, P J; Creemer, J F; Morana, B; Mele, L; Dona, P; Nelissen, B J; Helveg, S

2013-10-01

In situ high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of solids under reactive gas conditions can be facilitated by microelectromechanical system devices called nanoreactors. These nanoreactors are windowed cells containing nanoliter volumes of gas at ambient pressures and elevated temperatures. However, due to the high spatial confinement of the reaction environment, traditional methods for measuring process parameters, such as the local temperature, are difficult to apply. To address this issue, we devise an electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) method that probes the local temperature of the reaction volume under inspection by the electron beam. The local gas density, as measured using quantitative EELS, is combined with the inherent relation between gas density and temperature, as described by the ideal gas law, to obtain the local temperature. Using this method we determined the temperature gradient in a nanoreactor in situ, while the average, global temperature was monitored by a traditional measurement of the electrical resistivity of the heater. The local gas temperatures had a maximum of 56 °C deviation from the global heater values under the applied conditions. The local temperatures, obtained with the proposed method, are in good agreement with predictions from an analytical model. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Correlative Light-Electron Microscopy of Lipid-Encapsulated Fluorescent Nanodiamonds for Nanometric Localization of Cell Surface Antigens.

PubMed

Hsieh, Feng-Jen; Chen, Yen-Wei; Huang, Yao-Kuan; Lee, Hsien-Ming; Lin, Chun-Hung; Chang, Huan-Cheng

2018-02-06

Containing an ensemble of nitrogen-vacancy centers in crystal matrices, fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) are a new type of photostable markers that have found wide applications in light microscopy. The nanomaterial also has a dense carbon core, making it visible to electron microscopy. Here, we show that FNDs encapsulated in biotinylated lipids (bLs) are useful for subdiffraction imaging of antigens on cell surface with correlative light-electron microscopy (CLEM). The lipid encapsulation enables not only good dispersion of the particles in biological buffers but also high specific labeling of live cells. By employing the bL-encapsulated FNDs to target CD44 on HeLa cell surface through biotin-mediated immunostaining, we obtained the spatial distribution of these antigens by CLEM with a localization accuracy of ∼50 nm in routine operations. A comparative study with dual-color imaging, in which CD44 was labeled with FND and MICA/MICB was labeled with Alexa Fluor 488, demonstrated the superior performance of FNDs as fluorescent fiducial markers for CLEM of cell surface antigens.

Electron microscopy study of antioxidant interaction with bacterial cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plotnikov, Oleg P.; Novikova, Olga V.; Konnov, Nikolai P.; Korsukov, Vladimir N.; Gunkin, Ivan F.; Volkov, Uryi P.

2000-10-01

To maintain native microorganisms genotype and phenotype features a lyophylization technique is widely used. However in this case cells are affected by influences of vacuum and low temperature that cause a part of the cells population to be destruction. Another factor reduced microorganisms vitality is formation of reactive oxygen forms that damage certain biological targets (such as DNA, membranes etc.) Recently to raise microorganism's resistance against adverse condition natural and synthetic antioxidants are used. Antioxidant- are antagonists of free radicals. Introduction of antioxidants in protective medium for lyophylization increase bacteria storage life about 2,0-4,8 fold in comparison with reference samples. In the article the main results of our investigation of antioxidants interaction with microorganism cells is described. As bacteria cells we use vaccine strain yersinia pestis EV, that were grown for 48 h at 28 degree(s)C on the Hottinger agar (pH 7,2). Antioxidants are inserted on the agar surface in specimen under test. To investigate a localization of antioxidants for electron microscopy investigation, thallium organic antioxidants were used. The thallium organic compounds have an antioxidant features if thallium is in low concentration (about 1(mu) g/ml). The localization of the thallium organic antioxidants on bacteria Y. pestis EV is visible in electron microscopy images, thallium being heavy metal with high electron density. The negatively stained bacteria and bacteria thin sections with thallium organic compounds were investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy. The localization of the thallium organic compounds is clearly visible in electron micrographs as small dark spots with size about 10-80nm. Probably mechanisms of interaction of antioxidants with bacteria cells are discussed.

Understanding electron magnetic circular dichroism in a transition potential approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barthel, J.; Mayer, J.; Rusz, J.; Ho, P.-L.; Zhong, X. Y.; Lentzen, M.; Dunin-Borkowski, R. E.; Urban, K. W.; Brown, H. G.; Findlay, S. D.; Allen, L. J.

2018-04-01

This paper introduces an approach based on transition potentials for inelastic scattering to understand the underlying physics of electron magnetic circular dichroism (EMCD). The transition potentials are sufficiently localized to permit atomic-scale EMCD. Two-beam and three-beam systematic row cases are discussed in detail in terms of transition potentials for conventional transmission electron microscopy, and the basic symmetries which arise in the three-beam case are confirmed experimentally. Atomic-scale EMCD in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), using both a standard STEM probe and vortex beams, is discussed.

Near-field control and imaging of free charge carrier variations in GaN nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berweger, Samuel; Blanchard, Paul T.; Brubaker, Matt D.; Coakley, Kevin J.; Sanford, Norman A.; Wallis, Thomas M.; Bertness, Kris A.; Kabos, Pavel

2016-02-01

Despite their uniform crystallinity, the shape and faceting of semiconducting nanowires (NWs) can give rise to variations in structure and associated electronic properties. Here, we develop a hybrid scanning probe-based methodology to investigate local variations in electronic structure across individual n-doped GaN NWs integrated into a transistor device. We perform scanning microwave microscopy (SMM), which we combine with scanning gate microscopy to determine the free-carrier SMM signal contribution and image local charge carrier density variations. In particular, we find significant variations in free carriers across NWs, with a higher carrier density at the wire facets. By increasing the local carrier density through tip-gating, we find that the tip injects current into the NW with strongly localized current when positioned over the wire vertices. These results suggest that the strong variations in electronic properties observed within NWs have significant implications for device design and may lead to new paths to optimization.

Scanning tunneling microscopy studies of Si donors (Si[sub Ga]) in GaAs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zheng, J.F.; Liu, X.; Newman, N.

1994-03-07

We report scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) studies of Si substitutional donors (Si[sub Ga]) in GaAs that reveal delocalized and localized electronic features corresponding to Si[sub Ga] in the top few layers of the (110) cleavage surface. The delocalized features appear as protrusions a few nm in size, superimposed on the background lattice. These features are attributed to enhanced tunneling due to the local perturbation of the band bending by the Coulomb potential of subsurface Si[sub Ga]. In contrast, STM images of surface Si[sub Ga] show very localized electronic structures, in good agreement with a recent theoretical prediction [J. Wang [italmore » et] [ital al]., Phys. Rev. B 47, 10 329 (1993)].« less

Degradation analysis of a Ni-based layered positive-electrode active material cycled at elevated temperatures studied by scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kojima, Y.; Muto, S.; Tatsumi, K.; Kondo, H.; Oka, H.; Horibuchi, K.; Ukyo, Y.

We investigate the local structural changes in a positive electrode of a lithium ion secondary battery (LiNi 0.8Co 0.15Al 0.05O 2 (NCA) as the active material) associated with charge-discharge cycling at elevated temperatures by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). STEM-EELS spectral imaging reveals the evolution of a NiO-like phase localized near the surface and grain boundary regions after many cycles. The amounts of capacity fading and resistance increase are discussed based on the results of the semiquantitative estimation of NiO-like and other product phases. We also identify the chemical state of lithium in the NiO-like phase substituting for Ni.

Investigation of Local Ordering in Amorphous Materials.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Gary Guoyou

The intent of the research described in this dissertation, as indicated by the title, is to provide a better understanding of the structure of amorphous material. The possibility of using electron microscopy to study the amorphous structure is investigated. Chapter 1 gives a brief introduction to the understanding and modeling of the amorphous structure, electron microscopy and the image analysis in general. The difficulty of using 2-D images to infer 3-D structures information is illustrated in Chapter 2, where it is shown that some high resolution images are not qualitatively different from images of white -noises weak-phase objects or those of random atomic arrangements. The means of obtaining statistical information from these images is given in Chapters 3 and 5, where the quantitative differences between experimental images and simulated white-noise or simulated images corresponding to random arrangements are revealed. The use of image processing techniques in electron microscopy and the possible artifacts are presented in Chapter 4. The pattern recognition technique outlined in Chapter 6 demonstrates a feasible mode of scanning transition electron microscope operation. Statistical analysis can be effectively performed on a large number of nano-diffraction patterns from, for example, locally ordered samples. Some recent developments in physics as well as in electron microscopy are briefly reviewed, and their possible applications in the study of amorphous structures are discussed in Chapter 7.

Scanning electron microscope fractography in failure analysis of steels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wouters, R.; Froyen, L.

1996-04-01

For many failure cases, macroscopic examination of the fracture surface permits discrimination of fatigue fractures from overload fractures. For clarifying fatigue fractures, the practical significance of microfractography is limited to an investigation of the crack initiation areas. Scanning electron microscopy is successfully used in tracing local material abnormalities that act as fatigue crack initiators. The task for the scanning electron microscope, however, is much more substantial in failure analysis of overload fractures, especially for steels. By revealing specific fractographic characteristics, complemented by information about the material and the loading conditions, scanning electron microscopy provides a strong indication of the probablemore » cause of failure. A complete dimple fracture is indicative of acceptable bulk material properties; overloading, by subdimensioning or excessive external loading, has to be verified. The presence of cleavage fracture makes the material properties questionable if external conditions causing embrittlement are absent. Intergranular brittle fracture requires verification of grain-boundary weakening conditions--a sensitized structure, whether or not combined with a local stress state or a specific environment. The role of scanning electron microscopy in failure analysis is illustrated by case histories of the aforementioned fracture types.« less

Electron Microscopy Localization and Characterization of Functionalized Composite Organic-Inorganic SERS Nanoparticles on Leukemia Cells

PubMed Central

Koh, Ai Leen; Shachaf, Catherine M.; Elchuri, Sailaja; Nolan, Garry P.; Sinclair, Robert

2008-01-01

We demonstrate the use of electron microscopy as a powerful characterization tool to identify and locate antibody-conjugated composite organic-inorganic (COINs) surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles on cells. U937 leukemia cells labeled with antibody CD54-conjugated COINs were characterized in their native, hydrated state using wet Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and in their dehydrated state using high-resolution SEM. In both cases, the backscattered electron detector (BSE) was used to detect and identify the silver constituents in COINs due to its high sensitivity to atomic number variations within a specimen. The imaging and analytical capabilities in the SEM were further complemented by higher resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images and Scanning Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) data to give reliable and high-resolution information about nanoparticles and their binding to cell surface antigens. PMID:18995965

Two-dimensional mapping of polarizations of rhombohedral nanostructures in the orthorhombic phase of KNbO3 by the combined use of scanning transmission electron microscopy and convergent-beam electron diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsuda, Kenji; Tanaka, Michiyoshi

2015-08-01

Rhombohedral nanostructures previously found in the orthorhombic phase of KNbO3, by convergent-beam electron diffraction [Tsuda et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 102, 051913 (2013)], have been investigated by the combined use of scanning transmission electron microscopy and convergent-beam electron diffraction. Two-dimensional distributions of the rhombohedral nanostructures, or nanometer-scale spatial fluctuations of polarization clusters, have been successfully visualized. The correlation length of the observed spatial fluctuations of local polarizations is related to the cpc/apc ratio and the transition entropy.

Orbital occupancy and charge doping in iron-based superconductors.

PubMed

Cantoni, Claudia; Mitchell, Jonathan E; May, Andrew F; McGuire, Michael A; Idrobo, Juan-Carlos; Berlijn, Tom; Dagotto, Elbio; Chisholm, Matthew F; Zhou, Wu; Pennycook, Stephen J; Sefat, Athena S; Sales, Brian C

2014-09-17

The intrinsic Fe local magnetic moment and Fe orbital occupations of iron-based superconductors are unveiled through the local, real-space capability of aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy/electron energy loss spectroscopy (STEM/EELS). Although the ordering of Fe moments needs to be suppressed for superconductivity to arise, the local, fluctuating Fe magnetic moment is enhanced near optimal superconductivity. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Immunogold scanning electron microscopy can reveal the polysaccharide architecture of xylem cell walls

PubMed Central

Sun, Yuliang; Juzenas, Kevin

2017-01-01

Abstract Immunofluorescence microscopy (IFM) and immunogold transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are the two main techniques commonly used to detect polysaccharides in plant cell walls. Both are important in localizing cell wall polysaccharides, but both have major limitations, such as low resolution in IFM and restricted sample size for immunogold TEM. In this study, we have developed a robust technique that combines immunocytochemistry with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to study cell wall polysaccharide architecture in xylem cells at high resolution over large areas of sample. Using multiple cell wall monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), this immunogold SEM technique reliably localized groups of hemicellulosic and pectic polysaccharides in the cell walls of five different xylem structures (vessel elements, fibers, axial and ray parenchyma cells, and tyloses). This demonstrates its important advantages over the other two methods for studying cell wall polysaccharide composition and distribution in these structures. In addition, it can show the three-dimensional distribution of a polysaccharide group in the vessel lateral wall and the polysaccharide components in the cell wall of developing tyloses. This technique, therefore, should be valuable for understanding the cell wall polysaccharide composition, architecture and functions of diverse cell types. PMID:28398585

Isolated molecular dopants in pentacene observed by scanning tunneling microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ha, Sieu D.; Kahn, Antoine

2009-11-01

Doping is essential to the control of electronic structure and conductivity of semiconductor materials. Whereas doping of inorganic semiconductors is well established, doping of organic molecular semiconductors is still relatively poorly understood. Using scanning tunneling microscopy, we investigate, at the molecular scale, surface and subsurface tetrafluoro-tetracyanoquinodimethane p -dopants in the prototypical molecular semiconductor pentacene. Surface dopants diffuse to pentacene vacancies and appear as negatively charged centers, consistent with the standard picture of an ionized acceptor. Subsurface dopants, however, have the effect of a positive charge, evidence that the donated hole is localized by the parent acceptor counterion, in contrast to the model of doping in inorganic semiconductors. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy shows that the electron potential energy is locally lowered near a subsurface dopant feature, in agreement with the localized hole model.

Characterization of Discontinuous Coarsening Reaction Products in INCONEL® Alloy 740H® Fusion Welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bechetti, Daniel H.; Dupont, John N.; Watanabe, Masashi; de Barbadillo, John J.

2017-04-01

Characterization of γ' coarsened zones (CZs) in alloy 740H fusion welds via a variety of electron microscopy techniques was conducted. The effects of solute partitioning during nonequilibrium solidification on the amount of strengthening precipitates along the grain boundaries were evaluated via electron-probe microanalysis and scanning electron microscopy. Electron backscatter diffraction was used to present evidence for the preferential growth of CZs toward regions of lower γ' content, even if growth in that direction increases grain boundary area. Scanning electron microscopy and image analysis were used to quantify the propensity for CZs to develop along certain segments of the grain boundaries, as governed by the local variations in γ' content. Scanning transmission electron microscopy with X-ray energy-dispersive spectrometry (XEDS) was used to assess the compositions of the matrix and precipitate phases within the CZs and to quantify the segregation of alloying components to the reaction front. Thermodynamic and kinetic modeling were used to compare calculated and experimental compositions. The work presented here provides new insight into the progression of the discontinuous coarsening (DC) reaction in a complex engineering alloy.

Cryo-Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM)-in-SEM for Bio- and Organo-Mineral Interface Characterization in the Environment.

PubMed

Wille, Guillaume; Hellal, Jennifer; Ollivier, Patrick; Richard, Annie; Burel, Agnes; Jolly, Louis; Crampon, Marc; Michel, Caroline

2017-12-01

Understanding biofilm interactions with surrounding substratum and pollutants/particles can benefit from the application of existing microscopy tools. Using the example of biofilm interactions with zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI), this study aims to apply various approaches in biofilm preparation and labeling for fluorescent or electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) microanalysis for accurate observations. According to the targeted microscopy method, biofilms were sampled as flocs or attached biofilm, submitted to labeling using 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindol, lectins PNA and ConA coupled to fluorescent dye or gold nanoparticles, and prepared for observation (fixation, cross-section, freezing, ultramicrotomy). Fluorescent microscopy revealed that nZVI were embedded in the biofilm structure as aggregates but the resolution was insufficient to observe individual nZVI. Cryo-scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations showed nZVI aggregates close to bacteria, but it was not possible to confirm direct interactions between nZVI and cell membranes. Scanning transmission electron microscopy in the SEM (STEM-in-SEM) showed that nZVI aggregates could enter the biofilm to a depth of 7-11 µm. Bacteria were surrounded by a ring of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) preventing direct nZVI/membrane interactions. STEM/EDS mapping revealed a co-localization of nZVI aggregates with lectins suggesting a potential role of EPS in nZVI embedding. Thus, the combination of divergent microscopy approaches is a good approach to better understand and characterize biofilm/metal interactions.

Mottness Collapse in 1 T -TaS2 -xSex Transition-Metal Dichalcogenide: An Interplay between Localized and Itinerant Orbitals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiao, Shuang; Li, Xintong; Wang, Naizhou; Ruan, Wei; Ye, Cun; Cai, Peng; Hao, Zhenqi; Yao, Hong; Chen, Xianhui; Wu, Jian; Wang, Yayu; Liu, Zheng

2017-10-01

The layered transition-metal dichalcogenide 1 T -TaS2 has been recently found to undergo a Mott-insulator-to-superconductor transition induced by high pressure, charge doping, or isovalent substitution. By combining scanning tunneling microscopy measurements and first-principles calculations, we investigate the atomic scale electronic structure of the 1 T -TaS2 Mott insulator and its evolution to the metallic state upon isovalent substitution of S with Se. We identify two distinct types of orbital textures—one localized and the other extended—and demonstrate that the interplay between them is the key factor that determines the electronic structure. In particular, we show that the continuous evolution of the charge gap visualized by scanning tunneling microscopy is due to the immersion of the localized-orbital-induced Hubbard bands into the extended-orbital-spanned Fermi sea, featuring a unique evolution from a Mott gap to a charge-transfer gap. This new mechanism of Mottness collapse revealed here suggests an interesting route for creating novel electronic states and designing future electronic devices.

Advanced electron microscopy characterization of tri-layer rare-earth oxide superlattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, Patrick; Disa, Ankit; Ismail-Beigi, Sohrab; Klie, Robert; University of Illinois-Chicago Team; Yale University Team

2015-03-01

Rare-earth nickelates are known to display complex electronic and magnetic behaviors owed to a very localized and sensitive Ni-site atomic and electronic structure. Toward realizing the goal of manipulating of the energetic ordering of Ni d orbitals and 2D conduction, the present work focuses on the experimental characterization of thin film superlattice structures consisting of alternating layers of LaTiO3 and LaNiO3 sandwiched between a dull insulator, LaAlO3. Using advanced scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM)-based methods, properties such as interfacial sharpness, electron transfer, O presence, and local electronic structure can be probed at the atomic scale, and will be discussed at length. By combining both energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and electronic energy loss (EEL) spectroscopies in an aberration-corrected STEM, it is possible to attain energy and spatial resolutions of 0.35 eV and 100 pm, respectively. Focus of the talk will remain not only on the aforementioned properties, but will also include details and parameters of the acquisitions to facilitate future characterization at this level.

Correlative light and electron microscopic detection of GFP-labeled proteins using modular APEX.

PubMed

Ariotti, Nicholas; Hall, Thomas E; Parton, Robert G

2017-01-01

The use of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and related proteins has revolutionized light microscopy. Here we describe a rapid and simple method to localize GFP-tagged proteins in cells and in tissues by electron microscopy (EM) using a modular approach involving a small GFP-binding peptide (GBP) fused to the ascorbate peroxidase-derived APEX2 tag. We provide a method for visualizing GFP-tagged proteins by light and EM in cultured cells and in the zebrafish using modular APEX-GBP. Furthermore, we describe in detail the benefits of this technique over many of the currently available correlative light and electron microscopy approaches and demonstrate APEX-GBP is readily applicable to modern three-dimensional techniques. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Localized variations in electronic structure of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures grown by molecular-beam epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, K. V.; Yu, E. T.; Elsass, C. R.; Heying, B.; Speck, J. S.

2001-10-01

Local electronic properties in a molecular-beam-epitaxy-grown AlxGa1-xN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistor epitaxial layer structure are probed using depth-resolved scanning capacitance microscopy. Theoretical analysis of contrast observed in scanning capacitance images acquired over a range of bias voltages is used to assess the possible structural origins of local inhomogeneities in electronic structure, which are shown to be concentrated in areas where Ga droplets had formed on the surface during growth. Within these regions, there are significant variations in the local electronic structure that are attributed to variations in both AlxGa1-xN layer thickness and Al composition. Increased charge trapping is also observed in these regions.

Quantitative Description of Crystal Nucleation and Growth from in Situ Liquid Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Ievlev, Anton V; Jesse, Stephen; Cochell, Thomas J; Unocic, Raymond R; Protopopescu, Vladimir A; Kalinin, Sergei V

2015-12-22

Recent advances in liquid cell (scanning) transmission electron microscopy (S)TEM has enabled in situ nanoscale investigations of controlled nanocrystal growth mechanisms. Here, we experimentally and quantitatively investigated the nucleation and growth mechanisms of Pt nanostructures from an aqueous solution of K2PtCl6. Averaged statistical, network, and local approaches have been used for the data analysis and the description of both collective particles dynamics and local growth features. In particular, interaction between neighboring particles has been revealed and attributed to reduction of the platinum concentration in the vicinity of the particle boundary. The local approach for solving the inverse problem showed that particles dynamics can be simulated by a stationary diffusional model. The obtained results are important for understanding nanocrystal formation and growth processes and for optimization of synthesis conditions.

Correlative Fluorescence and Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Schirra, Randall T.; Zhang, Peijun

2014-01-01

Correlative fluorescence and electron microscopy (CFEM) is a multimodal technique that combines dynamic and localization information from fluorescence methods with ultrastructural data from electron microscopy, to give new information about how cellular components change relative to the spatiotemporal dynamics within their environment. In this review, we will discuss some of the basic techniques and tools of the trade for utilizing this attractive research method, which is becoming a very powerful tool for biology labs. The information obtained from correlative methods has proven to be invaluable in creating consensus between the two types of microscopy, extending the capability of each, and cutting the time and expense associate with using each method separately for comparative analysis. The realization of the advantages of these methods in cell biology have led to rapid improvement in the protocols and have ushered in a new generation of instruments to reach the next level of correlation – integration. PMID:25271959

Localized basis sets for unbound electrons in nanoelectronics.

PubMed

Soriano, D; Jacob, D; Palacios, J J

2008-02-21

It is shown how unbound electron wave functions can be expanded in a suitably chosen localized basis sets for any desired range of energies. In particular, we focus on the use of Gaussian basis sets, commonly used in first-principles codes. The possible usefulness of these basis sets in a first-principles description of field emission or scanning tunneling microscopy at large bias is illustrated by studying a simpler related phenomenon: The lifetime of an electron in a H atom subjected to a strong electric field.

Sparse imaging for fast electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, Hyrum S.; Ilic-Helms, Jovana; Rohrer, Brandon; Wheeler, Jason; Larson, Kurt

2013-02-01

Scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) are used in neuroscience and materials science to image centimeters of sample area at nanometer scales. Since imaging rates are in large part SNR-limited, large collections can lead to weeks of around-the-clock imaging time. To increase data collection speed, we propose and demonstrate on an operational SEM a fast method to sparsely sample and reconstruct smooth images. To accurately localize the electron probe position at fast scan rates, we model the dynamics of the scan coils, and use the model to rapidly and accurately visit a randomly selected subset of pixel locations. Images are reconstructed from the undersampled data by compressed sensing inversion using image smoothness as a prior. We report image fidelity as a function of acquisition speed by comparing traditional raster to sparse imaging modes. Our approach is equally applicable to other domains of nanometer microscopy in which the time to position a probe is a limiting factor (e.g., atomic force microscopy), or in which excessive electron doses might otherwise alter the sample being observed (e.g., scanning transmission electron microscopy).

Cassette Series Designed for Live-Cell Imaging of Proteins and High Resolution Techniques in Yeast

PubMed Central

Young, Carissa L.; Raden, David L.; Caplan, Jeffrey; Czymmek, Kirk; Robinson, Anne S.

2012-01-01

During the past decade, it has become clear that protein function and regulation are highly dependent upon intracellular localization. Although fluorescent protein variants are ubiquitously used to monitor protein dynamics, localization, and abundance; fluorescent light microscopy techniques often lack the resolution to explore protein heterogeneity and cellular ultrastructure. Several approaches have been developed to identify, characterize, and monitor the spatial localization of proteins and complexes at the sub-organelle level; yet, many of these techniques have not been applied to yeast. Thus, we have constructed a series of cassettes containing codon-optimized epitope tags, fluorescent protein variants that cover the full spectrum of visible light, a TetCys motif used for FlAsH-based localization, and the first evaluation in yeast of a photoswitchable variant – mEos2 – to monitor discrete subpopulations of proteins via confocal microscopy. This series of modules, complete with six different selection markers, provides the optimal flexibility during live-cell imaging and multicolor labeling in vivo. Furthermore, high-resolution imaging techniques include the yeast-enhanced TetCys motif that is compatible with diaminobenzidine photooxidation used for protein localization by electron microscopy and mEos2 that is ideal for super-resolution microscopy. We have examined the utility of our cassettes by analyzing all probes fused to the C-terminus of Sec61, a polytopic membrane protein of the endoplasmic reticulum of moderate protein concentration, in order to directly compare fluorescent probes, their utility and technical applications. Our series of cassettes expand the repertoire of molecular tools available to advance targeted spatiotemporal investigations using multiple live-cell, super-resolution or electron microscopy imaging techniques. PMID:22473760

Quantitative Cryo-Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy of Biological Materials.

PubMed

Elbaum, Michael

2018-05-11

Electron tomography provides a detailed view into the 3D structure of biological cells and tissues. Physical fixation by vitrification of the aqueous medium provides the most faithful preservation of biological specimens in the native, fully hydrated state. Cryo-microscopy is challenging, however, because of the sensitivity to electron irradiation and due to the weak electron scattering of organic material. Tomography is even more challenging because of the dependence on multiple exposures of the same area. Tomographic imaging is typically performed in wide-field transmission electron microscopy (TEM) mode with phase contrast generated by defocus. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) is an alternative mode based on detection of scattering from a focused probe beam, without imaging optics following the specimen. While careful configuration of the illumination and detectors is required to generate useful contrast, STEM circumvents the major restrictions of phase contrast TEM to very thin specimens and provides a signal that is more simply interpreted in terms of local composition and density. STEM has gained popularity in recent years for materials science. The extension of STEM to cryomicroscopy and tomography of cells and macromolecules is summarized herein. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Environmental scanning electron microscopy gold immunolabeling in cell biology.

PubMed

Rosso, Francesco; Papale, Ferdinando; Barbarisi, Alfonso

2013-01-01

Immunogold labeling (IGL) technique has been utilized by many authors in combination with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to obtain the identification/localization of receptors and antigens, both in cells and tissues. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) represents an important tool in biomedical research, since it does not require any severe processing of the sample, lowering the risk of generating artifacts and interfere with the IGL procedure. The absence of metal coating could yield further advantages for our purpose as the labeling detection is based on the atomic number difference between nanogold spheres and the biological material. Using the gaseous secondary electron detector, compositional contrast is easily revealed by the backscattered electron component of the signal. In spite of this fact, only few published papers present a combination of ESEM and IGL. Hereby we present our method, optimized to improve the intensity and the specificity of the labeling signal, in order to obtain a semiquantitative evaluation of the labeling signal.In particular, we used a combination of IGL and ESEM to detect the presence of a protein on the cell surface. To achieve this purpose, we chose as an experimental system 3T3 Swiss albino mouse fibroblasts and galectin-3.

Capability of insulator study by photoemission electron microscopy at SPring-8.

PubMed

Ohkochi, Takuo; Kotsugi, Masato; Yamada, Keisuke; Kawano, Kenji; Horiba, Koji; Kitajima, Fumio; Oura, Masaki; Shiraki, Susumu; Hitosugi, Taro; Oshima, Masaharu; Ono, Teruo; Kinoshita, Toyohiko; Muro, Takayuki; Watanabe, Yoshio

2013-07-01

The observation method of photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM) on insulating samples has been established in an extremely simple way. Surface conductivity is induced locally on an insulating surface by continuous radiation of soft X-rays, and Au films close to the area of interest allow the accumulated charges on the insulated area to be released to ground level. Magnetic domain observations of a NiZn ferrite, local X-ray absorption spectroscopy of sapphire, high-resolution imaging of a poorly conducting Li0.9CoO2 film surface, and Au pattern evaporation on a fine rock particle are demonstrated. Using this technique, all users' experiments on poorly conducting samples have been performed successfully at the PEEM experimental station of SPring-8.

Atomic scale imaging of magnetic circular dichroism by achromatic electron microscopy.

PubMed

Wang, Zechao; Tavabi, Amir H; Jin, Lei; Rusz, Ján; Tyutyunnikov, Dmitry; Jiang, Hanbo; Moritomo, Yutaka; Mayer, Joachim; Dunin-Borkowski, Rafal E; Yu, Rong; Zhu, Jing; Zhong, Xiaoyan

2018-03-01

In order to obtain a fundamental understanding of the interplay between charge, spin, orbital and lattice degrees of freedom in magnetic materials and to predict and control their physical properties 1-3 , experimental techniques are required that are capable of accessing local magnetic information with atomic-scale spatial resolution. Here, we show that a combination of electron energy-loss magnetic chiral dichroism 4 and chromatic-aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy, which reduces the focal spread of inelastically scattered electrons by orders of magnitude when compared with the use of spherical aberration correction alone, can achieve atomic-scale imaging of magnetic circular dichroism and provide element-selective orbital and spin magnetic moments atomic plane by atomic plane. This unique capability, which we demonstrate for Sr 2 FeMoO 6 , opens the door to local atomic-level studies of spin configurations in a multitude of materials that exhibit different types of magnetic coupling, thereby contributing to a detailed understanding of the physical origins of magnetic properties of materials at the highest spatial resolution.

Nanodiamonds as multi-purpose labels for microscopy.

PubMed

Hemelaar, S R; de Boer, P; Chipaux, M; Zuidema, W; Hamoh, T; Martinez, F Perona; Nagl, A; Hoogenboom, J P; Giepmans, B N G; Schirhagl, R

2017-04-07

Nanodiamonds containing fluorescent nitrogen-vacancy centers are increasingly attracting interest for use as a probe in biological microscopy. This interest stems from (i) strong resistance to photobleaching allowing prolonged fluorescence observation times; (ii) the possibility to excite fluorescence using a focused electron beam (cathodoluminescence; CL) for high-resolution localization; and (iii) the potential use for nanoscale sensing. For all these schemes, the development of versatile molecular labeling using relatively small diamonds is essential. Here, we show the direct targeting of a biological molecule with nanodiamonds as small as 70 nm using a streptavidin conjugation and standard antibody labelling approach. We also show internalization of 40 nm sized nanodiamonds. The fluorescence from the nanodiamonds survives osmium-fixation and plastic embedding making them suited for correlative light and electron microscopy. We show that CL can be observed from epon-embedded nanodiamonds, while surface-exposed nanoparticles also stand out in secondary electron (SE) signal due to the exceptionally high diamond SE yield. Finally, we demonstrate the magnetic read-out using fluorescence from diamonds prior to embedding. Thus, our results firmly establish nanodiamonds containing nitrogen-vacancy centers as unique, versatile probes for combining and correlating different types of microscopy, from fluorescence imaging and magnetometry to ultrastructural investigation using electron microscopy.

Time-resolved cathodoluminescence microscopy with sub-nanosecond beam blanking for direct evaluation of the local density of states.

PubMed

Moerland, Robert J; Weppelman, I Gerward C; Garming, Mathijs W H; Kruit, Pieter; Hoogenboom, Jacob P

2016-10-17

We show cathodoluminescence-based time-resolved electron beam spectroscopy in order to directly probe the spontaneous emission decay rate that is modified by the local density of states in a nanoscale environment. In contrast to dedicated laser-triggered electron-microscopy setups, we use commercial hardware in a standard SEM, which allows us to easily switch from pulsed to continuous operation of the SEM. Electron pulses of 80-90 ps duration are generated by conjugate blanking of a high-brightness electron beam, which allows probing emitters within a large range of decay rates. Moreover, we simultaneously attain a resolution better than λ/10, which ensures details at deep-subwavelength scales can be retrieved. As a proof-of-principle, we employ the pulsed electron beam to spatially measure excited-state lifetime modifications in a phosphor material across the edge of an aluminum half-plane, coated on top of the phosphor. The measured emission dynamics can be directly related to the structure of the sample by recording photon arrival histograms together with the secondary-electron signal. Our results show that time-resolved electron cathodoluminescence spectroscopy is a powerful tool of choice for nanophotonics, within reach of a large audience.

Evolution of Metastable Defects and Its Effect on the Electronic Properties of MoS2 Films.

PubMed

Precner, M; Polaković, T; Qiao, Qiao; Trainer, D J; Putilov, A V; Di Giorgio, C; Cone, I; Zhu, Y; Xi, X X; Iavarone, M; Karapetrov, G

2018-04-30

We report on structural and electronic properties of defects in chemical vapor-deposited monolayer and few-layer MoS 2 films. Scanning tunneling microscopy, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to obtain high resolution images and quantitative measurements of the local density of states, work function and nature of defects in MoS 2 films. We track the evolution of defects that are formed under heating and electron beam irradiation. We observe formation of metastable domains with different work function values after annealing the material in ultra-high vacuum to moderate temperatures. We attribute these metastable values of the work function to evolution of crystal defects forming during the annealing. The experiments show that sulfur vacancies formed after exposure to elevated temperatures diffuse, coalesce, and migrate bringing the system from a metastable to equilibrium ground state. The process could be thermally or e-beam activated with estimated energy barrier for sulfur vacancy migration of 0.6 eV in single unit cell MoS 2 . Even at equilibrium conditions, the work function and local density of states values are strongly affected near grain boundaries and edges. The results provide initial estimates of the thermal budgets available for reliable fabrication of MoS 2 -based integrated electronics and indicate the importance of defect control and layer passivation.

Evolution of Metastable Defects and Its Effect on the Electronic Properties of MoS 2 Films

DOE PAGES

Precner, Marian; Polakovic, T.; Qiao, Qiao; ...

2018-04-30

Here, we report on structural and electronic properties of defects in chemical vapor-deposited monolayer and few-layer MoS 2 films. Scanning tunneling microscopy, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to obtain high resolution images and quantitative measurements of the local density of states, work function and nature of defects in MoS 2 films. We track the evolution of defects that are formed under heating and electron beam irradiation. We observe formation of metastable domains with different work function values after annealing the material in ultra-high vacuum to moderate temperatures. We attribute these metastable values of the workmore » function to evolution of crystal defects forming during the annealing. The experiments show that sulfur vacancies formed after exposure to elevated temperatures diffuse, coalesce, and migrate bringing the system from a metastable to equilibrium ground state. The process could be thermally or e-beam activated with estimated energy barrier for sulfur vacancy migration of 0.6 eV in single unit cell MoS 2. Even at equilibrium conditions, the work function and local density of states values are strongly affected near grain boundaries and edges. The results provide initial estimates of the thermal budgets available for reliable fabrication of MoS 2-based integrated electronics and indicate the importance of defect control and layer passivation.« less

Evolution of Metastable Defects and Its Effect on the Electronic Properties of MoS 2 Films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Precner, Marian; Polakovic, T.; Qiao, Qiao

Here, we report on structural and electronic properties of defects in chemical vapor-deposited monolayer and few-layer MoS 2 films. Scanning tunneling microscopy, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to obtain high resolution images and quantitative measurements of the local density of states, work function and nature of defects in MoS 2 films. We track the evolution of defects that are formed under heating and electron beam irradiation. We observe formation of metastable domains with different work function values after annealing the material in ultra-high vacuum to moderate temperatures. We attribute these metastable values of the workmore » function to evolution of crystal defects forming during the annealing. The experiments show that sulfur vacancies formed after exposure to elevated temperatures diffuse, coalesce, and migrate bringing the system from a metastable to equilibrium ground state. The process could be thermally or e-beam activated with estimated energy barrier for sulfur vacancy migration of 0.6 eV in single unit cell MoS 2. Even at equilibrium conditions, the work function and local density of states values are strongly affected near grain boundaries and edges. The results provide initial estimates of the thermal budgets available for reliable fabrication of MoS 2-based integrated electronics and indicate the importance of defect control and layer passivation.« less

Conductive scanning probe microscopy of the semicontinuous gold film and its SERS enhancement toward two-step photo-induced charge transfer and effect of the supportive layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinthiptharakoon, K.; Sapcharoenkun, C.; Nuntawong, N.; Duong, B.; Wutikhun, T.; Treetong, A.; Meemuk, B.; Kasamechonchung, P.; Klamchuen, A.

2018-05-01

The semicontinuous gold film, enabling various electronic applications including development of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate, is investigated using conductive atomic force microscopy (CAFM) and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) to reveal and investigate local electronic characteristics potentially associated with SERS generation of the film material. Although the gold film fully covers the underlying silicon surface, CAFM results reveal that local conductivity of the film is not continuous with insulating nanoislands appearing throughout the surface due to incomplete film percolation. Our analysis also suggests the two-step photo-induced charge transfer (CT) play the dominant role in the enhancement of SERS intensity with strong contribution from free electrons of the silicon support. Silicon-to-gold charge transport is illustrated by KPFM results showing that Fermi level of the gold film is slightly inhomogeneous and far below the silicon conduction band. We propose that inhomogeneity of the film workfunction affecting chemical charge transfer between gold and Raman probe molecule is associated with the SERS intensity varying across the surface. These findings provide deeper understanding of charge transfer mechanism for SERS which can help in design and development of the semicontinuous gold film-based SERS substrate and other electronic applications.

Spatially-resolved mapping of history-dependent coupled electrochemical and electronical behaviors of electroresistive NiO

DOE PAGES

Sugiyama, Issei; Kim, Yunseok; Jesse, Stephen; ...

2014-10-22

Bias-induced oxygen ion dynamics underpins a broad spectrum of electroresistive and memristive phenomena in oxide materials. Although widely studied by device-level and local voltage-current spectroscopies, the relationship between electroresistive phenomena, local electrochemical behaviors, and microstructures remains elusive. Here, the interplay between history-dependent electronic transport and electrochemical phenomena in a NiO single crystalline thin film with a number of well-defined defect types is explored on the nanometer scale using an atomic force microscopy-based technique. A variety of electrochemically-active regions were observed and spatially resolved relationship between the electronic and electrochemical phenomena was revealed. The regions with pronounced electroresistive activity were furthermore » correlated with defects identified by scanning transmission electron microscopy. Using fully coupled mechanical-electrochemical modeling, we illustrate that the spatial distribution of strain plays an important role in electrochemical and electroresistive phenomena. In conclusion, these studies illustrate an approach for simultaneous mapping of the electronic and ionic transport on a single defective structure level such as dislocations or interfaces, and pave the way for creating libraries of defect-specific electrochemical responses.« less

Sequential Immunofluorescent Light Microscopy and Electron Microscopy of Recombination Nodules During Meiotic Prophase I.

PubMed

Anderson, Lorinda K

2017-01-01

Immunolocalization using either fluorescence for light microscopy (LM) or gold particles for electron microscopy (EM) has become a common tool to pinpoint proteins involved in recombination during meiotic prophase. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, LM immunofluorescence is comparatively easier and higher throughput compared to immunogold EM localization. In addition, immunofluorescence has the advantages that a faint signal can often be enhanced by longer exposure times and colocalization using two (or more) probes with different absorbance and emission spectra is straightforward. However, immunofluorescence is not useful if the object of interest does not label with an antibody probe and is below the resolution of the LM. In comparison, immunogold EM localization is higher resolution than immunofluorescent LM localization, and individual nuclear structures, such as recombination nodules, can be identified by EM regardless of whether they are labeled or not. However, immunogold localization has other disadvantages including comparatively low signal-to-noise ratios, more difficult colocalization using gold particles of different sizes, and the inability to evaluate labeling efficiency before examining the sample using EM (a more expensive and time-consuming technique than LM). Here we describe a method that takes advantage of the good points of both immunofluorescent LM and EM to analyze two classes of late recombination nodules (RNs), only one of which labels with antibodies to MLH1 protein, a marker of crossovers. The method can be used readily with other antibodies to analyze early recombination nodules or other prophase I structures.

Defects in paramagnetic Co-doped ZnO films studied by transmission electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kovacs, Andras; Ney, A.; Duchamp, Martial

2013-12-23

We have studied planar defects in epitaxial Co:ZnO dilute magnetic semiconductor thin films deposited on c-plane sapphire (Al2O3) and the Co:ZnO/Al2O3 interface structure at atomic resolution using aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). Comparing Co:ZnO samples deposited by pulsed laser deposition and reactive magnetron sputtering, both exhibit extrinsic stacking faults, incoherent interface structures, and compositional variations within the first 3-4 Co:ZnO layers at the interface.. In addition, we have measured the local strain which reveals the lattice distortion around the stacking faults.

Ultrafast core-loss spectroscopy in four-dimensional electron microscopy

PubMed Central

van der Veen, Renske M.; Penfold, Thomas J.; Zewail, Ahmed H.

2015-01-01

We demonstrate ultrafast core-electron energy-loss spectroscopy in four-dimensional electron microscopy as an element-specific probe of nanoscale dynamics. We apply it to the study of photoexcited graphite with femtosecond and nanosecond resolutions. The transient core-loss spectra, in combination with ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, reveal the elongation of the carbon-carbon bonds, even though the overall behavior is a contraction of the crystal lattice. A prompt energy-gap shrinkage is observed on the picosecond time scale, which is caused by local bond length elongation and the direct renormalization of band energies due to temperature-dependent electron–phonon interactions. PMID:26798793

Control of Wigner localization and electron cavity effects in near-field emission spectra of In(Ga)P/GaInP quantum-dot structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mintairov, A. M.; Kapaldo, J.; Merz, J. L.; Rouvimov, S.; Lebedev, D. V.; Kalyuzhnyy, N. A.; Mintairov, S. A.; Belyaev, K. G.; Rakhlin, M. V.; Toropov, A. A.; Brunkov, P. N.; Vlasov, A. S.; Zadiranov, Yu. M.; Blundell, S. A.; Mozharov, A. M.; Mukhin, I.; Yakimov, M.; Oktyabrsky, S.; Shelaev, A. V.; Bykov, V. A.

2018-05-01

Structural and emission properties of few-electron In(Ga)P/GaInP quantum dots (QDs) representing natural Wigner molecules (WM) and whispering gallery mode (WGM) electron (e ) cavities have been investigated. QD structures were grown using self-organized metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy and deposition from ˜3 to 7 monolayers of InP at 700 °C. Using atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM), and μ -photoluminescence (μ -PL) spectra we obtained In(Ga)P/GaInP QDs having lateral size 80-180 nm, height 5-30 nm, Ga content 0.0-0.4, density 2 -10 μm-2 , and electron population up to 20 and demonstrated control of their density and size distribution. Using high-spatial-resolution low-temperature PL spectra, NSOM imaging, and calculations of charge density distributions we observed Wigner localization and e -cavity effects for a series of dots having quantum confinement ℏ ω0=0.5 -6 meV . We used these data together with time-resolved PL measurements to clarify the effect of Coulomb interaction and WM formation on emission spectra of few-electron QDs. We present direct observation of 2 e , 6 e , and 9 e WMs; 2 e and 4 e WGMs; and Fabry-Perot e modes and establish conditions of e -WGM-cavity formation in these QDs.

Scanning capacitance microscopy of ErAs nanoparticles embedded in GaAs pn junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, K. W.; Nair, H. P.; Crook, A. M.; Bank, S. R.; Yu, E. T.

2011-09-01

Scanning capacitance microscopy is used to characterize the electronic properties of ErAs nanoparticles embedded in GaAs pn junctions grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Voltage-dependent capacitance images reveal localized variations in subsurface electronic structure near buried ErAs nanoparticles at lateral length scales of 20-30 nm. Numerical modeling indicates that these variations arise from inhomogeneities in charge modulation due to Fermi level pinning behavior associated with the embedded ErAs nanoparticles. Statistical analysis of image data yields an average particle radius of 6-8 nm—well below the direct resolution limit in scanning capacitance microscopy but discernible via analysis of patterns in nanoscale capacitance images.

Gold Nanoparticle Quantitation by Whole Cell Tomography.

PubMed

Sanders, Aric W; Jeerage, Kavita M; Schwartz, Cindi L; Curtin, Alexandra E; Chiaramonti, Ann N

2015-12-22

Many proposed biomedical applications for engineered gold nanoparticles require their incorporation by mammalian cells in specific numbers and locations. Here, the number of gold nanoparticles inside of individual mammalian stem cells was characterized using fast focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy based tomography. Enhanced optical microscopy was used to provide a multiscale map of the in vitro sample, which allows cells of interest to be identified within their local environment. Cells were then serially sectioned using a gallium ion beam and imaged using a scanning electron beam. To confirm the accuracy of single cross sections, nanoparticles in similar cross sections were imaged using transmission electron microscopy and scanning helium ion microscopy. Complete tomographic series were then used to count the nanoparticles inside of each cell and measure their spatial distribution. We investigated the influence of slice thickness on counting single particles and clusters as well as nanoparticle packing within clusters. For 60 nm citrate stabilized particles, the nanoparticle cluster packing volume is 2.15 ± 0.20 times the volume of the bare gold nanoparticles.

Epidermal growth factor receptor subunit locations determined in hydrated cells with environmental scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Peckys, Diana B; Baudoin, Jean-Pierre; Eder, Magdalena; Werner, Ulf; de Jonge, Niels

2013-01-01

Imaging single epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) in intact cells is presently limited by the available microscopy methods. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) of whole cells in hydrated state in combination with specific labeling with gold nanoparticles was used to localize activated EGFRs in the plasma membranes of COS7 and A549 cells. The use of a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) detector yielded a spatial resolution of 3 nm, sufficient to identify the locations of individual EGFR dimer subunits. The sizes and distribution of dimers and higher order clusters of EGFRs were determined. The distance between labels bound to dimers amounted to 19 nm, consistent with a molecular model. A fraction of the EGFRs was found in higher order clusters with sizes ranging from 32-56 nm. ESEM can be used for quantitative whole cell screening studies of membrane receptors, and for the study of nanoparticle-cell interactions in general.

Epidermal growth factor receptor subunit locations determined in hydrated cells with environmental scanning electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Peckys, Diana B.; Baudoin, Jean-Pierre; Eder, Magdalena; Werner, Ulf; de Jonge, Niels

2013-01-01

Imaging single epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) in intact cells is presently limited by the available microscopy methods. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) of whole cells in hydrated state in combination with specific labeling with gold nanoparticles was used to localize activated EGFRs in the plasma membranes of COS7 and A549 cells. The use of a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) detector yielded a spatial resolution of 3 nm, sufficient to identify the locations of individual EGFR dimer subunits. The sizes and distribution of dimers and higher order clusters of EGFRs were determined. The distance between labels bound to dimers amounted to 19 nm, consistent with a molecular model. A fraction of the EGFRs was found in higher order clusters with sizes ranging from 32–56 nm. ESEM can be used for quantitative whole cell screening studies of membrane receptors, and for the study of nanoparticle-cell interactions in general. PMID:24022088

Ultrastructural localization of succinate dehydrogenase in some bacteria, after treatment with Lubrol W1.

PubMed

Cherepova, N; Spasova, D; Radoevska, S

2001-01-01

The localization of succinate dehydrogenase in some gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria (Salmonella typhimurium, Pseudomonas pseudomallei, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Listeria monocytogenes) treated with the surface membrane active agent, Lubrol W1, was studied by a cytochemical method combined with electron microscopy.

Electron microscopy study of gold nanoparticles deposited on transition metal oxides.

PubMed

Akita, Tomoki; Kohyama, Masanori; Haruta, Masatake

2013-08-20

Many researchers have investigated the catalytic performance of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) supported on metal oxides for various catalytic reactions of industrial importance. These studies have consistently shown that the catalytic activity and selectivity depend on the size of GNPs, the kind of metal oxide supports, and the gold/metal oxide interface structure. Although researchers have proposed several structural models for the catalytically active sites and have identified the specific electronic structures of GNPs induced by the quantum effect, recent experimental and theoretical studies indicate that the perimeter around GNPs in contact with the metal oxide supports acts as an active site in many reactions. Thus, it is of immense importance to investigate the detailed structures of the perimeters and the contact interfaces of gold/metal oxide systems by using electron microscopy at an atomic scale. This Account describes our investigation, at the atomic scale using electron microscopy, of GNPs deposited on metal oxides. In particular, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) are valuable tools to observe local atomic structures, as has been successfully demonstrated for various nanoparticles, surfaces, and material interfaces. TEM can be applied to real powder catalysts as received without making special specimens, in contrast to what is typically necessary to observe bulk materials. For precise structure analyses at an atomic scale, model catalysts prepared by using well-defined single-crystalline substrates are also adopted for TEM observations. Moreover, aberration-corrected TEM, which has high spatial resolution under 0.1 nm, is a promising tool to observe the interface structure between GNPs and metal oxide supports including oxygen atoms at the interfaces. The oxygen atoms in particular play an important role in the behavior of gold/metal oxide interfaces, because they may participate in catalytic reaction steps. Detailed information about the interfacial structures between GNPs and metal oxides provides valuable structure models for theoretical calculations which can elucidate the local electronic structure effective for activating a reactant molecule. Based on our observations with HRTEM and HAADF-STEM, we report the detailed structure of gold/metal oxide interfaces.

Conduction at domain walls in oxide multiferroics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seidel, J.; Martin, L. W.; He, Q.; Zhan, Q.; Chu, Y.-H.; Rother, A.; Hawkridge, M. E.; Maksymovych, P.; Yu, P.; Gajek, M.; Balke, N.; Kalinin, S. V.; Gemming, S.; Wang, F.; Catalan, G.; Scott, J. F.; Spaldin, N. A.; Orenstein, J.; Ramesh, R.

2009-03-01

Domain walls may play an important role in future electronic devices, given their small size as well as the fact that their location can be controlled. Here, we report the observation of room-temperature electronic conductivity at ferroelectric domain walls in the insulating multiferroic BiFeO3. The origin and nature of the observed conductivity are probed using a combination of conductive atomic force microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and first-principles density functional computations. Our analyses indicate that the conductivity correlates with structurally driven changes in both the electrostatic potential and the local electronic structure, which shows a decrease in the bandgap at the domain wall. Additionally, we demonstrate the potential for device applications of such conducting nanoscale features.

Conduction at domain walls in oxide multiferroics.

PubMed

Seidel, J; Martin, L W; He, Q; Zhan, Q; Chu, Y-H; Rother, A; Hawkridge, M E; Maksymovych, P; Yu, P; Gajek, M; Balke, N; Kalinin, S V; Gemming, S; Wang, F; Catalan, G; Scott, J F; Spaldin, N A; Orenstein, J; Ramesh, R

2009-03-01

Domain walls may play an important role in future electronic devices, given their small size as well as the fact that their location can be controlled. Here, we report the observation of room-temperature electronic conductivity at ferroelectric domain walls in the insulating multiferroic BiFeO(3). The origin and nature of the observed conductivity are probed using a combination of conductive atomic force microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and first-principles density functional computations. Our analyses indicate that the conductivity correlates with structurally driven changes in both the electrostatic potential and the local electronic structure, which shows a decrease in the bandgap at the domain wall. Additionally, we demonstrate the potential for device applications of such conducting nanoscale features.

Visualization of HIV T Cell Virological Synapses and Virus-Containing Compartments by Three-Dimensional Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Wang, Lili; Eng, Edward T.; Law, Kenneth; Gordon, Ronald E.; Rice, William J.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Virological synapses (VS) are adhesive structures that form between infected and uninfected cells to enhance the spread of HIV-1. During T cell VS formation, viral proteins are actively recruited to the site of cell-cell contact where the viral material is efficiently translocated to target cells into heterogeneous, protease-resistant, antibody-inaccessible compartments. Using correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM), we define the membrane topography of the virus-containing compartments (VCC) where HIV is found following VS-mediated transfer. Focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) and serial sectioning transmission electron microscopy (SS-TEM) were used to better resolve the fluorescent Gag-containing structures within the VCC. We found that small punctate fluorescent signals correlated with single viral particles in enclosed vesicular compartments or surface-localized virus particles and that large fluorescent signals correlated with membranous Gag-containing structures with unknown pathological function. CLEM imaging revealed distinct pools of newly deposited viral proteins within endocytic and nonendocytic compartments in VS target T cells. IMPORTANCE This study directly correlates individual virus-associated objects observed in light microscopy with ultrastructural features seen by electron microscopy in the HIV-1 virological synapse. This approach elucidates which infection-associated ultrastructural features represent bona fide HIV protein complexes. We define the morphology of some HIV cell-to-cell transfer intermediates as true endocytic compartments and resolve unique synapse-associated viral structures created by transfer across virological synapses. PMID:27847357

Visualizing buried silicon atoms at the Cd-Si(111)-7 ×7 interface with localized electrons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Min-Long; Xiao, Hua-Fang; Sun, Kai; Tu, Yu-Bing; Yuan, Hong-Kuan; Xiong, Zu-Hong; Wang, Jun-Zhong; Xue, Qi-Kun

2017-09-01

We report the atomic-scale imaging of the buried Cd-Si(111)-7 ×7 interface with a low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The Cd(0001) films grown on Si(111)-7 ×7 reveal the electronic growth mode, and manifest a series of quantum-well states. In the low-bias STM images, not only the 7 ×7 reconstruction but also individual Si adatoms buried by thick Cd islands are clearly visible. The two successive layers of Cd islands exhibit the distinct contrasts due to the quantum size effect. Moreover, we found a small gap appeared at Fermi level owing to the Anderson localization induced by interface scattering. The perfect transparency of Cd films can be attributed to the anisotropic electron motion, i.e., lateral electron localization and transverse motion like free-electron.

Organic nanofibers from squarylium dyes: local morphology, optical, and electrical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balzer, Frank; Schiek, Manuela; Osadnik, Andreas; Lützen, Arne; Rubahn, Horst-Günter

2012-02-01

Environmentally stable, non-toxic squarylium dyes with strong absorption maxima in the red and near infrared spectral region are known for almost fifty years. Despite the fact that their optoelectronic properties distinguish them as promising materials for organics based photovoltaic cells, they have regained attention only very recently. For their application in heterojunction solar cells knowledge of their nanoscopic morphology as well as nanoscopic electrical properties is paramount. In this paper thin films from two different squarylium dyes, from squarylium (SQ) and from hydroxy-squarylium (SQOH) are investigated. The thin films are either solution casted or vacuum sublimed onto substrates such as muscovite mica, which are known to promote self-assembly into oriented, crystalline nanostructures such as nanofibers. Local characterization is performed via (polarized) optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM).

Studies by immune electron microscopy of hepatitis B surface antigen in PLC/PRF/5 cells.

PubMed

Shibayama, T; Watanabe, T; Kojima, H; Yoshikawa, A; Watanabe, S; Kamimura, T; Suzuki, S; Ichida, F

1984-01-01

Electron microscopic studies of the morphology of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) produced by PLC/PRF/5 cells in vitro were carried out. Aggregates of 20-nm spherical particles in 3-day culture supernatants were observed by immune electron microscopy (IEM). Aggregates of tubular structures were found with IEM in the extracts of the cells. Tubular structures 18 to 22 nm in diameter were seen by electron microscopy (EM) in the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum in 2-3% of the cells. The tubular structures in the cytoplasm and extracts of PLC/PRF/5 cells resembled those observed in the hepatocytes of human carriers of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Intracellular localization of HBsAg in PLC/PRF/5 cells by direct peroxidase-conjugated antibody staining was observed on the tubular structures and the cisternal wall, which contained these structures. Rotation technique analysis indicated that the tubular structures were composed of 11 or 12 subunits.

On the chemical homogeneity of In xGa 1–xN alloys – Electron microscopy at the edge of technical limits

DOE PAGES

Specht, Petra; Kisielowski, Christian

2016-08-30

Ternary In xGa 1–xN alloys became technologically attractive when p-doping was achieved to produce blue and green light emitting diodes (LED)s. Starting in the mid 1990th, investigations of their chemical homogeneity were driven by the need to understand carrier recombination mechanisms in optical device structures to optimize their performance. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is the technique of choice to complement optical data evaluations, which suggests the coexistence of local carrier recombination mechanisms based on piezoelectric field effects and on indium clustering in the quantum wells of LEDs. We summarize the historic context of homogeneity investigations using electron microscopy techniques thatmore » can principally resolve the question of indium segregation and clustering in In xGa 1–xN alloys if optimal sample preparation and electron dose-controlled imaging techniques are employed together with advanced data evaluation.« less

Operando x-ray photoelectron emission microscopy for studying forward and reverse biased silicon p-n junctions.

PubMed

Barrett, N; Gottlob, D M; Mathieu, C; Lubin, C; Passicousset, J; Renault, O; Martinez, E

2016-05-01

Significant progress in the understanding of surfaces and interfaces of materials for new technologies requires operando studies, i.e., measurement of chemical, electronic, and magnetic properties under external stimulus (such as mechanical strain, optical illumination, or electric fields) applied in situ in order to approach real operating conditions. Electron microscopy attracts much interest, thanks to its ability to determine semiconductor doping at various scales in devices. Spectroscopic photoelectron emission microscopy (PEEM) is particularly powerful since it combines high spatial and energy resolution, allowing a comprehensive analysis of local work function, chemistry, and electronic structure using secondary, core level, and valence band electrons, respectively. Here we present the first operando spectroscopic PEEM study of a planar Si p-n junction under forward and reverse bias. The method can be used to characterize a vast range of materials at near device scales such as resistive oxides, conducting bridge memories and domain wall arrays in ferroelectrics photovoltaic devices.

Ultrafast Imaging of Chiral Surface Plasmon by Photoemission Electron Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Yanan; Dabrowski, Maciej; Petek, Hrvoje

We employ Time-Resolved Photoemission Electron Microscopy (TR-PEEM) to study surface plasmon polariton (SPP) wave packet dynamics launched by tunable (VIS-UV) femtosecond pulses of various linear and circular polarizations. The plasmonic structures are micron size single-crystalline Ag islands grown in situ on Si surfaces and characterized by Low Energy Electron Microscopy (LEEM). The local fields of plasmonic modes enhance two and three photon photoemission (2PP and 3PP) at the regions of strong field enhancement. Imaging of the photoemission signal with PEEM electron optics thus images the plasmonic fields excited in the samples. The observed PEEM images with left and right circularly polarized light show chiral images, which is a consequence of the transverse spin momentum of surface plasmon. By changing incident light polarization, the plasmon interference pattern shifts with light ellipticity indicating a polarization dependent excitation phase of SPP. In addition, interferometric-time resolved measurements record the asymmetric SPP wave packet motion in order to characterize the dynamical properties of chiral SPP wave packets.

Electrical conduction at domain walls in multiferroic BiFeO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seidel, Jan; Martin, Lane; He, Qing; Zhan, Qian; Chu, Ying-Hao; Rother, Axel; Hawkridge, Michael; Maksymovych, Peter; Yu, Pu; Gajek, Martin; Balke, Nina; Kalinin, Sergei; Gemming, Sybille; Wang, Feng; Catalán, Gustau; Scott, James; Spaldin, Nicola; Orenstein, Joseph; Ramesh, Ramamoorthy

2009-03-01

We report the observation of room temperature electronic conductivity at ferroelectric domain walls in BiFeO3. The origin and nature of the observed conductivity is probed using a combination of conductive atomic force microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and first-principles density functional computations. We show that a structurally driven change in both the electrostatic potential and local electronic structure (i.e., a decrease in band gap) at the domain wall leads to the observed electrical conductivity. We estimate the conductivity in the wall to be several orders of magnitude higher than for the bulk material. Additionally we demonstrate the potential for device applications of such conducting nanoscale features.

Transmission electron microscopy: direct observation of crystal structure in refractory ceramics.

PubMed

Shaw, T M; Thomas, G

1978-11-10

Using high-resolution multibeam interference techniques in the transmission electron microscope, images have been obtained that make possible a real-space structure analysis of a beryllium-silicon-nitrogen compound. The results illustrate the usefulness of lattice imaging in the analysis of local crystal structure in these technologically promising ceramic materials.

Nanoscale deformation analysis with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and digital image correlation

DOE PAGES

Wang, Xueju; Pan, Zhipeng; Fan, Feifei; ...

2015-09-10

We present an application of the digital image correlation (DIC) method to high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images for nanoscale deformation analysis. The combination of DIC and HRTEM offers both the ultrahigh spatial resolution and high displacement detection sensitivity that are not possible with other microscope-based DIC techniques. We demonstrate the accuracy and utility of the HRTEM-DIC technique through displacement and strain analysis on amorphous silicon. Two types of error sources resulting from the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image noise and electromagnetic-lens distortions are quantitatively investigated via rigid-body translation experiments. The local and global DIC approaches are applied for themore » analysis of diffusion- and reaction-induced deformation fields in electrochemically lithiated amorphous silicon. As a result, the DIC technique coupled with HRTEM provides a new avenue for the deformation analysis of materials at the nanometer length scales.« less

Localizing Proteins in Fixed Giardia lamblia and Live Cultured Mammalian Cells by Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy.

PubMed

Nyindodo-Ogari, Lilian; Schwartzbach, Steven D; Skalli, Omar; Estraño, Carlos E

2016-01-01

Confocal fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy (EM) are complementary methods for studying the intracellular localization of proteins. Confocal fluorescence microscopy provides a rapid and technically simple method to identify the organelle in which a protein localizes but only EM can identify the suborganellular compartment in which that protein is present. Confocal fluorescence microscopy, however, can provide information not obtainable by EM but required to understand the dynamics and interactions of specific proteins. In addition, confocal fluorescence microscopy of cells transfected with a construct encoding a protein of interest fused to a fluorescent protein tag allows live cell studies of the subcellular localization of that protein and the monitoring in real time of its trafficking. Immunostaining methods for confocal fluorescence microscopy are also faster and less involved than those for EM allowing rapid optimization of the antibody dilution needed and a determination of whether protein antigenicity is maintained under fixation conditions used for EM immunogold labeling. This chapter details a method to determine by confocal fluorescence microscopy the intracellular localization of a protein by transfecting the organism of interest, in this case Giardia lamblia, with the cDNA encoding the protein of interest and then processing these organisms for double label immunofluorescence staining after chemical fixation. Also presented is a method to identify the organelle targeting information in the presequence of a precursor protein, in this case the presequence of the precursor to the Euglena light harvesting chlorophyll a/b binding protein of photosystem II precursor (pLHCPII), using live cell imaging of mammalian COS7 cells transiently transfected with a plasmid encoding a pLHCPII presequence fluorescent protein fusion and stained with organelle-specific fluorescent dyes.

Phases and interfaces from real space atomically resolved data: Physics-based deep data image analysis

DOE PAGES

Vasudevan, Rama K.; Ziatdinov, Maxim; Jesse, Stephen; ...

2016-08-12

Advances in electron and scanning probe microscopies have led to a wealth of atomically resolved structural and electronic data, often with ~1–10 pm precision. However, knowledge generation from such data requires the development of a physics-based robust framework to link the observed structures to macroscopic chemical and physical descriptors, including single phase regions, order parameter fields, interfaces, and structural and topological defects. Here, we develop an approach based on a synergy of sliding window Fourier transform to capture the local analog of traditional structure factors combined with blind linear unmixing of the resultant 4D data set. This deep data analysismore » is ideally matched to the underlying physics of the problem and allows reconstruction of the a priori unknown structure factors of individual components and their spatial localization. We demonstrate the principles of this approach using a synthetic data set and further apply it for extracting chemical and physically relevant information from electron and scanning tunneling microscopy data. Furthermore, this method promises to dramatically speed up crystallographic analysis in atomically resolved data, paving the road toward automatic local structure–property determinations in crystalline and quasi-ordered systems, as well as systems with competing structural and electronic order parameters.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Jiyuan; Zhang, Zicheng, E-mail: zhangzicheng2004@126.com; Manabe, Ken-ichi

Transformation-induced plasticity aided seamless steel tube comprising of ferrite, bainite, and metastable austenite was processed through forging, piercing, cold-drawing, and two-stage heat treatment. T-shape hydroforming is a classic forming method for experimental research and practical production. The current work studied austenite-to-martensite transformation and microcrack initiation and propagation of the tube during T-shape hydroforming using electron backscattering diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The strain distribution in the bcc-phase and fcc-phase was studied by evaluating changes in the average local misorientation. Compared to the compressive stress, metastable austenite with similar strain surrounding or inside the grains transformed easier undermore » tensile loading conditions. The inclusions were responsible for microcrack initiation. The propagation of the cracks is hindered by martensite/austenite constituent due to transformation induced plasticity effect. The volume fraction of untransformed retained austenite decreased with increase in strain implying transformation-induced plasticity effect. - Highlights: • Hydroformed tubes processed via TRIP concept • EBSD provided estimate of micro local strain. • Retained austenite hinders propagation of microcracks.« less

In situ transmission electron microscopy of lead dendrites and lead ions in aqueous solution.

PubMed

White, Edward R; Singer, Scott B; Augustyn, Veronica; Hubbard, William A; Mecklenburg, Matthew; Dunn, Bruce; Regan, Brian C

2012-07-24

An ideal technique for observing nanoscale assembly would provide atomic-resolution images of both the products and the reactants in real time. Using a transmission electron microscope we image in situ the electrochemical deposition of lead from an aqueous solution of lead(II) nitrate. Both the lead deposits and the local Pb(2+) concentration can be visualized. Depending on the rate of potential change and the potential history, lead deposits on the cathode in a structurally compact layer or in dendrites. In both cases the deposits can be removed and the process repeated. Asperities that persist through many plating and stripping cycles consistently nucleate larger dendrites. Quantitative digital image analysis reveals excellent correlation between changes in the Pb(2+) concentration, the rate of lead deposition, and the current passed by the electrochemical cell. Real-time electron microscopy of dendritic growth dynamics and the associated local ionic concentrations can provide new insight into the functional electrochemistry of batteries and related energy storage technologies.

High-affinity gold nanoparticle pin to label and localize histidine-tagged protein in macromolecular assemblies

PubMed Central

Anthony, Kelsey C.; You, Changjiang; Piehler, Jacob; Pomeranz Krummel, Daniel A.

2014-01-01

SUMMARY There is significant demand for experimental approaches to aid protein localization in electron microscopy micrographs and ultimately in three-dimensional reconstructions of macromolecular assemblies. We report preparation and use of a reagent consisting of tris-nitrilotriacetic acid (tris-NTA) conjugated with a monofunctional gold nanoparticle (AuNPtris-NTA) for site-specific, non-covalent labeling of protein termini fused to a histidine-tag (His-tag). Multivalent binding of tris-NTA to a His-tag via complexed Ni(II) ions results in subnanomolar affinity and a defined 1:1 stoichiometry. Precise localization of AuNPtris-NTA labeled proteins by electron microscopy is further ensured by the reagent’s short conformationally restricted linker. We have employed AuNPtris-NTA to localize His-tagged proteins in an oligomeric ATPase and in the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit. AuNPtris-NTA can specifically bind to the target proteins in these assemblies and is clearly discernible. Our new labeling reagent should find broad application in non-covalent site-specific labeling of protein termini to pinpoint their location in macromolecular assemblies. PMID:24560806

Kelvin probe microscopy and electronic transport measurements in reduced graphene oxide chemical sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kehayias, Christopher E.; MacNaughton, Samuel; Sonkusale, Sameer; Staii, Cristian

2013-06-01

Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is an electronically hybrid material that displays remarkable chemical sensing properties. Here, we present a quantitative analysis of the chemical gating effects in RGO-based chemical sensors. The gas sensing devices are patterned in a field-effect transistor geometry, by dielectrophoretic assembly of RGO platelets between gold electrodes deposited on SiO2/Si substrates. We show that these sensors display highly selective and reversible responses to the measured analytes, as well as fast response and recovery times (tens of seconds). We use combined electronic transport/Kelvin probe microscopy measurements to quantify the amount of charge transferred to RGO due to chemical doping when the device is exposed to electron-acceptor (acetone) and electron-donor (ammonia) analytes. We demonstrate that this method allows us to obtain high-resolution maps of the surface potential and local charge distribution both before and after chemical doping, to identify local gate-susceptible areas on the RGO surface, and to directly extract the contact resistance between the RGO and the metallic electrodes. The method presented is general, suggesting that these results have important implications for building graphene and other nanomaterial-based chemical sensors.

Kelvin probe microscopy and electronic transport measurements in reduced graphene oxide chemical sensors.

PubMed

Kehayias, Christopher E; MacNaughton, Samuel; Sonkusale, Sameer; Staii, Cristian

2013-06-21

Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is an electronically hybrid material that displays remarkable chemical sensing properties. Here, we present a quantitative analysis of the chemical gating effects in RGO-based chemical sensors. The gas sensing devices are patterned in a field-effect transistor geometry, by dielectrophoretic assembly of RGO platelets between gold electrodes deposited on SiO2/Si substrates. We show that these sensors display highly selective and reversible responses to the measured analytes, as well as fast response and recovery times (tens of seconds). We use combined electronic transport/Kelvin probe microscopy measurements to quantify the amount of charge transferred to RGO due to chemical doping when the device is exposed to electron-acceptor (acetone) and electron-donor (ammonia) analytes. We demonstrate that this method allows us to obtain high-resolution maps of the surface potential and local charge distribution both before and after chemical doping, to identify local gate-susceptible areas on the RGO surface, and to directly extract the contact resistance between the RGO and the metallic electrodes. The method presented is general, suggesting that these results have important implications for building graphene and other nanomaterial-based chemical sensors.

Theory and applications of free-electron vortex states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bliokh, K. Y.; Ivanov, I. P.; Guzzinati, G.; Clark, L.; Van Boxem, R.; Béché, A.; Juchtmans, R.; Alonso, M. A.; Schattschneider, P.; Nori, F.; Verbeeck, J.

2017-05-01

Both classical and quantum waves can form vortices : entities with helical phase fronts and circulating current densities. These features determine the intrinsic orbital angular momentum carried by localized vortex states. In the past 25 years, optical vortex beams have become an inherent part of modern optics, with many remarkable achievements and applications. In the past decade, it has been realized and demonstrated that such vortex beams or wavepackets can also appear in free electron waves, in particular, in electron microscopy. Interest in free-electron vortex states quickly spread over different areas of physics: from basic aspects of quantum mechanics, via applications for fine probing of matter (including individual atoms), to high-energy particle collision and radiation processes. Here we provide a comprehensive review of theoretical and experimental studies in this emerging field of research. We describe the main properties of electron vortex states, experimental achievements and possible applications within transmission electron microscopy, as well as the possible role of vortex electrons in relativistic and high-energy processes. We aim to provide a balanced description including a pedagogical introduction, solid theoretical basis, and a wide range of practical details. Special attention is paid to translating theoretical insights into suggestions for future experiments, in electron microscopy and beyond, in any situation where free electrons occur.

Evidence of sharp and diffuse domain walls in BiFeO3 by means of unit-cell-wise strain and polarization maps obtained with high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Lubk, A; Rossell, M D; Seidel, J; He, Q; Yang, S Y; Chu, Y H; Ramesh, R; Hÿtch, M J; Snoeck, E

2012-07-27

Domain walls (DWs) substantially influence a large number of applications involving ferroelectric materials due to their limited mobility when shifted during polarization switching. The discovery of greatly enhanced conduction at BiFeO(3) DWs has highlighted yet another role of DWs as a local material state with unique properties. However, the lack of precise information on the local atomic structure is still hampering microscopical understanding of DW properties. Here, we examine the atomic structure of BiFeO(3) 109° DWs with pm precision by a combination of high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and a dedicated structural analysis. By measuring simultaneously local polarization and strain, we provide direct experimental proof for the straight DW structure predicted by ab initio calculations as well as the recently proposed theory of diffuse DWs, thus resolving a long-standing discrepancy between experimentally measured and theoretically predicted DW mobilities.

Detection of local chemical states of lithium and their spatial mapping by scanning transmission electron microscopy, electron energy-loss spectroscopy and hyperspectral image analysis.

PubMed

Muto, Shunsuke; Tatsumi, Kazuyoshi

2017-02-08

Advancements in the field of renewable energy resources have led to a growing demand for the analysis of light elements at the nanometer scale. Detection of lithium is one of the key issues to be resolved for providing guiding principles for the synthesis of cathode active materials, and degradation analysis after repeated use of those materials. We have reviewed the different techniques currently used for the characterization of light elements such as high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). In the present study, we have introduced a methodology to detect lithium in solid materials, particularly for cathode active materials used in lithium-ion battery. The chemical states of lithium were isolated and analyzed from the overlapping multiple spectral profiles, using a suite of STEM, EELS and hyperspectral image analysis. The method was successfully applied in the chemical state analyses of hetero-phases near the surface and grain boundary regions of the active material particles formed by chemical reactions between the electrolyte and the active materials. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

A new scanning electron microscopy approach to image aerogels at the nanoscale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solá, F.; Hurwitz, F.; Yang, J.

2011-04-01

A new scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique to image poor electrically conductive aerogels is presented. The process can be performed by non-expert SEM users. We showed that negative charging effects on aerogels can be minimized significantly by inserting dry nitrogen gas close to the region of interest. The process involves the local recombination of accumulated negative charges with positive ions generated from ionization processes. This new technique made possible the acquisition of images of aerogels with pores down to approximately 3 nm in diameter using a positively biased Everhart-Thornley (ET) detector.

In situ KPFM imaging of local photovoltaic characteristics of structured organic photovoltaic devices.

PubMed

Watanabe, Satoshi; Fukuchi, Yasumasa; Fukasawa, Masako; Sassa, Takafumi; Kimoto, Atsushi; Tajima, Yusuke; Uchiyama, Masanobu; Yamashita, Takashi; Matsumoto, Mutsuyoshi; Aoyama, Tetsuya

2014-02-12

Here, we discuss the local photovoltaic characteristics of a structured bulk heterojunction, organic photovoltaic devices fabricated with a liquid carbazole, and a fullerene derivative based on analysis by scanning kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM). Periodic photopolymerization induced by an interference pattern from two laser beams formed surface relief gratings (SRG) in the structured films. The surface potential distribution in the SRGs indicates the formation of donor and acceptor spatial distribution. Under illumination, the surface potential reversibly changed because of the generation of fullerene anions and hole transport from the films to substrates, which indicates that we successfully imaged the local photovoltaic characteristics of the structured photovoltaic devices. Using atomic force microscopy, we confirmed the formation of the SRG because of the material migration to the photopolymerized region of the films, which was induced by light exposure through photomasks. The structuring technique allows for the direct fabrication and the control of donor and acceptor spatial distribution in organic photonic and electronic devices with minimized material consumption. This in situ KPFM technique is indispensable to the fabrication of nanoscale electron donor and electron acceptor spatial distribution in the devices.

Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses of low-temperature laser welding of the cornea.

PubMed

Matteini, Paolo; Sbrana, Francesca; Tiribilli, Bruno; Pini, Roberto

2009-07-01

Low-temperature laser welding of the cornea is a technique used to facilitate the closure of corneal cuts. The procedure consists of staining the wound with a chromophore (indocyanine green), followed by continuous wave irradiation with an 810 nm diode laser operated at low power densities (12-16 W/cm(2)), which induces local heating in the 55-65 degrees C range. In this study, we aimed to investigate the ultrastructural modifications in the extracellular matrix following laser welding of corneal wounds by means of atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results evidenced marked disorganization of the normal fibrillar assembly, although collagen appeared not to be denatured under the operating conditions we employed. The mechanism of low-temperature laser welding may be related to some structural modifications of the nonfibrillar extracellular components of the corneal stroma.

Microscopy techniques in flavivirus research.

PubMed

Chong, Mun Keat; Chua, Anthony Jin Shun; Tan, Terence Tze Tong; Tan, Suat Hoon; Ng, Mah Lee

2014-04-01

The Flavivirus genus is composed of many medically important viruses that cause high morbidity and mortality, which include Dengue and West Nile viruses. Various molecular and biochemical techniques have been developed in the endeavour to study flaviviruses. However, microscopy techniques still have irreplaceable roles in the identification of novel virus pathogens and characterization of morphological changes in virus-infected cells. Fluorescence microscopy contributes greatly in understanding the fundamental viral protein localizations and virus-host protein interactions during infection. Electron microscopy remains the gold standard for visualizing ultra-structural features of virus particles and infected cells. New imaging techniques and combinatory applications are continuously being developed to push the limit of resolution and extract more quantitative data. Currently, correlative live cell imaging and high resolution three-dimensional imaging have already been achieved through the tandem use of optical and electron microscopy in analyzing biological specimens. Microscopy techniques are also used to measure protein binding affinities and determine the mobility pattern of proteins in cells. This chapter will consolidate on the applications of various well-established microscopy techniques in flavivirus research, and discuss how recently developed microscopy techniques can potentially help advance our understanding in these membrane viruses. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A method to characterize the roughness of 2-D line features: recrystallization boundaries.

PubMed

Sun, J; Zhang, Y B; Dahl, A B; Conradsen, K; Juul Jensen, D

2017-03-01

A method is presented, which allows quantification of the roughness of nonplanar boundaries of objects for which the neutral plane is not known. The method provides quantitative descriptions of both the local and global characteristics. How the method can be used to estimate the sizes of rough features and local curvatures is also presented. The potential of the method is illustrated by quantification of the roughness of two recrystallization boundaries in a pure Al specimen characterized by scanning electron microscopy. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

Research Update: Spatially resolved mapping of electronic structure on atomic level by multivariate statistical analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belianinov, Alex; Ganesh, Panchapakesan; Lin, Wenzhi; Sales, Brian C.; Sefat, Athena S.; Jesse, Stephen; Pan, Minghu; Kalinin, Sergei V.

2014-12-01

Atomic level spatial variability of electronic structure in Fe-based superconductor FeTe0.55Se0.45 (Tc = 15 K) is explored using current-imaging tunneling-spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical analysis of the data differentiates regions of dissimilar electronic behavior that can be identified with the segregation of chalcogen atoms, as well as boundaries between terminations and near neighbor interactions. Subsequent clustering analysis allows identification of the spatial localization of these dissimilar regions. Similar statistical analysis of modeled calculated density of states of chemically inhomogeneous FeTe1-xSex structures further confirms that the two types of chalcogens, i.e., Te and Se, can be identified by their electronic signature and differentiated by their local chemical environment. This approach allows detailed chemical discrimination of the scanning tunneling microscopy data including separation of atomic identities, proximity, and local configuration effects and can be universally applicable to chemically and electronically inhomogeneous surfaces.

Deformation localization and dislocation channel dynamics in neutron-irradiated austenitic stainless steels

DOE PAGES

Gussev, Maxim N.; Field, Kevin G.; Busby, Jeremy T.

2015-02-24

We investigated dynamics of deformation localization and dislocation channel formation in situ in a neutron irradiated AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel and a model 304-based austenitic alloy by combining several analytical techniques including optic microscopy and laser confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Channel formation was observed at 70% of the formal tensile yield stress for both alloys. It was shown that triple junction points do not always serve as a source of dislocation channels; at stress levels below the yield stress, channels often formed near the middle of the grain boundary. For amore » single grain, the role of elastic stiffness value (Young modulus) in the channel formation was analyzed; it was shown that in the irradiated 304 steels the initial channels appeared in soft grains with a high Schmid factor located near stiff grains with high elastic stiffness. Moreover, the spatial organization of channels in a single grain was analyzed; it was shown that secondary channels operating in the same slip plane as primary channels often appeared at the middle or at one third of the way between primary channels. The twinning nature of dislocation channels was analyzed for grains of different orientation using TEM. Finally, it was shown that in the AISI 304 steel, channels were twin-free in grains oriented close to [001] and [101] of standard unit triangle; [111]-grains and grains oriented close to Schmid factor maximum contained deformation twins.« less

Survival and Intra-Nuclear Trafficking of Burkholderia pseudomallei: Strategies of Evasion from Immune Surveillance?

PubMed

Vadivelu, Jamuna; Vellasamy, Kumutha Malar; Thimma, Jaikumar; Mariappan, Vanitha; Kang, Wen-Tyng; Choh, Leang-Chung; Shankar, Esaki M; Wong, Kum Thong

2017-01-01

During infection, successful bacterial clearance is achieved via the host immune system acting in conjunction with appropriate antibiotic therapy. However, it still remains a tip of the iceberg as to where persistent pathogens namely, Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei) reside/hide to escape from host immune sensors and antimicrobial pressure. We used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to investigate post-mortem tissue sections of patients with clinical melioidosis to identify the localisation of a recently identified gut microbiome, B. pseudomallei within host cells. The intranuclear presence of B. pseudomallei was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of experimentally infected guinea pig spleen tissues and Live Z-stack, and ImageJ analysis of fluorescence microscopy analysis of in vitro infection of A549 human lung epithelial cells. TEM investigations revealed intranuclear localization of B. pseudomallei in cells of infected human lung and guinea pig spleen tissues. We also found that B. pseudomallei induced actin polymerization following infection of A549 human lung epithelial cells. Infected A549 lung epithelial cells using 3D-Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed the intranuclear localization of B. pseudomallei. B. pseudomallei was found within the nuclear compartment of host cells. The nucleus may play a role as an occult or transient niche for persistence of intracellular pathogens, potentially leading to recurrrent episodes or recrudescence of infection.

Survival and Intra-Nuclear Trafficking of Burkholderia pseudomallei: Strategies of Evasion from Immune Surveillance?

PubMed Central

Vadivelu, Jamuna; Vellasamy, Kumutha Malar; Thimma, Jaikumar; Mariappan, Vanitha; Kang, Wen-Tyng; Choh, Leang-Chung; Wong, Kum Thong

2017-01-01

Background During infection, successful bacterial clearance is achieved via the host immune system acting in conjunction with appropriate antibiotic therapy. However, it still remains a tip of the iceberg as to where persistent pathogens namely, Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei) reside/hide to escape from host immune sensors and antimicrobial pressure. Methods We used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to investigate post-mortem tissue sections of patients with clinical melioidosis to identify the localisation of a recently identified gut microbiome, B. pseudomallei within host cells. The intranuclear presence of B. pseudomallei was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of experimentally infected guinea pig spleen tissues and Live Z-stack, and ImageJ analysis of fluorescence microscopy analysis of in vitro infection of A549 human lung epithelial cells. Results TEM investigations revealed intranuclear localization of B. pseudomallei in cells of infected human lung and guinea pig spleen tissues. We also found that B. pseudomallei induced actin polymerization following infection of A549 human lung epithelial cells. Infected A549 lung epithelial cells using 3D-Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed the intranuclear localization of B. pseudomallei. Conclusion B. pseudomallei was found within the nuclear compartment of host cells. The nucleus may play a role as an occult or transient niche for persistence of intracellular pathogens, potentially leading to recurrrent episodes or recrudescence of infection. PMID:28045926

Protein 3D Structure and Electron Microscopy Map Retrieval Using 3D-SURFER2.0 and EM-SURFER.

PubMed

Han, Xusi; Wei, Qing; Kihara, Daisuke

2017-12-08

With the rapid growth in the number of solved protein structures stored in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) and the Electron Microscopy Data Bank (EMDB), it is essential to develop tools to perform real-time structure similarity searches against the entire structure database. Since conventional structure alignment methods need to sample different orientations of proteins in the three-dimensional space, they are time consuming and unsuitable for rapid, real-time database searches. To this end, we have developed 3D-SURFER and EM-SURFER, which utilize 3D Zernike descriptors (3DZD) to conduct high-throughput protein structure comparison, visualization, and analysis. Taking an atomic structure or an electron microscopy map of a protein or a protein complex as input, the 3DZD of a query protein is computed and compared with the 3DZD of all other proteins in PDB or EMDB. In addition, local geometrical characteristics of a query protein can be analyzed using VisGrid and LIGSITE CSC in 3D-SURFER. This article describes how to use 3D-SURFER and EM-SURFER to carry out protein surface shape similarity searches, local geometric feature analysis, and interpretation of the search results. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Extracellular localization of the diterpene sclareol in clary sage (Salvia sclarea L., Lamiaceae).

PubMed

Caissard, Jean-Claude; Olivier, Thomas; Delbecque, Claire; Palle, Sabine; Garry, Pierre-Philippe; Audran, Arthur; Valot, Nadine; Moja, Sandrine; Nicolé, Florence; Magnard, Jean-Louis; Legrand, Sylvain; Baudino, Sylvie; Jullien, Frédéric

2012-01-01

Sclareol is a high-value natural product obtained by solid/liquid extraction of clary sage (Salvia sclarea L.) inflorescences. Because processes of excretion and accumulation of this labdane diterpene are unknown, the aim of this work was to gain knowledge on its sites of accumulation in planta. Samples were collected in natura or during different steps of the industrial process of extraction (steam distillation and solid/liquid extraction). Samples were then analysed with a combination of complementary analytical techniques (gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer, polarized light microscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy, two-photon fluorescence microscopy, second harmonic generation microscopy). According to the literature, it is hypothesized that sclareol is localized in oil pockets of secretory trichomes. This study demonstrates that this is not the case and that sclareol accumulates in a crystalline epicuticular form, mostly on calyces.

Extracellular Localization of the Diterpene Sclareol in Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea L., Lamiaceae)

PubMed Central

Caissard, Jean-Claude; Olivier, Thomas; Delbecque, Claire; Palle, Sabine; Garry, Pierre-Philippe; Audran, Arthur; Valot, Nadine; Moja, Sandrine; Nicolé, Florence; Magnard, Jean-Louis; Legrand, Sylvain; Baudino, Sylvie; Jullien, Frédéric

2012-01-01

Sclareol is a high-value natural product obtained by solid/liquid extraction of clary sage (Salvia sclarea L.) inflorescences. Because processes of excretion and accumulation of this labdane diterpene are unknown, the aim of this work was to gain knowledge on its sites of accumulation in planta. Samples were collected in natura or during different steps of the industrial process of extraction (steam distillation and solid/liquid extraction). Samples were then analysed with a combination of complementary analytical techniques (gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer, polarized light microscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy, two-photon fluorescence microscopy, second harmonic generation microscopy). According to the literature, it is hypothesized that sclareol is localized in oil pockets of secretory trichomes. This study demonstrates that this is not the case and that sclareol accumulates in a crystalline epicuticular form, mostly on calyces. PMID:23133579

Study of Etching Pits in a Large-grain Single Cell Bulk Niobium Cavity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhao, Xin; Ciovati, Gianluigi; Reece, Charles E.

2009-11-01

Performance of SRF cavities are limited by non-linear localized effects. The variation of local material characters between "hot" and "cold" spots is thus of intense interest. Such locations were identified in a BCP-etched large-grain single-cell cavity and removed for examination by high resolution electron microscopy (SEM), electron-back scattering diffraction microscopy (EBSD), optical microscopy, and 3D profilometry. Pits with clearly discernable crystal facets were observed in both "hotspot" and "coldspot" specimens. The pits were found in-grain, at bi-crystal boundaries, and on tri-crystal junctions. They are interpreted as etch pits induced by surface crystal defects (e.g. dislocations). All "coldspots" examined had qualitativelymore » low density of etching pits or very shallow tri-crystal boundary junction. EBSD revealed crystal structure surrounding the pits via crystal phase orientation mapping, while 3D profilometry gave information on the depth and size of the pits. In addition, a survey of the samples by energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) did not show any significant contamination of the samples surface.« less

Correlative 3D imaging of Whole Mammalian Cells with Light and Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Murphy, Gavin E.; Narayan, Kedar; Lowekamp, Bradley C.; Hartnell, Lisa M.; Heymann, Jurgen A. W.; Fu, Jing; Subramaniam, Sriram

2011-01-01

We report methodological advances that extend the current capabilities of ion-abrasion scanning electron microscopy (IA–SEM), also known as focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy, a newly emerging technology for high resolution imaging of large biological specimens in 3D. We establish protocols that enable the routine generation of 3D image stacks of entire plastic-embedded mammalian cells by IA-SEM at resolutions of ~10 to 20 nm at high contrast and with minimal artifacts from the focused ion beam. We build on these advances by describing a detailed approach for carrying out correlative live confocal microscopy and IA–SEM on the same cells. Finally, we demonstrate that by combining correlative imaging with newly developed tools for automated image processing, small 100 nm-sized entities such as HIV-1 or gold beads can be localized in SEM image stacks of whole mammalian cells. We anticipate that these methods will add to the arsenal of tools available for investigating mechanisms underlying host-pathogen interactions, and more generally, the 3D subcellular architecture of mammalian cells and tissues. PMID:21907806

Structural, microstructural and vibrational analyses of the monoclinic tungstate BiLuWO{sub 6}

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ait Ahsaine, H.; Taoufyq, A.; Institut Matériaux Microélectronique et Nanosciences de Provence, IM2NP, UMR CNRS 7334, Université de Toulon, BP 20132, 83957 La Garde Cedex

2014-10-15

The bismuth lutetium tungstate phase BiLuWO{sub 6} has been prepared using a solid state route with stoichiometric mixtures of oxide precursors. The obtained polycrystalline phase has been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman spectroscopy. In the first step, the crystal structure has been refined using Rietveld method: the crystal cell was resolved using monoclinic system (parameters a, b, c, β) with space group A2/m. SEM images showed the presence of large crystallites with a constant local nominal composition (BiLuW). TEM analyses showed that the actual local structure could be better representedmore » by a superlattice (a, 2b, c, β) associated with space groups P2 or P2/m. The Raman spectroscopy showed the presence of vibrational bands similar to those observed in the compounds BiREWO{sub 6} with RE=Y, Gd, Nd. However, these vibrational bands were characterized by large full width at half maximum, probably resulting from the long range Bi/Lu disorder and local WO{sub 6} octahedron distortions in the structure. - Graphical abstract: The average structure of BiLuWO{sub 6} determined from X-ray diffraction data can be represented by A2/m space group. Experimental Electron Diffraction patterns along the [0vw] zone axes of the monoclinic structure and associated simulated patterns show the existence of a monoclinic superstructure with space group P2 or P2/m. - Highlights: • A new monoclinic BiLuWO{sub 6} phase has been elaborated from solid-state reaction. • The space group of the monoclinic disordered average structure should be A2/m. • Transmission electron microscopy leads to a superlattice with P2/m space group. • Raman spectroscopy suggests existence of local disorder.« less

Local Atomic Arrangements and Band Structure of Boron Carbide.

PubMed

Rasim, Karsten; Ramlau, Reiner; Leithe-Jasper, Andreas; Mori, Takao; Burkhardt, Ulrich; Borrmann, Horst; Schnelle, Walter; Carbogno, Christian; Scheffler, Matthias; Grin, Yuri

2018-05-22

Boron carbide, the simple chemical combination of boron and carbon, is one of the best-known binary ceramic materials. Despite that, a coherent description of its crystal structure and physical properties resembles one of the most challenging problems in materials science. By combining ab initio computational studies, precise crystal structure determination from diffraction experiments, and state-of-the-art high-resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging, this concerted investigation reveals hitherto unknown local structure modifications together with the known structural alterations. The mixture of different local atomic arrangements within the real crystal structure reduces the electron deficiency of the pristine structure CBC+B 12 , answering the question about electron precise character of boron carbide and introducing new electronic states within the band gap, which allow a better understanding of physical properties. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xu, Yishuai; Chiu, Janet; Miao, Lin

Three-dimensional topological insulators are bulk insulators with Z 2 topological electronic order that gives rise to conducting light-like surface states. These surface electrons are exceptionally resistant to localization by non-magnetic disorder, and have been adopted as the basis for a wide range of proposals to achieve new quasiparticle species and device functionality. Recent studies have yielded a surprise by showing that in spite of resisting localization, topological insulator surface electrons can be reshaped by defects into distinctive resonance states. Here we use numerical simulations and scanning tunnelling microscopy data to show that these resonance states have significance well beyond themore » localized regime usually associated with impurity bands. Lastly, at native densities in the model Bi 2X 3 (X=Bi, Te) compounds, defect resonance states are predicted to generate a new quantum basis for an emergent electron gas that supports diffusive electrical transport.« less

Correlative two-photon and serial block face scanning electron microscopy in neuronal tissue using 3D near-infrared branding maps.

PubMed

Lees, Robert M; Peddie, Christopher J; Collinson, Lucy M; Ashby, Michael C; Verkade, Paul

2017-01-01

Linking cellular structure and function has always been a key goal of microscopy, but obtaining high resolution spatial and temporal information from the same specimen is a fundamental challenge. Two-photon (2P) microscopy allows imaging deep inside intact tissue, bringing great insight into the structural and functional dynamics of cells in their physiological environment. At the nanoscale, the complex ultrastructure of a cell's environment in tissue can be reconstructed in three dimensions (3D) using serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM). This provides a snapshot of high resolution structural information pertaining to the shape, organization, and localization of multiple subcellular structures at the same time. The pairing of these two imaging modalities in the same specimen provides key information to relate cellular dynamics to the ultrastructural environment. Until recently, approaches to relocate a region of interest (ROI) in tissue from 2P microscopy for SBF-SEM have been inefficient or unreliable. However, near-infrared branding (NIRB) overcomes this by using the laser from a multiphoton microscope to create fiducial markers for accurate correlation of 2P and electron microscopy (EM) imaging volumes. The process is quick and can be user defined for each sample. Here, to increase the efficiency of ROI relocation, multiple NIRB marks are used in 3D to target ultramicrotomy. A workflow is described and discussed to obtain a data set for 3D correlated light and electron microscopy, using three different preparations of brain tissue as examples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Immunohistochemical localization of beta-amyloid precursor protein sequences in Alzheimer and normal brain tissue by light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

McGeer, P L; Akiyama, H; Kawamata, T; Yamada, T; Walker, D G; Ishii, T

1992-03-01

Immunohistochemical staining with antibodies directed against four segments of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) was studied by light and electron microscopy in normal and Alzheimer (AD) brain tissue. The segments according to the Kang et al. sequence were: 18-38 (T97); 527-540 (R36); 597-620 (1-24 of beta-amyloid protein [BAP], R17); and 681-695 (R37) (Kang et al. [1987]: Nature 325:733-736). The antibodies recognized full length APP in Western blots of extracts of APP transfected cells. They stained cytoplasmic granules in some pyramidal neurons in normal appearing tissue from control and AD cases. In AD affected tissue, the antibodies to amino terminal sections of APP stained tangled neurons and neuropil threads, and intensely stained dystrophic neurites in senile plaques. By electron microscopy, this staining was localized to abnormal filaments. The antibody to the carboxy terminal segment failed to stain neurofibrillary tangles or neuropil threads; it did stain some neurites with globular swellings. It also stained globular and elongated deposits in senile plaque areas. The antibody against the BAP intensely stained extracellular material in senile plaques and diffuse deposits. By electron microscopy, the antibodies all stained intramicroglial deposits. Some of the extracellular and intracellular BAP-positive deposits were fibrillary. Communication between intramicroglial and extracellular fibrils was detected in plaque areas. These data suggest the following sequence of events. APP is normally concentrated in intraneuronal granules. In AD, it accumulates in damaged neuronal fibers. The amino terminal portion binds to abnormal neurofilaments. Major fragments of APP are phagocytosed and processed by microglia with the BAP portion being preserved. The preserved BAP is then extruded and accumulates in extracellular tissue.

Delaminated graphene at silicon carbide facets: atomic scale imaging and spectroscopy.

PubMed

Nicotra, Giuseppe; Ramasse, Quentin M; Deretzis, Ioannis; La Magna, Antonino; Spinella, Corrado; Giannazzo, Filippo

2013-04-23

Atomic-resolution structural and spectroscopic characterization techniques (scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy) are combined with nanoscale electrical measurements (conductive atomic force microscopy) to study at the atomic scale the properties of graphene grown epitaxially through the controlled graphitization of a hexagonal SiC(0001) substrate by high temperature annealing. This growth technique is known to result in a pronounced electron-doping (∼10(13) cm(-2)) of graphene, which is thought to originate from an interface carbon buffer layer strongly bound to the substrate. The scanning transmission electron microscopy analysis, carried out at an energy below the knock-on threshold for carbon to ensure no damage is imparted to the film by the electron beam, demonstrates that the buffer layer present on the planar SiC(0001) face delaminates from it on the (112n) facets of SiC surface steps. In addition, electron energy loss spectroscopy reveals that the delaminated layer has a similar electronic configuration to purely sp2-hybridized graphene. These observations are used to explain the local increase of the graphene sheet resistance measured around the surface steps by conductive atomic force microscopy, which we suggest is due to significantly lower substrate-induced doping and a resonant scattering mechanism at the step regions. A first-principles-calibrated theoretical model is proposed to explain the structural instability of the buffer layer on the SiC facets and the resulting delamination.

[Electron microscopic study of the An-750 strain of Powassan virus isolated in the Soviet Union].

PubMed

Sobolev, S G; Shestopalova, N M; Linev, M B; Rubin, S G

1978-01-01

Electron microscopic examinations of brains of white mice inoculated with the An 750 strain isolated for the first time from adult mosquitoes and with the prototype LB strain of Powassan virus were carried out. The method of combination of light and electron microscopy used in the study permitted to compare ultrastructural changes in one cell with the results of light microscopy. Sizes of virions and their localizations in the brain cells were determined. Virus particles were found in large and small neurons as well as in glial elements. Subcellular changes in neurons associated with virus multiplication are described. The causes of differences in sizes of virions measured in ultrathin sections are discussed.

Directional budding of human immunodeficiency virus from monocytes.

PubMed Central

Perotti, M E; Tan, X; Phillips, D M

1996-01-01

Time-lapse cinematography revealed that activated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected monocytes crawl along surfaces, putting forward a leading pseudopod. Scanning electron micrographs showed monocyte pseudopods associated with spherical structures the size of HIV virions, and transmission electron micrographs revealed HIV virions budding from pseudopods. Filamentous actin (F-actin) was localized by electron microscopy in the pseudopod by heavy meromyosin decoration. Colocalization of F-actin and p24 viral antigen by light microscopy immunofluorescence indicated that F-actin and virus were present on the same pseudopod. These observations indicate that monocytes produce virus from a leading pseudopod. We suggest that HIV secretion at the leading edges of donor monocytes/macrophages may be an efficient way for HIV to infect target cells. PMID:8709212

Spectroscopic photon localization microscopy: breaking the resolution limit of single molecule localization microscopy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Biqin; Almassalha, Luay Matthew; Urban, Ben E.; Nguyen, The-Quyen; Khuon, Satya; Chew, Teng-Leong; Backman, Vadim; Sun, Cheng; Zhang, Hao F.

2017-02-01

Distinguishing minute differences in spectroscopic signatures is crucial for revealing the fluorescence heterogeneity among fluorophores to achieve a high molecular specificity. Here we report spectroscopic photon localization microscopy (SPLM), a newly developed far-field spectroscopic imaging technique, to achieve nanoscopic resolution based on the principle of single-molecule localization microscopy while simultaneously uncovering the inherent molecular spectroscopic information associated with each stochastic event (Dong et al., Nature Communications 2016, in press). In SPLM, by using a slit-less monochromator, both the zero-order and the first-order diffractions from a grating were recorded simultaneously by an electron multiplying charge-coupled device to reveal the spatial distribution and the associated emission spectra of individual stochastic radiation events, respectively. As a result, the origins of photon emissions from different molecules can be identified according to their spectral differences with sub-nm spectral resolution, even when the molecules are within close proximity. With the newly developed algorithms including background subtraction and spectral overlap unmixing, we established and tested a method which can significantly extend the fundamental spatial resolution limit of single molecule localization microscopy by molecular discrimination through spectral regression. Taking advantage of this unique capability, we demonstrated improvement in spatial resolution of PALM/STORM up to ten fold with selected fluorophores. This technique can be readily adopted by other research groups to greatly enhance the optical resolution of single molecule localization microscopy without the need to modify their existing staining methods and protocols. This new resolving capability can potentially provide new insights into biological phenomena and enable significant research progress to be made in the life sciences.

Direct Visualization of Local Electromagnetic Field Structures by Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Shibata, Naoya; Findlay, Scott D; Matsumoto, Takao; Kohno, Yuji; Seki, Takehito; Sánchez-Santolino, Gabriel; Ikuhara, Yuichi

2017-07-18

The functional properties of materials and devices are critically determined by the electromagnetic field structures formed inside them, especially at nanointerface and surface regions, because such structures are strongly associated with the dynamics of electrons, holes and ions. To understand the fundamental origin of many exotic properties in modern materials and devices, it is essential to directly characterize local electromagnetic field structures at such defect regions, even down to atomic dimensions. In recent years, rapid progress in the development of high-speed area detectors for aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) with sub-angstrom spatial resolution has opened new possibilities to directly image such electromagnetic field structures at very high-resolution. In this Account, we give an overview of our recent development of differential phase contrast (DPC) microscopy for aberration-corrected STEM and its application to many materials problems. In recent years, we have developed segmented-type STEM detectors which divide the detector plane into 16 segments and enable simultaneous imaging of 16 STEM images which are sensitive to the positions and angles of transmitted/scattered electrons on the detector plane. These detectors also have atomic-resolution imaging capability. Using these segmented-type STEM detectors, we show DPC STEM imaging to be a very powerful tool for directly imaging local electromagnetic field structures in materials and devices in real space. For example, DPC STEM can clearly visualize the local electric field variation due to the abrupt potential change across a p-n junction in a GaAs semiconductor, which cannot be observed by normal in-focus bright-field or annular type dark-field STEM imaging modes. DPC STEM is also very effective for imaging magnetic field structures in magnetic materials, such as magnetic domains and skyrmions. Moreover, real-time imaging of electromagnetic field structures can now be realized through very fast data acquisition, processing, and reconstruction algorithms. If we use DPC STEM for atomic-resolution imaging using a sub-angstrom size electron probe, it has been shown that we can directly observe the atomic electric field inside atoms within crystals and even inside single atoms, the field between the atomic nucleus and the surrounding electron cloud, which possesses information about the atomic species, local chemical bonding and charge redistribution between bonded atoms. This possibility may open an alternative way for directly visualizing atoms and nanostructures, that is, seeing atoms as an entity of electromagnetic fields that reflect the intra- and interatomic electronic structures. In this Account, the current status of aberration-corrected DPC STEM is highlighted, along with some applications in real material and device studies.

Solar powered biohydrogen production requires specific localization of the hydrogenase

DOE PAGES

Burroughs, Nigel J.; Boehm, Marko; Eckert, Carrie; ...

2014-09-04

Cyanobacteria contain a bidirectional [NiFe] hydrogenase which transiently produces hydrogen upon exposure of anoxic cells to light, potentially acting as a “valve” releasing excess electrons from the electron transport chain. However, its interaction with the photosynthetic electron transport chain remains unclear. By GFP-tagging the HoxF diaphorase subunit we show that the hydrogenase is thylakoid associated, comprising a population dispersed uniformly through the thylakoids and a subpopulation localized to discrete puncta in the distal thylakoid. Thylakoid localisation of both the HoxH and HoxY hydrogenase subunits is confirmed by immunogold electron microscopy. The diaphorase HoxE subunit is essential for recruitment to themore » dispersed thylakoid population, potentially anchoring the hydrogenase to the membrane, but aggregation to puncta occurs through a distinct HoxE-independent mechanism. Membrane association does not require NDH-1. Localization is dynamic on a scale of minutes, with anoxia and high light inducing a significant redistribution between these populations in favour of puncta. Lastly, since HoxE is essential for access to its electron donor, electron supply to the hydrogenase depends on a physiologically controlled localization, potentially offering a new avenue to enhance photosynthetic hydrogen production by exploiting localization/aggregation signals.« less

Probing local work function of electron emitting Si-nanofacets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basu, Tanmoy; Som, Tapobrata

2017-10-01

Large area, Si-nanofacets are synthesized by obliquely incident low energy Ar+-ion-beam bombardment at room temperature (RT). The field emission properties of such nanofacets are studied based on current-voltage measurements and the Fowler-Nordheim equation. Low turn-on field with relatively high current density is obtained due to the shape and an overall rough morphology. We demonstrate a tunable field emission property from the silicon nanofacets by varying the ion exposure time. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) in conjunction with Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) measurements provide the information on the aspect ratio and confirms the presence of native oxide layer near the apexes of the facets, respectively. The inhomogeneous oxidation leads to an increase in the local work function at the apexes of the facets, restricting the electron emission from the same. Due to its room temperature fabrication, the present method is of great significance to the low-cost vacuum field emission devices fabrication.

Frequency-domain photoacoustic and fluorescence microscopy: application on labeled and unlabeled cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langer, Gregor; Buchegger, Bianca; Jacak, Jaroslaw; Pfeffer, Karoline; Wohlfarth, Sven; Hannesschläger, Günther; Klar, Thomas A.; Berer, Thomas

2018-02-01

In this paper, multimodal optical-resolution frequency-domain photoacoustic and fluorescence scanning microscopy is presented on labeled and unlabeled cells. In many molecules, excited electrons relax radiatively and non-radiatively, leading to fluorescence and photoacoustic signals, respectively. Both signals can then be detected simultaneously. There also exist molecules, e.g. hemoglobin, which do not exhibit fluorescence, but provide photoacoustic signals solely. Other molecules, especially fluorescent dyes, preferentially exhibit fluorescence. The fluorescence quantum yield of a molecule and with it the strength of photoacoustic and fluorescence signals depends on the local environment, e.g. on the pH. Therefore, the local distribution of the simultaneously recorded photoacoustic and fluorescence signals may be used in order to obtain information about the local chemistry.

ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC STUDY OF THE ATPASE ACTIVITY OF THE BAI STRAIN A (MYELOBLASTOSIS) AVIAN TUMOR VIRUS

PubMed Central

Novikoff, Alex B.; de Thé, Guy; Beard, D.; Beard, J. W.

1962-01-01

Thymus glands of chicks with leukemia induced by BAI strain A (myeloblastosis) virus were fixed in cold 4 per cent formaldehyde-sucrose. Frozen sections were incubated in the ATPase medium of Wachstein and Meisel and studied by light microscopy and electron microscopy. The ATPase activity of the virus is localized to the outermost membrane of the virus. The membrane of the blast-like cells of the thymus cortex from which the virus emerges, by budding, also possesses such activity. It appears likely that the outermost membrane of the virus is derived from the plasma membrane of these cells. PMID:13939125

Imaging quantum transport using scanning gate microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hackens, Benoit

2014-03-01

Quantum transport in nanodevices is usually probed thanks to measurements of the electrical resistance or conductance, which lack the spatial resolution necessary to probe electron behaviour inside the devices. In this talk, we will show that scanning gate microscopy (SGM) yields real-space images of quantum transport phenomena inside archetypal mesoscopic devices such as quantum point contacts and quantum rings. We will first discuss the SGM technique, which is based on mapping the electrical conductance of a device as an electrically-biased sharp metallic tip scans in its vicinity. With SGM, we demonstrated low temperature imaging of the electron probability density and interferences in embedded mesoscopic quantum rings [B. Hackens et al., Nat. Phys. 2, 826 (2006)]. At high magnetic field, thanks to the SGM conductance maps, one can decrypt complex transport phenomena such as tunneling between quantum Hall edge state, either direct or through localized states [B. Hackens et al., Nat. Comm. 1, 39 (2010)]. Moreover, the technique also allows to perform local spectroscopy of electron transport through selected localized states [F. Martins et al., New J. of Phys. 15, 013049 (2013); F. Martins et al., Sci. Rep. 3, 1416 (2013)]. Overall, these examples show that scanning gate microscopy is a powerful tool for imaging charge carrier behavior inside devices fabricated from a variety of materials, and opens the way towards a more intimate manipulation of charge and quasiparticle transport. This work was performed in collaboration with F. Martins, S. Faniel, B. Brun, M. Pala, X. Wallart, L. Desplanque, B. Rosenow, T. Ouisse, H. Sellier, S. Huant and V. Bayot.

Ultrastructural analysis of testicular tissue and sperm by transmission and scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Chemes, Hector E

2013-01-01

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies have provided the basis for an in-depth understanding of the cell biology and normal functioning of the testis and male gametes and have opened the way to characterize the functional role played by specific organelles in spermatogenesis and sperm function. The development of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) extended these boundaries to the recognition of cell and organ surface features and the architectural array of cells and tissues. The merging of immunocytochemical and histochemical approaches with electron microscopy has completed a series of technical improvements that integrate structural and functional features to provide a broad understanding of cell biology in health and disease. With these advances the detailed study of the intricate structural and molecular organization as well as the chemical composition of cellular organelles is now possible. Immunocytochemistry is used to identify proteins or other components and localize them in specific cells or organelles with high specificity and sensitivity, and histochemistry can be used to understand their function (i.e., enzyme activity). When these techniques are used in conjunction with electron microscopy their resolving power is further increased to subcellular levels. In the present chapter we will describe in detail various ultrastructural techniques that are now available for basic or translational research in reproductive biology and reproductive medicine. These include TEM, ultrastructural immunocytochemistry, ultrastructural histochemistry, and SEM.

Growth process, characterization, and modeling of electronic properties of coupled InAsSbP nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marquardt, Oliver; Hickel, Tilmann; Neugebauer, Jörg; Gambaryan, Karen M.; Aroutiounian, Vladimir M.

2011-08-01

Quaternary III-V InAsSbP quantum dots (QDs) have been grown in the form of cooperative InAsSb/InAsP structures using a modified version of the liquid phase epitaxy. High resolution scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry were used to investigate these so-called nano-camomiles, mainly consisting of a central InAsSb QD surrounded by six InAsP-QDs, that shall be referred to as leaves in the following. The observed QDs average density ranges from 0.8 to 2 × 109 cm-2, with heights and widths dimensions from 2 to 20 nm and 5 to 45 nm, respectively. The average density of the leaves is equal to (6-10) × 109 cm-2 with dimensions of approx. 5 to 40 nm in width and depth. To achieve a first basic understanding of the electronic properties, we have modeled these novel nanostructures using second-order continuum elasticity theory and an eight-band k .p model to calculate the electronic structure. Our calculations found a clear localization of hole states in the central InAsSb dot. The localization of electron states, however, was found to be weak and might thus be easily influenced by external electric fields or strain.

Investigation of nanoparticulate silicon as printed layers using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

DOE PAGES

Unuigbe, David M.; Harting, Margit; Jonah, Emmanuel O.; ...

2017-08-21

The presence of native oxide on the surface of silicon nanoparticles is known to inhibit charge transport on the surfaces. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies reveal that the particles in the printed silicon network have a wide range of sizes and shapes. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy reveals that the particle surfaces have mainly the (111)- and (100)-oriented planes which stabilizes against further oxidation of the particles. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements at the O 1s-edge have been utilized to study the oxidation and local atomic structure of printed layers of silicon nanoparticles which were milledmore » for different times. XANES results reveal the presence of the +4 (SiO 2) oxidation state which tends towards the +2 (SiO) state for higher milling times. Si 2pXPS results indicate that the surfaces of the silicon nanoparticles in the printed layers are only partially oxidized and that all three sub-oxide, +1 (Si 2O), +2 (SiO) and +3 (Si 2O 3), states are present. The analysis of the change in the sub-oxide peaks of the silicon nanoparticles shows the dominance of the +4 state only for lower milling times.« less

Imaging the Atomic Position of Light Cations in a Porous Network and the Europium(III) Ion Exchange Capability by Aberration-Corrected Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Mayoral, Alvaro; Hall, Reece M; Jackowska, Roksana; Readman, Jennifer E

2016-12-23

In the present work, ETS-10 microporous titanosilicate has been synthesized and its structure characterized by means of powder XRD and aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (C s -corrected STEM). For the first time, sodium ions have been imaged sitting inside the 7-membered rings. The ion-exchange capability has been tested by the inclusion of rare earth metals (Eu, Tb and Gd) to produce a luminescent material which has been studied by atomic-resolution C s -corrected STEM. The data produced has allowed unambiguous imaging of light atoms in a microporous framework as well as determining the cationic metal positions for the first time, providing evidence of the importance of advanced electron microscopy methods for the study of the local environment of metals within zeolitic supports providing unique information of both systems (guest and support) at the same time. © 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

TEMPy: a Python library for assessment of three-dimensional electron microscopy density fits.

PubMed

Farabella, Irene; Vasishtan, Daven; Joseph, Agnel Praveen; Pandurangan, Arun Prasad; Sahota, Harpal; Topf, Maya

2015-08-01

Three-dimensional electron microscopy is currently one of the most promising techniques used to study macromolecular assemblies. Rigid and flexible fitting of atomic models into density maps is often essential to gain further insights into the assemblies they represent. Currently, tools that facilitate the assessment of fitted atomic models and maps are needed. TEMPy (template and electron microscopy comparison using Python) is a toolkit designed for this purpose. The library includes a set of methods to assess density fits in intermediate-to-low resolution maps, both globally and locally. It also provides procedures for single-fit assessment, ensemble generation of fits, clustering, and multiple and consensus scoring, as well as plots and output files for visualization purposes to help the user in analysing rigid and flexible fits. The modular nature of TEMPy helps the integration of scoring and assessment of fits into large pipelines, making it a tool suitable for both novice and expert structural biologists.

Local 2D-2D tunneling in high mobility electron systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pelliccione, Matthew; Sciambi, Adam; Bartel, John; Goldhaber-Gordon, David; Pfeiffer, Loren; West, Ken; Lilly, Michael; Bank, Seth; Gossard, Arthur

2012-02-01

Many scanning probe techniques have been utilized in recent years to measure local properties of high mobility two-dimensional (2D) electron systems in GaAs. However, most techniques lack the ability to tunnel into the buried 2D system and measure local spectroscopic information. We report scanning gate measurements on a bilayer GaAs/AlGaAs heterostructure that allows for a local modulation of tunneling between two 2D electron layers. We call this technique Virtual Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (VSTM) [1,2] as the influence of the scanning gate is analogous to an STM tip, except at a GaAs/AlGaAs interface instead of a surface. We will discuss the spectroscopic capabilities of the technique, and show preliminary results of measurements on a high mobility 2D electron system.[1] A. Sciambi, M. Pelliccione et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 97, 132103 (2010).[2] A. Sciambi, M. Pelliccione et al., Phys. Rev. B 84, 085301 (2011).

Local light-induced magnetization using nanodots and chiral molecules.

PubMed

Dor, Oren Ben; Morali, Noam; Yochelis, Shira; Baczewski, Lech Tomasz; Paltiel, Yossi

2014-11-12

With the increasing demand for miniaturization, nanostructures are likely to become the primary components of future integrated circuits. Different approaches are being pursued toward achieving efficient electronics, among which are spin electronics devices (spintronics). In principle, the application of spintronics should result in reducing the power consumption of electronic devices. Recently a new, promising, effective approach for spintronics has emerged, using spin selectivity in electron transport through chiral molecules. In this work, using chiral molecules and nanocrystals, we achieve local spin-based magnetization generated optically at ambient temperatures. Through the chiral layer, a spin torque can be transferred without permanent charge transfer from the nanocrystals to a thin ferromagnetic layer, creating local perpendicular magnetization. We used Hall sensor configuration and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to measure the induced local magnetization. At low temperatures, anomalous spin Hall effects were measured using a thin Ni layer. The results may lead to optically controlled spintronics logic devices that will enable low power consumption, high density, and cheap fabrication.

Inducing fluorescence of uranyl acetate as a dual-purpose contrast agent for correlative light-electron microscopy with nanometre precision.

PubMed

Tuijtel, Maarten W; Mulder, Aat A; Posthuma, Clara C; van der Hoeven, Barbara; Koster, Abraham J; Bárcena, Montserrat; Faas, Frank G A; Sharp, Thomas H

2017-09-05

Correlative light-electron microscopy (CLEM) combines the high spatial resolution of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with the capability of fluorescence light microscopy (FLM) to locate rare or transient cellular events within a large field of view. CLEM is therefore a powerful technique to study cellular processes. Aligning images derived from both imaging modalities is a prerequisite to correlate the two microscopy data sets, and poor alignment can limit interpretability of the data. Here, we describe how uranyl acetate, a commonly-used contrast agent for TEM, can be induced to fluoresce brightly at cryogenic temperatures (-195 °C) and imaged by cryoFLM using standard filter sets. This dual-purpose contrast agent can be used as a general tool for CLEM, whereby the equivalent staining allows direct correlation between fluorescence and TEM images. We demonstrate the potential of this approach by performing multi-colour CLEM of cells containing equine arteritis virus proteins tagged with either green- or red-fluorescent protein, and achieve high-precision localization of virus-induced intracellular membrane modifications. Using uranyl acetate as a dual-purpose contrast agent, we achieve an image alignment precision of ~30 nm, twice as accurate as when using fiducial beads, which will be essential for combining TEM with the evolving field of super-resolution light microscopy.

Investigation of local ferroelectric and piezoelectric effects on mats of electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durgaprasad, P.; Hemalatha, J.

2018-04-01

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) fiber mat was synthesized by using electrospinning technique by using DMF/Acetone as mixed solvent. Structural and functional group studies were studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy respectively. The morphology of the fiber mat was investigated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) which revealed the formation of uniform fibers with an average diameter of 500nm. The local ferroelectric, piezo electric properties and also the domain switching of the fiber mats were investigated by Dynamic Contact Electrostatic Force Microscopy (DC-EFM) studies. The peizoelectric/ferroelectric response was recorded and analyzed.

Disorder enabled band structure engineering of a topological insulator surface

DOE PAGES

Xu, Yishuai; Chiu, Janet; Miao, Lin; ...

2017-02-03

Three-dimensional topological insulators are bulk insulators with Z 2 topological electronic order that gives rise to conducting light-like surface states. These surface electrons are exceptionally resistant to localization by non-magnetic disorder, and have been adopted as the basis for a wide range of proposals to achieve new quasiparticle species and device functionality. Recent studies have yielded a surprise by showing that in spite of resisting localization, topological insulator surface electrons can be reshaped by defects into distinctive resonance states. Here we use numerical simulations and scanning tunnelling microscopy data to show that these resonance states have significance well beyond themore » localized regime usually associated with impurity bands. Lastly, at native densities in the model Bi 2X 3 (X=Bi, Te) compounds, defect resonance states are predicted to generate a new quantum basis for an emergent electron gas that supports diffusive electrical transport.« less

Localized to itinerant transition of f electrons in ordered Ce films on W(110)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Q. Y.; Feng, W.; Xie, D. H.; Lai, X. C.; Zhu, X. G.; Huang, L.

2018-04-01

A key issue to understand the driving force and underlying physics in the isostructural γ -α transition in Cerium is the character of the 4 f states, whether it is localized or itinerant. Here the surface topography and electronic structure of the well-ordered Ce metal films on a W(110) substrate were investigated by using scanning tunneling microscopy, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy and density functional theory, and single-site dynamical mean-field theory calculations. Three nearly flat f bands can be observed, and a weakly dispersive quasiparticle band near the Fermi level has been directly observed at low temperature, indicating the hybridization between f electrons and conduction electrons in the low-temperature α phase. The hybridization strength becomes weaker upon increasing temperature, and the f electrons become almost fully localized at 300 K in the high-temperature γ phase. The observed localized-to-itinerant transition of the f electrons with decreasing temperature gives direct experimental proof for the changes of the 4 f character in the isostructural γ -α phase transition. Our results suggest that the character of the f electrons plays a crucial role during the γ -α phase transition.

Molecular-scale properties of MoO3 -doped pentacene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ha, Sieu D.; Meyer, Jens; Kahn, Antoine

2010-10-01

The mechanisms of molecular doping in organic electronic materials are explored through investigation of pentacene p -doped with molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) . Doping is confirmed with ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy. Isolated dopants are imaged at the molecular scale using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and effects due to localized holes are observed. The results demonstrate that donated charges are localized by the counterpotential of ionized dopants in MoO3 -doped pentacene, generalizing similar effects previously observed for pentacene doped with tetrafluoro-tetracyanoquinodimethane. Such localized hole effects are only observed for low molecular weight MoO3 species. It is shown that for larger MoO3 polymers and clusters, the ionized dopant potential is sufficiently large as to mask the effect of the localized hole in STM images. Current-voltage measurements recorded using scanning tunneling spectroscopy reveal that electron conductivity decreases in MoO3 -doped films, as expected for electron capture and p -doping.

Conductivity and local structure in LaNiO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fowlie, Jennifer; Gibert, Marta; Tieri, Giulio; Gloter, Alexandre; à+/-Iguez, Jorge; Filippetti, Alessio; Catalano, Sara; Gariglio, Stefano; StéPhan, Odile; Triscone, Jean-Marc

In this study we approach the thickness-dependence of the properties of LaNiO3 films along multiple, complementary avenues: sophisticated ab initio calculations, scanning transmission electron microscopy and electronic transport. Specifically, we find an unexpected maximum in conductivity in films of thickness 6 - 10 unit cells (3 nm) for several series of LaNiO3 films. Ab initio transport based on the detailed crystal structure also reveals a maximum in conductivity at the same thickness. In agreement with the structure obtained from scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), our simulated structures reveal that the substrate- and surface-induced distortions lead to three types of local structure (heterointerface, interior-layer, surface). Based on this observation, a 3-element parallel conductor model neatly reproduces the trend of conductivity with thickness. This study addresses the question of how structural distortions at the atomic scale evolve in a thin film under the influence of the substrate and the surface. This topic is key to the understanding of the physics of heterostructures and the design of functional oxides.

Simple technique for high-throughput marking of distinguishable micro-areas for microscopy.

PubMed

Henrichs, Leonard F; Chen, L I; Bell, Andrew J

2016-04-01

Today's (nano)-functional materials, usually exhibiting complex physical properties require local investigation with different microscopy techniques covering different physical aspects such as dipolar and magnetic structure. However, often these must be employed on the very same sample position to be able to truly correlate those different information and corresponding properties. This can be very challenging if not impossible especially when samples lack prominent features for orientation. Here, we present a simple but effective method to mark hundreds of approximately 15×15 μm sample areas at one time by using a commercial transmission electron microscopy grid as shadow mask in combination with thin-film deposition. Areas can be easily distinguished when using a reference or finder grid structure as shadow mask. We show that the method is suitable to combine many techniques such as light microscopy, scanning probe microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, we find that best results are achieved when depositing aluminium on a flat sample surface using electron-beam evaporation which ensures good line-of-sight deposition. This inexpensive high-throughput method has several advantageous over other marking techniques such as focused ion-beam processing especially when batch processing or marking of many areas is required. Nevertheless, the technique could be particularly valuable, when used in junction with, for example focused ion-beam sectioning to obtain a thin lamellar of a particular pre-selected area. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Correlative fractography: combining scanning electron microscopy and light microscopes for qualitative and quantitative analysis of fracture surfaces.

PubMed

Hein, Luis Rogerio de Oliveira; de Oliveira, José Alberto; de Campos, Kamila Amato

2013-04-01

Correlative fractography is a new expression proposed here to describe a new method for the association between scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM) for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of fracture surfaces. This article presents a new method involving the fusion of one elevation map obtained by extended depth from focus reconstruction from LM with exactly the same area by SEM and associated techniques, as X-ray mapping. The true topographic information is perfectly associated to local fracture mechanisms with this new technique, presented here as an alternative to stereo-pair reconstruction for the investigation of fractured components. The great advantage of this technique resides in the possibility of combining any imaging methods associated with LM and SEM for the same observed field from fracture surface.

Electron microscopy study of Pd, Ag, and Cs in carbon areas in the locally corroded SiC layer in a neutron-irradiated TRISO fuel particle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wen, Haiming; van Rooyen, Isabella J.; Hunn, John D.

Here, a detailed electron microscopy study was performed on focused ion beam-prepared lamellae from different locations relative to a crack across the inner pyrolytic carbon layer of a neutron-irradiated tristructural isotropic-coated particle. The distribution and composition of fission products across the inner pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide (SiC) layers were studied. Previously, this crack was identified in the particle that released significant inventory fractions of cesium and silver during irradiation and displayed localized palladium pileup with SiC degradation. In this study, carbon areas were found in the SiC layer close to the crack tip and they had precipitates that consistedmore » mostly of palladium silicides or palladium, with silver and/or cadmium frequently identified. Results confirmed that areas in the SiC layer close to the crack tip with localized accumulation of palladium were corroded by palladium, forming pure carbon areas and palladium silicide that provided pathways for silver, cadmium and cesium migration.« less

Modular Detection of GFP-Labeled Proteins for Rapid Screening by Electron Microscopy in Cells and Organisms.

PubMed

Ariotti, Nicholas; Hall, Thomas E; Rae, James; Ferguson, Charles; McMahon, Kerrie-Ann; Martel, Nick; Webb, Robyn E; Webb, Richard I; Teasdale, Rohan D; Parton, Robert G

2015-11-23

Reliable and quantifiable high-resolution protein localization is critical for understanding protein function. However, the time required to clone and characterize any protein of interest is a significant bottleneck, especially for electron microscopy (EM). We present a modular system for enzyme-based protein tagging that allows for improved speed and sampling for analysis of subcellular protein distributions using existing clone libraries to EM-resolution. We demonstrate that we can target a modified soybean ascorbate peroxidase (APEX) to any GFP-tagged protein of interest by engineering a GFP-binding peptide (GBP) directly to the APEX-tag. We demonstrate that APEX-GBP (1) significantly reduces the time required to characterize subcellular protein distributions of whole libraries to less than 3 days, (2) provides remarkable high-resolution localization of proteins to organelle subdomains, and (3) allows EM localization of GFP-tagged proteins, including proteins expressed at endogenous levels, in vivo by crossing existing GFP-tagged transgenic zebrafish lines with APEX-GBP transgenic lines. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Structural, microstructural and vibrational analyses of the monoclinic tungstate BiLuWO6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ait Ahsaine, H.; Taoufyq, A.; Patout, L.; Ezahri, M.; Benlhachemi, A.; Bakiz, B.; Villain, S.; Guinneton, F.; Gavarri, J.-R.

2014-10-01

The bismuth lutetium tungstate phase BiLuWO6 has been prepared using a solid state route with stoichiometric mixtures of oxide precursors. The obtained polycrystalline phase has been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman spectroscopy. In the first step, the crystal structure has been refined using Rietveld method: the crystal cell was resolved using monoclinic system (parameters a, b, c, β) with space group A2/m. SEM images showed the presence of large crystallites with a constant local nominal composition (BiLuW). TEM analyses showed that the actual local structure could be better represented by a superlattice (a, 2b, c, β) associated with space groups P2 or P2/m. The Raman spectroscopy showed the presence of vibrational bands similar to those observed in the compounds BiREWO6 with RE=Y, Gd, Nd. However, these vibrational bands were characterized by large full width at half maximum, probably resulting from the long range Bi/Lu disorder and local WO6 octahedron distortions in the structure.

Compartmentalization of membrane trafficking, glucose transport, glycolysis, actin, tubulin and the proteasome in the cytoplasmic droplet/Hermes body of epididymal sperm.

PubMed

Au, Catherine E; Hermo, Louis; Byrne, Elliot; Smirle, Jeffrey; Fazel, Ali; Kearney, Robert E; Smith, Charles E; Vali, Hojatollah; Fernandez-Rodriguez, Julia; Simon, Paul H G; Mandato, Craig; Nilsson, Tommy; Bergeron, John J M

2015-08-01

Discovered in 1909 by Retzius and described mainly by morphology, the cytoplasmic droplet of sperm (renamed here the Hermes body) is conserved among all mammalian species but largely undefined at the molecular level. Tandem mass spectrometry of the isolated Hermes body from rat epididymal sperm characterized 1511 proteins, 43 of which were localized to the structure in situ by light microscopy and two by quantitative electron microscopy localization. Glucose transporter 3 (GLUT-3) glycolytic enzymes, selected membrane traffic and cytoskeletal proteins were highly abundant and concentrated in the Hermes body. By electron microscope gold antibody labelling, the Golgi trafficking protein TMED7/p27 localized to unstacked flattened cisternae of the Hermes body, as did GLUT-3, the most abundant protein. Its biogenesis was deduced through the mapping of protein expression for all 43 proteins during male germ cell differentiation in the testis. It is at the terminal step 19 of spermiogenesis that the 43 characteristic proteins accumulated in the nascent Hermes body. © 2015 The Authors.

Electron microscopy study of Pd, Ag, and Cs in carbon areas in the locally corroded SiC layer in a neutron-irradiated TRISO fuel particle

DOE PAGES

Wen, Haiming; van Rooyen, Isabella J.; Hunn, John D.; ...

2018-05-07

Here, a detailed electron microscopy study was performed on focused ion beam-prepared lamellae from different locations relative to a crack across the inner pyrolytic carbon layer of a neutron-irradiated tristructural isotropic-coated particle. The distribution and composition of fission products across the inner pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide (SiC) layers were studied. Previously, this crack was identified in the particle that released significant inventory fractions of cesium and silver during irradiation and displayed localized palladium pileup with SiC degradation. In this study, carbon areas were found in the SiC layer close to the crack tip and they had precipitates that consistedmore » mostly of palladium silicides or palladium, with silver and/or cadmium frequently identified. Results confirmed that areas in the SiC layer close to the crack tip with localized accumulation of palladium were corroded by palladium, forming pure carbon areas and palladium silicide that provided pathways for silver, cadmium and cesium migration.« less

High spatial resolution detection of low-energy electrons using an event-counting method, application to point projection microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salançon, Evelyne; Degiovanni, Alain; Lapena, Laurent; Morin, Roger

2018-04-01

An event-counting method using a two-microchannel plate stack in a low-energy electron point projection microscope is implemented. 15 μm detector spatial resolution, i.e., the distance between first-neighbor microchannels, is demonstrated. This leads to a 7 times better microscope resolution. Compared to previous work with neutrons [Tremsin et al., Nucl. Instrum. Methods Phys. Res., Sect. A 592, 374 (2008)], the large number of detection events achieved with electrons shows that the local response of the detector is mainly governed by the angle between the hexagonal structures of the two microchannel plates. Using this method in point projection microscopy offers the prospect of working with a greater source-object distance (350 nm instead of 50 nm), advancing toward atomic resolution.

Investigation of high temperature fracture of T-111 and ASTAR-811C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gold, R. E.

1971-01-01

The high temperature deformation and fracture behavior of T-111 and ASTAR-811C were studied over the temperature range 982 to 2205 C (1800 to 4000 F). As-cast and wrought-recrystallized material as well as GTA welds in sheet and plate were evaluated using conventional tensile and creep tests. Post test examinations were performed using optical metallography, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. A high temperature region of reduced ductility, in terms of tensile elongation, was identified for both alloys. The reduction in tensile elongation became more severe with increase in grain size, being near catastrophic for the as-cast specimens. Optical and electron metallography indicated that even for failures at very low total strain, considerable deformation of a very localized nature had occurred prior to fracture.

Identification of oleoresin in epoxy-embedded slash pine tissue

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Birchem, R.; Brown, C.L.

1978-01-01

Sudan black B stains oleoresin blue-black in epoxy-embedded material as well as in living tissue. The Sudan black B staining properties of oleoresin are similar to those of lipid, but it can be distinguished from tannin, which stains brown. Practically all oleoresin present in resin ducts and intercellular spaces, and much of that contained in epithelial and ray cells, is extracted in preparatory procedures for electron microscopy. A fixation procedure is proposed which preserves significantly more oleoresin in situ. The use of Sudan black B enables one to localize oleoresin by light microscopy, and permits direct comparison of adjacent sectionsmore » of epoxy-embedded material at the ultrastructure level. Ultrastructurally oleoresin and lipid possess similar electron densities and can be distinguished from the highly electron-opaque tannin deposits.« less

Strain-induced phase transformation at the surface of an AISI-304 stainless steel irradiated to 4.4 dpa and deformed to 0.8% strain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gussev, M. N.; Field, K. G.; Busby, J. T.

2014-03-01

Surface relief due to localized deformation in a 4.4-dpa neutron-irradiated AISI 304 stainless steel was investigated using scanning electron microscopy coupled with electron backscattering diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy. It was found a body-centered-cubic (BCC) phase (deformation-induced martensite) had formed at the surface of the deformed specimen along the steps generated from dislocation channels. Martensitic hill-like formations with widths of ˜1 μm and depths of several microns were observed at channels with heights greater than ˜150 nm above the original surface. Martensite at dislocation channels was observed in grains along the [0 0 1]-[1 1 1] orientation but not in those along the [1 0 1] orientation.

Accurate Nanoscale Crystallography in Real-Space Using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Dycus, J Houston; Harris, Joshua S; Sang, Xiahan; Fancher, Chris M; Findlay, Scott D; Oni, Adedapo A; Chan, Tsung-Ta E; Koch, Carl C; Jones, Jacob L; Allen, Leslie J; Irving, Douglas L; LeBeau, James M

2015-08-01

Here, we report reproducible and accurate measurement of crystallographic parameters using scanning transmission electron microscopy. This is made possible by removing drift and residual scan distortion. We demonstrate real-space lattice parameter measurements with <0.1% error for complex-layered chalcogenides Bi2Te3, Bi2Se3, and a Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 nanostructured alloy. Pairing the technique with atomic resolution spectroscopy, we connect local structure with chemistry and bonding. Combining these results with density functional theory, we show that the incorporation of Se into Bi2Te3 causes charge redistribution that anomalously increases the van der Waals gap between building blocks of the layered structure. The results show that atomic resolution imaging with electrons can accurately and robustly quantify crystallography at the nanoscale.

Mapping the local reaction kinetics by PEEM: CO oxidation on individual (100)-type grains of Pt foil

PubMed Central

Vogel, D.; Spiel, C.; Suchorski, Y.; Urich, A.; Schlögl, R.; Rupprechter, G.

2011-01-01

The locally-resolved reaction kinetics of CO oxidation on individual (100)-type grains of a polycrystalline Pt foil was monitored in situ using photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM). Reaction-induced surface morphology changes were studied by optical differential interference contrast microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Regions of high catalytic activity, low activity and bistability in a (p,T)-parameter space were determined, allowing to establish a local kinetic phase diagram for CO oxidation on (100) facets of Pt foil. PEEM observations of the reaction front propagation on Pt(100) domains reveal a high degree of propagation anisotropy both for oxygen and CO fronts on the apparently isotropic Pt(100) surface. The anisotropy vanishes for oxygen fronts at temperatures above 465 K, but is maintained for CO fronts at all temperatures studied, i.e. in the range of 417 to 513 K. A change in the front propagation mechanism is proposed to explain the observed effects. PMID:22140277

Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry for quick detection of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria in environmental water samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Chengjun; Jiang, Fenghua; Gao, Wei; Li, Xiaoyun; Yu, Yanzhen; Yin, Xiaofei; Wang, Yong; Ding, Haibing

2017-01-01

Detection of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria has largely been dependent on targeted gene sequencing technology or traditional cell cultivation, which usually takes from days to months to carry out. This clearly does not meet the requirements of analysis for time-sensitive samples and/or complicated environmental samples. Since energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) can be used to simultaneously detect multiple elements in a sample, including sulfur, with minimal sample treatment, this technology was applied to detect sulfur-oxidizing bacteria using their high sulfur content within the cell. This article describes the application of scanning electron microscopy imaging coupled with EDS mapping for quick detection of sulfur oxidizers in contaminated environmental water samples, with minimal sample handling. Scanning electron microscopy imaging revealed the existence of dense granules within the bacterial cells, while EDS identified large amounts of sulfur within them. EDS mapping localized the sulfur to these granules. Subsequent 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the bacteria detected in our samples belonged to the genus Chromatium, which are sulfur oxidizers. Thus, EDS mapping made it possible to identify sulfur oxidizers in environmental samples based on localized sulfur within their cells, within a short time (within 24 h of sampling). This technique has wide ranging applications for detection of sulfur bacteria in environmental water samples.

[Histologic and ultrastructural studies of the patient died of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection in China].

PubMed

Li, Ning; Zhu, Qing-Yu; Yu, Qi; Wang, Wei; Wang, Yi-Ping

2008-03-01

To explore histopathologic and ultrastructural characteristics of human avian influenza (AI) infection and related etiological pathogenesis. Postmortem lung and heart samples were collected from the patient who died of avian influenza virus infection on November 29, 2003 in China. Light and electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and histochemistry were used to investigate the pathological changes. The main pathological findings included extensive pulmonary consolidation, hemorrhage, pulmonary edema and local hemorrhagic infarct. The lamina of alveoli and bronchioles were abundantly filled with protein-rich fluid, erythrocytes, fibrin and cell debris admixed with many neutrophilis, macrophages, lymphocytes and a few of monokaryon and multinuclear giant cells. Hyaline membranes were formed. Local pulmonary tissues were heavily damaged by hemorrhage and necrosis. Alveolar septum was disintegrated. Mesenchymal edema with a few of macrophages infiltration of heart was found. Electron microscopy showed the avian influenza A virus-like particles (type C and type A) of 80 - 120 nm diameter and envelopes in the cytoplasm of pneumocytes and endothelial cells. Fatal pneumonia associated with highly pathogenic avian influenza A virus (H5N1) infection leads to extensive pulmonary consolidation, edema and marked hemorrhagic necrosis and inflammation. Electron microscopy can identify avian influenza A virus-like particles. The findings may offer an important theoretical basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Analysis of Peroxisome Biogenesis in Pollen by Confocal Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Jia, Peng-Fei; Li, Hong-Ju; Yang, Wei-Cai

2017-01-01

Peroxisome is an essential single-membrane bound organelle in most eukaryotic cells and functions in diverse cellular processes. De novo formation, division, and turnover of peroxisomes contribute to its biogenesis, morphology, and population regulation. In plants, peroxisome plays multiple roles, including metabolism, development, and stress response. Defective peroxisome biogenesis and development retard plant growth, adaption, and reproduction. Through tracing the subcellular localization of fluorescent reporter tagged matrix protein of peroxisome, fluorescence microscopy is a reliable and fast way to detect peroxisome biogenesis. Further fine-structural observation of peroxisome by TEM enables researchers to observe the detailed ultrastructure of its morphology and spatial contact with other organelles. Pollen grain is a specialized structure where two small sperm cells are enclosed in the cytoplasm of a large vegetative cell. Two features make pollen grain a good system to study peroxisome biogenesis: indispensable requirement of peroxisome for germination on the stigma and homogeneity. Here, we describe the methods of studying peroxisome biogenesis in Arabidopsis pollen grains by fluorescent live-imaging with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and by DAB-staining based transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Filling the gap: adding super-resolution to array tomography for correlated ultrastructural and molecular identification of electrical synapses at the C. elegans connectome.

PubMed

Markert, Sebastian Matthias; Britz, Sebastian; Proppert, Sven; Lang, Marietta; Witvliet, Daniel; Mulcahy, Ben; Sauer, Markus; Zhen, Mei; Bessereau, Jean-Louis; Stigloher, Christian

2016-10-01

Correlating molecular labeling at the ultrastructural level with high confidence remains challenging. Array tomography (AT) allows for a combination of fluorescence and electron microscopy (EM) to visualize subcellular protein localization on serial EM sections. Here, we describe an application for AT that combines near-native tissue preservation via high-pressure freezing and freeze substitution with super-resolution light microscopy and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis on the same section. We established protocols that combine SEM with structured illumination microscopy (SIM) and direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM). We devised a method for easy, precise, and unbiased correlation of EM images and super-resolution imaging data using endogenous cellular landmarks and freely available image processing software. We demonstrate that these methods allow us to identify and label gap junctions in Caenorhabditis elegans with precision and confidence, and imaging of even smaller structures is feasible. With the emergence of connectomics, these methods will allow us to fill in the gap-acquiring the correlated ultrastructural and molecular identity of electrical synapses.

Quantum-Sequencing: Biophysics of quantum tunneling through nucleic acids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casamada Ribot, Josep; Chatterjee, Anushree; Nagpal, Prashant

2014-03-01

Tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy has extensively been used in physical surface sciences to study quantum tunneling to measure electronic local density of states of nanomaterials and to characterize adsorbed species. Quantum-Sequencing (Q-Seq) is a new method based on tunneling microscopy for electronic sequencing of single molecule of nucleic acids. A major goal of third-generation sequencing technologies is to develop a fast, reliable, enzyme-free single-molecule sequencing method. Here, we present the unique ``electronic fingerprints'' for all nucleotides on DNA and RNA using Q-Seq along their intrinsic biophysical parameters. We have analyzed tunneling spectra for the nucleotides at different pH conditions and analyzed the HOMO, LUMO and energy gap for all of them. In addition we show a number of biophysical parameters to further characterize all nucleobases (electron and hole transition voltage and energy barriers). These results highlight the robustness of Q-Seq as a technique for next-generation sequencing.

Electron and Fluorescence Microscopy of Extracellular Glucan and Aryl-Alcohol Oxidase during Wheat-Straw Degradation by Pleurotus eryngii

PubMed Central

Barrasa, J. M.; Gutiérrez, A.; Escaso, V.; Guillén, F.; Martínez, M. J.; Martínez, A. T.

1998-01-01

The ligninolytic fungus Pleurotus eryngii grown in liquid medium secreted extracellular polysaccharide (87% glucose) and the H2O2-producing enzyme aryl-alcohol oxidase (AAO). The production of both was stimulated by wheat-straw. Polyclonal antibodies against purified AAO were obtained, and a complex of glucanase and colloidal gold was prepared. With these tools, the localization of AAO and extracellular glucan in mycelium from liquid medium and straw degraded under solid-state fermentation conditions was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence microscopy. These studies revealed that P. eryngii produces a hyphal sheath consisting of a thin glucan layer. This sheath appeared to be involved in both mycelial adhesion to the straw cell wall during degradation and AAO immobilization on hyphal surfaces, with the latter evidenced by double labeling. AAO distribution during differential degradation of straw tissues was observed by immunofluorescence microscopy. Finally, TEM immunogold studies confirmed that AAO penetrates the plant cell wall during P. eryngii degradation of wheat straw. PMID:9435085

Click-electron microscopy for imaging metabolically tagged non-protein biomolecules

PubMed Central

Ngo, John T.; Adams, Stephen R.; Deerinck, Thomas J.; Boassa, Daniela; Rodriguez-Rivera, Frances; Palida, Sakina F.; Bertozzi, Carolyn R.; Ellisman, Mark H.; Tsien, Roger Y.

2016-01-01

Electron microscopy (EM) has long been the main technique to image cell structures with nanometer resolution, but has lagged behind light microscopy in the crucial ability to make specific molecules stand out. Here we introduce “Click-EM,” a labeling technique for correlative light microscopy and EM imaging of non-protein biomolecules. In this approach, metabolic labeling substrates containing bioorthogonal functional groups are provided to cells for incorporation into biopolymers by endogenous biosynthetic machinery. The unique chemical functionality of these analogs is exploited for selective attachment of singlet oxygen-generating fluorescent dyes via bioorthogonal “click chemistry” ligations. Illumination of dye-labeled structures generates singlet oxygen to locally catalyze the polymerization of diaminobenzidine into an osmiophilic reaction product that is readily imaged by EM. We describe the application of Click-EM in imaging metabolically tagged DNA, RNA, and lipids in cultured cells and neurons, and highlight its use in tracking peptidoglycan synthesis in the Gram-positive bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. PMID:27110681

The Secondary Endosymbiotic Bacterium of the Pea Aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (Insecta: Homoptera)

PubMed Central

Fukatsu, Takema; Nikoh, Naruo; Kawai, Rena; Koga, Ryuichi

2000-01-01

The secondary intracellular symbiotic bacterium (S-symbiont) of the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum was investigated to determine its prevalence among strains, its phylogenetic position, its localization in the host insect, its ultrastructure, and the cytology of the endosymbiotic system. A total of 14 aphid strains were examined, and the S-symbiont was detected in 4 Japanese strains by diagnostic PCR. Two types of eubacterial 16S ribosomal DNA sequences were identified in disymbiotic strains; one of these types was obtained from the primary symbiont Buchnera sp., and the other was obtained from the S-symbiont. In situ hybridization and electron microscopy revealed that the S-symbiont was localized not only in the sheath cells but also in a novel type of cells, the secondary mycetocytes (S-mycetocytes), which have not been found previously in A. pisum. The size and shape of the S-symbiont cells were different when we compared the symbionts in the sheath cells and the symbionts in the S-mycetocytes, indicating that the S-symbiont is pleomorphic under different endosymbiotic conditions. Light microscopy, electron microscopy, and diagnostic PCR revealed unequivocally that the hemocoel is also a normal location for the S-symbiont. Occasional disordered localization of S-symbionts was also observed in adult aphids, suggesting that there has been imperfect host-symbiont coadaptation over the short history of coevolution of these organisms. PMID:10877764

Electroluminescence and other diagnostic techniques for the study of hot-electron effects in compound semiconductor devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zanoni, Enrico; Meneghesso, Gaudenzio; Menozzi, Roberto

2000-03-01

Hot electron in III-V FETs can be indirectly monitored by measuring the current coming out from the gate when the device is biased at high electric fields. This negative current is due to the collection of holes generated by impact ionization in the gate-to drain region. Electroluminescence represents a powerful tool in order to characterize not only hot electrons but also material properties. By using spatially resolved emission microscopy it is possible to show that the light due to cold electron/hole recombination is emitted between the gate and the source (low electric field region), while the contribution due to hot electrons is emitted between the gate and the drain (high electric field region). Deep-traps created in the device by hot carriers can be analysed by means of drain current deep level transient spectroscopy and by transconductance frequency dispersion. Cathodoluminescence, optical beam induced current, X-ray spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy in combination with a transmission electron microscopy are powerful tools in order to identify and localize surface modification following hot-electron stress tests.

Research Update: Spatially resolved mapping of electronic structure on atomic level by multivariate statistical analysis

DOE PAGES

Belianinov, Alex; Panchapakesan, G.; Lin, Wenzhi; ...

2014-12-02

Atomic level spatial variability of electronic structure in Fe-based superconductor FeTe0.55Se0.45 (Tc = 15 K) is explored using current-imaging tunneling-spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical analysis of the data differentiates regions of dissimilar electronic behavior that can be identified with the segregation of chalcogen atoms, as well as boundaries between terminations and near neighbor interactions. Subsequent clustering analysis allows identification of the spatial localization of these dissimilar regions. Similar statistical analysis of modeled calculated density of states of chemically inhomogeneous FeTe1 x Sex structures further confirms that the two types of chalcogens, i.e., Te and Se, can be identified by their electronic signaturemore » and differentiated by their local chemical environment. This approach allows detailed chemical discrimination of the scanning tunneling microscopy data including separation of atomic identities, proximity, and local configuration effects and can be universally applicable to chemically and electronically inhomogeneous surfaces.« less

Ripple-modulated electronic structure of a 3D topological insulator.

PubMed

Okada, Yoshinori; Zhou, Wenwen; Walkup, D; Dhital, Chetan; Wilson, Stephen D; Madhavan, V

2012-01-01

Three-dimensional topological insulators host linearly dispersing states with unique properties and a strong potential for applications. An important ingredient in realizing some of the more exotic states in topological insulators is the ability to manipulate local electronic properties. Direct analogy to the Dirac material graphene suggests that a possible avenue for controlling local properties is via a controlled structural deformation such as the formation of ripples. However, the influence of such ripples on topological insulators is yet to be explored. Here we use scanning tunnelling microscopy to determine the effects of one-dimensional buckling on the electronic properties of Bi(2)Te(3.) By tracking spatial variations of the interference patterns generated by the Dirac electrons we show that buckling imposes a periodic potential, which locally modulates the surface-state dispersion. This suggests that forming one- and two-dimensional ripples is a viable method for creating nanoscale potential landscapes that can be used to control the properties of Dirac electrons in topological insulators.

Research Update: Spatially resolved mapping of electronic structure on atomic level by multivariate statistical analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Belianinov, Alex, E-mail: belianinova@ornl.gov; Ganesh, Panchapakesan; Lin, Wenzhi

2014-12-01

Atomic level spatial variability of electronic structure in Fe-based superconductor FeTe{sub 0.55}Se{sub 0.45} (T{sub c} = 15 K) is explored using current-imaging tunneling-spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical analysis of the data differentiates regions of dissimilar electronic behavior that can be identified with the segregation of chalcogen atoms, as well as boundaries between terminations and near neighbor interactions. Subsequent clustering analysis allows identification of the spatial localization of these dissimilar regions. Similar statistical analysis of modeled calculated density of states of chemically inhomogeneous FeTe{sub 1−x}Se{sub x} structures further confirms that the two types of chalcogens, i.e., Te and Se, can be identified bymore » their electronic signature and differentiated by their local chemical environment. This approach allows detailed chemical discrimination of the scanning tunneling microscopy data including separation of atomic identities, proximity, and local configuration effects and can be universally applicable to chemically and electronically inhomogeneous surfaces.« less

Techniques for the Cellular and Subcellular Localization of Endocannabinoid Receptors and Enzymes in the Mammalian Brain.

PubMed

Cristino, Luigia; Imperatore, Roberta; Di Marzo, Vincenzo

2017-01-01

This chapter attempts to piece together knowledge about new advanced microscopy techniques to study the neuroanatomical distribution of endocannabinoid receptors and enzymes at the level of cellular and subcellular structures and organelles in the brain. Techniques ranging from light to electron microscopy up to the new advanced LBM, PALM, and STORM super-resolution microscopy will be discussed in the context of their contribution to define the spatial distribution and organization of receptors and enzymes of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and to better understand ECS brain functions. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differential localization of SAP102 and PSD-95 is revealed in hippocampal spines using super-resolution light microscopy.

PubMed

Zheng, Chan-Ying; Wang, Ya-Xia; Kachar, Bechara; Petralia, Ronald S

2011-01-01

Synapse-associated protein 102 (SAP102) and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD-95) are two major cytoskeleton proteins in the postsynaptic density (PSD). Both of them belong to the membrane-associated guanylate kinase (MAGUK) family, which clusters and anchors glutamate receptors and other proteins at synapses. In our previous study, we found that SAP102 and PSD-95 have different distributions, using combined light/electron microscopy (LM/EM) methods.1 Here, we double labeled endogenous SAP102 and PSD-95 in mature hippocampal neurons, and then took images by two different kinds of super resolution microscopy-Stimulated Emission Depletion microscopy (STED) and DeltaVision OMX 3D super resolution microscopy. We found that our 2D and 3D super resolution data were consistent with our previous LM/EM data, showing significant differences in the localization of SAP102 and PSD-95 in spines: SAP102 is distributed in both the PSD and cytoplasm of spines, while PSD-95 is concentrated only in the PSD area. These results indicate functional differences between SAP102 and PSD-95 in synaptic organization and plasticity.

Polyethyleneimine patterns obtained by laser-transfer assisted by a Dynamic Release Layer onto Themanox soft substrates for cell adhesion study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dinca, V.; Mattle, T.; Palla Papavlu, A.; Rusen, L.; Luculescu, C.; Lippert, T.; Dinescu, M.

2013-08-01

The use of LIFT (Laser Induced Forward Transfer) for localized and high spatial resolution printing of many types of functional organic and inorganic, biological or synthetic materials onto substrates is an effective method in various domains (electronics, sensors, and surface biofunctionalization). Although extensive research has been dedicated to the LIFT process in the last years, there is an increasing interest for combining the advantages of this technique with specific materials characteristics for obtaining localized structures or for creating physical guidance structures that could be used as biological scaffolds. Within this context, we aim to study a new aspect related to combining the advantages of Dynamic Release Layer assisted LIFT (DRL-LIFT) with a soft substrate (i.e. Thermanox) for obtaining surface functionalization with micro and nano "porous" polymeric structures. The structures obtained with different topographical properties were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, optical and fluorescence microscopy. Subsequently, the structures were used as a base for cellular behavior study platforms. Preliminary in vitro tests involving two types of cells, fibroblast and oligodendrocytes, were performed on these LIFT printed platforms.

Unraveling orbital hybridization of triplet emitters at the metal-organic interface.

PubMed

Ewen, Pascal R; Sanning, Jan; Doltsinis, Nikos L; Mauro, Matteo; Strassert, Cristian A; Wegner, Daniel

2013-12-27

We have investigated the structural and electronic properties of phosphorescent planar platinum(II) complexes at the interface of Au(111) with submolecular resolution using combined scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy as well as density functional theory. Our analysis shows that molecule-substrate coupling and lateral intermolecular interactions are weak. While the ligand orbitals remain essentially unchanged upon contact with the substrate, we found modified electronic behavior at the Pt atom due to local hybridization and charge transfer to the substrate. Thus, this novel class of phosphorescent molecules exhibits well-defined and tunable interaction with its local environment.

Local texture and strongly linked conduction in spray-pyrolyzed TlBa2Ca2Cu3O(8+x) deposits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kroeger, D. M.; Goyal, A.; Specht, E. D.; Wang, Z. L.; Tkaczyk, J. E.; Sutliff, J. A.; Deluca, J. A.

Local texture in polycrystalline TlBa2Ca2 Cu3O(8+x) deposits has been determined from transmission electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction patterns and x-ray diffraction. The small-grained deposits had excellent c-axis alignment and contained colonies of grains with similar but not identical a-axis orientations. Most grain boundaries within a colony have small misorientation angles and should not be weak links. It is proposed that long range conduction utilizes a percolative network of small angle grain boundaries at colony intersections.

Sub-diffraction-limit localization imaging of a plasmonic nanoparticle pair with wavelength-resolved dark-field microscopy.

PubMed

Wei, Lin; Ma, Yanhong; Zhu, Xupeng; Xu, Jianghong; Wang, Yaxin; Duan, Huigao; Xiao, Lehui

2017-06-29

In this work, with wavelength-resolved dark-field microscopy, the center-of-mass localization information from nanoparticle pairs (i.e., spherical (45 nm in diameter) and rod (45 × 70 nm) shaped gold nanoparticle pairs with different gap distances and orientations) was explored and compared with the results determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements. When the gap distance was less than 20 nm, the scattering spectrum of the nanoparticle pair was seriously modulated by the plasmonic coupling effect. The measured coordinate information determined by the optical method (Gaussian fitting) was not consistent with the true results determined by SEM measurement. A good correlation between the optical and SEM measurements was achieved when the gap distance was further increased (e.g., 20, 40 and 60 nm). Under these conditions, well-defined scattering peaks assigned to the corresponding individual nanoparticles could be distinguished from the obtained scattering spectrum. These results would afford valuable information for the studies on single plasmonic nanoparticle imaging applications with the optical microscopy method such as super-localization imaging, high precision single particle tracking in a crowding environment and so on.

New Approach to Image Aerogels by Scanning Electron Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solá, Francisco; Hurwitz, Frances; Yang, Jijing

2011-03-01

A new scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique to image poor electrically conductive aerogels is presented. The process can be performed by non-expert SEM users. We showed that negative charging effects on aerogels can be minimized significantly by inserting dry nitrogen gas close to the region of interest. The process involves the local recombination of accumulated negative charges with positive ions generated from ionization processes. This new technique made possible the acquisition of images of aerogels with pores down to approximately 3nm in diameter using a positively biased Everhart-Thornley (E-T) detector. Well-founded concepts based on known models will also be presented with the aim to explain the results qualitatively.

Simultaneous orientation and thickness mapping in transmission electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Tyutyunnikov, Dmitry; Özdöl, V. Burak; Koch, Christoph T.

2014-12-04

In this paper we introduce an approach for simultaneous thickness and orientation mapping of crystalline samples by means of transmission electron microscopy. We show that local thickness and orientation values can be extracted from experimental dark-field (DF) image data acquired at different specimen tilts. The method has been implemented to automatically acquire the necessary data and then map thickness and crystal orientation for a given region of interest. We have applied this technique to a specimen prepared from a commercial semiconductor device, containing multiple 22 nm technology transistor structures. The performance and limitations of our method are discussed and comparedmore » to those of other techniques available.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Shuning; Roy, Amitava; Lichtenberg, Henning

The micro-segmented flow technique was applied for continuous synthesis of ZnO micro- and nanoparticles with short residence times of 9.4 s and 21.4 s, respectively. The obtained particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and photoluminescence spectroscopy were used to determine the size and optical properties of ZnO nanoparticles. In addition, extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy was employed to investigate local structural properties. The EXAFS measurements reveal a larger degree of structural disorder in the nanoparticles than the microparticles. These structural changes should be taken into considerationmore » while evaluating the size-dependent visible emission of ZnO nanoparticles.« less

Structure and location of macronutrients in ancient and alternative crops (abstract)

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Structure, histochemistry and composition of mature seeds of several ancient or alternative crops were studied by light and electron microscopies to localize specific macronutrients including protein, starch, non-starch carbohydrates and lipid. Botanically, these seeds fall into different classifica...

Unravelling surface and interfacial structures of a metal-organic framework by transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Zhu, Yihan; Ciston, Jim; Zheng, Bin; Miao, Xiaohe; Czarnik, Cory; Pan, Yichang; Sougrat, Rachid; Lai, Zhiping; Hsiung, Chia-En; Yao, Kexin; Pinnau, Ingo; Pan, Ming; Han, Yu

2017-05-01

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline porous materials with designable topology, porosity and functionality, having promising applications in gas storage and separation, ion conduction and catalysis. It is challenging to observe MOFs with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) due to the extreme instability of MOFs upon electron beam irradiation. Here, we use a direct-detection electron-counting camera to acquire TEM images of the MOF ZIF-8 with an ultralow dose of 4.1 electrons per square ångström to retain the structural integrity. The obtained image involves structural information transferred up to 2.1 Å, allowing the resolution of individual atomic columns of Zn and organic linkers in the framework. Furthermore, TEM reveals important local structural features of ZIF-8 crystals that cannot be identified by diffraction techniques, including armchair-type surface terminations and coherent interfaces between assembled crystals. These observations allow us to understand how ZIF-8 crystals self-assemble and the subsequent influence of interfacial cavities on mass transport of guest molecules.

Homogeneity of Ge-rich nanostructures as characterized by chemical etching and transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Bollani, Monica; Chrastina, Daniel; Montuori, Valeria; Terziotti, Daniela; Bonera, Emiliano; Vanacore, Giovanni M; Tagliaferri, Alberto; Sordan, Roman; Spinella, Corrado; Nicotra, Giuseppe

2012-02-03

The extension of SiGe technology towards new electronic and optoelectronic applications on the Si platform requires that Ge-rich nanostructures be obtained in a well-controlled manner. Ge deposition on Si substrates usually creates SiGe nanostructures with relatively low and inhomogeneous Ge content. We have realized SiGe nanostructures with a very high (up to 90%) Ge content. Using substrate patterning, a regular array of nanostructures is obtained. We report that electron microscopy reveals an abrupt change in Ge content of about 20% between the filled pit and the island, which has not been observed in other Ge island systems. Dislocations are mainly found within the filled pit and only rarely in the island. Selective chemical etching and electron energy-loss spectroscopy reveal that the island itself is homogeneous. These Ge-rich islands are possible candidates for electronic applications requiring locally induced stress, and optoelectronic applications which exploit the Ge-like band structure of Ge-rich SiGe.

Unravelling surface and interfacial structures of a metal-organic framework by transmission electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yihan; Ciston, Jim; Zheng, Bin; Miao, Xiaohe; Czarnik, Cory; Pan, Yichang; Sougrat, Rachid; Lai, Zhiping; Hsiung, Chia-En; Yao, Kexin; Pinnau, Ingo; Pan, Ming; Han, Yu

2017-05-01

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline porous materials with designable topology, porosity and functionality, having promising applications in gas storage and separation, ion conduction and catalysis. It is challenging to observe MOFs with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) due to the extreme instability of MOFs upon electron beam irradiation. Here, we use a direct-detection electron-counting camera to acquire TEM images of the MOF ZIF-8 with an ultralow dose of 4.1 electrons per square ångström to retain the structural integrity. The obtained image involves structural information transferred up to 2.1 Å, allowing the resolution of individual atomic columns of Zn and organic linkers in the framework. Furthermore, TEM reveals important local structural features of ZIF-8 crystals that cannot be identified by diffraction techniques, including armchair-type surface terminations and coherent interfaces between assembled crystals. These observations allow us to understand how ZIF-8 crystals self-assemble and the subsequent influence of interfacial cavities on mass transport of guest molecules.

High Dynamic Range Pixel Array Detector for Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Tate, Mark W; Purohit, Prafull; Chamberlain, Darol; Nguyen, Kayla X; Hovden, Robert; Chang, Celesta S; Deb, Pratiti; Turgut, Emrah; Heron, John T; Schlom, Darrell G; Ralph, Daniel C; Fuchs, Gregory D; Shanks, Katherine S; Philipp, Hugh T; Muller, David A; Gruner, Sol M

2016-02-01

We describe a hybrid pixel array detector (electron microscope pixel array detector, or EMPAD) adapted for use in electron microscope applications, especially as a universal detector for scanning transmission electron microscopy. The 128×128 pixel detector consists of a 500 µm thick silicon diode array bump-bonded pixel-by-pixel to an application-specific integrated circuit. The in-pixel circuitry provides a 1,000,000:1 dynamic range within a single frame, allowing the direct electron beam to be imaged while still maintaining single electron sensitivity. A 1.1 kHz framing rate enables rapid data collection and minimizes sample drift distortions while scanning. By capturing the entire unsaturated diffraction pattern in scanning mode, one can simultaneously capture bright field, dark field, and phase contrast information, as well as being able to analyze the full scattering distribution, allowing true center of mass imaging. The scattering is recorded on an absolute scale, so that information such as local sample thickness can be directly determined. This paper describes the detector architecture, data acquisition system, and preliminary results from experiments with 80-200 keV electron beams.

Overview about the localization of nanoparticles in tissue and cellular context by different imaging techniques

PubMed Central

Ostrowski, Anja; Nordmeyer, Daniel; Boreham, Alexander; Holzhausen, Cornelia; Mundhenk, Lars; Graf, Christina; Meinke, Martina C; Vogt, Annika; Hadam, Sabrina; Lademann, Jürgen; Rühl, Eckart; Alexiev, Ulrike

2015-01-01

Summary The increasing interest and recent developments in nanotechnology pose previously unparalleled challenges in understanding the effects of nanoparticles on living tissues. Despite significant progress in in vitro cell and tissue culture technologies, observations on particle distribution and tissue responses in whole organisms are still indispensable. In addition to a thorough understanding of complex tissue responses which is the domain of expert pathologists, the localization of particles at their sites of interaction with living structures is essential to complete the picture. In this review we will describe and compare different imaging techniques for localizing inorganic as well as organic nanoparticles in tissues, cells and subcellular compartments. The visualization techniques include well-established methods, such as standard light, fluorescence, transmission electron and scanning electron microscopy as well as more recent developments, such as light and electron microscopic autoradiography, fluorescence lifetime imaging, spectral imaging and linear unmixing, superresolution structured illumination, Raman microspectroscopy and X-ray microscopy. Importantly, all methodologies described allow for the simultaneous visualization of nanoparticles and evaluation of cell and tissue changes that are of prime interest for toxicopathologic studies. However, the different approaches vary in terms of applicability for specific particles, sensitivity, optical resolution, technical requirements and thus availability, and effects of labeling on particle properties. Specific bottle necks of each technology are discussed in detail. Interpretation of particle localization data from any of these techniques should therefore respect their specific merits and limitations as no single approach combines all desired properties. PMID:25671170

Localization of nuclear subunits of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase by the immunocolloidal gold method

PubMed Central

1985-01-01

An immunocolloidal gold electron microscopy method is described allowing the ultrastructural localization and quantitation of the regulatory subunits RI and RII and the catalytic subunit C of cAMP- dependent protein kinase. Using a postembedding indirect immunogold labeling procedure that employs specific antisera, the catalytic and regulatory subunits were localized in electron-dense regions of the nucleus and in cytoplasmic areas with a minimum of nonspecific staining. Antigenic domains were localized in regions of the heterochromatin, nucleolus, interchromatin granules, and in the endoplasmic reticulum of different cell types, such as rat hepatocytes, ovarian granulosa cells, and spermatogonia, as well as cultured H4IIE hepatoma cells. Morphometric quantitation of the relative staining density of nuclear antigens indicated a marked modulation of the number of subunits per unit area under various physiologic conditions. For instance, following partial hepatectomy in rats, the staining density of the nuclear RI and C subunits was markedly increased 16 h after surgery. Glucagon treatment of rats increased the staining density of only the nuclear catalytic subunit. Dibutyryl cAMP treatment of H4IIE hepatoma cells led to a marked increase in the nuclear staining density of all three subunits of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. These studies demonstrate that specific antisera against cAMP-dependent protein kinase subunits may be used in combination with immunogold electron microscopy to identify the ultrastructural location of the subunits and to provide a semi-quantitative estimate of their relative cellular density. PMID:2993318

Plasmon 3D Electron Tomography and Local Electric-Field Enhancement of Engineered Plasmonic Nanoantennas

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Archanjo, B. S.; Vasconcelos, T. L.; Oliveira, B. S.

Plasmonic nano-antennas are pushing the limits of optical imaging resolution capabilities in near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM). Accordingly, these techniques are driving the basic understanding of photonic and optoelectronic nanoscale devices with applications in sensing, energy conversion, solid-state lighting and information technology. Imaging the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) at the nanoscale is a key to understanding the optical responses of a given tip geometry in order to engineer better plasmonic nano-antennas for near-field experiments. In recent years the advancement of focused ion beam technology provides the ability to directly modify plasmonic structures with nanometer resolution. Also, scanning transmission electronmore » microscopy (STEM) with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) is an established technique allowing imaging of LSPR. Specifically, the combination of these two techniques provides spectrally sensitive two-dimensional (2D) imaging information to better visualize and understand LSPR on the nanometer scale. This can be combined with electron tomography to provide the three-dimensional LSPR distribution. Here in this paper we demonstrate the fabrication of Au nano-pyramids using helium ion microscopy, and analyze the LSPR in 3D reconstructions produced by total variation (TV)-norm minimization of a set of 2D STEM-EELS maps. Additionally, a boundary element simulation method was used to verify the experimentally observed nanopyramid LSPR modes. Finally, we show that the point-spread-functions (PSF) of LSPR mode hot spots in nanopyramids differ to local electric-field enhancement under optical excitation making direct comparison to NSOM experimental resolution difficult. However, the STEM-EELS results show how LSPR modes are influenced by the tip characteristics, which can inform the development of new nano-antenna designs.« less

Plasmon 3D Electron Tomography and Local Electric-Field Enhancement of Engineered Plasmonic Nanoantennas

DOE PAGES

Archanjo, B. S.; Vasconcelos, T. L.; Oliveira, B. S.; ...

2018-06-01

Plasmonic nano-antennas are pushing the limits of optical imaging resolution capabilities in near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM). Accordingly, these techniques are driving the basic understanding of photonic and optoelectronic nanoscale devices with applications in sensing, energy conversion, solid-state lighting and information technology. Imaging the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) at the nanoscale is a key to understanding the optical responses of a given tip geometry in order to engineer better plasmonic nano-antennas for near-field experiments. In recent years the advancement of focused ion beam technology provides the ability to directly modify plasmonic structures with nanometer resolution. Also, scanning transmission electronmore » microscopy (STEM) with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) is an established technique allowing imaging of LSPR. Specifically, the combination of these two techniques provides spectrally sensitive two-dimensional (2D) imaging information to better visualize and understand LSPR on the nanometer scale. This can be combined with electron tomography to provide the three-dimensional LSPR distribution. Here in this paper we demonstrate the fabrication of Au nano-pyramids using helium ion microscopy, and analyze the LSPR in 3D reconstructions produced by total variation (TV)-norm minimization of a set of 2D STEM-EELS maps. Additionally, a boundary element simulation method was used to verify the experimentally observed nanopyramid LSPR modes. Finally, we show that the point-spread-functions (PSF) of LSPR mode hot spots in nanopyramids differ to local electric-field enhancement under optical excitation making direct comparison to NSOM experimental resolution difficult. However, the STEM-EELS results show how LSPR modes are influenced by the tip characteristics, which can inform the development of new nano-antenna designs.« less

Nanoscale interplay of strain and doping in a high-temperature superconductor

DOE PAGES

Zeljkovic, Ilija; Gu, Genda; Nieminen, Jouko; ...

2014-11-07

The highest temperature superconductors are electronically inhomogeneous at the nanoscale, suggesting the existence of a local variable which could be harnessed to enhance the superconducting pairing. Here we report the relationship between local doping and local strain in the cuprate superconductor Bi₂Sr₂CaCu₂O₈₊ x. We use scanning tunneling microscopy to discover that the crucial oxygen dopants are periodically distributed, in correlation with local strain. Our picoscale investigation of the intra-unit-cell positions of all oxygen dopants provides essential structural input for a complete microscopic theory.

Not all that glitters is gold-Electron microscopy study on uptake of gold nanoparticles in Daphnia magna and related artifacts.

PubMed

Jensen, Louise Helene Søgaard; Skjolding, Lars Michael; Thit, Amalie; Sørensen, Sara Nørgaard; Købler, Carsten; Mølhave, Kristian; Baun, Anders

2017-06-01

Increasing use of engineered nanoparticles has led to extensive research into their potential hazards to the environment and human health. Cellular uptake from the gut is sparsely investigated, and microscopy techniques applied for uptake studies can result in misinterpretations. Various microscopy techniques were used to investigate internalization of 10-nm gold nanoparticles in Daphnia magna gut lumen and gut epithelial cells following 24-h exposure and outline potential artifacts (i.e., high-contrast precipitates from sample preparation related to these techniques). Light sheet microscopy confirmed accumulation of gold nanoparticles in the gut lumen. Scanning transmission electron microscopy and elemental analysis revealed gold nanoparticles attached to the microvilli of gut cells. Interestingly, the peritrophic membrane appeared to act as a semipermeable barrier between the lumen and the gut epithelium, permitting only single particles through. Structures resembling nanoparticles were also observed inside gut cells. Elemental analysis could not verify these to be gold, and they were likely artifacts from the preparation, such as osmium and iron. Importantly, gold nanoparticles were found inside holocrine cells with disrupted membranes. Thus, false-positive observations of nanoparticle internalization may result from either preparation artifacts or mistaking disrupted cells for intact cells. These findings emphasize the importance of cell integrity and combining elemental analysis with the localization of internalized nanoparticles using transmission electron microscopy. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1503-1509. © 2016 SETAC. © 2016 SETAC.

Unusual inhomogeneous microstructures in charge glass state of PbCrO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurushima, Kosuke; Tsukasaki, Hirofumi; Ogata, Takahiro; Sakai, Yuki; Azuma, Masaki; Ishii, Yui; Mori, Shigeo

2018-05-01

We investigated the microstructures and local structures of perovskite PbCrO3, which shows a metal-to-insulator transition and a 9.8% volume collapse, by electron diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). It is revealed that the charge glass state is characterized by the unique coexistence of the crystalline state with a cubic symmetry on average and the noncrystalline state. HAADF-STEM observation at atomic resolution revealed that Pb ions were displaced from the ideal A site position of the cubic perovskite structure, which gives rise to characteristic diffuse scatterings around the fundamental Bragg reflections. These structural inhomogeneities are crucial to the understanding of the unique physical properties in the charge glass state of PbCrO3.

On the growth mechanisms of polar (100) surfaces of ceria on copper (100)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hackl, Johanna; Duchoň, Tomáš; Gottlob, Daniel M.; Cramm, Stefan; Veltruská, Kateřina; Matolín, Vladimír; Nemšák, Slavomír; Schneider, Claus M.

2018-05-01

We present a study of temperature dependent growth of nano-sized ceria islands on a Cu (100) substrate. Low-energy electron microscopy, micro-electron diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and photoemission electron microscopy are used to determine the morphology, shape, chemical state, and crystal structure of the grown islands. Utilizing real-time observation capabilities, we reveal a three-way interaction between the ceria, substrate, and local oxygen chemical potential. The interaction manifests in the reorientation of terrace boundaries on the Cu (100) substrate, characteristic of the transition between oxidized and metallic surface. The reorientation is initiated at nucleation sites of ceria islands, whose growth direction is influenced by the proximity of the terrace boundaries. The grown ceria islands were identified as fully stoichiometric CeO2 (100) surfaces with a (2 × 2) reconstruction.

Direct imaging of defect formation in strained organic flexible electronics by Scanning Kelvin Probe Microscopy

PubMed Central

Cramer, Tobias; Travaglini, Lorenzo; Lai, Stefano; Patruno, Luca; de Miranda, Stefano; Bonfiglio, Annalisa; Cosseddu, Piero; Fraboni, Beatrice

2016-01-01

The development of new materials and devices for flexible electronics depends crucially on the understanding of how strain affects electronic material properties at the nano-scale. Scanning Kelvin-Probe Microscopy (SKPM) is a unique technique for nanoelectronic investigations as it combines non-invasive measurement of surface topography and surface electrical potential. Here we show that SKPM in non-contact mode is feasible on deformed flexible samples and allows to identify strain induced electronic defects. As an example we apply the technique to investigate the strain response of organic thin film transistors containing TIPS-pentacene patterned on polymer foils. Controlled surface strain is induced in the semiconducting layer by bending the transistor substrate. The amount of local strain is quantified by a mathematical model describing the bending mechanics. We find that the step-wise reduction of device performance at critical bending radii is caused by the formation of nano-cracks in the microcrystal morphology of the TIPS-pentacene film. The cracks are easily identified due to the abrupt variation in SKPM surface potential caused by a local increase in resistance. Importantly, the strong surface adhesion of microcrystals to the elastic dielectric allows to maintain a conductive path also after fracture thus providing the opportunity to attenuate strain effects. PMID:27910889

Correlating electronic transport to atomic structures in self-assembled quantum wires.

PubMed

Qin, Shengyong; Kim, Tae-Hwan; Zhang, Yanning; Ouyang, Wenjie; Weitering, Hanno H; Shih, Chih-Kang; Baddorf, Arthur P; Wu, Ruqian; Li, An-Ping

2012-02-08

Quantum wires, as a smallest electronic conductor, are expected to be a fundamental component in all quantum architectures. The electronic conductance in quantum wires, however, is often dictated by structural instabilities and electron localization at the atomic scale. Here we report on the evolutions of electronic transport as a function of temperature and interwire coupling as the quantum wires of GdSi(2) are self-assembled on Si(100) wire-by-wire. The correlation between structure, electronic properties, and electronic transport are examined by combining nanotransport measurements, scanning tunneling microscopy, and density functional theory calculations. A metal-insulator transition is revealed in isolated nanowires, while a robust metallic state is obtained in wire bundles at low temperature. The atomic defects lead to electron localizations in isolated nanowire, and interwire coupling stabilizes the structure and promotes the metallic states in wire bundles. This illustrates how the conductance nature of a one-dimensional system can be dramatically modified by the environmental change on the atomic scale. © 2012 American Chemical Society

Spatially-resolved studies on the role of defects and boundaries in electronic behavior of 2D materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hus, Saban M.; Li, An-Ping

2017-08-01

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are intrinsically heterogeneous. Both localized defects, such as vacancies and dopants, and mesoscopic boundaries, such as surfaces and interfaces, give rise to compositional or structural heterogeneities. The presence of defects and boundaries can break lattice symmetry, modify the energy landscape, and create quantum confinement, leading to fascinating electronic properties different from the ;ideal; 2D sheets. This review summarizes recent progress in understanding the roles of defects and boundaries in electronic, magnetic, thermoelectric, and transport properties of 2D layered materials. The focus is on the understanding of correlation of atomic-scale structural information with electronic functions by interrogating heterogeneities individually. The materials concerned are graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), and topological insulators (TIs). The experimental investigations benefit from new methodologies and techniques in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), including spin-polarized STM, scanning tunneling potentiometry (STP), scanning tunneling thermopower microscopy, and multi-probe STM. The experimental effort is complemented by the computational and theoretical approaches, capable of discriminating between closely competing states and achieving the length scales necessary to bridge across features such as local defects and complex heterostructures. The goal is to provide a general view of current understanding and challenges in studying the heterogeneities in 2D materials and to evaluate the potential of controlling and exploiting these heterogeneities for novel functionalities and electron devices.

Transmission and scanning electron microscopy study of the characteristics and morphology of pericytes and novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular cells before and after castration in rat anterior pituitary gland.

PubMed

Jindatip, Depicha; Fujiwara, Ken; Kouki, Tom; Yashiro, Takashi

2012-09-01

Pericytes are perivascular cells associated with microcirculation. Typically, they are localized close to the capillary wall, underneath the basement membrane, and have sparse cytoplasm and poorly developed cell organelles. However, the specific properties of pericytes vary by organ and the conditions within organs. We recently demonstrated that pericytes in rat anterior pituitary gland produce type I and III collagens. The present study attempted to determine the morphological characteristics of these pituitary pericytes. Castrated rats were used as a model of hormonal and vascular changes in the gland. Pericytes, as determined by desmin immunohistochemistry, were more numerous and stained more intensely in castrated rats. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that pituitary pericytes displayed the typical characteristics of pericytes. In pituitary sections from castrated rats, the Golgi apparatus of pericytes was well developed and the rough endoplasmic reticulum was elongated. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy revealed four pericyte shapes: oval, elongate, triangular, and multiangular. As compared with normal rats, the proportion of oval pericytes was lower, and the proportions of the other three shapes were higher, in castrated rats. These results suggest that pericytes change their fine structure and cell shape in response to hormonal and vascular changes in the anterior pituitary gland. In addition, a novel type of perivascular cell was found by desmin immunoelectron microscopy. The morphological properties of these cells were dissimilar to those of pericytes. The cells were localized in the perivascular space, had no basement membrane, and contained dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. This new cell type will require further study of its origin and characteristics.

Further description of Aspidodera raillieti (Nematoda: Aspidoderidae) from Didelphis marsupialis (Mammalia: Didelphidae) by light and scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Chagas-Moutinho, V A; Oliveira-Menezes, A; Cárdenas, M Q; Lanfredi, R M

2007-10-01

Nematodes of the family Aspidoderidae (Nematoda: Heterakoidea) Freitas 1956 are widely distributed from Americas. The species of the genus Aspidodera Railliet and Henry 1912 are parasites of mammals of the orders Edentata, Marsupialia, and Rodentia. In the present work, Aspidodera raillieti (L. Travassos, Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 5(3):271-318, 1913), collected from the large intestine of Didelphis marsupialis (Mammalia: Didelphidae) from Valle del Cauca, Colombia, is redescribed. The association of light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) allowed a detailed analysis of the morphology and ultrastructure of this nematode. Some taxonomic features, such as cephalic region, topography of the cuticle, sucker, spicules, posterior end of males, localization of vulva, the anus, and posterior end of females were observed. Important structures such as amphid, details of cephalic region, phasmid, and number and localization of caudal papillae are documented by SEM, for the first time adding characters to identify this species. Colombia is a new geographical record for A. raillieti.

Work function of few layer graphene covered nickel thin films measured with Kelvin probe force microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eren, B.; Material Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, California 94720; Gysin, U.

2016-01-25

Few layer graphene and graphite are simultaneously grown on a ∼100 nm thick polycrystalline nickel film. The work function of few layer graphene/Ni is found to be 4.15 eV with a variation of 50 meV by local measurements with Kelvin probe force microscopy. This value is lower than the work function of free standing graphene due to peculiar electronic structure resulting from metal 3d-carbon 2p(π) hybridization.

Characterization of Localized Corrosion in an Al-Cu-Li Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Chen; Zhang, Xinxin; Zhou, Xiaorong; Sun, Zhihua; Zhang, Xiaoyun; Tang, Zhihui; Lu, Feng; Thompson, George E.

2016-05-01

Corrosion behaviors of recently developed 2A97-T6 aluminum-copper-lithium alloy in sodium chloride solution are investigated using scanning electron and transmission electron microscopies in conjunction with electron backscatter diffraction. It has been found that corrosion product rings were established on the alloy surface as early as 5 min during immersion in sodium chloride solution. Meanwhile, hydrogen continuously evolved from within the rings. Pitting corrosion is evident with crystallographic dependant corrosion channel facets mainly parallel to {100} planes. Non-uniform distribution of misorientation in the 2A97 aluminum alloy results in a portion of grains of relatively high stored energy. Such grains were preferentially attacked, serving as local anodes, during the development of crystallographic pitting.

Fibronectin non-amyloid glomerulopathy.

PubMed

Yong, Jim L; Killingsworth, Murray C; Spicer, S Timothy; Wu, Xiao-Juan

2009-11-20

A 41-year-old Burmese man presented with nephrotic syndrome, a creatinine level of 150 micromol/L and limited clinical history. His renal biopsy demonstrated glomerulopathy with large eosinophilic deposits in the mesangium and capillary loops that were negative for Congo red, slightly positive for periodic acid-Schiff and blue with Masson trichrome stain. Immunofluorescence microscopy with a routine antibody panel was unhelpful. Electron microscopy demonstrated extensive, moderately electron-dense deposits in the subendothelial space, subepithelial space and mesangium that could be differentiated from adjacent basement membrane by their increased electron density. The deposits contained finely granular material and occasional filaments with variable diameter ranging from 9-16 nm. Fibronectin glomerulopathy was suspected from anti-fibronectin immunohistochemistry that showed positive staining of thickened capillary loops. This staining was subsequently confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy demonstrating the presence of cellular fibronectin (cFN) in deposits. Significantly, deposition of fibronectin appeared to have occurred in the absence of thickening or folding of the adjacent basement membrane. The prominent mesangial location of deposits containing a cFN isotype may indicate that retention of local fibronectin produced in the mesangium has contributed to this pathology.

Fibronectin non-amyloid glomerulopathy

PubMed Central

Yong, Jim L; Killingsworth, Murray C; Spicer, S Timothy; Wu, Xiao-Juan

2010-01-01

A 41-year-old Burmese man presented with nephrotic syndrome, a creatinine level of 150 µmol/L and limited clinical history. His renal biopsy demonstrated glomerulopathy with large eosinophilic deposits in the mesangium and capillary loops that were negative for Congo red, slightly positive for periodic acid-Schiff and blue with Masson trichrome stain. Immunofluorescence microscopy with a routine antibody panel was unhelpful. Electron microscopy demonstrated extensive, moderately electron-dense deposits in the subendothelial space, subepithelial space and mesangium that could be differentiated from adjacent basement membrane by their increased electron density. The deposits contained finely granular material and occasional filaments with variable diameter ranging from 9-16 nm. Fibronectin glomerulopathy was suspected from anti-fibronectin immunohistochemistry that showed positive staining of thickened capillary loops. This staining was subsequently confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy demonstrating the presence of cellular fibronectin (cFN) in deposits. Significantly, deposition of fibronectin appeared to have occurred in the absence of thickening or folding of the adjacent basement membrane. The prominent mesangial location of deposits containing a cFN isotype may indicate that retention of local fibronectin produced in the mesangium has contributed to this pathology. PMID:20126589

The Role of Electron Microscopy in Studying the Continuum of Changes in Membranous Structures during Poliovirus Infection

PubMed Central

Rossignol, Evan D.; Yang, Jie E.; Bullitt, Esther

2015-01-01

Replication of the poliovirus genome is localized to cytoplasmic replication factories that are fashioned out of a mixture of viral proteins, scavenged cellular components, and new components that are synthesized within the cell due to viral manipulation/up-regulation of protein and phospholipid synthesis. These membranous replication factories are quite complex, and include markers from multiple cytoplasmic cellular organelles. This review focuses on the role of electron microscopy in advancing our understanding of poliovirus RNA replication factories. Structural data from the literature provide the basis for interpreting a wide range of biochemical studies that have been published on virus-induced lipid biosynthesis. In combination, structural and biochemical experiments elucidate the dramatic membrane remodeling that is a hallmark of poliovirus infection. Temporal and spatial membrane modifications throughout the infection cycle are discussed. Early electron microscopy studies of morphological changes following viral infection are re-considered in light of more recent data on viral manipulation of lipid and protein biosynthesis. These data suggest the existence of distinct subcellular vesicle populations, each of which serves specialized roles in poliovirus replication processes. PMID:26473912

High-resolution structure of the Shigella type-III secretion needle by solid-state NMR and cryo-electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demers, Jean-Philippe; Habenstein, Birgit; Loquet, Antoine; Kumar Vasa, Suresh; Giller, Karin; Becker, Stefan; Baker, David; Lange, Adam; Sgourakis, Nikolaos G.

2014-09-01

We introduce a general hybrid approach for determining the structures of supramolecular assemblies. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) data define the overall envelope of the assembly and rigid-body orientation of the subunits while solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) chemical shifts and distance constraints define the local secondary structure, protein fold and inter-subunit interactions. Finally, Rosetta structure calculations provide a general framework to integrate the different sources of structural information. Combining a 7.7-Å cryo-EM density map and 996 ssNMR distance constraints, the structure of the type-III secretion system needle of Shigella flexneri is determined to a precision of 0.4 Å. The calculated structures are cross-validated using an independent data set of 691 ssNMR constraints and scanning transmission electron microscopy measurements. The hybrid model resolves the conformation of the non-conserved N terminus, which occupies a protrusion in the cryo-EM density, and reveals conserved pore residues forming a continuous pattern of electrostatic interactions, thereby suggesting a mechanism for effector protein translocation.

Magnetic Interactions at the Nanoscale in Trilayer Titanates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Yanwei; Yang, Zhenzhong; Kareev, M.; Liu, Xiaoran; Meyers, D.; Middey, S.; Choudhury, D.; Shafer, P.; Guo, Jiandong; Freeland, J. W.; Arenholz, E.; Gu, Lin; Chakhalian, J.

2016-02-01

We report on the phase diagram of competing magnetic interactions at the nanoscale in engineered ultrathin trilayer heterostructures of LaTiO3 /SrTiO3/YTiO3 , in which the interfacial inversion symmetry is explicitly broken. Combined atomic layer resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy with electron energy loss spectroscopy and electrical transport have confirmed the formation of a spatially separated two-dimensional electron liquid and high density two-dimensional localized magnetic moments at the LaTiO3 /SrTiO3 and SrTiO3 /YTiO3 interfaces, respectively. Resonant soft x-ray linear dichroism spectroscopy has demonstrated the presence of orbital polarization of the conductive LaTiO3 /SrTiO3 and localized SrTiO3 /YTiO3 electrons. Our results provide a route with prospects for exploring new magnetic interfaces, designing a tunable two-dimensional d -electron Kondo lattice, and potential spin Hall applications.

Nature and evolution of incommensurate charge order in manganites visualized with cryogenic scanning transmission electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Savitzky, Benjamin H.; Admasu, Alemayehu S.; Kim, Jaewook; Cheong, Sang-Wook; Hovden, Robert; Kourkoutis, Lena F.

2018-01-01

Incommensurate charge order in hole-doped oxides is intertwined with exotic phenomena such as colossal magnetoresistance, high-temperature superconductivity, and electronic nematicity. Here, we map, at atomic resolution, the nature of incommensurate charge–lattice order in a manganite using scanning transmission electron microscopy at room temperature and cryogenic temperature (∼93 K). In diffraction, the ordering wave vector changes upon cooling, a behavior typically associated with incommensurate order. However, using real space measurements, we discover that the ordered state forms lattice-locked regions over a few wavelengths interspersed with phase defects and changing periodicity. The cations undergo picometer-scale (∼6 pm to 11 pm) transverse displacements, suggesting that charge–lattice coupling is strong. We further unearth phase inhomogeneity in the periodic lattice displacements at room temperature, and emergent phase coherence at 93 K. Such local phase variations govern the long-range correlations of the charge-ordered state and locally change the periodicity of the modulations, resulting in wave vector shifts in reciprocal space. These atomically resolved observations underscore the importance of lattice coupling and phase inhomogeneity, and provide a microscopic explanation for putative “incommensurate” order in hole-doped oxides. PMID:29382750

Three-dimensional nanoscale imaging by plasmonic Brownian microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Labno, Anna; Gladden, Christopher; Kim, Jeongmin; Lu, Dylan; Yin, Xiaobo; Wang, Yuan; Liu, Zhaowei; Zhang, Xiang

2017-12-01

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging at the nanoscale is a key to understanding of nanomaterials and complex systems. While scanning probe microscopy (SPM) has been the workhorse of nanoscale metrology, its slow scanning speed by a single probe tip can limit the application of SPM to wide-field imaging of 3D complex nanostructures. Both electron microscopy and optical tomography allow 3D imaging, but are limited to the use in vacuum environment due to electron scattering and to optical resolution in micron scales, respectively. Here we demonstrate plasmonic Brownian microscopy (PBM) as a way to improve the imaging speed of SPM. Unlike photonic force microscopy where a single trapped particle is used for a serial scanning, PBM utilizes a massive number of plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) under Brownian diffusion in solution to scan in parallel around the unlabeled sample object. The motion of NPs under an evanescent field is three-dimensionally localized to reconstruct the super-resolution topology of 3D dielectric objects. Our method allows high throughput imaging of complex 3D structures over a large field of view, even with internal structures such as cavities that cannot be accessed by conventional mechanical tips in SPM.

Immunolocalization of thymosin alpha 1, thymopoietin and thymulin in mouse thymic epithelial cells at different stages of culture: a light and electron microscopic study.

PubMed Central

Fabien, N; Auger, C; Monier, J C

1988-01-01

The secretory evolution of the thymic hormones (thymulin, thymosin alpha 1 and thymopoietin) in cultured thymic reticuloepithelial cells (TREC) was studied by immunocytochemical techniques using monoclonal anti-thymulin or anti-thymosin alpha 1 and polyclonal anti-thymopoietin antibodies (Ab). The culture of TREC was performed with a medium where L-valine was replaced by D-valine, thus ensuring rapid and selective development of these cells. The number of thymulin, thymosin alpha 1 or thymopoietin-containing cells increased progressively from Day 6 to Day 12 of the culture. The localization of the three thymic hormones within the TREC also varied according to the age of the culture. By light microscopy the staining of the three hormones was localized in some cytoplasmic granules at the beginning of the culture and at Day 90, while at Day 12 it was throughout the cytoplasm. In electron microscopy these localizations corresponded respectively to vacuoles of different sizes and to cytosol. All these results show that the synthesis and excretion of thymulin, thymosin alpha 1 and thymopoietin evolve during the development of TREC in culture. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 PMID:3284819

Characterization of etch pits found on a large-grain bulk niobium superconducting radio-frequency resonant cavity

DOE PAGES

Zhao, Xin; Ciovati, G.; Bieler, T. R.

2010-12-15

The performance of superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) resonant cavities made of bulk niobium is limited by nonlinear localized effects. Surface analysis of regions of higher power dissipation is thus of intense interest. Such areas (referred to as “hotspots”) were identified in a large-grain single-cell cavity that had been buffered-chemical polished and dissected for examination by high resolution electron microscopy, electron backscattered diffraction microscopy (EBSD), and optical microscopy. Pits with clearly discernible crystal facets were observed in both “hotspot” and “coldspot” specimens. The pits were found in-grain, at bicrystal boundaries, and on tricrystal junctions. They are interpreted as etch pits induced bymore » crystal defects (e.g. dislocations). All coldspots examined had a qualitatively lower density of etch pits or relatively smooth tricrystal boundary junctions. EBSD mapping revealed the crystal orientation surrounding the pits. Locations with high pit density are correlated with higher mean values of the local average misorientation angle distributions, indicating a higher geometrically necessary dislocation content. In addition, a survey of the samples by energy dispersive x-ray analysis did not show any significant contamination of the samples’ surface. In conclusion, the local magnetic field enhancement produced by the sharp-edge features observed on the samples is not sufficient to explain the observed degradation of the cavity quality factor, which starts at peak surface magnetic field as low as 20 mT.« less

Aldehyde dehydrogenase, Ald4p, is a major component of mitochondrial fluorescent inclusion bodies in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

PubMed Central

Misonou, Yoshiko; Kikuchi, Maiko; Sato, Hiroshi; Inai, Tomomi; Kuroiwa, Tsuneyoshi; Tanaka, Kenji; Miyakawa, Isamu

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT When Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain 3626 was cultured to the stationary phase in a medium that contained glucose, needle-like structures that emitted autofluorescence were observed in almost all cells by fluorescence microscopy under UV excitation. The needle-like structures completely overlapped with the profile of straight elongated mitochondria. Therefore, these structures were designated as mitochondrial fluorescent inclusion bodies (MFIBs). The MFIB-enriched mitochondrial fractions were successfully isolated and 2D-gel electrophoresis revealed that a protein of 54 kDa was only highly concentrated in the fractions. Determination of the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the 54-kDa protein identified it as a mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase, Ald4p. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed that anti-Ald4p antibody specifically stained MFIBs. Freeze-substitution electron microscopy demonstrated that cells that retained MFIBs had electron-dense filamentous structures with a diameter of 10 nm in straight elongated mitochondria. Immunoelectron microscopy showed that Ald4p was localized to the electron-dense filamentous structures in mitochondria. These results together showed that a major component of MFIBs is Ald4p. In addition, we demonstrate that MFIBs are common features that appear in mitochondria of many species of yeast. PMID:24771619

Real-space identification of intermolecular bonding with atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

Zhang, Jun; Chen, Pengcheng; Yuan, Bingkai; Ji, Wei; Cheng, Zhihai; Qiu, Xiaohui

2013-11-01

We report a real-space visualization of the formation of hydrogen bonding in 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-hq) molecular assemblies on a Cu(111) substrate, using noncontact atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM). The atomically resolved molecular structures enable a precise determination of the characteristics of hydrogen bonding networks, including the bonding sites, orientations, and lengths. The observation of bond contrast was interpreted by ab initio density functional calculations, which indicated the electron density contribution from the hybridized electronic state of the hydrogen bond. Intermolecular coordination between the dehydrogenated 8-hq and Cu adatoms was also revealed by the submolecular resolution AFM characterization. The direct identification of local bonding configurations by NC-AFM would facilitate detailed investigations of intermolecular interactions in complex molecules with multiple active sites.

Atomistic structures of nano-engineered SiC and radiation-induced amorphization resistance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imada, Kenta; Ishimaru, Manabu; Sato, Kazuhisa; Xue, Haizhou; Zhang, Yanwen; Shannon, Steven; Weber, William J.

2015-10-01

Nano-engineered 3C-SiC thin films, which possess columnar structures with high-density stacking faults and twins, were irradiated with 2 MeV Si ions at cryogenic and room temperatures. From cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy observations in combination with Monte Carlo simulations based on the Stopping and Range of Ions in Matter code, it was found that their amorphization resistance is six times greater than bulk crystalline SiC at room temperature. High-angle bright-field images taken by spherical aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy revealed that the distortion of atomic configurations is localized near the stacking faults. The resultant strain field probably contributes to the enhancement of radiation tolerance of this material.

Role of strained nano-regions in the formation of subgrains in CaCu3Ti4O12

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Tsang-Tse; Wang, Yong-Huei; Kuo, Jui-Chao

2011-07-01

Single-phase CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) was synthesized by solid-state reaction. Electron backscatter diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy were adopted to characterize the grain orientation, microstructure, and surface morphology of the CCTO samples with or without thermal etching. Bump strained nano-regions induced by the local compositional disorder at a nano-scale have been discovered, being the origin of the formation of subgrains in CCTO. The proposed mechanism for the formation of subgrains involves the formation of etched pits and subboundaries pertaining to the strained nano-regions rather than dislocation displacement. The dielectric response inside the grains of CCTO relevant to the strained nano-regions is also discussed.

SEM visualization of glycosylated surface molecules using lectin-coated microspheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duke, J.; Janer, L.; Campbell, M.

1985-01-01

There are several techniques currently used to localize glycosylated surface molecules by scanning electron microscopy (Grinnell, 1980; Molday, 1976; Linthicum and Sell, 1975; Nicolson, 1974; Lo Buglio, et al, 1972). A simple and rapid method, using a modification of Grinnell's technique is reported here. Essentially, microspheres coated with Concavalin A are used to bind to glycosylated regions of the palatal shelf epithelium and are visualized in the scanning electron microscope (SEM).

The 17 beta-oestradiol dehydrogenase of pig endometrial cells is localized in specialized vesicles.

PubMed Central

Adamski, J; Husen, B; Marks, F; Jungblut, P W

1993-01-01

Two monoclonal antibodies against the 17 beta-oestradiol dehydrogenase of pig endometrial cells have been used in localization studies with immunogold electron microscopy. The antibodies attach both to a fraction of dehydrogenase-rich cytoplasmic vesicles isolated from homogenates and to vesicles of similar appearance in cells. The vesicles are filled with electron-dense material. Their tagging intensity indicates a high degree of specialization. Endometrial cells from mature animals contain a host of dehydrogenase vesicles, and cells from prepubertal animals only a few. Functional aspects of the novel organelle are discussed. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 PMID:8457206

Atomic-Scale Fingerprint of Mn Dopant at the Surface of Sr3(Ru1−xMnx)2O7

PubMed Central

Li, Guorong; Li, Qing; Pan, Minghu; Hu, Biao; Chen, Chen; Teng, Jing; Diao, Zhenyu; Zhang, Jiandi; Jin, Rongying; Plummer, E. W.

2013-01-01

Chemical doping in materials is known to give rise to emergent phenomena. These phenomena are extremely difficult to predict a priori, because electron-electron interactions are entangled with local environment of assembled atoms. Scanning tunneling microscopy and low energy electron diffraction are combined to investigate how the local electronic structure is correlated with lattice distortion on the surface of Sr3(Ru1−xMnx)2O7, which has double-layer building blocks formed by (Ru/Mn)O6 octahedra with rotational distortion. The presence of doping-dependent tilt distortion of (Ru/Mn)O6 octahedra at the surface results in a C2v broken symmetry in contrast with the bulk C4v counterpart. It also enables us to observe two Mn sites associated with the octahedral rotation in the bulk through the “chirality” of local electronic density of states surrounding Mn, which is randomly distributed. These results serve as fingerprint of chemical doping on the atomic scale. PMID:24108411

Correlative Microscopy of Vitreous Sections Provides Insights into BAR-Domain Organization In Situ.

PubMed

Bharat, Tanmay A M; Hoffmann, Patrick C; Kukulski, Wanda

2018-04-10

Electron microscopy imaging of macromolecular complexes in their native cellular context is limited by the inherent difficulty to acquire high-resolution tomographic data from thick cells and to specifically identify elusive structures within crowded cellular environments. Here, we combined cryo-fluorescence microscopy with electron cryo-tomography of vitreous sections into a coherent correlative microscopy workflow, ideal for detection and structural analysis of elusive protein assemblies in situ. We used this workflow to address an open question on BAR-domain coating of yeast plasma membrane compartments known as eisosomes. BAR domains can sense or induce membrane curvature, and form scaffold-like membrane coats in vitro. Our results demonstrate that in cells, the BAR protein Pil1 localizes to eisosomes of varying membrane curvature. Sub-tomogram analysis revealed a dense protein coat on curved eisosomes, which was not present on shallow eisosomes, indicating that while BAR domains can assemble at shallow membranes in vivo, scaffold formation is tightly coupled to curvature generation. Copyright © 2018 MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Damage of Escherichia coli membrane by bactericidal agent polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride: micrographic evidences.

PubMed

Zhou, Z X; Wei, D F; Guan, Y; Zheng, A N; Zhong, J J

2010-03-01

The purpose of this study was to provide micrographic evidences for the damaged membrane structure and intracellular structure change of Escherichia coli strain 8099, induced by polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride (PHMG). The bactericidal effect of PHMG on E. coli was investigated based on beta-galactosidase activity assay, fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate confocal laser scanning microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results revealed that a low dose (13 microg ml(-1)) of PHMG slightly damaged the outer membrane structure of the treated bacteria and increased the permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane, while no significant damage was observed to the morphological structure of the cells. A high dose (23 microg ml(-1)) of PHMG collapsed the outer membrane structure, led to the formation of a local membrane pore across the membrane and badly damaged the internal structure of the cells. Subsequently, intracellular components were leaked followed by cell inactivation. Dose-dependent membrane disruption was the main bactericidal mechanism of PHMG. The formation of the local membrane pores was probable after exposure to a high dose (23 microg ml(-1)) of PHMG. Micrographic evidences were provided about the damaged membrane structure and intracellular structure change of E. coli. The presented information helps understand the bactericidal mechanism of PHMG by membrane damage.

Chemo-spectroscopic sensor for carboxyl terminus overexpressed in carcinoma cell membrane.

PubMed

Stanca, Sarmiza E; Matthäus, Christian; Neugebauer, Ute; Nietzsche, Sandor; Fritzsche, Wolfgang; Dellith, Jan; Heintzmann, Rainer; Weber, Karina; Deckert, Volker; Krafft, Christoph; Popp, Jürgen

2015-10-01

Certain carboxyl groups of the plasma membrane are involved in tumorgenesis processes. A gold core-hydroxyapatite shell (AuHA) nanocomposite is introduced as chemo-spectroscopic sensor to monitor these carboxyl groups of the cell membrane. Hydroxyapatite (HA) plays the role both of a chemical detector and of a biocompatible Raman marker. The principle of detection is based on chemical interaction between the hydroxyl groups of the HA and the carboxyl terminus of the proteins. The AuHA exhibits a surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) signal at 954 cm(-1) which can be used for its localization. The bio-sensing capacity of AuHA towards human skin epidermoid carcinoma (A431) and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines is investigated using Raman microspectroscopic imaging. The localization of AuHA on cells is correlated with scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and structured illumination fluorescence microscopy. This qualitative approach is a step towards a quantitative study of the proteins terminus. This method would enable further studies on the molecular profiling of the plasma membrane, in an attempt to provide accurate cell identification. Using a gold core-hydroxyapatite shell (AuHA) nanocomposite, the authors in this paper showed the feasibility of detecting and differentiating cell surface molecules by surface enhanced Raman scattering. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rat animal model for preclinical testing of microparticle urethral bulking agents.

PubMed

Mann-Gow, Travis K; Blaivas, Jerry G; King, Benjamin J; El-Ghannam, Ahmed; Knabe, Christine; Lam, Michael K; Kida, Masatoshi; Sikavi, Cameron S; Plante, Mark K; Krhut, Jan; Zvara, Peter

2015-04-01

To develop an economic, practical and readily available animal model for preclinical testing of urethral bulking therapies, as well as to establish feasible experimental methods that allow for complete analysis of hard microparticle bulking agents. Alumina ceramic beads suspended in hyaluronic acid were injected into the proximal urethra of 15 female rats under an operating microscope. We assessed overall lower urinary tract function, bulking material intraurethral integrity and local host tissue response over time. Microphotographs were taken during injection and again 6 months postoperatively, before urethral harvest. Urinary flow rate and voiding frequency were assessed before and after injection. At 6 months, the urethra was removed and embedded in resin. Hard tissue sections were cut using a sawing microtome, and processed for histological analysis using scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Microphotographs of the urethra showed complete volume retention of the bulking agent at 6 months. There was no significant difference between average urinary frequency and mean urinary flow rate at 1 and 3 months postinjection as compared with baseline. Scanning electron microscopy proved suitable for evaluation of microparticle size and integrity, as well as local tissue remodeling. Light microscopy and immunohistochemistry allowed for evaluation of an inflammatory host tissue reaction to the bulking agent. The microsurgical injection technique, in vivo physiology and novel hard tissue processing for histology, described in the present study, will allow for future comprehensive preclinical testing of urethral bulking therapy agents containing microparticles made of a hard material. © 2015 The Japanese Urological Association.

Atomically thin heterostructures based on single-layer tungsten diselenide and graphene.

PubMed

Lin, Yu-Chuan; Chang, Chih-Yuan S; Ghosh, Ram Krishna; Li, Jie; Zhu, Hui; Addou, Rafik; Diaconescu, Bogdan; Ohta, Taisuke; Peng, Xin; Lu, Ning; Kim, Moon J; Robinson, Jeremy T; Wallace, Robert M; Mayer, Theresa S; Datta, Suman; Li, Lain-Jong; Robinson, Joshua A

2014-12-10

Heterogeneous engineering of two-dimensional layered materials, including metallic graphene and semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides, presents an exciting opportunity to produce highly tunable electronic and optoelectronic systems. In order to engineer pristine layers and their interfaces, epitaxial growth of such heterostructures is required. We report the direct growth of crystalline, monolayer tungsten diselenide (WSe2) on epitaxial graphene (EG) grown from silicon carbide. Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and scanning tunneling microscopy confirm high-quality WSe2 monolayers, whereas transmission electron microscopy shows an atomically sharp interface, and low energy electron diffraction confirms near perfect orientation between WSe2 and EG. Vertical transport measurements across the WSe2/EG heterostructure provides evidence that an additional barrier to carrier transport beyond the expected WSe2/EG band offset exists due to the interlayer gap, which is supported by theoretical local density of states (LDOS) calculations using self-consistent density functional theory (DFT) and nonequilibrium Green's function (NEGF).

Surface electrical properties of stainless steel fibres: An AFM-based study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Jun; D'Haese, Cécile; Nysten, Bernard

2015-03-01

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) electrical modes were used to study the surface electrical properties of stainless steel fibres. The surface electrical conductivity was studied by current sensing AFM and I-V spectroscopy. Kelvin probe force microscopy was used to measure the surface contact potential. The oxide film, known as passivation layer, covering the fibre surface gives rise to the observation of an apparently semiconducting behaviour. The passivation layer generally exhibits a p-type semiconducting behaviour, which is attributed to the predominant formation of chromium oxide on the surface of the stainless steel fibres. At the nanoscale, different behaviours are observed from points to points, which may be attributed to local variations of the chemical composition and/or thickness of the passivation layer. I-V curves are well fitted with an electron tunnelling model, indicating that electron tunnelling may be the predominant mechanism for electron transport.

Graphene Microcapsule Arrays for Combinatorial Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy in Liquids

DOE PAGES

Yulaev, Alexander; Guo, Hongxuan; Strelcov, Evgheni; ...

2017-04-27

Atomic-scale thickness, molecular impermeability, low atomic number, and mechanical strength make graphene an ideal electron-transparent membrane for material characterization in liquids and gases with scanning electron microscopy and spectroscopy. Here in this paper, we present a novel sample platform made of an array of thousands of identical isolated graphene-capped microchannels with high aspect ratio. A combination of a global wide field of view with high resolution local imaging of the array allows for high throughput in situ studies as well as for combinatorial screening of solutions, liquid interfaces, and immersed samples. We demonstrate the capabilities of this platform by studyingmore » a pure water sample in comparison with alkali halide solutions, a model electrochemical plating process, and beam-induced crystal growth in liquid electrolyte. Spectroscopic characterization of liquid interfaces and immersed objects with Auger and X-ray fluorescence analysis through the graphene membrane are also demonstrated.« less

Low cost, high performance processing of single particle cryo-electron microscopy data in the cloud.

PubMed

Cianfrocco, Michael A; Leschziner, Andres E

2015-05-08

The advent of a new generation of electron microscopes and direct electron detectors has realized the potential of single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) as a technique to generate high-resolution structures. Calculating these structures requires high performance computing clusters, a resource that may be limiting to many likely cryo-EM users. To address this limitation and facilitate the spread of cryo-EM, we developed a publicly available 'off-the-shelf' computing environment on Amazon's elastic cloud computing infrastructure. This environment provides users with single particle cryo-EM software packages and the ability to create computing clusters with 16-480+ CPUs. We tested our computing environment using a publicly available 80S yeast ribosome dataset and estimate that laboratories could determine high-resolution cryo-EM structures for $50 to $1500 per structure within a timeframe comparable to local clusters. Our analysis shows that Amazon's cloud computing environment may offer a viable computing environment for cryo-EM.

Interlayer couplings, Moiré patterns, and 2D electronic superlattices in MoS2/WSe2 hetero-bilayers

PubMed Central

Zhang, Chendong; Chuu, Chih-Piao; Ren, Xibiao; Li, Ming-Yang; Li, Lain-Jong; Jin, Chuanhong; Chou, Mei-Yin; Shih, Chih-Kang

2017-01-01

By using direct growth, we create a rotationally aligned MoS2/WSe2 hetero-bilayer as a designer van der Waals heterostructure. With rotational alignment, the lattice mismatch leads to a periodic variation of atomic registry between individual van der Waals layers, exhibiting a Moiré pattern with a well-defined periodicity. By combining scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and first-principles calculations, we investigate interlayer coupling as a function of atomic registry. We quantitatively determine the influence of interlayer coupling on the electronic structure of the hetero-bilayer at different critical points. We show that the direct gap semiconductor concept is retained in the bilayer although the valence and conduction band edges are located at different layers. We further show that the local bandgap is periodically modulated in the X-Y direction with an amplitude of ~0.15 eV, leading to the formation of a two-dimensional electronic superlattice. PMID:28070558

Investigation and Control of "Sphere-Like" Buckminsterfullerene C60 and "Disk-Like" Copper(II) Phthalocyanine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McAfee, Terry Richard

Due to the growing global need for cheap, flexible, and portable electronics, numerous research groups from mechanical and electrical engineering, material science, chemistry, and physics have increasingly turned to organic electronics research over the last ˜5--10 years. Largely, the focus of researchers in this growing field have sought to obtain the next record holding device, allowing a heuristic approach of trial and error to become dominant focus of research rather than a fundamental understanding. Rather than working with the latest high performance organic semiconducting materials and film processing techniques, I have chosen to investigate and control the fundamental self-assembly interactions of organic photovoltaic thin films using simplified systems. Specifically, I focus on organic photovoltaic research using two of the oldest and well studies semiconducting materials, namely "sphere-like" electron donor material Buckminsterfullerene C60 and "disklike" electron acceptor material Copper(II) Phthalocyanine. I manufactured samples using the well-known technique of physical vapor deposition using a high vacuum chamber that I designed and built to accommodate my need of precise material deposition control, with codeposition capability. Films were characterized using microscopy and spectroscopy techniques locally at NCSU, including Atomic Force Microscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, as well as at National Laboratory based synchrotron x-ray techniques, including Carbon and Nitrogen k-edge Total Electron Yield and Transmission Near Edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, Carbon k-edge Resonant Soft x-ray Microscopy, Resonant Soft x-ray reflectivity, and Grazing Incidence Wide-Angle X-ray scattering.

ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDY OF LESIONS IN GILLS OF A MARINE SHRIMP EXPOSED TO CADMIUM

EPA Science Inventory

Pathologic black gills of pink shrimp, Penaeus duorarum, exposed to 763 micrograms/l of cadmium chloride for 15 days were studied with transmission electron microscopy and were compared with normal gills of control pink shrimp. Local as well as extensive areas of cell death and n...

Platinum blue as an alternative to uranyl acetate for staining in transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Inaga, Sumire; Katsumoto, Tetsuo; Tanaka, Keiichi; Kameie, Toshio; Nakane, Hironobu; Naguro, Tomonori

2007-04-01

This paper introduces an aqueous solution of platinum blue (Pt-blue) as an alternative to uranyl acetate (UA) for staining in transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Pt-blue was prepared from a reaction of cis-dichlorodiamine-platinum (II) (cis-platin) with thymidine. When Pt-blue was dried on a microgrid and observed by TEM it showed a uniform appearance with tiny particles less than 1 nm in diameter. The effect of Pt-blue as an electron stain was then examined not only for positive staining of conventional ultrathin resin sections and counterstaining of post-embedding immuno-electron microscopy but also for negative staining. In ultrathin sections of the rat liver and renal glomerulus, Pt-blue provided good contrast images, especially in double staining combined with a lead stain (Pb). Almost all cell organelles were clearly observed with high contrast in these sections. Glycogen granules in the hepatic parenchymal cells were particularly electron dense in Pt-blue stained sections compared with those treated with UA. In longitudinal and transverse sections of budding influenza A viruses, a specific arrangement of rod-like structures, which correspond to the ribonucleoprotein complexes, was clearly shown in each virion stained with Pt-blue and Pb. When post-embedding immunoelectron microscopy was performed in ultrathin sections of HeLa cells embedded in Lowicryl K4M, the localization of Ki-67 protein was sufficiently detected even after Pt-blue and Pb staining. The present study also revealed that Pt-blue could be used for the negative staining of E. coli, allowing the visualization of a flagellum. These findings indicate that Pt-blue is a useful, safe, and easily obtainable electron stain that is an alternative to UA for TEM preparations.

Analysis of acute brain slices by electron microscopy: a correlative light-electron microscopy workflow based on Tokuyasu cryo-sectioning.

PubMed

Loussert Fonta, Celine; Leis, Andrew; Mathisen, Cliff; Bouvier, David S; Blanchard, Willy; Volterra, Andrea; Lich, Ben; Humbel, Bruno M

2015-01-01

Acute brain slices are slices of brain tissue that are kept vital in vitro for further recordings and analyses. This tool is of major importance in neurobiology and allows the study of brain cells such as microglia, astrocytes, neurons and their inter/intracellular communications via ion channels or transporters. In combination with light/fluorescence microscopies, acute brain slices enable the ex vivo analysis of specific cells or groups of cells inside the slice, e.g. astrocytes. To bridge ex vivo knowledge of a cell with its ultrastructure, we developed a correlative microscopy approach for acute brain slices. The workflow begins with sampling of the tissue and precise trimming of a region of interest, which contains GFP-tagged astrocytes that can be visualised by fluorescence microscopy of ultrathin sections. The astrocytes and their surroundings are then analysed by high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). An important aspect of this workflow is the modification of a commercial cryo-ultramicrotome to observe the fluorescent GFP signal during the trimming process. It ensured that sections contained at least one GFP astrocyte. After cryo-sectioning, a map of the GFP-expressing astrocytes is established and transferred to correlation software installed on a focused ion beam scanning electron microscope equipped with a STEM detector. Next, the areas displaying fluorescence are selected for high resolution STEM imaging. An overview area (e.g. a whole mesh of the grid) is imaged with an automated tiling and stitching process. In the final stitched image, the local organisation of the brain tissue can be surveyed or areas of interest can be magnified to observe fine details, e.g. vesicles or gold labels on specific proteins. The robustness of this workflow is contingent on the quality of sample preparation, based on Tokuyasu's protocol. This method results in a reasonable compromise between preservation of morphology and maintenance of antigenicity. Finally, an important feature of this approach is that the fluorescence of the GFP signal is preserved throughout the entire preparation process until the last step before electron microscopy. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

STM images of carbon-nanotube quantum dots: Seeing a Wigner molecule of correlated electrons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Secchi, Andrea; Rontani, Massimo

2011-03-01

The paradigm of few-electron complexes in quantum dots (QDs) relies on the idea that the lowest quantized levels are filled according to Pauli's exclusion principle. If Coulomb repulsion is sufficiently strong to overcome the kinetic energy cost of localization, a different scenario is predicted: a ``Wigner'' molecule (WM) forms, made of electrons frozen in space according to a geometrical pattern. Despite considerable experimental effort, evidence of the WM in semiconductor QDs has been elusive so far. Here we demonstrate theoretically that WMs occur in gate-defined QDs embedded in typical semiconducting carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The unambiguous signatures of the WM state must be searched in the scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images of the electrons. Through exact diagonalisation (ED) calculations, we unveil the inherent features of the electron molecular states. We show that, like nuclei in a usual molecule, electrons have localized wave functions and hence negligible exchange interactions. ED results for single and double QDs provide a simple interpretation for transport experiments in ultraclean CNTs.

Direct Investigation of Mg Intercalation into the Orthorhombic V 2O 5 Cathode Using Atomic-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy [Direct Investigation of Mg intercalation into orthorhombic V 2O 5 cathode using Atomic Resolution Electron Microscopy Methods

DOE PAGES

Mukherjee, Arijita; Sa, Niya; Phillips, Patrick J.; ...

2017-02-13

Batteries based on Mg metal anode can promise much higher specific volumetric capacity and energy density compared to Li-ion systems and are, at the same time, safer and more cost-effective. While previous experimental reports have claimed reversible Mg intercalation into beyond Chevrel phase cathodes, they provide limited evidence of true Mg intercalation other than electrochemical data. Transmission electron microscopy techniques provide unique capabilities to directly image Mg intercalation and quantify the redox reaction within the cathode material. Here, we present a systematic study of Mg insertion into orthorhombic V 2O 5, combining aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) imaging, electronmore » energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. We compare the results from an electrochemically cycled V 2O 5 cathode in a prospective full cell with Mg metal anode with a chemically synthesized MgV 2O 5 sample. Results suggest that the electrochemically cycled orthorhombic V 2O 5 cathode shows a local formation of the theoretically predicted ϵ-Mg0.5V2O5 phase; however, the intercalation levels of Mg are lower than predicted. Lastly, this phase is different from the chemically synthesized sample, which is found to represent the δ-MgV 2O 5 phase.« less

Band Excitation Kelvin probe force microscopy utilizing photothermal excitation

DOE PAGES

Collins, Liam; Jesse, Stephen; Balke, Nina; ...

2015-03-13

A multifrequency open loop Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) approach utilizing photothermal as opposed to electrical excitation is developed. Photothermal band excitation (PthBE)-KPFM is implemented here in a grid mode on a model test sample comprising a metal-insulator junction with local charge-patterned regions. Unlike the previously described open loop BE-KPFM, which relies on capacitive actuation of the cantilever, photothermal actuation is shown to be highly sensitive to the electrostatic force gradient even at biases close to the contact potential difference (CPD). PthBE-KPFM is further shown to provide a more localized measurement of true CPD in comparison to the gold standardmore » ambient KPFM approach, amplitude modulated KPFM. In conclusion, PthBE-KPFM data contain information relating to local dielectric properties and electronic dissipation between tip and sample unattainable using conventional single frequency KPFM approaches.« less

Correlation Functions Quantify Super-Resolution Images and Estimate Apparent Clustering Due to Over-Counting

PubMed Central

Veatch, Sarah L.; Machta, Benjamin B.; Shelby, Sarah A.; Chiang, Ethan N.; Holowka, David A.; Baird, Barbara A.

2012-01-01

We present an analytical method using correlation functions to quantify clustering in super-resolution fluorescence localization images and electron microscopy images of static surfaces in two dimensions. We use this method to quantify how over-counting of labeled molecules contributes to apparent self-clustering and to calculate the effective lateral resolution of an image. This treatment applies to distributions of proteins and lipids in cell membranes, where there is significant interest in using electron microscopy and super-resolution fluorescence localization techniques to probe membrane heterogeneity. When images are quantified using pair auto-correlation functions, the magnitude of apparent clustering arising from over-counting varies inversely with the surface density of labeled molecules and does not depend on the number of times an average molecule is counted. In contrast, we demonstrate that over-counting does not give rise to apparent co-clustering in double label experiments when pair cross-correlation functions are measured. We apply our analytical method to quantify the distribution of the IgE receptor (FcεRI) on the plasma membranes of chemically fixed RBL-2H3 mast cells from images acquired using stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM/dSTORM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We find that apparent clustering of FcεRI-bound IgE is dominated by over-counting labels on individual complexes when IgE is directly conjugated to organic fluorophores. We verify this observation by measuring pair cross-correlation functions between two distinguishably labeled pools of IgE-FcεRI on the cell surface using both imaging methods. After correcting for over-counting, we observe weak but significant self-clustering of IgE-FcεRI in fluorescence localization measurements, and no residual self-clustering as detected with SEM. We also apply this method to quantify IgE-FcεRI redistribution after deliberate clustering by crosslinking with two distinct trivalent ligands of defined architectures, and we evaluate contributions from both over-counting of labels and redistribution of proteins. PMID:22384026

Segmented nanowires displaying locally controllable properties

DOEpatents

Sutter, Eli Anguelova; Sutter, Peter Werner

2013-03-05

Vapor-liquid-solid growth of nanowires is tailored to achieve complex one-dimensional material geometries using phase diagrams determined for nanoscale materials. Segmented one-dimensional nanowires having constant composition display locally variable electronic band structures that are determined by the diameter of the nanowires. The unique electrical and optical properties of the segmented nanowires are exploited to form electronic and optoelectronic devices. Using gold-germanium as a model system, in situ transmission electron microscopy establishes, for nanometer-sized Au--Ge alloy drops at the tips of Ge nanowires (NWs), the parts of the phase diagram that determine their temperature-dependent equilibrium composition. The nanoscale phase diagram is then used to determine the exchange of material between the NW and the drop. The phase diagram for the nanoscale drop deviates significantly from that of the bulk alloy.

Atomic-scale mapping of electronic structures across heterointerfaces by cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiu, Ya-Ping; Huang, Bo-Chao; Shih, Min-Chuan; Huang, Po-Cheng; Chen, Chun-Wei

2015-09-01

Interfacial science has received much attention recently based on the development of state-of-the-art analytical tools that can create and manipulate the charge, spin, orbital, and lattice degrees of freedom at interfaces. Motivated by the importance of nanoscale interfacial science that governs device operation, we present a technique to probe the electronic characteristics of heterointerfaces with atomic resolution. In this work, the interfacial characteristics of heteroepitaxial structures are investigated and the fundamental mechanisms that pertain in these systems are elucidated through cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy (XSTM). The XSTM technique is employed here to directly observe epitaxial interfacial structures and probe local electronic properties with atomic-level capability. Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy experiments with atomic precision provide insight into the origin and spatial distribution of electronic properties across heterointerfaces. The first part of this report provides a brief description of the cleavage technique and spectroscopy analysis in XSTM measurements. The second part addresses interfacial electronic structures of several model heterostructures in current condensed matter research using XSTM. Topics to be discussed include high-κ‘s/III-V’s semiconductors, polymer heterojunctions, and complex oxide heterostructures, which are all material systems whose investigation using this technique is expected to benefit the research community. Finally, practical aspects and perspectives of using XSTM in interface science are presented.

Automated in-chamber specimen coating for serial block-face electron microscopy.

PubMed

Titze, B; Denk, W

2013-05-01

When imaging insulating specimens in a scanning electron microscope, negative charge accumulates locally ('sample charging'). The resulting electric fields distort signal amplitude, focus and image geometry, which can be avoided by coating the specimen with a conductive film prior to introducing it into the microscope chamber. This, however, is incompatible with serial block-face electron microscopy (SBEM), where imaging and surface removal cycles (by diamond knife or focused ion beam) alternate, with the sample remaining in place. Here we show that coating the sample after each cutting cycle with a 1-2 nm metallic film, using an electron beam evaporator that is integrated into the microscope chamber, eliminates charging effects for both backscattered (BSE) and secondary electron (SE) imaging. The reduction in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) caused by the film is smaller than that caused by the widely used low-vacuum method. Sample surfaces as large as 12 mm across were coated and imaged without charging effects at beam currents as high as 25 nA. The coatings also enabled the use of beam deceleration for non-conducting samples, leading to substantial SNR gains for BSE contrast. We modified and automated the evaporator to enable the acquisition of SBEM stacks, and demonstrated the acquisition of stacks of over 1000 successive cut/coat/image cycles and of stacks using beam deceleration or SE contrast. © 2013 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2013 Royal Microscopical Society.

Skeletal muscle biopsy analysis in reducing body myopathy and other FHL1-related disorders.

PubMed

Malfatti, Edoardo; Olivé, Montse; Taratuto, Ana Lía; Richard, Pascale; Brochier, Guy; Bitoun, Marc; Gueneau, Lucie; Laforêt, Pascal; Stojkovic, Tanya; Maisonobe, Thierry; Monges, Soledad; Lubieniecki, Fabiana; Vasquez, Gabriel; Streichenberger, Nathalie; Lacène, Emmanuelle; Saccoliti, Maria; Prudhon, Bernard; Alexianu, Marilena; Figarella-Branger, Dominique; Schessl, Joachim; Bonnemann, Carsten; Eymard, Bruno; Fardeau, Michel; Bonne, Gisèle; Romero, Norma Beatriz

2013-09-01

FHL1 mutations have been associated with various disorders that include reducing body myopathy (RBM), Emery-Dreifuss-like muscular dystrophy, isolated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and some overlapping conditions. We report a detailed histochemical, immunohistochemical, electron microscopic, and immunoelectron microscopic analyses of muscle biopsies from 18 patients carrying mutations in FHL1: 14 RBM patients (Group 1), 3 Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy patients (Group 2), and 1 patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and muscular hypertrophy (Group 2). Group 1 muscle biopsies consistently showed RBs associated with cytoplasmic bodies. The RBs showed prominent FHL1 immunoreactivity whereas desmin, αB-crystallin, and myotilin immunoreactivity surrounded RBs. By electron microscopy, RBs were composed of electron-dense tubulofilamentous material that seemed to spread progressively between the myofibrils and around myonuclei. By immunoelectron microscopy, FHL1 protein was found exclusively inside RBs. Group 2 biopsies showed mild dystrophic abnormalities without RBs; only minor nonspecific myofibrillar abnormalities were observed under electron microscopy. Molecular analysis revealed missense mutations in the second FHL1 LIM domain in Group 1 patients and ins/del or missense mutations within the fourth FHL1 LIM domain in Group 2 patients. Our findings expand the morphologic features of RBM, clearly demonstrate the localization of FHL1 in RBs, and further illustrate major morphologic differences among different FHL1-related myopathies.

Three-dimensional Organization of pKi-67: A Comparative Fluorescence and Electron Tomography Study Using Fluoronanogold

PubMed Central

Cheutin, Thierry; O'Donohue, Marie-Françoise; Beorchia, Adrien; Klein, Christophe; Kaplan, Hervé; Ploton, Dominique

2003-01-01

The monoclonal antibody (MAb) Ki-67 is routinely used in clinical studies to estimate the growth fraction of tumors. However, the role of pKi-67, the protein detected by the Ki-67 MAb, remains elusive, although some biochemical data strongly suggest that it might organize chromatin. To better understand the functional organization of pKi-67, we studied its three-dimensional distribution in interphase cells by confocal microscopy and electron tomography. FluoroNanogold, a single probe combining a dense marker with a fluorescent dye, was used to investigate pKi-67 organization at the optical and ultrastructural levels. Observation by confocal microscopy followed by 3D reconstruction showed that pKi-67 forms a shell around the nucleoli. Double labeling experiments revealed that pKi-67 co-localizes with perinucleolar heterochromatin. Electron microscopy studies confirmed this close association and demonstrated that pKi-67 is located neither in the fibrillar nor in the granular components of the nucleolus. Finally, spatial analyses by electron tomography showed that pKi-67 forms cords 250–300 nm in diameter, which are themselves composed of 30–50-nm-thick fibers. These detailed comparative in situ analyses strongly suggest the involvement of pKi-67 in the higher-order organization of perinucleolar chromatin. PMID:14566014

Three-dimensional organization of pKi-67: a comparative fluorescence and electron tomography study using FluoroNanogold.

PubMed

Cheutin, Thierry; O'Donohue, Marie-Françoise; Beorchia, Adrien; Klein, Christophe; Kaplan, Hervé; Ploton, Dominique

2003-11-01

The monoclonal antibody (MAb) Ki-67 is routinely used in clinical studies to estimate the growth fraction of tumors. However, the role of pKi-67, the protein detected by the Ki-67 MAb, remains elusive, although some biochemical data strongly suggest that it might organize chromatin. To better understand the functional organization of pKi-67, we studied its three-dimensional distribution in interphase cells by confocal microscopy and electron tomography. FluoroNanogold, a single probe combining a dense marker with a fluorescent dye, was used to investigate pKi-67 organization at the optical and ultrastructural levels. Observation by confocal microscopy followed by 3D reconstruction showed that pKi-67 forms a shell around the nucleoli. Double labeling experiments revealed that pKi-67 co-localizes with perinucleolar heterochromatin. Electron microscopy studies confirmed this close association and demonstrated that pKi-67 is located neither in the fibrillar nor in the granular components of the nucleolus. Finally, spatial analyses by electron tomography showed that pKi-67 forms cords 250-300 nm in diameter, which are themselves composed of 30-50-nm-thick fibers. These detailed comparative in situ analyses strongly suggest the involvement of pKi-67 in the higher-order organization of perinucleolar chromatin.

Surfing Silicon Nanofacets for Cold Cathode Electron Emission Sites.

PubMed

Basu, Tanmoy; Kumar, Mohit; Saini, Mahesh; Ghatak, Jay; Satpati, Biswarup; Som, Tapobrata

2017-11-08

Point sources exhibit low threshold electron emission due to local field enhancement at the tip. In the case of silicon, however, the realization of tip emitters has been hampered by unwanted oxidation, limiting the number of emission sites and the overall current. In contrast to this, here, we report the fascinating low threshold (∼0.67 V μm -1 ) cold cathode electron emission from silicon nanofacets (Si-NFs). The ensembles of nanofacets fabricated at different time scales, under low energy ion impacts, yield tunable field emission with a Fowler-Nordheim tunneling field in the range of 0.67-4.75 V μm -1 . The local probe surface microscopy-based tunneling current mapping in conjunction with Kelvin probe force microscopy measurements revealed that the valleys and a part of the sidewalls of the nanofacets contribute more to the field emission process. The observed lowest turn-on field is attributed to the absence of native oxide on the sidewalls of the smallest facets as well as their lowest work function. In addition, first-principle density functional theory-based simulation revealed a crystal orientation-dependent work function of Si, which corroborates well with our experimental observations. The present study demonstrates a novel way to address the origin of the cold cathode electron emission sites from Si-NFs fabricated at room temperature. In principle, the present methodology can be extended to probe the cold cathode electron emission sites from any nanostructured material.

Preservation of capsular material of streptococcal cells by specific lectins determined by immunoelectron microscopy.

PubMed

Molinari, A; Orefici, G; Donelli, G; Von Hunolstein, C; Paradisi, S; Arancia, G

1988-09-01

We describe the use of lectins as specific stabilizing agents for the polysaccharide capsular components of two Gram-positive bacteria, Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus bovis. Treatment of bacterial suspensions with wheatgerm agglutinin and concanavalin A allowed better morphological preservation as well as immunoelectron microscopic localization of a capsular component (lipoteichoic acid) by employing specific antibodies and the protein A-gold technique. Data obtained indicate that lectins are useful agents in preserving highly water-soluble capsular components during the electron microscopy procedures for both unembedded and embedded samples.

In situ localization of nucleolin in the plant nucleolar matrix.

PubMed

Minguez, A; Moreno Diaz de la Espina, S

1996-01-10

The analysis of isolated nucleolar matrices from onion cells by light and electron microscopy, 2-D separation of proteins, and confocal microscopy has confirmed the existence of an organized nucleolar matrix with a complex protein composition to which are attached the insoluble processing complexes. In the present work, we present evidence from immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, immunogold labeling, and preferential cytochemical staining with bismuth salts that an insoluble fraction of the multifunctional protein nucleolin, is a component of the onion nucleolar matrix, and analyse its ultrastructural distribution in the described domains of the matrix.

Femtosecond few- to single-electron point-projection microscopy for nanoscale dynamic imaging

PubMed Central

Bainbridge, A. R.; Barlow Myers, C. W.; Bryan, W. A.

2016-01-01

Femtosecond electron microscopy produces real-space images of matter in a series of ultrafast snapshots. Pulses of electrons self-disperse under space-charge broadening, so without compression, the ideal operation mode is a single electron per pulse. Here, we demonstrate femtosecond single-electron point projection microscopy (fs-ePPM) in a laser-pump fs-e-probe configuration. The electrons have an energy of only 150 eV and take tens of picoseconds to propagate to the object under study. Nonetheless, we achieve a temporal resolution with a standard deviation of 114 fs (equivalent to a full-width at half-maximum of 269 ± 40 fs) combined with a spatial resolution of 100 nm, applied to a localized region of charge at the apex of a nanoscale metal tip induced by 30 fs 800 nm laser pulses at 50 kHz. These observations demonstrate real-space imaging of reversible processes, such as tracking charge distributions, is feasible whilst maintaining femtosecond resolution. Our findings could find application as a characterization method, which, depending on geometry, could resolve tens of femtoseconds and tens of nanometres. Dynamically imaging electric and magnetic fields and charge distributions on sub-micron length scales opens new avenues of ultrafast dynamics. Furthermore, through the use of active compression, such pulses are an ideal seed for few-femtosecond to attosecond imaging applications which will access sub-optical cycle processes in nanoplasmonics. PMID:27158637

Mineralogy of mine waste at the Vermont Asbestos Group mine, Belvidere Mountain, Vermont

USGS Publications Warehouse

Levitan, D.M.; Hammarstrom, J.M.; Gunter, M.E.; Seal, R.R.; Chou, I.-Ming; Piatak, N.M.

2009-01-01

Samples from the surfaces of waste piles at the Vermont Asbestos Group mine in northern Vermont were studied to determine their mineralogy, particularly the presence and morphology of amphiboles. Analyses included powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and Raman spectroscopy. Minerals identified by XRD were serpentine-group minerals, magnetite, chlorite, quartz, olivine, pyroxene, and brucite; locally, mica and carbonates were also present. Raman spectroscopy distinguished antigorite and chrysotile, which could not be differentiated using XRD. Long-count, short-range XRD scans of the (110) amphibole peak showed trace amounts of amphibole in most samples. Examination of amphiboles in tailings by optical microscopy, SEM, and EPMA revealed non-fibrous amphiboles compositionally classified as edenite, magnesiohornblende, magnesiokatophorite, and pargasite. No fibrous amphibole was found in the tailings, although fibrous tremolite was identified in a sample of host rock. Knowledge of the mineralogy at the site may lead to better understanding of potential implications for human health and aid in designing a remediation plan.

Combined scanning transmission X-ray and electron microscopy for the characterization of bacterial endospores.

PubMed

Jamroskovic, Jan; Shao, Paul P; Suvorova, Elena; Barak, Imrich; Bernier-Latmani, Rizlan

2014-09-01

Endospores (also referred to as bacterial spores) are bacterial structures formed by several bacterial species of the phylum Firmicutes. Spores form as a response to environmental stress. These structures exhibit remarkable resistance to harsh environmental conditions such as exposure to heat, desiccation, and chemical oxidants. The spores include several layers of protein and peptidoglycan that surround a core harboring DNA as well as high concentrations of calcium and dipicolinic acid (DPA). A combination of scanning transmission X-ray microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy was used for the direct quantitative characterization of bacterial spores. The concentration and localization of DPA, Ca(2+) , and other elements were determined and compared for the core and cortex of spores from two distinct genera: Bacillus subtilis and Desulfotomaculum reducens. This micro-spectroscopic approach is uniquely suited for the direct study of individual bacterial spores, while classical molecular and biochemical methods access only bulk characteristics. © 2014 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. All rights reserved.

Detailed Investigation of Core-Shell Precipitates in a Cu-Containing High Entropy Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alam, T.; Gwalani, B.; Viswanathan, G.; Fraser, H.; Banerjee, R.

2018-05-01

Due to the competing influences of configurational entropy and enthalpy of mixing, in recent years, secondary (including intermetallic) phases have been reported in many high entropy alloy (HEA) systems. These secondary phases offer great potential in terms of strengthening the HEA beyond the solid solution strengthening effects, and as such are of great interest in regards to alloy design for engineering applications. The present research investigates novel nano-scale core-shell precipitates forming within the disordered bcc matrix phase of an Al2CrCuFeNi2 HEA, utilizing complementary high-resolution microscopy techniques of atom probe tomography (APT) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The size, morphology, and local chemistry of these core-shell precipitates was measured by APT, and the composition was further corroborated by high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy in an aberration-corrected TEM. Furthermore, high-resolution TEM imaging of the core-shell structure indicates that the Cu-rich core exhibits a bcc crystal structure.

Atom-Dependent Edge-Enhanced Second-Harmonic Generation on MoS2 Monolayers.

PubMed

Lin, Kuang-I; Ho, Yen-Hung; Liu, Shu-Bai; Ciou, Jian-Jhih; Huang, Bo-Ting; Chen, Christopher; Chang, Han-Ching; Tu, Chien-Liang; Chen, Chang-Hsiao

2018-02-14

Edge morphology and lattice orientation of single-crystal molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) monolayers, a transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD), possessing a triangular shape with different edges grown by chemical vapor deposition are characterized by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Multiphoton laser scanning microscopy is utilized to study one-dimensional atomic edges of MoS 2 monolayers with localized midgap electronic states, which result in greatly enhanced optical second-harmonic generation (SHG). Microscopic S-zigzag edge and S-Mo Klein edge (bare Mo atoms protruding from a S-zigzag edge) terminations and the edge-atom dependent resonance energies can therefore be deduced based on SHG images. Theoretical calculations based on density functional theory clearly explain the lower energy of the S-zigzag edge states compared to the corresponding S-Mo Klein edge states. Characterization of the atomic-scale variation of edge-enhanced SHG is a step forward in this full-optical and high-yield technique of atomic-layer TMDs.

Subcellular localization of leptin and leptin receptor in breast cancer detected in an electron microscopic study.

PubMed

Al-Shibli, Saad M; Amjad, Nasser M; Al-Kubaisi, Muna K; Mizan, Shaikh

2017-01-22

Leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) have long been found associated with breast cancer. So far no high-resolution method such as electron microscopy has been used to investigate the subcellular localization of leptin and leptin receptor in breast cancer. We collected cancer and non-cancer breast tissues from 51 women with invasive ductal breast cancer. Leptin and leptin receptor in the tissues were estimated using immunohistochemistry (IHC). LEP and LEPR were localized at subcellular level by immunocytochemistry (ICC) using ultra-fine gold particle conjugated antibody, and visualized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). IHC showed high presence of LEP and LEPR in 65% and 67% respectively of the breast cancer samples, 100% and 0% respectively of the adipose tissue samples, and no high presence in the non-cancer breast tissue samples. On TEM views both LEP and LEPR were found highly concentrated within the nucleus of the cancer cells, indicating that nucleus is the principal seat of action. However, presence of high concentration of LEP does not necessarily prove its over-expression, as often concluded, because LEP could be internalized from outside by LEPR in the cells. In contrast, LEPR is definitely over-expressed in the ductal breast cancer cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that over-expression of LEPR, rather than that of LEP has a fundamental role in breast carcinogenesis in particular, and probably for LEP-LEPR associated tumors in general. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Local deformation gradients in epitaxial Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3 layers investigated by transmission electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denneulin, T.; Wollschläger, N.; Everhardt, A. S.; Farokhipoor, S.; Noheda, B.; Snoeck, E.; Hÿtch, M.

2018-05-01

Lead zirconate titanate samples are used for their piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties in various types of micro-devices. Epitaxial layers of tetragonal perovskites have a tendency to relax by forming ferroelastic domains. The accommodation of the a/c/a/c polydomain structure on a flat substrate leads to nanoscale deformation gradients which locally influence the polarization by flexoelectric effect. Here, we investigated the deformation fields in epitaxial layers of Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3 grown on SrTiO3 substrates using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We found that the deformation gradients depend on the domain walls inclination ( or to the substrate interface) of the successive domains and we describe three different a/c/a domain configurations: one configuration with parallel a-domains and two configurations with perpendicular a-domains (V-shaped and hat--shaped). In the parallel configuration, the c-domains contain horizontal and vertical gradients of out-of-plane deformation. In the V-shaped and hat--shaped configurations, the c-domains exhibit a bending deformation field with vertical gradients of in-plane deformation. Each of these configurations is expected to have a different influence on the polarization and so the local properties of the film. The deformation gradients were measured using dark-field electron holography, a TEM technique, which offers a good sensitivity (0.1%) and a large field-of-view (hundreds of nanometers). The measurements are compared with finite element simulations.

Atomistic structures of nano-engineered SiC and radiation-induced amorphization resistance

DOE PAGES

Imada, Kenta; Ishimaru, Manabu; Sato, Kazuhisa; ...

2015-06-18

In this paper, nano-engineered 3C–SiC thin films, which possess columnar structures with high-density stacking faults and twins, were irradiated with 2 MeV Si ions at cryogenic and room temperatures. From cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy observations in combination with Monte Carlo simulations based on the Stopping and Range of Ions in Matter code, it was found that their amorphization resistance is six times greater than bulk crystalline SiC at room temperature. High-angle bright-field images taken by spherical aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy revealed that the distortion of atomic configurations is localized near the stacking faults. Finally, the resultant strain fieldmore » probably contributes to the enhancement of radiation tolerance of this material.« less

Fractal growth of platinum electrodeposits revealed by in situ electron microscopy.

PubMed

Wang, Lifen; Wen, Jianguo; Sheng, Huaping; Miller, Dean J

2016-10-06

Fractals are commonly observed in nature and elucidating the mechanisms of fractal-related growth is a compelling issue for both fundamental science and technology. Here we report an in situ electron microscopy study of dynamic fractal growth of platinum during electrodeposition in a miniaturized electrochemical cell at varying growth conditions. Highly dendritic growth - either dense branching or ramified islands - are formed at the solid-electrolyte interface. We show how the diffusion length of ions in the electrolyte influences morphology selection and how instability induced by initial surface roughness, combined with local enhancement of electric field, gives rise to non-uniform branched deposition as a result of nucleation/growth at preferred locations. Comparing the growth behavior under these different conditions provides new insight into the fundamental mechanisms of platinum nucleation.

Focus on membrane differentiation and membrane domains in the prokaryotic cell.

PubMed

Boekema, Egbert J; Scheffers, Dirk-Jan; van Bezouwen, Laura S; Bolhuis, Henk; Folea, I Mihaela

2013-01-01

A summary is presented of membrane differentiation in the prokaryotic cell, with an emphasis on the organization of proteins in the plasma/cell membrane. Many species belonging to the Eubacteria and Archaea have special membrane domains and/or membrane proliferation, which are vital for different cellular processes. Typical membrane domains are found in bacteria where a specific membrane protein is abundantly expressed. Lipid rafts form another example. Despite the rareness of conventional organelles as found in eukaryotes, some bacteria are known to have an intricate internal cell membrane organization. Membrane proliferation can be divided into curvature and invaginations which can lead to internal compartmentalization. This study discusses some of the clearest examples of bacteria with such domains and internal membranes. The need for membrane specialization is highest among the heterogeneous group of bacteria which harvest light energy, such as photosynthetic bacteria and halophilic archaea. Most of the highly specialized membranes and domains, such as the purple membrane, chromatophore and chlorosome, are found in these autotrophic organisms. Otherwise the need for membrane differentiation is lower and variable, except for those structures involved in cell division. Microscopy techniques have given essential insight into bacterial membrane morphology. As microscopy will further contribute to the unraveling of membrane organization in the years to come, past and present technology in electron microscopy and light microscopy is discussed. Electron microscopy was the first to unravel bacterial morphology because it can directly visualize membranes with inserted proteins, which no other technique can do. Electron microscopy techniques developed in the 1950s and perfected in the following decades involve the thin sectioning and freeze fractioning of cells. Several studies from the golden age of these techniques show amazing examples of cell membrane morphology. More recently, light microscopy in combination with the use of fluorescent dyes has become an attractive technique for protein localization with the natural membrane. However, the resolution problem in light microscopy remains and overinterpretation of observed phenomena is a pitfall. Thus, light microscopy as a stand-alone technique is not sufficient to prove, for instance, the long-range helical distribution of proteins in membrane such as MinD spirals in Bacillus subtilis. Electron tomography is an emerging electron microscopy technique that can provide three-dimensional reconstructions of small, nonchemically fixed bacteria. It will become a useful tool for studying prokaryotic membranes in more detail and is expected to collect information complementary to those of advanced light microscopy. Together, microscopy techniques can meet the challenge of the coming years: to specify membrane structures in more detail and to bring them to the level of specific protein-protein interactions. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Spectroscopic fingerprints for charge localization in the organic semiconductor (DOEO)4[HgBr4]·TCE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koplak, Oksana V.; Chernenkaya, Alisa; Medjanik, Katerina; Brambilla, Alberto; Gloskovskii, Andrei; Calloni, Alberto; Elmers, Hans-Joachim; Schönhense, Gerd; Ciccacci, Franco; Morgunov, Roman B.

2015-05-01

Changes of the electronic structure accompanied by charge localization and a transition to an antiferromagnetic ground state were observed in the organic semiconductor (DOEO)4[HgBr4]·TCE. Localization starts in the temperature region of about 150 K and the antiferromagnetic state occurs below 60 K. The magnetic moment of the crystal contains contributions of inclusions (droplets), and individual paramagnetic centers formed by localized holes and free charge carriers at 2 K. Two types of inclusions of 100-400 nm and 2-5 nm sizes were revealed by transmission electron microscopy. Studying the temperature- and angular dependence of electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra revealed fingerprints of antiferromagnetic contributions as well as paramagnetic resonance spectra of individual localized charge carriers. The results point on coexistence of antiferromagnetic long and short range order as evident from a second ESR line. Photoelectron spectroscopy in the VUV, soft and hard X-ray range shows temperature-dependent effects upon crossing the critical temperatures around 60 K and 150 K. The substantially different probing depths of soft and hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy yield information on the surface termination. The combined investigation using complementary methods at the same sample reveals the close relation of changes in the transport properties and in the energy distribution of electronic states.

Three-dimensional architecture of ribosomal DNA within barley nucleoli revealed with electron microscopy.

PubMed

Iwano, Megumi; Che, Fang-Sik; Takayama, Seiji; Fukui, Kiichi; Isogai, Akira

2003-01-01

To elucidate the topological positioning of ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA) and nucleolar structure in three dimensions, we examined the localization of rDNA using in situ hybridization (ISH) analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The rDNA genes within the three-dimensional architecture of nucleoli were detected on chromatin fibers that connect a thick strand-like structure and a protrusion of rDNA into the inner nuclear hole where the nucleolus is formed. This novel use of ISH together with SEM is useful for the analysis of nucleolar structure in detail. Furthermore, rDNA was detected at the periphery of the fibrillar centers (FCs) of the nucleolus using immuno-gold labeling together with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In situ hybridization with TEM confirmed that rDNA is naked and thus active in the FCs of nucleoli; ISH with SEM confirmed that rDNA is not covered with ribonucleo proteins at the protruding point and is thus inactive. We also show that the distribution pattern of FCs differs from sample to sample. These results indicate that rDNA is transcribed dynamically in a time- and region-specific manner over the course of the cell cycle.

Method to determine thermal profiles of nanoscale circuitry

DOEpatents

Zettl, Alexander K; Begtrup, Gavi E

2013-04-30

A platform that can measure the thermal profiles of devices with nanoscale resolution has been developed. The system measures the local temperature by using an array of nanoscale thermometers. This process can be observed in real time using a high resolution imagining technique such as electron microscopy. The platform can operate at extremely high temperatures.

Microelectrode Array Microscopy: Investigation of Dynamic Behavior of Localized Corrosion at Type 304 Stainless Steel Surfaces

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tedd E. Lister; Patrick J. Pinhero

2005-03-01

Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and a recently developed microelectrode array microscope have been used to study localized corrosion and electron-transfer characteristics of native oxide layers of type 304 stainless steels. The I-/I3- redox couple was employed as a mediator and allowed sensitive detection of oxide breakdown events. In solutions containing I-, a signal at the microelectrode was observed on type 304 stainless steel surfaces at active pitting corrosion sites. Under conditions where pitting corrosion occurs, SECM was used to track the temporal characteristics of the reaction in a spatial manner. However, because of the time required to create an image,more » much of the temporal information was not obtained. To improve the temporal resolution of the measurement, microelectrode array microscopy (MEAM) was developed as a parallel method of performing SECM. The demonstration shown reveals the potential of MEAM for analysis of surface chemistry on temporal and spatial domains.« less

Cytochemical Localization of Glycolate Dehydrogenase in Mitochondria of Chlamydomonas1

PubMed Central

Beezley, Belinda B.; Gruber, Peter J.; Frederick, Sue Ellen

1976-01-01

Mildly disrupted cells of Chlamydomonas reinhardi Dangeard were incubated in a reaction medium containing glycolate, ferricyanide, and cupric ions, and then processed for electron microscopy. As a result of the cytochemical treatment, an electron opaque product was deposited specifically in the outer compartment of mitochondria; other cellular components, including microbodies, did not accumulate stain. Incubation with d-lactate yielded similar results, while treatment with l-lactate produced only a weak reaction. Oxamate, which inhibits glycolate dehydrogenase activity in cell-free extracts, also inhibited the cytochemical reaction. These findings demonstrate in situ that glycolate dehydrogenase is localized in mitochondria, and thus corroborate similar conclusions reached on the basis of enzymic studies of isolated algal organelles. Images PMID:16659670

Local modification of the surface state properties at dilute coverages: CO/Cu(111)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaum, Ch.; Meyer-auf-der-Heide, K. M.; Morgenstern, K.

2018-04-01

We follow the diffusion of CO molecules on Cu(111) by time-lapsed low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. The diffusivity of individual CO molecules oscillates with the distance to its nearest neighbor due to the long-range interaction mediated by the surface state electrons. The markedly different wavelengths of the oscillation at a coverage of 0.6% ML as compared to the one at 6% ML coverage correspond to two different wavelengths of the surface state electrons, consistent with a shift of the surface state by 340 meV. This surprisingly large shift as compared to results of averaging methods suggests a local modification of the surface state properties.

Immunohistochemical localization of FMRFamide-containing neurons and nerve fibers in the ganglia and the gonad wall of the scallop, Pecten maximus (L).

PubMed

Henry, M; Benlinmame, N; Belhsen, O K; Jule, Y; Mathieu, M

1995-02-01

The Phe-Met-Arg-Phe NH2 (FMRFamide)-like immunoreactivity was detected in neurons of the cerebro-pedal and visceral ganglia of the scallop Pecten maximus using immunohistochemical techniques. FMRFamide-like immunoreactivity was also found in nerve fibers localized in the connective tissue and the epithelial wall of the gonad. Electron microscopy study carried out on the gonads indicates the existence of numerous nerve fibers crossing the connective tissue; nerve terminals apposed to highly secretory cells were seen in the gonad wall. All in all, the present immunohistochemical and electron microscopic data suggest that FMRFamide might play an unusual secretagogue role in the gonad wall.

Surface and local electronic structure modification of MgO film using Zn and Fe ion implantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Jitendra Pal; Lim, Weon Cheol; Lee, Jihye; Song, Jonghan; Lee, Ik-Jae; Chae, Keun Hwa

2018-02-01

Present work is motivated to investigate the surface and local electronic structure modifications of MgO films implanted with Zn and Fe ions. MgO film was deposited using radio frequency sputtering method. Atomic force microscopy measurements exhibit morphological changes associated with implantation. Implantation of Fe and Zn ions leads to the reduction of co-ordination geometry of Mg2+ ions in host lattice. The effect is dominant at bulk of film rather than surface as the large concentration of implanted ions resides inside bulk. Moreover, the evidences of interaction among implanted ions and oxygen are not being observed using near edge fine structure measurements.

High-Resolution Structural and Electronic Properties of Epitaxial Topological Crystalline Insulator Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dagdeviren, Omur; Zhou, Chao; Zou, Ke; Simon, Georg; Albright, Stephen; Mandal, Subhasish; Morales-Acosta, Mayra; Zhu, Xiaodong; Ismail-Beigi, Sohrab; Walker, Frederick; Ahn, Charles; Schwarz, Udo; Altman, Eric

Revealing the local electronic properties of surfaces and their link to structural properties is an important problem for topological crystalline insulators (TCI) in which metallic surface states are protected by crystal symmetry. The microstructure and electronic properties of TCI SnTe film surfaces grown by molecular beam epitaxy were characterized using scanning probe microscopy. These results reveal the influence of various defects on the electronic properties: tilt boundaries leading to dislocation arrays that serve as periodic nucleation sites for pit growth; screw dislocations, and point defects. These features have varying length scale and display variations in the electronic structure of the surface, which are mapped with scanning tunneling microscopy images as standing waves superimposed on atomic scale images of the surface topography that consequently shape the wave patterns. Since the growth process results in symmetry breaking defects that patterns the topological states, we propose that the scanning probe tip can pattern the surface and electronic structure and enable the fabrication of topological devices on the SnTe surface. Financial support from the National Science Foundation through the Yale Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (Grant No. MRSEC DMR-1119826) and FAME.

Nanoscale monoclinic domains in epitaxial SrRuO{sub 3} thin films deposited by pulsed laser deposition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ghica, C., E-mail: cghica@infim.ro; Negrea, R. F.; Nistor, L. C.

2014-07-14

In this paper, we analyze the structural distortions observed by transmission electron microscopy in thin epitaxial SrRuO{sub 3} layers used as bottom electrodes in multiferroic coatings onto SrTiO{sub 3} substrates for future multiferroic devices. Regardless of the nature and architecture of the multilayer oxides deposited on the top of the SrRuO{sub 3} thin films, selected area electron diffraction patterns systematically revealed the presence of faint diffraction spots appearing in forbidden positions for the SrRuO{sub 3} orthorhombic structure. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) combined with Geometric Phase Analysis (GPA) evidenced the origin of these forbidden diffraction spots in the presence ofmore » structurally disordered nanometric domains in the SrRuO{sub 3} bottom layers, resulting from a strain-driven phase transformation. The local high compressive strain (−4% ÷ −5%) measured by GPA in the HRTEM images induces a local orthorhombic to monoclinic phase transition by a cooperative rotation of the RuO{sub 6} octahedra. A further confirmation of the origin of the forbidden diffraction spots comes from the simulated diffraction patterns obtained from a monoclinic disordered SrRuO{sub 3} structure.« less

Nature and evolution of incommensurate charge order in manganites visualized with cryogenic scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

El Baggari, Ismail; Savitzky, Benjamin H; Admasu, Alemayehu S; Kim, Jaewook; Cheong, Sang-Wook; Hovden, Robert; Kourkoutis, Lena F

2018-02-13

Incommensurate charge order in hole-doped oxides is intertwined with exotic phenomena such as colossal magnetoresistance, high-temperature superconductivity, and electronic nematicity. Here, we map, at atomic resolution, the nature of incommensurate charge-lattice order in a manganite using scanning transmission electron microscopy at room temperature and cryogenic temperature ([Formula: see text]93 K). In diffraction, the ordering wave vector changes upon cooling, a behavior typically associated with incommensurate order. However, using real space measurements, we discover that the ordered state forms lattice-locked regions over a few wavelengths interspersed with phase defects and changing periodicity. The cations undergo picometer-scale ([Formula: see text]6 pm to 11 pm) transverse displacements, suggesting that charge-lattice coupling is strong. We further unearth phase inhomogeneity in the periodic lattice displacements at room temperature, and emergent phase coherence at 93 K. Such local phase variations govern the long-range correlations of the charge-ordered state and locally change the periodicity of the modulations, resulting in wave vector shifts in reciprocal space. These atomically resolved observations underscore the importance of lattice coupling and phase inhomogeneity, and provide a microscopic explanation for putative "incommensurate" order in hole-doped oxides. Copyright © 2018 the Author(s). Published by PNAS.

New developments in electron microscopy for serial image acquisition of neuronal profiles.

PubMed

Kubota, Yoshiyuki

2015-02-01

Recent developments in electron microscopy largely automate the continuous acquisition of serial electron micrographs (EMGs), previously achieved by laborious manual serial ultrathin sectioning using an ultramicrotome and ultrastructural image capture process with transmission electron microscopy. The new systems cut thin sections and capture serial EMGs automatically, allowing for acquisition of large data sets in a reasonably short time. The new methods are focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy, ultramicrotome/serial block-face scanning electron microscopy, automated tape-collection ultramicrotome/scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope camera array. In this review, their positive and negative aspects are discussed. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Integrated light and scanning electron microscopy of GFP-expressing cells.

PubMed

Peddie, Christopher J; Liv, Nalan; Hoogenboom, Jacob P; Collinson, Lucy M

2014-01-01

Integration of light and electron microscopes provides imaging tools in which fluorescent proteins can be localized to cellular structures with a high level of precision. However, until recently, there were few methods that could deliver specimens with sufficient fluorescent signal and electron contrast for dual imaging without intermediate staining steps. Here, we report protocols that preserve green fluorescent protein (GFP) in whole cells and in ultrathin sections of resin-embedded cells, with membrane contrast for integrated imaging. Critically, GFP is maintained in a stable and active state within the vacuum of an integrated light and scanning electron microscope. For light microscopists, additional structural information gives context to fluorescent protein expression in whole cells, illustrated here by analysis of filopodia and focal adhesions in Madin Darby canine kidney cells expressing GFP-Paxillin. For electron microscopists, GFP highlights the proteins of interest within the architectural space of the cell, illustrated here by localization of the conical lipid diacylglycerol to cellular membranes. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Magnetic Interactions at the Nanoscale in Trilayer Titanates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cao, Yanwei; Yang, Zhenzhong; Kareev, M.

2016-02-17

We report on the phase diagram of competing magnetic interactions at the nanoscale in engineered ultrathin trilayer heterostructures of LaTiO3/SrTiO3/YTiO3, in which the interfacial inversion symmetry is explicitly broken. Combined atomic layer resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy with electron energy loss spectroscopy and electrical transport have confirmed the formation of a spatially separated two-dimensional electron liquid and high density two-dimensional localized magnetic moments at the LaTiO3/SrTiO3 and SrTiO3/YTiO3 interfaces, respectively. Resonant soft x-ray linear dichroism spectroscopy has demonstrated the presence of orbital polarization of the conductive LaTiO3/SrTiO3 and localized SrTiO3/YTiO3 electrons. Our results provide a route with prospects for exploringmore » new magnetic interfaces, designing a tunable two-dimensional d-electron Kondo lattice, and potential spin Hall applications.« less

Strain-Dependent Edge Structures in MoS2 Layers.

PubMed

Tinoco, Miguel; Maduro, Luigi; Masaki, Mukai; Okunishi, Eiji; Conesa-Boj, Sonia

2017-11-08

Edge structures are low-dimensional defects unavoidable in layered materials of the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD) family. Among the various types of such structures, the armchair (AC) and zigzag (ZZ) edge types are the most common. It has been predicted that the presence of intrinsic strain localized along these edges structures can have direct implications for the customization of their electronic properties. However, pinning down the relation between local structure and electronic properties at these edges is challenging. Here, we quantify the local strain field that arises at the edges of MoS 2 flakes by combining aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with the geometrical-phase analysis (GPA) method. We also provide further insight on the possible effects of such edge strain on the resulting electronic behavior by means of electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) measurements. Our results reveal that the two-dominant edge structures, ZZ and AC, induce the formation of different amounts of localized strain fields. We also show that by varying the free edge curvature from concave to convex, compressive strain turns into tensile strain. These results pave the way toward the customization of edge structures in MoS 2 , which can be used to engineer the properties of layered materials and thus contribute to the optimization of the next generation of atomic-scale electronic devices built upon them.

[Application of Warthin-Starry stain, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy in diagnosis of cat scratch disease].

PubMed

Huang, Juan; Dai, Lin; Lei, Song; Liao, Dian-ying; Wang, Xiao-qing; Luo, Tian-you; Chen, Yu; Hang, Zhen-biao; Li, Gan-di; Dong, Dan-dan; Xu, Gang; Gu, Zheng-ce; Hao, Ji-ling; Hua, Ping; He, Lei; Duan, Fang-lei

2010-04-01

To evaluate the diagnostic utility of Warthin-Starry silver stain, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy in the detection of human Bartonella henselae infection and pathologic diagnosis of cat scratch disease (CSD). The paraffin-embedded lymph node tissues of 77 histologically-defined cases of cat scratch disease collected during the period from January, 1998 to December, 2008 were retrieved and studied using Warthin-Starry silver stain (WS stain) and mouse monoclonal antibody against Bartonella henselae (BhmAB stain). Five cases rich in bacteria were selected for transmission electron microscopy. Under electron microscope, the organisms Bartonella henselae appeared polymorphic, round, elliptical, short rod or bacilliform shapes, ranged from 0.489 to 1.110 microm by 0.333 to 0.534 microm and often clustered together. Black short rod-shaped bacilli arranged in chains or clumps were demonstrated in 61.0% (47/77) of CSD by WS stain. The organisms were located outside the cells and lie mainly in the necrotic debris, especially near the nodal capsule. In 72.7% (56/77) of the cases, dot-like, granular as well as few linear positive signals were observed using BhmAB immunostain and showed similar localization. Positive results for both stains were identified in 59.7% (46/77) of the cases. When applying both stains together, Bartonella henselae was observed in 74.0% (57/77) of the case. The difference between the results obtained by WS stain and BhmAB immunostain was of statistical significance (P < 0.05). Bartonella henselae is the causative pathogen of cat scratch disease. WS stain, BhmAB immunostain and transmission electron microscopy are helpful in confirming the histologic diagnosis. Immunostaining using BhmAB can be a better alternative than WS stain in demonstrating the organisms.

Charge injection and transport in a single organic monolayer island

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vuillaume, Dominique

2005-03-01

We report how electrons and holes, that are locally injected in a single organic monolayer island (where organic monolayers are made from sublimated oligomers (pentacene and other oligoacenes), or made from chemisorption in solution (self-assembled monolayers) of pi-conjugated moieties), stay localized or are able to delocalize over the island as a function of the molecular conformation (order vs. disorder) of this island. Charge carriers were locally injected by the apex of an atomic force microscope tip, and the resulting two-dimensional distribution and concentration of injected charges were measured by electrical force microscopy (EFM) experiments. We show that in crystalline monolayer islands, both electrons and holes can be equally injected, at a similar charge concentration for symmetric injection bias conditions, and that both charge carriers are delocalized over the whole island. On the contrary, charges injected into a more disordered monolayer stay localized at their injection point. These different results are discussed in relation with the electrical performances of molecular devices made from these monolayers (OFET, SAMFET). These results provide insight into the electronic properties, at the nanometer scale, of these molecular devices.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Venkatagopalan, Pavithra; School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5401; Microbiology Graduate Program, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5401

Coronaviruses (CoVs) assemble at endoplasmic reticulum Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) membranes and egress from cells in cargo vesicles. Only a few molecules of the envelope (E) protein are assembled into virions. The role of E in morphogenesis is not fully understood. The cellular localization and dynamics of mouse hepatitis CoV A59 (MHV) E protein were investigated to further understanding of its role during infection. E protein localized in the ERGIC and Golgi with the amino and carboxy termini in the lumen and cytoplasm, respectively. E protein does not traffic to the cell surface. MHV was genetically engineered with a tetracysteinemore » tag at the carboxy end of E. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) showed that E is mobile in ERGIC/Golgi membranes. Correlative light electron microscopy (CLEM) confirmed the presence of E in Golgi cisternae. The results provide strong support that E proteins carry out their function(s) at the site of budding/assembly. - Highlights: • Mouse hepatitis coronavirus (MHV-CoV) E protein localizes in the ERGIC and Golgi. • MHV-CoV E does not transport to the cell surface. • MHV-CoV can be genetically engineered with a tetracysteine tag appended to E. • First FRAP and correlative light electron microscopy of a CoV E protein. • Live-cell imaging shows that E is mobile in ERGIC/Golgi membranes.« less

Investigation of Electron Transport Across Vertically Grown CNTs Using Combination of Proximity Field Emission Microscopy and Scanning Probe Image Processing Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolekar, Sadhu; Patole, Shashikant P.; Yoo, Ji-Beom; Dharmadhikari, Chandrakant V.

2018-03-01

Field emission from nanostructured films is known to be dominated by only small number of localized spots which varies with the voltage, electric field and heat treatment. It is important to develop processing methods which will produce stable and uniform emitting sites. In this paper we report a novel approach which involves analysis of Proximity Field Emission Microscopic (PFEM) images using Scanning Probe Image Processing technique. Vertically aligned carbon nanotube emitters have been deposited on tungsten foil by water assisted chemical vapor deposition. Prior to the field electron emission studies, these films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). AFM images of the samples show bristle like structure, the size of bristle varying from 80 to 300 nm. The topography images were found to exhibit strong correlation with current images. Current-Voltage (I-V) measurements both from Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and Conducting-AFM mode suggest that electron transport mechanism in imaging vertically grown CNTs is ballistic rather than usual tunneling or field emission with a junction resistance of 10 kΩ. It was found that I-V curves for field emission mode in PFEM geometry vary initially with number of I-V cycles until reproducible I-V curves are obtained. Even for reasonably stable I-V behavior the number of spots was found to increase with the voltage leading to a modified Fowler-Nordheim (F-N) behavior. A plot of ln(I/V3) versus 1/V was found to be linear. Current versus time data exhibit large fluctuation with the power spectral density obeying 1/f2 law. It is suggested that an analogue of F-N equation of the form ln(I/Vα) versus 1/V may be used for the analysis of field emission data, where α may depend on nanostructure configuration and can be determined from the dependence of emitting spots on the voltage.

Stable and metastable nanowires displaying locally controllable properties

DOEpatents

Sutter, Eli Anguelova; Sutter, Peter Werner

2014-11-18

Vapor-liquid-solid growth of nanowires is tailored to achieve complex one-dimensional material geometries using phase diagrams determined for nanoscale materials. Segmented one-dimensional nanowires having constant composition display locally variable electronic band structures that are determined by the diameter of the nanowires. The unique electrical and optical properties of the segmented nanowires are exploited to form electronic and optoelectronic devices. Using gold-germanium as a model system, in situ transmission electron microscopy establishes, for nanometer-sized Au--Ge alloy drops at the tips of Ge nanowires (NWs), the parts of the phase diagram that determine their temperature-dependent equilibrium composition. The nanoscale phase diagram is then used to determine the exchange of material between the NW and the drop. The phase diagram for the nanoscale drop deviates significantly from that of the bulk alloy.

Microstructural Aspects of Localized Corrosion Behavior of Mg Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chu, Peng-Wei

Combining high specific strength and unique electrochemical properties, magnesium (Mg) alloys are promising lightweight materials for various applications from automotive, consumer electronics, biomedical body implant, to battery electrodes. Engineering solutions such as coatings have enabled the use of Mg alloys, despite their intrinsic low corrosion resistance. Consequently, the fundamental mechanisms responsible for the unique localized corrosion behavior of bare Mg alloys, the associated abnormal hydrogen evolution response, and the relationships between corrosion behavior and alloy microstructure are still unsolved. This thesis aims to uncover the specificities of Mg corrosion and the roles of alloy chemistry and microstructure. To this end, multiscale site-specific microstructure characterization techniques, including in situ optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with focused ion beam milling, and transmission electron microscopy, combined with electrochemical analysis and hydrogen evolution rate monitoring, were performed on pure Mg and selected Mg alloys under free corrosion and anodic polarization, revealing key new information on the propagation mode of localized corrosion and the role of alloy microstructures, thereby confirming or disproving the validity of previously proposed corrosion models. Uniform surface corrosion film on Mg alloys immersed in NaCl solution consisted a bi-layered structure, with a porous Mg(OH)2 outer layer on top of a MgO inner layer. Presence of fine scale precipitates in Mg alloys interacted with the corrosion reaction front, reducing the corrosion rate and surface corrosion film thickness. Protruding hemispherical dome-like corrosion products, accompanied by growing hydrogen bubbles, formed on top of the impurity particles in Mg alloys by deposition of Mg(OH)2 via a microgalvanic effect. Localized corrosion on Mg alloys under both free immersion and anodic polarization was found to be governed by a common mechanism, with the corrosion front propagating laterally a few mum inside the alloy and underneath the surface corrosion film, with finger-like features aligned with (0001) Mg basal planes at the localized corrosion/alloy interface. Rising streams of hydrogen bubbles were found to follow the anodic dissolution of Mg and formation of Mg(OH)2 corrosion products at the propagating localized corrosion fronts. Alloying elements segregation to the grain boundaries showed the ability to stop localized corrosion propagation momentarily. By revealing the microstructure of corrosion features on Mg alloys, a descriptive model was proposed. Relationships between the corrosion behavior and alloy microstructures were also identified. This microscopic information can serve as a guideline for future development of Mg alloys by tailoring the microstructure to achieve proper corrosion responses for applications under different environments.

Local sample thickness determination via scanning transmission electron microscopy defocus series.

PubMed

Beyer, A; Straubinger, R; Belz, J; Volz, K

2016-05-01

The usable aperture sizes in (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM) have significantly increased in the past decade due to the introduction of aberration correction. In parallel with the consequent increase of convergence angle the depth of focus has decreased severely and optical sectioning in the STEM became feasible. Here we apply STEM defocus series to derive the local sample thickness of a TEM sample. To this end experimental as well as simulated defocus series of thin Si foils were acquired. The systematic blurring of high resolution high angle annular dark field images is quantified by evaluating the standard deviation of the image intensity for each image of a defocus series. The derived dependencies exhibit a pronounced maximum at the optimum defocus and drop to a background value for higher or lower values. The full width half maximum (FWHM) of the curve is equal to the sample thickness above a minimum thickness given by the size of the used aperture and the chromatic aberration of the microscope. The thicknesses obtained from experimental defocus series applying the proposed method are in good agreement with the values derived from other established methods. The key advantages of this method compared to others are its high spatial resolution and that it does not involve any time consuming simulations. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Self-organised silicide nanodot patterning by medium-energy ion beam sputtering of Si(100): local correlation between the morphology and metal content.

PubMed

Redondo-Cubero, A; Galiana, B; Lorenz, K; Palomares, F J; Bahena, D; Ballesteros, C; Hernandez-Calderón, I; Vázquez, L

2016-11-04

We have produced self-organised silicide nanodot patterns by medium-energy ion beam sputtering (IBS) of silicon targets with a simultaneous and isotropic molybdenum supply. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies show that these patterns are qualitatively similar to those produced thus far at low ion energies. We have determined the relevance of the ion species on the pattern ordering and properties. For the higher ordered patterns produced by Xe(+) ions, the pattern wavelength depends linearly on the ion energy. The dot nanostructures are silicide-rich as assessed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and emerge in height due to their lower sputtering yield, as observed by electron microscopy. Remarkably, a long wavelength corrugation is observed on the surface which is correlated with both the Mo content and the dot pattern properties. Thus, as assessed by electron microscopy, the protrusions are Mo-rich with higher and more spaced dots on their surface whereas the valleys are Mo-poor with smaller dots that are closer to each other. These findings indicate that there is a correlation between the local metal content of the surface and the nanodot pattern properties both at the nanodot and the large corrugation scales. These results contribute to advancing the understanding of this interesting nanofabrication method and aid in developing a comprehensive theory of nanodot pattern formation and evolution.

Microscopic localization of sterically stabilized liposomes in colon carcinoma-bearing mice.

PubMed

Huang, S K; Lee, K D; Hong, K; Friend, D S; Papahadjopoulos, D

1992-10-01

Using light and electron microscopy, we investigated the in vivo distribution of liposomes sterically stabilized by specific lipids which prolong their circulation in blood. Tissue distribution of sterically stabilized liposomes composed of distearoyl phosphatidylcholine:cholesterol:monosialoganglioside GM1 (10:5:1)-encapsulated 67Ga-Desferal indicates that more than 30% of liposomes still remain in the blood at 24 h after tail vein injection. Moreover, such liposomes accumulated in tumors (C-26 colon carcinoma cells implanted s.c.), reaching almost the same level of uptake as liver (approximately 20% injected dose/g tissue). The microscopic localization of liposomes labeled with encapsulated colloidal gold or rhodamine-labeled dextran coincided well with the tissue distribution. To evaluate circulation parameters, two sizes of gold-containing egg phosphatidylcholine:cholesterol:distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (derivatized at its amino position with a 1900 molecular weight segment of polyethylene glycol) (10:5:0.8) liposomes were injected. The plasma was examined by electron microscopy of negative-stained preparations at 0.5, 4, and 24 h after liposome injection. It was found that the ratio of small (less than 100 nm diameter) to large (greater than 100 nm) liposomes increased with time, indicating a much faster clearance of the larger liposomes. To detect the localization of liposomes in various tissues, appropriate samples were fixed 24 h after the injection of gold-containing liposomes (between 80 and 100 nm in diameter) composed of egg phosphatidylcholine:cholesterol:monosialoganglioside GM1 (10:5:1) or egg phosphatidylcholine:cholesterol:derivatized distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine. The tissues examined for this study included normal liver, bone marrow, and implanted neoplasms. Silver-enhanced colloidal gold was found predominantly within Kupffer cells in the normal liver and within macrophages in the bone marrow. Rarely were any silver-enhanced gold particles detected in hepatocytes. In all preparations, electron microscopy revealed the presence of gold in endosomes and lysosomes of fixed sinusoidal lining macrophages in the liver and bone marrow. Peripheral to the implanted tumors, silver enhancement revealed gold in small blood vessels and focally beyond the vessel boundaries in extracellular spaces around tumor cells. Gold particles were not observed within the tumor cell cytoplasm. At the tumor border, nonenhanced gold was occasionally seen by electron microscopy in cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system. We obtained the same localization pattern as with silver enhancement by using an alternative aqueous content marker, rhodamine B isothiocyanate-dextran. We conclude that liposomes of specific composition, which have the ability to remain in circulation with a half-life of 12-24 h, are also able to transverse the endothelium of small blood vessels, including those in tumors, and extravasate into extracellular spaces.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Super-resolution photoacoustic microscopy using a localized near-field of a plasmonic nanoaperture: a three-dimensional simulation study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Byullee; Lee, Hongki; Upputuri, Paul Kumar; Pramanik, Manojit; Kim, Donghyun; Kim, Chulhong

2018-02-01

Super-resolution microscopy has been increasingly important to delineate nanoscale biological structures or nanoparticles. With these increasing demands, several imaging modalities, including super-resolution fluorescence microscope (SRFM) and electron microscope (EM), have been developed and commercialized. These modalities achieve nanoscale resolution, however, SRFM cannot image without fluorescence, and sample preparation of EM is not suitable for biological specimens. To overcome those disadvantages, we have numerically studied the possibility of superresolution photoacoustic microscopy (SR-PAM) based on near-field localization of light. Photoacoustic (PA) signal is generally acquired based on optical absorption contrast; thus it requires no agents or pre-processing for the samples. The lateral resolution of the conventional photoacoustic microscopy is limited to 200 nm by diffraction limit, therefore reducing the lateral resolution is a major research impetus. Our approach to breaking resolution limit is to use laser pulses of extremely small spot size as a light source. In this research, we simulated the PA signal by constructing the three dimensional SR-PAM system environment using the k-Wave toolbox. As the light source, we simulated ultrashort light pulses using geometrical nanoaperture with near-field localization of surface plasmons. Through the PA simulation, we have successfully distinguish cuboids spaced 3 nm apart. In the near future, we will develop the SR-PAM and it will contribute to biomedical and material sciences.

Effects of micro-structure on aerodynamics of Coccinella septempunctata elytra (ladybird) in forward flight as assessed via electron microscopy.

PubMed

Xiang, Jinwu; Liu, Kai; Li, Daochun; Du, Jianxun

2017-11-01

The effects of micro-structure on aerodynamics of Coccinella septempunctata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) elytra in forward flight were investigated. The micro-structure was examined by a scanning electron microscope and a digital microscope. Based on the experimental results, five elytron models were constructed to separately investigate the effects of the camber and the local corrugation in both leading edge and trailing edge on aerodynamics. Computational fluid dynamic simulations of five elytron models were conducted by solving the Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes equations with the Reynolds number of 245. The results show that camber and the local corrugation in the leading edge play significant roles in improving the aerodynamic performance, while the local corrugation in the trailing edge has little effect on aerodynamics. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An algorithm for automated detection, localization and measurement of local calcium signals from camera-based imaging.

PubMed

Ellefsen, Kyle L; Settle, Brett; Parker, Ian; Smith, Ian F

2014-09-01

Local Ca(2+) transients such as puffs and sparks form the building blocks of cellular Ca(2+) signaling in numerous cell types. They have traditionally been studied by linescan confocal microscopy, but advances in TIRF microscopy together with improved electron-multiplied CCD (EMCCD) cameras now enable rapid (>500 frames s(-1)) imaging of subcellular Ca(2+) signals with high spatial resolution in two dimensions. This approach yields vastly more information (ca. 1 Gb min(-1)) than linescan imaging, rendering visual identification and analysis of local events imaged both laborious and subject to user bias. Here we describe a routine to rapidly automate identification and analysis of local Ca(2+) events. This features an intuitive graphical user-interfaces and runs under Matlab and the open-source Python software. The underlying algorithm features spatial and temporal noise filtering to reliably detect even small events in the presence of noisy and fluctuating baselines; localizes sites of Ca(2+) release with sub-pixel resolution; facilitates user review and editing of data; and outputs time-sequences of fluorescence ratio signals for identified event sites along with Excel-compatible tables listing amplitudes and kinetics of events. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Functional Scanning Probe Imaging of Nanostructured Solar Energy Materials.

PubMed

Giridharagopal, Rajiv; Cox, Phillip A; Ginger, David S

2016-09-20

From hybrid perovskites to semiconducting polymer/fullerene blends for organic photovoltaics, many new materials being explored for energy harvesting and storage exhibit performance characteristics that depend sensitively on their nanoscale morphology. At the same time, rapid advances in the capability and accessibility of scanning probe microscopy methods over the past decade have made it possible to study processing/structure/function relationships ranging from photocurrent collection to photocarrier lifetimes with resolutions on the scale of tens of nanometers or better. Importantly, such scanning probe methods offer the potential to combine measurements of local structure with local function, and they can be implemented to study materials in situ or devices in operando to better understand how materials evolve in time in response to an external stimulus or environmental perturbation. This Account highlights recent advances in the development and application of scanning probe microscopy methods that can help address such questions while filling key gaps between the capabilities of conventional electron microscopy and newer super-resolution optical methods. Focusing on semiconductor materials for solar energy applications, we highlight a range of electrical and optoelectronic scanning probe microscopy methods that exploit the local dynamics of an atomic force microscope tip to probe key properties of the solar cell material or device structure. We discuss how it is possible to extract relevant device properties using noncontact scanning probe methods as well as how these properties guide materials development. Specifically, we discuss intensity-modulated scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (IM-SKPM), time-resolved electrostatic force microscopy (trEFM), frequency-modulated electrostatic force microscopy (FM-EFM), and cantilever ringdown imaging. We explain these developments in the context of classic atomic force microscopy (AFM) methods that exploit the physics of cantilever motion and photocarrier generation to provide robust, nanoscale measurements of materials physics that are correlated with device operation. We predict that the multidimensional data sets made possible by these types of methods will become increasingly important as advances in data science expand capabilities and opportunities for image correlation and discovery.

Assessment of cardiac fibrosis: a morphometric method comparison for collagen quantification.

PubMed

Schipke, Julia; Brandenberger, Christina; Rajces, Alexandra; Manninger, Martin; Alogna, Alessio; Post, Heiner; Mühlfeld, Christian

2017-04-01

Fibrotic remodeling of the heart is a frequent condition linked to various diseases and cardiac dysfunction. Collagen quantification is an important objective in cardiac fibrosis research; however, a variety of different histological methods are currently used that may differ in accuracy. Here, frequently applied collagen quantification techniques were compared. A porcine model of early stage heart failure with preserved ejection fraction was used as an example. Semiautomated threshold analyses were imprecise, mainly due to inclusion of noncollagen structures or failure to detect certain collagen deposits. In contrast, collagen assessment by automated image analysis and light microscopy (LM)-stereology was more sensitive. Depending on the quantification method, the amount of estimated collagen varied and influenced intergroup comparisons. PicroSirius Red, Masson's trichrome, and Azan staining protocols yielded similar results, whereas the measured collagen area increased with increasing section thickness. Whereas none of the LM-based methods showed significant differences between the groups, electron microscopy (EM)-stereology revealed a significant collagen increase between cardiomyocytes in the experimental group, but not at other localizations. In conclusion, in contrast to the staining protocol, section thickness and the quantification method being used directly influence the estimated collagen content and thus, possibly, intergroup comparisons. EM in combination with stereology is a precise and sensitive method for collagen quantification if certain prerequisites are considered. For subtle fibrotic alterations, consideration of collagen localization may be necessary. Among LM methods, LM-stereology and automated image analysis are appropriate to quantify fibrotic changes, the latter depending on careful control of algorithm and comparable section staining. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Direct comparison of frequently applied histological fibrosis assessment techniques revealed a distinct relation of measured collagen and utilized quantification method as well as section thickness. Besides electron microscopy-stereology, which was precise and sensitive, light microscopy-stereology and automated image analysis proved to be appropriate for collagen quantification. Moreover, consideration of collagen localization might be important in revealing minor fibrotic changes. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Low cost, high performance processing of single particle cryo-electron microscopy data in the cloud

PubMed Central

Cianfrocco, Michael A; Leschziner, Andres E

2015-01-01

The advent of a new generation of electron microscopes and direct electron detectors has realized the potential of single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) as a technique to generate high-resolution structures. Calculating these structures requires high performance computing clusters, a resource that may be limiting to many likely cryo-EM users. To address this limitation and facilitate the spread of cryo-EM, we developed a publicly available ‘off-the-shelf’ computing environment on Amazon's elastic cloud computing infrastructure. This environment provides users with single particle cryo-EM software packages and the ability to create computing clusters with 16–480+ CPUs. We tested our computing environment using a publicly available 80S yeast ribosome dataset and estimate that laboratories could determine high-resolution cryo-EM structures for $50 to $1500 per structure within a timeframe comparable to local clusters. Our analysis shows that Amazon's cloud computing environment may offer a viable computing environment for cryo-EM. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.06664.001 PMID:25955969

Deterministic Line-Shape Programming of Silicon Nanowires for Extremely Stretchable Springs and Electronics.

PubMed

Xue, Zhaoguo; Sun, Mei; Dong, Taige; Tang, Zhiqiang; Zhao, Yaolong; Wang, Junzhuan; Wei, Xianlong; Yu, Linwei; Chen, Qing; Xu, Jun; Shi, Yi; Chen, Kunji; Roca I Cabarrocas, Pere

2017-12-13

Line-shape engineering is a key strategy to endow extra stretchability to 1D silicon nanowires (SiNWs) grown with self-assembly processes. We here demonstrate a deterministic line-shape programming of in-plane SiNWs into extremely stretchable springs or arbitrary 2D patterns with the aid of indium droplets that absorb amorphous Si precursor thin film to produce ultralong c-Si NWs along programmed step edges. A reliable and faithful single run growth of c-SiNWs over turning tracks with different local curvatures has been established, while high resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis reveals a high quality monolike crystallinity in the line-shaped engineered SiNW springs. Excitingly, in situ scanning electron microscopy stretching and current-voltage characterizations also demonstrate a superelastic and robust electric transport carried by the SiNW springs even under large stretching of more than 200%. We suggest that this highly reliable line-shape programming approach holds a strong promise to extend the mature c-Si technology into the development of a new generation of high performance biofriendly and stretchable electronics.

Determination of redox reaction rates and orders by in situ liquid cell electron microscopy of Pd and Au solution growth.

PubMed

Sutter, Eli A; Sutter, Peter W

2014-12-03

In-situ liquid cell transmission and scanning transmission electron microscopy (TEM/STEM) experiments are important, as they provide direct insight into processes in liquids, such as solution growth of nanoparticles, among others. In liquid cell TEM/STEM redox reaction experiments, the hydrated electrons e(-)aq created by the electron beam are responsible for the reduction of metal-ion complexes. Here we investigate the rate equation of redox reactions involving reduction by e(-)aq generated by the electron beam during in situ liquid TEM/STEM. Specifically we consider the growth of Pd on Au seeds in aqueous solutions containing Pd-chloro complexes. From the quantification of the rate of Pd deposition at different electron beam currents and as a function of distance from a stationary, nanometer-sized exciting beam, we determine that the reaction is first order with respect to the concentration of hydrated electrons, [e(-)aq]. By comparing Pd- and Au-deposition, we further demonstrate that measurements of the local deposition rate on nanoparticles in the solution via real-time imaging can be used to measure not only [e(-)aq] but also the rate of reduction of a metal-ion complex to zerovalent metal atoms in solution.

Determination of redox reaction rates and orders by in situ liquid cell electron microscopy of Pd and Au solution growth

DOE PAGES

Sutter, Eli A.; Sutter, Peter W.

2014-11-19

In-situ liquid cell transmission and scanning transmission electron microscopy (TEM/STEM) experiments are important as they provide direct insight into processes in liquids, such as solution growth of nanoparticles among others. In liquid cell TEM/STEM redox reaction experiments the hydrated electrons e⁻ aq created by the electron beam are responsible for the reduction of metal-ion complexes. Here we investigate the rate equation of redox reactions involving reduction by e⁻ aq generated by the electron beam during in-situ liquid TEM/STEM. Specifically we consider the growth of Pd on Au seeds in aqueous solutions containing Pd-chloro complexes. From the quantification of the ratemore » of Pd deposition at different electron beam currents and as a function of distance from a stationary, nanometer-sized exciting beam, we determine that the reaction is first order with respect to the concentration of hydrated electrons, [e⁻ aq]. In addition, by comparing Pd- and Au-deposition, we further demonstrate that measurements of the local deposition rate on nanoparticles in the solution via real-time imaging can be used to measure not only [e⁻ aq] but also the rate of reduction of a metal-ion complex to zero-valent metal atoms in solution.« less

Colonization of epidermal tissue by Staphylococcus aureus produces localized hypoxia and stimulates secretion of antioxidant and caspase-14 proteins

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A partial-thickness epidermal explant model was colonized with GFP-expressing S. aureus and the pattern of S. aureus biofilm growth was characterized using electron and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Oxygen concentration in explants and H2O2 in media was quantified using microelectrodes. The re...

Challenges in quantitative crystallographic characterization of 3D thin films by ACOM-TEM.

PubMed

Kobler, A; Kübel, C

2017-02-01

Automated crystal orientation mapping for transmission electron microscopy (ACOM-TEM) has become an easy to use method for the investigation of crystalline materials and complements other TEM methods by adding local crystallographic information over large areas. It fills the gap between high resolution electron microscopy and electron back scatter diffraction in terms of spatial resolution. Recent investigations showed that spot diffraction ACOM-TEM is a quantitative method with respect to sample parameters like grain size, twin density, orientation density and others. It can even be used in combination with in-situ tensile or thermal testing. However, there are limitations of the current method. In this paper we discuss some of the challenges and discuss solutions, e.g. we present an ambiguity filter that reduces the number of pixels with a '180° ambiguity problem'. For that an ACOM-TEM tilt series of nanocrystalline Pd thin films with overlapping crystallites was acquired and analyzed. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

AAO-based nanoreservoir arrays: A quick and easy support for TEM characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mace, M.; Sahaf, H.; Moyen, E.; Bedu, F.; Masson, L.; Hanbücken, M.

2010-12-01

Large-scale arrays of calibrated, nanometer sized reservoirs are prepared by adapting the well-established electrochemical method used so far for the preparation of anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes. The bottom plane of the assembly is prepared to be transparent for high-energy electrons, enabling their use as a universal sample support for transmission electron microscopy studies of nanoparticles. The nanoreservoir substrates can be cleaned under ultra-high-vacuum conditions and filled, by evaporating different materials. Filled nanoreservoirs can locally be sealed with a thin carbon layer using focused-ion-beam-induced deposition (FIBID). Nanoparticles, grow at various adsorption places on the walls and bottom planes inside the nanoreservoirs. They can be characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) without further sample preparation in different crystallographic directions. Due to the dense array-arrangement of the reservoirs, very good statistics can already be obtained on one single sample. The controlled fabrication of the nanoreservoir array and first TEM results obtained on Au nanoparticles before and after sealing of the reservoirs, are presented.

On the dynamical nature of the active center in a single-site photocatalyst visualized by 4D ultrafast electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Yoo, Byung-Kuk; Su, Zixue; Thomas, John Meurig; Zewail, Ahmed H.

2016-01-01

Understanding the dynamical nature of the catalytic active site embedded in complex systems at the atomic level is critical to developing efficient photocatalytic materials. Here, we report, using 4D ultrafast electron microscopy, the spatiotemporal behaviors of titanium and oxygen in a titanosilicate catalytic material. The observed changes in Bragg diffraction intensity with time at the specific lattice planes, and with a tilted geometry, provide the relaxation pathway: the Ti4+=O2− double bond transformation to a Ti3+−O1− single bond via the individual atomic displacements of the titanium and the apical oxygen. The dilation of the double bond is up to 0.8 Å and occurs on the femtosecond time scale. These findings suggest the direct catalytic involvement of the Ti3+−O1− local structure, the significance of nonthermal processes at the reactive site, and the efficient photo-induced electron transfer that plays a pivotal role in many photocatalytic reactions. PMID:26729878

Secondary sulfate minerals from Alum Cave Bluff: Microscopy and microanalysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lauf, R.J.

1997-07-01

Microcrystals of secondary sulfate minerals from Alum Cave Bluff, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, were examined by scanning electron microscopy and identified by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in the SEM. Among the samples the author discovered three new rare-earth sulfates: coskrenite-(Ce), levinsonite-(Y), and zugshunstite-(Ce). Other minerals illustrated in this report include sulfur, tschermigite, gypsum, epsomite, melanterite, halotrichite, apjohnite, jarosite, slavikite, magnesiocopiapite, and diadochite. Additional specimens whose identification is more tentative include pickeringite, aluminite, basaluminite, and botryogen. Alum Cave is a ``Dana locality`` for apjohnite and potash alum, and is the first documented North American occurrence of slavikite.

Doxorubicin-loaded Zein in situ gel for interstitial chemotherapy.

PubMed

Cao, Xiaoying; Geng, Jianning; Su, Suwen; Zhang, Linan; Xu, Qian; Zhang, Li; Xie, Yinghua; Wu, Shaomei; Sun, Yongjun; Gao, Zibin

2012-01-01

A novel drug delivery system of doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded Zein in situ gel for interstitial chemotherapy was investigated in this study. The possible mechanisms of drug release were described according to morphological analysis by optical microscopy and scanning electronic microscope (SEM). In vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity studies showed that DOX-loaded Zein in situ gel was superior to DOX solution. Local pharmacokinetics in tumor tissue was studied by quantitative analysis with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) combined with microdialysis technology. A pharmacokinetics mathematical model of DOX-loaded Zein in situ gel in tumors was then built.

Electron Microscopy Analysis of the Nucleolus of Trypanosoma cruzi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

López-Velázquez, Gabriel; Hernández, Roberto; López-Villaseñor, Imelda; Reyes-Vivas, Horacio; Segura-Valdez, María De L.; Jiménez-García, Luis F.

2005-08-01

The nucleolus is the main site for synthesis and processing of ribosomal RNA in eukaryotes. In mammals, plants, and yeast the nucleolus has been extensively characterized by electron microscopy, but in the majority of the unicellular eukaryotes no such studies have been performed. Here we used ultrastructural cytochemical and immunocytochemical techniques as well as three-dimensional reconstruction to analyze the nucleolus of Trypanosoma cruzi, which is an early divergent eukaryote of medical importance. In T. cruzi epimastigotes the nucleolus is a spherical intranuclear ribonucleoprotein organelle localized in a relatively central position within the nucleus. Dense fibrillar and granular components but not fibrillar centers were observed. In addition, nuclear bodies resembling Cajal bodies were observed associated to the nucleolus in the surrounding nucleoplasm. Our results provide additional morphological data to better understand the synthesis and processing of the ribosomal RNA in kinetoplastids.

Operando observations of solid-state electrochemical reactions in Li-ion batteries by spatially resolved TEM EELS and electron holography.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Kazuo; Iriyama, Yasutoshi; Hirayama, Tsukasa

2017-02-08

All-solid-state Li-ion batteries having incombustible solid electrolytes are promising energy storage devices because they have significant advantages in terms of safety, lifetime and energy density. Electrochemical reactions, namely, Li-ion insertion/extraction reactions, commonly occur around the nanometer-scale interfaces between the electrodes and solid electrolytes. Thus, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is an appropriate technique to directly observe such reactions, providing important information for understanding the fundamental solid-state electrochemistry and improving battery performance. In this review, we introduce two types of TEM techniques for operando observations of battery reactions, spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy in a TEM mode for direct detection of the Li concentration profiles and electron holography for observing the electric potential changes due to Li-ion insertion/extraction reactions. We visually show how Li-ion insertion/extractions affect the crystal structures, electronic structures, and local electric potential during the charge-discharge processes in these batteries. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Analysis of Local Structure, Chemistry and Bonding by Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayer, Joachim

In the present chapter, the reader will first be introduced briefly to the basic principles of analytical transmission electron microscopy (ATEM) with special emphasis on electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and energy-filtering TEM. The quantification of spectra to obtain chemical information and the origin and interpretation of near-edge fine structures in EELS (ELNES) are discussed. Special attention will be given to the characterization of internal interfaces and the literature in this area will be reviewed. Selected examples of the application of ATEM in the investigation of internal interfaces will be given. These examples include both EELS in the energy-filtering TEM and in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM).

Localization of burn mark under an abnormal topography on MOSFET chip surface using liquid crystal and emission microscopy tools.

PubMed

Lau, C K; Sim, K S; Tso, C P

2011-01-01

This article focuses on the localization of burn mark in MOSFET and the scanning electron microscope (SEM) inspection on the defect location. When a suspect abnormal topography is shown on the die surface, further methods to pin-point the defect location is necessary. Fault localization analysis becomes important because an abnormal spot on the chip surface may and may not have a defect underneath it. The chip surface topography can change due to the catastrophic damage occurred at layers under the chip surface, but it could also be due to inconsistency during metal deposition in the wafer fabrication process. Two localization techniques, liquid crystal thermography and emission microscopy, were performed to confirm that the abnormal topography spot is the actual defect location. The tiny burn mark was surfaced by performing a surface decoration at the defect location using hot hydrochloric acid. SEM imaging, which has the high magnification and three-dimensional capabilities, was used to capture the images of the burn mark. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Fluorescence Microscopy Methods for Determining the Viability of Bacteria in Association with Mammalian Cells

PubMed Central

Johnson, M. Brittany; Criss, Alison K.

2013-01-01

Central to the field of bacterial pathogenesis is the ability to define if and how microbes survive after exposure to eukaryotic cells. Current protocols to address these questions include colony count assays, gentamicin protection assays, and electron microscopy. Colony count and gentamicin protection assays only assess the viability of the entire bacterial population and are unable to determine individual bacterial viability. Electron microscopy can be used to determine the viability of individual bacteria and provide information regarding their localization in host cells. However, bacteria often display a range of electron densities, making assessment of viability difficult. This article outlines protocols for the use of fluorescent dyes that reveal the viability of individual bacteria inside and associated with host cells. These assays were developed originally to assess survival of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in primary human neutrophils, but should be applicable to any bacterium-host cell interaction. These protocols combine membrane-permeable fluorescent dyes (SYTO9 and 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole [DAPI]), which stain all bacteria, with membrane-impermeable fluorescent dyes (propidium iodide and SYTOX Green), which are only accessible to nonviable bacteria. Prior to eukaryotic cell permeabilization, an antibody or fluorescent reagent is added to identify extracellular bacteria. Thus these assays discriminate the viability of bacteria adherent to and inside eukaryotic cells. A protocol is also provided for using the viability dyes in combination with fluorescent antibodies to eukaryotic cell markers, in order to determine the subcellular localization of individual bacteria. The bacterial viability dyes discussed in this article are a sensitive complement and/or alternative to traditional microbiology techniques to evaluate the viability of individual bacteria and provide information regarding where bacteria survive in host cells. PMID:24056524

Excimer laser annealing of NiTi shape memory alloy thin film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Qiong; Huang, Weimin; Hong, Ming Hui; Song, Wendong; Chong, Tow Chong

2003-02-01

NiTi Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is with great potential for actuation in microsystems. It is particularly suitable for medical applications due to its excellent biocompatibility. In MEMS, local annealing of SMA is required in the process of fabrication. In this paper, local annealing of Ni52Ti48 SMA with excimer laser is proposed for the first time. The Ni52Ti48 thin film in a thickness of 5 μm was deposited on Si (100) wafer by sputtering at room temperature. After that, the thin film was annealed by excimer laser (248nm KrF laser) for the first time. Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) were used to characterize the surface profile of the deposited film after laser annealing. The phase transformation was measured by Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) test. It is concluded that NiTi film sputtering on Si(100) substrate at room temperature possesses phase transformation after local laser annealing but with cracks.

Direct writing of room temperature and zero field skyrmion lattices by a scanning local magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Senfu; Zhang, Junwei; Zhang, Qiang; Barton, Craig; Neu, Volker; Zhao, Yuelei; Hou, Zhipeng; Wen, Yan; Gong, Chen; Kazakova, Olga; Wang, Wenhong; Peng, Yong; Garanin, Dmitry A.; Chudnovsky, Eugene M.; Zhang, Xixiang

2018-03-01

Magnetic skyrmions are topologically protected nanoscale spin textures exhibiting fascinating physical behaviors. Recent observations of room temperature skyrmions in sputtered multilayer films are an important step towards their use in ultra-low power devices. Such practical applications prefer skyrmions to be stable at zero magnetic fields and room temperature. Here, we report the creation of skyrmion lattices in Pt/Co/Ta multilayers by a scanning local field using magnetic force microscopy tips. We also show that those newly created skyrmion lattices are stable at both room temperature and zero fields. Lorentz transmission electron microscopy measurements reveal that the skyrmions in our films are of Néel-type. To gain a deeper understanding of the mechanism behind the creation of a skyrmion lattice by the scanning of local fields, we perform micromagnetic simulations and find the experimental results to be in agreement with our simulation data. This study opens another avenue for the creation of skyrmion lattices in thin films.

Local deformation gradients in epitaxial Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3 layers investigated by transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Denneulin, T; Wollschläger, N; Everhardt, A S; Farokhipoor, S; Noheda, B; Snoeck, E; Hÿtch, M

2018-05-31

Lead zirconate titanate samples are used for their piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties in various types of micro-devices. Epitaxial layers of tetragonal perovskites have a tendency to relax by forming [Formula: see text] ferroelastic domains. The accommodation of the a/c/a/c polydomain structure on a flat substrate leads to nanoscale deformation gradients which locally influence the polarization by flexoelectric effect. Here, we investigated the deformation fields in epitaxial layers of Pb(Zr 0.2 Ti 0.8 )O 3 grown on SrTiO 3 substrates using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We found that the deformation gradients depend on the domain walls inclination ([Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] to the substrate interface) of the successive [Formula: see text] domains and we describe three different a/c/a domain configurations: one configuration with parallel a-domains and two configurations with perpendicular a-domains (V-shaped and hat-[Formula: see text]-shaped). In the parallel configuration, the c-domains contain horizontal and vertical gradients of out-of-plane deformation. In the V-shaped and hat-[Formula: see text]-shaped configurations, the c-domains exhibit a bending deformation field with vertical gradients of in-plane deformation. Each of these configurations is expected to have a different influence on the polarization and so the local properties of the film. The deformation gradients were measured using dark-field electron holography, a TEM technique, which offers a good sensitivity (0.1%) and a large field-of-view (hundreds of nanometers). The measurements are compared with finite element simulations.

THE LOCALIZATION OF CHOLINESTERASE ACTIVITY IN RAT CARDIAC MUSCLE BY ELECTRON MICROSCOPY

PubMed Central

Karnovsky, Morris J.

1964-01-01

A method has been developed for localizing sites of cholinesterase activity in rat cardiac muscle by electron microscopy. The method utilizes thiocholine esters as substrates, and is believed to be dependent on the reduction of ferricyanide to ferrocyanide by thiocholine released by enzymatic activity. The ferrocyanide thus formed is captured by copper to form fine, electron-opaque deposits of copper ferrocyanide, which sharply delineate sites of enzymatic activity at the ultrastructural level. Cholinesterase activity in formalin-fixed heart muscle was localized: (a) in longitudinal elements of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, but not in the T, or transverse, elements; and (b) in the A band, with virtually no activity noted in the M band, or in the H zone. The I band was also negative. No activity was detected in the sarcolemma, or in invaginations of the sarcolemma at the level of the Z band. The perinuclear element of the sarcoplasmic (endoplasmic) reticulum was frequently strongly positive. Activity at all sites was completely abolished by omitting the substrates, or by inhibition with eserine 10-4 M and diisopropylfluorophosphate 10-5 M. Eserine 10-5 M completely inhibited reaction in the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and virtually abolished that in the A band. These observations, together with the use of the relatively specific substrates and suitable controls to eliminate non-enzymatic staining, indicate that cholinesterase activity was being demonstrated. The activity in rat heart against different substrates was that of non-specific cholinesterases, in accordance with biochemical data. The activity in the A band was considered to be probably due to myosincholinesterase. It is proposed that the localization of cholinesterases in myocardium at the ultrastructural level should be taken into account in considering the possible functions of these myocardial enzymes, and it is hoped that knowledge of their localization will open up new avenues of approach in considering their physiological role in myocardium, which at present is not definitely known. PMID:14222810

Identification of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Histological Samples by Enhanced Darkfield Microscopy and Hyperspectral Mapping.

PubMed

Roth, Gary A; Sosa Peña, Maria del Pilar; Neu-Baker, Nicole M; Tahiliani, Sahil; Brenner, Sara A

2015-12-08

Nanomaterials are increasingly prevalent throughout industry, manufacturing, and biomedical research. The need for tools and techniques that aid in the identification, localization, and characterization of nanoscale materials in biological samples is on the rise. Currently available methods, such as electron microscopy, tend to be resource-intensive, making their use prohibitive for much of the research community. Enhanced darkfield microscopy complemented with a hyperspectral imaging system may provide a solution to this bottleneck by enabling rapid and less expensive characterization of nanoparticles in histological samples. This method allows for high-contrast nanoscale imaging as well as nanomaterial identification. For this technique, histological tissue samples are prepared as they would be for light-based microscopy. First, positive control samples are analyzed to generate the reference spectra that will enable the detection of a material of interest in the sample. Negative controls without the material of interest are also analyzed in order to improve specificity (reduce false positives). Samples can then be imaged and analyzed using methods and software for hyperspectral microscopy or matched against these reference spectra in order to provide maps of the location of materials of interest in a sample. The technique is particularly well-suited for materials with highly unique reflectance spectra, such as noble metals, but is also applicable to other materials, such as semi-metallic oxides. This technique provides information that is difficult to acquire from histological samples without the use of electron microscopy techniques, which may provide higher sensitivity and resolution, but are vastly more resource-intensive and time-consuming than light microscopy.

Silver stain for electron microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corbett, R. L.

1972-01-01

Ammoniacal silver stain used for light microscopy was adapted advantageously for use with very thin biological sections required for electron microscopy. Silver stain can be performed in short time, has more contrast, and is especially useful for low power electron microscopy.

Correlated Light and Electron Microscopy/Electron Tomography of Mitochondria In Situ

PubMed Central

Perkins, Guy A.; Sun, Mei G.; Frey, Terrence G.

2009-01-01

Three-dimensional light microscopy and three-dimensional electron microscopy (electron tomography) separately provide very powerful tools to study cellular structure and physiology, including the structure and physiology of mitochondria. Fluorescence microscopy allows one to study processes in live cells with specific labels and stains that follow the movement of labeled proteins and changes within cellular compartments but does not have sufficient resolution to define the ultrastructure of intracellular organelles such as mitochondria. Electron microscopy and electron tomography provide the highest resolution currently available to study mitochondrial ultrastructure but cannot follow processes in living cells. We describe the combination of these two techniques in which fluorescence confocal microscopy is used to study structural and physiologic changes in mitochondria within apoptotic HeLa cells to define the apoptotic timeframe. Cells can then be selected at various stages of the apoptotic timeframe for examination at higher resolution by electron microscopy and electron tomography. This is a form of “virtual” 4-dimensional electron microscopy that has revealed interesting structural changes in the mitochondria of HeLa cells during apoptosis. The same techniques can be applied, with modification, to study other dynamic processes within cells in other experimental contexts. PMID:19348881

Nanoscale investigation of the piezoelectric properties of perovskite ferroelectrics and III-nitrides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, Brian Joseph

Nanoscale characterization of the piezoelectric and polarization related properties of III-Nitrides by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM), electrostatic force microscopy (EFM) and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM) resulted in the measurement of piezoelectric constants, surface charge and surface potential. Photo-electron emission microscopy (PEEM) was used to determine the local electronic band structure of a GaN-based lateral polarity heterostructure (GaN-LPH). Nanoscale characterization of the imprint and switching behavior of ferroelectric thin films by PFM resulted in the observation of domain pinning, while nanoscale characterization of the spatial variations in the imprint and switching behavior of integrated (111)-oriented PZT-based ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM) capacitors by PFM have revealed a significant difference in imprint and switching behavior between the inner and outer parts of capacitors. The inner regions of the capacitors are typically negatively imprinted and consequently tend to switch back after being poled by a positive bias, while regions at the edge of the capacitors tend to exhibit more symmetric hysteresis behavior. Evidence was obtained indicating that mechanical stress conditions in the central regions of the capacitors can lead to incomplete switching. A combination of vertical and lateral piezoresponse force microscopy (VPFM and LPFM, respectively) has been used to map the out-of-plane and in-plane polarization distribution, respectively, of integrated (111)-oriented PZT-based capacitors, which revealed poled capacitors are in a polydomain state.

Ultrastructural localization of acetylcholinesterase in neurofibrillary tangles, neuropil threads and senile plaques in aged and Alzheimer's brain.

PubMed

Gomez-Ramos, P; Mufson, E J; Moran, M A

1992-01-13

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) histochemistry was used to evaluate the accumulation of this enzyme in senile plaques, neurofibrillary tangles and neuropil threads using light and electron microscopy in Alzheimer's disease as well as non-demented aged brains. Under the electron microscope, a crystalline-like AChE precipitate was localized over paired helical filaments and straight filaments in both neurofibrillary tangles and neuropil threads. AChE reaction product also decorated the amyloid fibrils in diffuse plaques as well as the halo and the heavy accumulation of amyloid which forms the core of classical plaques. In both diffuse plaques and the halo of classical plaques, we found AChE-positive structures resembling cell processes, which in some cases appeared to contain amyloid fibrils. The possible origin and significance of AChE localized over paired helical filaments, straight filaments and amyloid is discussed.

Structural “ δ Doping” to Control Local Magnetization in Isovalent Oxide Heterostructures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moon, E. J.; He, Q.; Ghosh, S.

Modulation and δ-doping strategies, in which atomically thin layers of charged dopants are precisely deposited within a heterostructure, have played enabling roles in the discovery of new physical behavior in electronic materials. Here in this paper, we demonstrate a purely structural “δ-doping” strategy in complex oxide heterostructures, in which atomically thin manganite layers are inserted into an isovalent manganite host, thereby modifying the local rotations of corner-connected MnO 6 octahedra. Combining scanning transmission electron microscopy, polarized neutron reflectometry, and density functional theory, we reveal how local magnetic exchange interactions are enhanced within the spatially confined regions of suppressed octahedral rotations.more » Finally, the combined experimental and theoretical results illustrate the potential to utilize noncharge-based approaches to “doping” in order to enhance or suppress functional properties within spatially confined regions of oxide heterostructures.« less

Structural “ δ Doping” to Control Local Magnetization in Isovalent Oxide Heterostructures

DOE PAGES

Moon, E. J.; He, Q.; Ghosh, S.; ...

2017-11-08

Modulation and δ-doping strategies, in which atomically thin layers of charged dopants are precisely deposited within a heterostructure, have played enabling roles in the discovery of new physical behavior in electronic materials. Here in this paper, we demonstrate a purely structural “δ-doping” strategy in complex oxide heterostructures, in which atomically thin manganite layers are inserted into an isovalent manganite host, thereby modifying the local rotations of corner-connected MnO 6 octahedra. Combining scanning transmission electron microscopy, polarized neutron reflectometry, and density functional theory, we reveal how local magnetic exchange interactions are enhanced within the spatially confined regions of suppressed octahedral rotations.more » Finally, the combined experimental and theoretical results illustrate the potential to utilize noncharge-based approaches to “doping” in order to enhance or suppress functional properties within spatially confined regions of oxide heterostructures.« less

Diverse protocols for correlative super-resolution fluorescence imaging and electron microscopy of chemically fixed samples

PubMed Central

Kopek, Benjamin G.; Paez-Segala, Maria G.; Shtengel, Gleb; Sochacki, Kem A.; Sun, Mei G.; Wang, Yalin; Xu, C. Shan; van Engelenburg, Schuyler B.; Taraska, Justin W.; Looger, Loren L.; Hess, Harald F.

2017-01-01

Our groups have recently developed related approaches for sample preparation for super-resolution imaging within endogenous cellular environments using correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM). Four distinct techniques for preparing and acquiring super-resolution CLEM datasets on aldehyde-fixed specimens are provided, including Tokuyasu cryosectioning, whole-cell mount, cell unroofing and platinum replication, and resin embedding and sectioning. Choice of the best protocol for a given application depends on a number of criteria that are discussed in detail. Tokuyasu cryosectioning is relatively rapid but is limited to small, delicate specimens. Whole-cell mount has the simplest sample preparation but is restricted to surface structures. Cell unroofing and platinum replica creates high-contrast, 3-dimensional images of the cytoplasmic surface of the plasma membrane, but is more challenging than whole-cell mount. Resin embedding permits serial sectioning of large samples, but is limited to osmium-resistant probes, and is technically difficult. Expected results from these protocols include super-resolution localization (~10–50 nm) of fluorescent targets within the context of electron microscopy ultrastructure, which can help address cell biological questions. These protocols can be completed in 2–7 days, are compatible with a number of super-resolution imaging protocols, and are broadly applicable across biology. PMID:28384138

Magnetite nanoparticles functionalized with α-tocopheryl succinate (α-TOS) promote selective cervical cancer cell death

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angulo-Molina, Aracely; Méndez-Rojas, Miguel Ángel; Palacios-Hernández, Teresa; Contreras-López, Oscar Edel; Hirata-Flores, Gustavo Alonso; Flores-Alonso, Juan Carlos; Merino-Contreras, Saul; Valenzuela, Olivia; Hernández, Jesús; Reyes-Leyva, Julio

2014-08-01

The vitamin E analog α-tocopheryl succinate (α-TOS) selectively induces apoptosis in several cancer cells, but it is sensitive to esterases present in cervical cancer cells. Magnetite nanoparticles (Nps) were prepared by a reduction-coprecipitation method; their surface was silanized and conjugated to α-TOS to enhance its resistance. Morphology, size, and crystal structure were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and selected area electron diffraction. Chemical composition was analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy; functional groups were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; and α-TOS content was estimated by thermogravimetric analysis. The cytotoxic activity of α-TOS-Nps was evaluated in non-malignant fibroblasts and cervical cancer cells by means of the colorimetric MTT viability test. Intracellular localization was identified by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Characterization of α-TOS-Nps revealed sphere-like Nps with 15 nm average size, formed by mineral and organic constituents with high stability. α-TOS-Nps were internalized in the nucleus and selectively affected the viability of cervical cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner but were biocompatible with non-malignant fibroblasts. In conclusion, functionalization of magnetite Nps protected the cytotoxic activity of α-TOS in non-sensitive cervical cancer cells.

Scanning thermo-ionic microscopy for probing local electrochemistry at the nanoscale

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eshghinejad, Ahmadreza; Nasr Esfahani, Ehsan; Wang, Peiqi

2016-05-28

Conventional electrochemical characterization techniques based on voltage and current measurements only probe faradaic and capacitive rates in aggregate. In this work we develop a scanning thermo-ionic microscopy (STIM) to probe local electrochemistry at the nanoscale, based on imaging of Vegard strain induced by thermal oscillation. It is demonstrated from both theoretical analysis and experimental validation that the second harmonic response of thermally induced cantilever vibration, associated with thermal expansion, is present in all solids, whereas the fourth harmonic response, caused by local transport of mobile species, is only present in ionic materials. The origin of STIM response is further confirmedmore » by its reduced amplitude with respect to increased contact force, due to the coupling of stress to concentration of ionic species and/or electronic defects. The technique has been applied to probe Sm-doped Ceria and LiFePO{sub 4}, both of which exhibit higher concentrations of mobile species near grain boundaries. The STIM gives us a powerful method to study local electrochemistry with high sensitivity and spatial resolution for a wide range of ionic systems, as well as ability to map local thermomechanical response.« less

Investigation of continuous changes in the electric-field-induced electronic state in Bi(1-x)Ca(x)FeO(3-δ).

PubMed

Ikeda-Ohno, Atsushi; Lim, Ji Soo; Ohkochi, Takuo; Yang, Chan-Ho; Seidel, Jan

2014-09-07

Amongst the most interesting phenomena in correlated oxide systems are the doping-driven competitions between energetically similar ground states found in, e.g., high-Tc superconductors and colossal magnetoresistance manganites. It has recently been reported that doped multiferroics also exhibit this generic concept of phase competition. Here, we employ photoelectron emission microscopy (PEEM) to demonstrate evidence of systematic changes in the electronic structure of Bi(1-x)Ca(x)FeO(3-δ) treated by electrically controlled hole carrier doping, the outcome of which clearly correlates with the local modulation of electronic conductivity observed in the same material.

Graphene-enabled electron microscopy and correlated super-resolution microscopy of wet cells.

PubMed

Wojcik, Michal; Hauser, Margaret; Li, Wan; Moon, Seonah; Xu, Ke

2015-06-11

The application of electron microscopy to hydrated biological samples has been limited by high-vacuum operating conditions. Traditional methods utilize harsh and laborious sample dehydration procedures, often leading to structural artefacts and creating difficulties for correlating results with high-resolution fluorescence microscopy. Here, we utilize graphene, a single-atom-thick carbon meshwork, as the thinnest possible impermeable and conductive membrane to protect animal cells from vacuum, thus enabling high-resolution electron microscopy of wet and untreated whole cells with exceptional ease. Our approach further allows for facile correlative super-resolution and electron microscopy of wet cells directly on the culturing substrate. In particular, individual cytoskeletal actin filaments are resolved in hydrated samples through electron microscopy and well correlated with super-resolution results.

Mapping polaronic states and lithiation gradients in individual V2O5 nanowires

PubMed Central

De Jesus, Luis R.; Horrocks, Gregory A.; Liang, Yufeng; Parija, Abhishek; Jaye, Cherno; Wangoh, Linda; Wang, Jian; Fischer, Daniel A.; Piper, Louis F. J.; Prendergast, David; Banerjee, Sarbajit

2016-01-01

The rapid insertion and extraction of Li ions from a cathode material is imperative for the functioning of a Li-ion battery. In many cathode materials such as LiCoO2, lithiation proceeds through solid-solution formation, whereas in other materials such as LiFePO4 lithiation/delithiation is accompanied by a phase transition between Li-rich and Li-poor phases. We demonstrate using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) that in individual nanowires of layered V2O5, lithiation gradients observed on Li-ion intercalation arise from electron localization and local structural polarization. Electrons localized on the V2O5 framework couple to local structural distortions, giving rise to small polarons that serves as a bottleneck for further Li-ion insertion. The stabilization of this polaron impedes equilibration of charge density across the nanowire and gives rise to distinctive domains. The enhancement in charge/discharge rates for this material on nanostructuring can be attributed to circumventing challenges with charge transport from polaron formation. PMID:27349567

ScipionCloud: An integrative and interactive gateway for large scale cryo electron microscopy image processing on commercial and academic clouds.

PubMed

Cuenca-Alba, Jesús; Del Cano, Laura; Gómez Blanco, Josué; de la Rosa Trevín, José Miguel; Conesa Mingo, Pablo; Marabini, Roberto; S Sorzano, Carlos Oscar; Carazo, Jose María

2017-10-01

New instrumentation for cryo electron microscopy (cryoEM) has significantly increased data collection rate as well as data quality, creating bottlenecks at the image processing level. Current image processing model of moving the acquired images from the data source (electron microscope) to desktops or local clusters for processing is encountering many practical limitations. However, computing may also take place in distributed and decentralized environments. In this way, cloud is a new form of accessing computing and storage resources on demand. Here, we evaluate on how this new computational paradigm can be effectively used by extending our current integrative framework for image processing, creating ScipionCloud. This new development has resulted in a full installation of Scipion both in public and private clouds, accessible as public "images", with all the required preinstalled cryoEM software, just requiring a Web browser to access all Graphical User Interfaces. We have profiled the performance of different configurations on Amazon Web Services and the European Federated Cloud, always on architectures incorporating GPU's, and compared them with a local facility. We have also analyzed the economical convenience of different scenarios, so cryoEM scientists have a clearer picture of the setup that is best suited for their needs and budgets. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An analysis of the circuitry of the visual pathway of the lateral eye of limullus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sjoestrand, F. S.

1970-01-01

The methodology is discussed for three-dimensional analysis of the nervous system on the basis of electron micrographs of serial sections. An analysis is presented of a part of the circuitry of the rabbit retina. In addition, some exploratory work is reported with respect to the visual cortex of the cat brain. A proper technique for preservation of the visual cortex was worked out and a technique to localize microelectrode tips in the tissue in connection with electron microscopy was partially worked out.

Lithium dendrite and solid electrolyte interphase investigation using OsO4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zier, Martin; Scheiba, Frieder; Oswald, Steffen; Thomas, Jürgen; Goers, Dietrich; Scherer, Torsten; Klose, Markus; Ehrenberg, Helmut; Eckert, Jürgen

2014-11-01

Osmium tetroxide (OsO4) staining, commonly used to enhance scattering contrast in electron microscopy of biologic tissue and polymer blends, has been adopted for studies of graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries. OsO4 shows a coordinated reaction with components of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and lithium dendrites, thereby increasing material contrast for scanning electron microscopy investigations. Utilizing the high affinity of lithium metal to react with osmium tetroxide it was possible to localize even small lithium deposits on graphite electrodes. In spite of their reaction with the OsO4 fume, the lithium dendrite morphology remains almost untouched by the staining procedure, offering information on the dendrite growth process. Correlating the quantity of osmium detected with the amount of residual ("dead") lithium of a discharged electrode, it was possible to obtain a practical measure for lithium plating and stripping efficiencies. EDX mappings allowed for a localization of electrochemically stripped lithium dendrites by their residual stained SEI shells. Cross sections, prepared by focused ion beam (FIB) of cycled graphite electrodes treated with OsO4, revealed important information about deposition and distribution of metallic lithium and the electrolyte reduction layer across the electrode.

Plasma dynamics and structural modifications induced by femtosecond laser pulses in quartz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hernandez-Rueda, J.; Puerto, D.; Siegel, J.; Galvan-Sosa, M.; Solis, J.

2012-09-01

We have investigated plasma formation and relaxation dynamics induced by single femtosecond laser pulses at the surface of crystalline SiO2 (quartz) along with the corresponding topography modifications. The use of fs-resolved pump-probe microscopy allows combining spatial and temporal resolution and simultaneous access to phenomena occurring in adjacent regions excited with different local fluences. The results show the formation of a transient free-electron plasma ring surrounding the location of the inner ablation crater. Optical microscopy measurements reveal a 30% reflectivity decrease in this region, consistent with local amorphization. The accompanying weak depression of ≈15 nm in this region is explained by gentle material removal via Coulomb explosion. Finally, we discuss the timescales of the plasma dynamics and its role in the modifications produced, by comparing the results with previous studies obtained in amorphous SiO2 (fused silica). For this purpose, we have conceived a new representation concept of time-resolved microscopy image stacks in a single graph, which allows visualizing quickly suble differences of the overall similar dynamic response of both materials.

Scanning ultrafast electron microscopy.

PubMed

Yang, Ding-Shyue; Mohammed, Omar F; Zewail, Ahmed H

2010-08-24

Progress has been made in the development of four-dimensional ultrafast electron microscopy, which enables space-time imaging of structural dynamics in the condensed phase. In ultrafast electron microscopy, the electrons are accelerated, typically to 200 keV, and the microscope operates in the transmission mode. Here, we report the development of scanning ultrafast electron microscopy using a field-emission-source configuration. Scanning of pulses is made in the single-electron mode, for which the pulse contains at most one or a few electrons, thus achieving imaging without the space-charge effect between electrons, and still in ten(s) of seconds. For imaging, the secondary electrons from surface structures are detected, as demonstrated here for material surfaces and biological specimens. By recording backscattered electrons, diffraction patterns from single crystals were also obtained. Scanning pulsed-electron microscopy with the acquired spatiotemporal resolutions, and its efficient heat-dissipation feature, is now poised to provide in situ 4D imaging and with environmental capability.

Use of fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy as tools in teaching biology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Nabarun; Silva, Jessica; Vazquez, Aracely; Das, A. B.; Smith, Don W.

2011-06-01

Recent nationwide surveys reveal significant decline in students' interest in Math and Sciences. The objective of this project was to inspire young minds in using various techniques involved in Sciences including Scanning Electron Microscopy. We used Scanning Electron Microscope in demonstrating various types of Biological samples. An SEM Tabletop model in the past decade has revolutionized the use of Scanning Electron Microscopes. Using SEM Tabletop model TM 1000 we studied biological specimens of fungal spores, pollen grains, diatoms, plant fibers, dust mites, insect parts and leaf surfaces. We also used fluorescence microscopy to view, to record and analyze various specimens with an Olympus BX40 microscope equipped with FITC and TRITC fluorescent filters, a mercury lamp source, DP-70 digital camera with Image Pro 6.0 software. Micrographs were captured using bright field microscopy, the fluoresceinisothiocyanate (FITC) filter, and the tetramethylrhodamine (TRITC) filter settings at 40X. A high pressure mercury lamp or UV source was used to excite the storage molecules or proteins which exhibited autofluorescence. We used fluorescent microscopy to confirm the localization of sugar beet viruses in plant organs by viewing the vascular bundles in the thin sections of the leaves and other tissues. We worked with the REU summer students on sample preparation and observation on various samples utilizing the SEM. Critical Point Drying (CPD) and metal coating with the sputter coater was followed before observing some cultured specimen and the samples that were soft in textures with high water content. SEM Top allowed investigating the detailed morphological features that can be used for classroom teaching. Undergraduate and graduate researchers studied biological samples of Arthropods, pollen grains and teeth collected from four species of snakes using SEM. This project inspired the research students to pursue their career in higher studies in science and 45% of the undergraduates participated in this project entered Graduate school.

Correlative Imaging of Fluorescent Proteins in Resin-Embedded Plant Material1

PubMed Central

Bell, Karen; Mitchell, Steve; Paultre, Danae; Posch, Markus; Oparka, Karl

2013-01-01

Fluorescent proteins (FPs) were developed for live-cell imaging and have revolutionized cell biology. However, not all plant tissues are accessible to live imaging using confocal microscopy, necessitating alternative approaches for protein localization. An example is the phloem, a tissue embedded deep within plant organs and sensitive to damage. To facilitate accurate localization of FPs within recalcitrant tissues, we developed a simple method for retaining FPs after resin embedding. This method is based on low-temperature fixation and dehydration, followed by embedding in London Resin White, and avoids the need for cryosections. We show that a palette of FPs can be localized in plant tissues while retaining good structural cell preservation, and that the polymerized block face can be counterstained with cell wall probes. Using this method we have been able to image green fluorescent protein-labeled plasmodesmata to a depth of more than 40 μm beneath the resin surface. Using correlative light and electron microscopy of the phloem, we were able to locate the same FP-labeled sieve elements in semithin and ultrathin sections. Sections were amenable to antibody labeling, and allowed a combination of confocal and superresolution imaging (three-dimensional-structured illumination microscopy) on the same cells. These correlative imaging methods should find several uses in plant cell biology. PMID:23457228

Structural protein 4.1 is located in mammalian centrosomes

PubMed Central

Krauss, Sharon Wald; Chasis, Joel Anne; Rogers, Catherine; Mohandas, Narla; Krockmalnic, Gabriela; Penman, Sheldon

1997-01-01

Structural protein 4.1 was first characterized as an important 80-kDa protein in the mature red cell membrane skeleton. It is now known to be a member of a family of protein isoforms detected at diverse intracellular sites in many nucleated mammalian cells. We recently reported that protein 4.1 isoforms are present at interphase in nuclear matrix and are rearranged during the cell cycle. Here we report that protein 4.1 epitopes are present in centrosomes of human and murine cells and are detected by using affinity-purified antibodies specific for 80-kDa red cell 4.1 and for 4.1 peptides. Immunofluorescence, by both conventional and confocal microscopy, showed that protein 4.1 epitopes localized in the pericentriolar region. Protein 4.1 epitopes remained in centrosomes after extraction of cells with detergent, salt, and DNase. Higher resolution electron microscopy of detergent-extracted cell whole mounts showed centrosomal protein 4.1 epitopes distributed along centriolar cylinders and on pericentriolar fibers, at least some of which constitute the filamentous network surrounding each centriole. Double-label electron microscopy showed that protein 4.1 epitopes were predominately localized in regions also occupied by epitopes for centrosome-specific autoimmune serum 5051 but were not found on microtubules. Our results suggest that protein 4.1 is an integral component of centrosome structure, in which it may play an important role in centrosome function during cell division and organization of cellular architecture. PMID:9207085

High-Resolution of Electron Microscopy of Montmorillonite and Montmorillonite/Epoxy Nanocomposites

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

AFRL-ML-WP-TP-2006-464 HIGH-RESOLUTION OF ELECTRON MICROSCOPY OF MONTMORILLONITE AND MONTMORILLONITE /EPOXY NANOCOMPOSITES Lawrence F...HIGH-RESOLUTION OF ELECTRON MICROSCOPY OF MONTMORILLONITE AND MONTMORILLONITE /EPOXY NANOCOMPOSITES 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 62102F 5d...transmission electron microscopy the structure and morphology of montmorillonite (MMT), a material of current interest for use in polymer nanocomposites, was

Variability of Protein Structure Models from Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Monroe, Lyman; Terashi, Genki; Kihara, Daisuke

2017-04-04

An increasing number of biomolecular structures are solved by electron microscopy (EM). However, the quality of structure models determined from EM maps vary substantially. To understand to what extent structure models are supported by information embedded in EM maps, we used two computational structure refinement methods to examine how much structures can be refined using a dataset of 49 maps with accompanying structure models. The extent of structure modification as well as the disagreement between refinement models produced by the two computational methods scaled inversely with the global and the local map resolutions. A general quantitative estimation of deviations of structures for particular map resolutions are provided. Our results indicate that the observed discrepancy between the deposited map and the refined models is due to the lack of structural information present in EM maps and thus these annotations must be used with caution for further applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Correlation of microphotoluminescence spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and atom probe tomography on a single nano-object containing an InGaN/GaN multiquantum well system.

PubMed

Rigutti, Lorenzo; Blum, Ivan; Shinde, Deodatta; Hernández-Maldonado, David; Lefebvre, Williams; Houard, Jonathan; Vurpillot, François; Vella, Angela; Tchernycheva, Maria; Durand, Christophe; Eymery, Joël; Deconihout, Bernard

2014-01-08

A single nanoscale object containing a set of InGaN/GaN nonpolar multiple-quantum wells has been analyzed by microphotoluminescence spectroscopy (μPL), high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (HR-STEM) and atom probe tomography (APT). The correlated measurements constitute a rich and coherent set of data supporting the interpretation that the observed μPL narrow emission lines, polarized perpendicularly to the crystal c-axis and with energies in the interval 2.9-3.3 eV, are related to exciton states localized in potential minima induced by the irregular 3D In distribution within the quantum well (QW) planes. This novel method opens up interesting perspectives, as it will be possible to apply it on a wide class of quantum confining emitters and nano-objects.

Correlative fluorescence microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy of quantum-dot-labeled proteins in whole cells in liquid.

PubMed

Dukes, Madeline J; Peckys, Diana B; de Jonge, Niels

2010-07-27

Correlative fluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a state-of-the-art microscopy methodology to study cellular function, combining the functionality of light microscopy with the high resolution of electron microscopy. However, this technique involves complex sample preparation procedures due to its need for either thin sections or frozen samples for TEM imaging. Here, we introduce a novel correlative approach capable of imaging whole eukaryotic cells in liquid with fluorescence microscopy and with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM); there is no additional sample preparation necessary for the electron microscopy. Quantum dots (QDs) were bound to epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors of COS7 fibroblast cells. Fixed whole cells in saline water were imaged with fluorescence microscopy and subsequently with STEM. The STEM images were correlated with fluorescence images of the same cellular regions. QDs of dimensions 7x12 nm were visible in a 5 microm thick layer of saline water, consistent with calculations. A spatial resolution of 3 nm was achieved on the QDs.

Correlative Fluorescence Microscopy and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy of Quantum Dot Labeled Proteins in Whole Cells in Liquid

PubMed Central

Dukes, Madeline J.; Peckys, Diana B.; de Jonge, Niels

2010-01-01

Correlative fluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a state-of-the-art microscopy methodology to study cellular function, combining the functionality of light microscopy with the high resolution of electron microscopy. However, this technique involves complex sample preparation procedures due to its need for either thin sections or frozen samples for TEM imaging. Here, we introduce a novel correlative approach capable of imaging whole eukaryotic cells in liquid with fluorescence microscopy and with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM); there is no additional sample preparation necessary for the electron microscopy. Quantum dots (QDs) were bound to epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors of COS7 fibroblast cells. Fixed whole cells in saline water were imaged with fluorescence microscopy and subsequently with STEM. The STEM images were correlated with fluorescence images of the same cellular regions. QDs of dimensions 7 × 12 nm were visible in a 5 μm thick layer of saline water, consistent with calculations. A spatial resolution of 3 nm was achieved on the QDs. PMID:20550177

Microscale localization and isolation of light emitting imperfections in monocrystalline silicon solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gajdoš, Adam; Škvarenina, Lubomír.; Škarvada, Pavel; Macků, Robert

2017-12-01

An imperfections or defects may appear in fabricated monocrystalline solar cells. These microstructural imperfections could have impact on the parameters of whole solar cell. The research is divided into two parts, firstly, the detection and localization defects by using several techniques including current-voltage measurement, scanning probe microscopy (SPM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electroluminescence. Secondly, the defects isolation by a focused ion beam (FIB) milling and impact of a milling process on solar cells. The defect detection is realized by I-V measurement under reverse biased sample. For purpose of localization, advantage of the fact that defects or imperfections in silicon solar cells emit the visible and near infrared electroluminescence under reverse biased voltage is taken, and CCD camera measurement for macroscopic localization of these spots is applied. After rough macroscopic localization, microscopic localization by scanning probe microscopy combined with a photomultiplier (shadow mapping) is performed. Defect isolation is performed by a SEM equipped with the FIB instrument. FIB uses a beam of gallium ions which modifies crystal structure of a material and may affect parameters of solar cell. As a result, it is interesting that current in reverse biased sample with isolated defect is smaller approximately by 2 orders than current before isolation process.

Local electronic and optical behaviors of a-plane GaN grown via epitaxial lateral overgrowth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moore, J. C.; Kasliwal, V.; Baski, A. A.; Ni, X.; Özgür, Ü.; Morkoç, H.

2007-01-01

Conductive atomic force microscopy and near-field optical microscopy (NSOM) were used to study the morphology, conduction, and optical properties of a-plane GaN films grown via epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) by metal organic chemical vapor deposition. The AFM images for the coalesced ELO films show undulations, where the window regions appear as depressions with a high density of surface pits. At reverse bias below 12V, very low uniform conduction (2pA) is seen in the window regions. Above 20V, a lower-quality sample shows localized sites inside the window regions with significant leakage, indicating a correlation between the presence of surface pits and leakage sites. Room temperature NSOM studies explicitly showed enhanced optical quality in the wing regions of the overgrown GaN due to a reduced density of dislocations, with the wings and the windows clearly discernible from near-field photoluminescence mapping.

Development of a magnetic system for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silva, Érica L.; Carvalho, Juliana F.; Pontes, Thales R. F.; Oliveira, Elquio E.; Francelino, Bárbara L.; Medeiros, Aldo C.; do Egito, E. Sócrates T.; Araujo, José H.; Carriço, Artur S.

2009-05-01

We report a study to develop a magnetic system for local delivery of amoxicillin. Magnetite microparticles produced by coprecipitation were coated with a solution of amoxicillin and Eudragit ®S100 by spray drying. Scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction and vibrating sample magnetometry revealed that the particles were superparamagnetic, with an average diameter of 17.2 μm, and an initial susceptibility controllable by the magnetite content in the suspension feeding the sprayer. Our results suggest a possible way to treat Helicobacter pylori infections, using an oral drug delivery system, and open prospects to coat magnetic microparticles by spray drying for biomedical applications.

Electron microscopy investigations of nanoparticles for cancer diagnostic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koh, Ai Leen

This dissertation concerns electron microscopy characterization of magnetic (MNP) and surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles for in-vitro cancer diagnostic applications. Electron microscopy is an essential characterization tool owing to its (sub) nanometer spatial resolution. Structural information about the nanoparticles can be obtained using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which can in turn be correlated to their physical characteristics. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) has excellent depth of field and can be effectively utilized to obtain high resolution information about nanoparticles binding onto cell surfaces. Part One of this thesis focuses on MNPs for bio-sensing and detection applications. As a preliminary study, chemically-synthesized, commercially-available iron oxide nanoparticles were compared against their laboratory-synthesized counterparts to assess their suitability for this application. The motivation for this initial study came about due to the lack of published data on commercially available iron oxide nanoparticles. TEM studies show that the latter are "beads" composed of multiple iron oxide cores encapsulated by a polymer shell, with large standard deviations in core diameter. Laboratory-synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles, on the other hand, are single core particles with small variations in diameter and therefore are expected to be better candidates for the required application. A key limitation in iron oxide nanoparticles is their relatively weak magnetic signals. The development of high moment Synthetic Anti-Ferromagnetic (SAF) nanoparticles aims to overcome this issue. SAFs are a novel class of MNPs fabricated using nanoimprint lithography, direct deposition of multilayer structure and final suspension into liquid medium (water). TEM analyses of cross-section specimens reveal that the SAFs possess characteristics similar to those of sputtered magnetic multilayer thin films. Their layered structure is preserved after a chemical etch. Magnetic measurements show a slight decrease in magnetic moment after ion milling. From TEM characterization, the introduction of oxygen into the copper release layer, prior the film deposition process, can effectively control the topography of the oxidized-copper grains and, consequently, lead to the production of SAF nanoparticles with flatter layers. Size distribution studies performed on SAFs fabricated using self-assembled stamps show that it is possible to produce monodisperse nanoparticles with diameters from 70 nm up. Part Two of the dissertation describes structural characterization experiments performed on Composite Organic-Inorganic Nanoparticles (COINs), which are a novel type of SERS nanoclusters formed by aggregating silver nanoparticles with Raman molecules, and then encapsulating them with an organic coating that stabilizes the aggregates and promotes subsequent functionalization with antibodies. Part Three of this dissertation focuses on the development and application of electron microscopy-based techniques to characterize the nanomaterial-biology interactions, to assess how, or indeed whether, nanoparticles are attaching to the cancer cells. The technique of negative staining was applied to simultaneously visualize inorganic nanoparticles and their biofunctionalized entities under the TEM and to verify the successful functionalization of nanoparticles with antibodies. The interpretation of the negatively-stained COINs was consistent with the EFTEM data. Next, the localization and characterization of CD54-functionalized COINs on the apicolateral portions of U937 leukemia cell lines was determined using TEM, SEM and Scanning Auger Microscopy. The analyses show that CD54 antigens are localized at a specific region on U937 leukemia cell surfaces. SEM imaging and SER spectroscopy correlation studies of different antibody-conjugated COINs attached onto different cancer cell lines show a direct correlation between the number of COINs binding to cells and the corresponding SER intensity. Finally, TEM was used to locate intra-cellularly labeled COINs and to trace the phospho-stat6 signaling pathway in U937 leukemia cells, demonstrating that COINs can be used to detect intracellular phosphorylation signaling events. These experiments demonstrate the importance of electron microscopy for analyzing the material-biology interface and for validating the attachment of nanoparticles on and in cells. Thus, electron microscope provides complementary imaging and spectroscopic information to current magnetic and SERS bio-detection technologies. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Cardiac myocyte diversity and a fibroblast network in the junctional region of the zebrafish heart revealed by transmission and serial block-face scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Lafontant, Pascal J; Behzad, Ali R; Brown, Evelyn; Landry, Paul; Hu, Norman; Burns, Alan R

2013-01-01

The zebrafish has emerged as an important model of heart development and regeneration. While the structural characteristics of the developing and adult zebrafish ventricle have been previously studied, little attention has been paid to the nature of the interface between the compact and spongy myocardium. Here we describe how these two distinct layers are structurally and functionally integrated. We demonstrate by transmission electron microscopy that this interface is complex and composed primarily of a junctional region occupied by collagen, as well as a population of fibroblasts that form a highly complex network. We also describe a continuum of uniquely flattened transitional cardiac myocytes that form a circumferential plate upon which the radially-oriented luminal trabeculae are anchored. In addition, we have uncovered within the transitional ring a subpopulation of markedly electron dense cardiac myocytes. At discrete intervals the transitional cardiac myocytes form contact bridges across the junctional space that are stabilized through localized desmosomes and fascia adherentes junctions with adjacent compact cardiac myocytes. Finally using serial block-face scanning electron microscopy, segmentation and volume reconstruction, we confirm the three-dimensional nature of the junctional region as well as the presence of the sheet-like fibroblast network. These ultrastructural studies demonstrate the previously unrecognized complexity with which the compact and spongy layers are structurally integrated, and provide a new basis for understanding development and regeneration in the zebrafish heart.

Myofibroblasts in interstitial lung diseases show diverse electron microscopic and invasive features.

PubMed

Karvonen, Henna M; Lehtonen, Siri T; Sormunen, Raija T; Harju, Terttu H; Lappi-Blanco, Elisa; Bloigu, Risto S; Kaarteenaho, Riitta L

2012-09-01

The characteristic features of myofibroblasts in various lung disorders are poorly understood. We have evaluated the ultrastructure and invasive capacities of myofibroblasts cultured from small volumes of diagnostic bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid samples from patients with different types of lung diseases. Cells were cultured from samples of BAL fluid collected from 51 patients that had undergone bronchoscopy and BAL for diagnostic purposes. The cells were visualized by transmission electron microscopy and immunoelectron microscopy to achieve ultrastructural localization of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin. The levels of α-SMA protein and mRNA and fibronectin mRNA were measured by western blot and quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The invasive capacities of the cells were evaluated. The cultured cells were either fibroblasts or myofibroblasts. The structure of the fibronexus, and the amounts of intracellular actin, extracellular fibronectin and cell junctions of myofibroblasts varied in different diseases. In electron and immunoelectron microscopy, cells cultured from interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) expressed more actin filaments and α-SMA than normal lung. The invasive capacity of the cells obtained from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was higher than that from patients with other type of ILDs. Cells expressing more actin filaments had a higher invasion capacity. It is concluded that electron and immunoelectron microscopic studies of myofibroblasts can reveal differential features in various diseases. An analysis of myofibroblasts cultured from diagnostic BAL fluid samples may represent a new kind of tool for diagnostics and research into lung diseases.

Investigation of local modification and luminescence of a carbon nanotube by scanning tunneling microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katano, Satoshi; Fujita, Hiroto; Uehara, Yoichi

2018-01-01

We have studied the nanoscale luminescence from a multiwalled carbon nanotube (CNT) adsorbed on Au(111) using a scanning tunneling microscope (STM). STM images revealed that a number of isolated chains of CNTs can be deposited by dry contact transfer while keeping the surface clean. By injecting tunneling electrons from the STM tip to the CNT, we observed STM light emission (STM-LE) from the CNT in the visible-light range, showing electronic transitions between the bands associated with the van Hove singularity in the density of states of the CNT. The STM-LE spectrum was obviously changed after introducing the local defect created by the STM tip, indicating the controllability of the nanoscale luminescence within a single chain of a CNT.

Electron Microscopy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beer, Michael

1980-01-01

Reviews technical aspects of structure determination in biological electron microscopy (EM). Discusses low dose EM, low temperature microscopy, electron energy loss spectra, determination of mass or molecular weight, and EM of labeled systems. Cites 34 references. (CS)

Correlation between electron work functions of multiphase Cu-8Mn-8Al and de-alloying corrosion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Punburi, P.; Tareelap, N.; Srisukhumbowornchai, N.; Euaruksakul, C.; Yordsri, V.

2018-05-01

Low energy electron emission microscopy (LEEM) was used to measure local transition energy that was directly correlated to electron work function (EWF) of multiphase manganese-aluminum bronze alloys. We developed color mapping to distinguish the EWF of multiple phases and clarified that the EWF were in the following order: EWF of α > EWF of β > EWF of κ (EWFα > EWFβ > EWFκ). De-alloying corrosion took place due to the micro-galvanic cell at grain boundaries before it propagated into the β phase that had lower EWF than the α phase. The α phase was a stable phase because it contained high Cu while the β phase contained high Al and Mn. In addition, XRD analysis showed that the texture coefficient of the β phase revealed that almost all of the grains had (2 2 0) orientation, the lowest EWF compared to (1 1 1) and (2 0 0). Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy illustrated that there were fine Cu3Mn2Al precipitates in the Cu2MnAl matrix of the β phase. These precipitates formed micro-galvanic cells which played an important role in accelerating de-alloying corrosion.

Energy filtering transmission electron microscopy immunocytochemistry and antigen retrieval of surface layer proteins from Tannerella forsythensis using microwave or autoclave heating with citraconic anhydride

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Tannerella forsythensis (Bacteroides forsythus), an anaerobic Gram-negative species of bacteria that plays a role in the progression of periodontal disease, has a unique bacterial protein profile. It is characterized by two unique protein bands with molecular weights of more than 200 kDa. It also is known to have a typical surface layer (S-layer) consisting of regularly arrayed subunits outside the outer membrane. We examined the relationship between high molecular weight proteins and the S-layer using electron microscopic immunolabeling with chemical fixation and an antigen retrieval procedure consisting of heating in a microwave oven or autoclave with citraconic anhydride. Immunogold particles were localized clearly at the outermost cell surface. We also used energy-filtering transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) to visualize 3, 3′-diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride (DAB) reaction products after microwave antigen retrieval with 1% citraconic anhydride. The three-window method for electron spectroscopic images (ESI) of nitrogen by the EFTEM reflected the presence of moieties demonstrated by the DAB reaction with horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated secondary antibodies instead of immunogold particles. The mapping patterns of net nitrogen were restricted to the outermost cell surface. PMID:22984898

Energy filtering transmission electron microscopy immunocytochemistry and antigen retrieval of surface layer proteins from Tannerella forsythensis using microwave or autoclave heating with citraconic anhydride.

PubMed

Moriguchi, K; Mitamura, Y; Iwami, J; Hasegawa, Y; Higuchi, N; Murakami, Y; Maeda, H; Yoshimura, F; Nakamura, H; Ohno, N

2012-11-01

Tannerella forsythensis (Bacteroides forsythus), an anaerobic Gram-negative species of bacteria that plays a role in the progression of periodontal disease, has a unique bacterial protein profile. It is characterized by two unique protein bands with molecular weights of more than 200 kDa. It also is known to have a typical surface layer (S-layer) consisting of regularly arrayed subunits outside the outer membrane. We examined the relationship between high molecular weight proteins and the S-layer using electron microscopic immunolabeling with chemical fixation and an antigen retrieval procedure consisting of heating in a microwave oven or autoclave with citraconic anhydride. Immunogold particles were localized clearly at the outermost cell surface. We also used energy-filtering transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) to visualize 3, 3'-diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride (DAB) reaction products after microwave antigen retrieval with 1% citraconic anhydride. The three-window method for electron spectroscopic images (ESI) of nitrogen by the EFTEM reflected the presence of moieties demonstrated by the DAB reaction with horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated secondary antibodies instead of immunogold particles. The mapping patterns of net nitrogen were restricted to the outermost cell surface.

In situ oligomerization of 2-(thiophen-3-yl)acetate intercalated into Zn{sub 2}Al layered double hydroxide

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tronto, Jairo, E-mail: jairotronto@ufv.br; Pinto, Frederico G.; Costa, Liovando M. da

2015-01-15

A layered double hydroxide (LDH) with cation composition Zn{sub 2}Al was intercalated with 2-(thiophen-3-yl)acetate (3-TA) monomers. To achieve in situ polymerization and/or oligomerization of the intercalated monomers, soft thermal treatments were carried out, and subsequent hybrid LDH materials were analyzed by means of several characterization techniques using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), {sup 13}C CP–MAS nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electron spin resonance (EPR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP–OES), and elemental analysis. PXRD analysis suggested that the intercalated monomers formed a bilayer. Thermalmore » treatment of the hybrid LDH assembly above 120 °C provokes partially the breakdown of the layered structure, generating the phase zincite. EPR results indicated that vicinal monomers (oligomerization) were bound to each other after hydrothermal or thermal treatment, leading to a polaron response characteristic of electron conductivity localized on a restricted number of thiophene-based monomer segments. Localized unpaired electrons exist in the material and interact with the {sup 27}Al nuclei of the LDH layers by superhyperfine coupling. These unpaired electrons also interact with the surface of ZnO (O{sup 2−} vacancies), formed during the thermal treatments. - Graphical abstract: We synthesized a layered double hydroxide (LDH) with cation composition Zn{sub 2}Al, intercalated with 2-(thiophen-3-yl)acetate (3-TA) monomers, by coprecipitation at constant pH. We thermally treated the material, to achieve in situ polymerization and/or oligomerization of the intercalated monomers. - Highlights: • A Zn{sub 2}Al–LDH was intercalated with 2-(thiophen-3-yl)acetate monomers. • To achieve in situ oligomerization of the monomers, thermal treatments were made. • Thermal treatment above 120 °C causes partially breakdown of the LDH structure. • ESR results indicated a polaron response characteristic of electron conductivity.« less

Imaging of endodontic biofilms by combined microscopy (FISH/cLSM - SEM).

PubMed

Schaudinn, C; Carr, G; Gorur, A; Jaramillo, D; Costerton, J W; Webster, P

2009-08-01

Scanning electron microscopy is a useful imaging approach for the visualization of bacterial biofilms in their natural environments including their medical and dental habitats, because it allows for the exploration of large surfaces with excellent resolution of topographic features. Most biofilms in nature, however, are embedded in a thick layer of extracellular matrix that prevents a clear identification of individual bacteria by scanning electron microscopy. The use of confocal laser scanning microscopy on the other hand in combination with fluorescence in situ hybridization enables the visualization of matrix embedded bacteria in multi-layered biofilms. In our study, fluorescence in situ hybridization/confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were applied to visualize bacterial biofilm in endodontic root canals. The resulting fluorescence in situ hybridization /confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy and pictures were subsequently combined into one single image to provide high-resolution information on the location of hidden bacteria. The combined use of scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence in situ hybridization / confocal laser scanning microscopy has the potential to overcome the limits of each single technique.

New hardware and workflows for semi-automated correlative cryo-fluorescence and cryo-electron microscopy/tomography.

PubMed

Schorb, Martin; Gaechter, Leander; Avinoam, Ori; Sieckmann, Frank; Clarke, Mairi; Bebeacua, Cecilia; Bykov, Yury S; Sonnen, Andreas F-P; Lihl, Reinhard; Briggs, John A G

2017-02-01

Correlative light and electron microscopy allows features of interest defined by fluorescence signals to be located in an electron micrograph of the same sample. Rare dynamic events or specific objects can be identified, targeted and imaged by electron microscopy or tomography. To combine it with structural studies using cryo-electron microscopy or tomography, fluorescence microscopy must be performed while maintaining the specimen vitrified at liquid-nitrogen temperatures and in a dry environment during imaging and transfer. Here we present instrumentation, software and an experimental workflow that improves the ease of use, throughput and performance of correlated cryo-fluorescence and cryo-electron microscopy. The new cryo-stage incorporates a specially modified high-numerical aperture objective lens and provides a stable and clean imaging environment. It is combined with a transfer shuttle for contamination-free loading of the specimen. Optimized microscope control software allows automated acquisition of the entire specimen area by cryo-fluorescence microscopy. The software also facilitates direct transfer of the fluorescence image and associated coordinates to the cryo-electron microscope for subsequent fluorescence-guided automated imaging. Here we describe these technological developments and present a detailed workflow, which we applied for automated cryo-electron microscopy and tomography of various specimens. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Functional Scanning Probe Imaging of Nanostructured Solar Energy Materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Giridharagopal, Rajiv; Cox, Phillip A.; Ginger, David S.

From hybrid perovskites to semiconducting polymer/fullerene blends for organic photovoltaics, many new materials being explored for energy harvesting and storage exhibit performance characteristics that depend sensitively on their nanoscale morphology. At the same time, rapid advances in the capability and accessibility of scanning probe microscopy methods over the past decade have made it possible to study processing/structure/function relationships ranging from photocurrent collection to photocarrier lifetimes with resolutions on the scale of tens of nanometers or better. Importantly, such scanning probe methods offer the potential to combine measurements of local structure with local function, and they can be implemented to studymore » materials in situ or devices in operando to better understand how materials evolve in time in response to an external stimulus or environmental perturbation. This Account highlights recent advances in the development and application of scanning probe microscopy methods that can help address such questions while filling key gaps between the capabilities of conventional electron microscopy and newer super-resolution optical methods. Focusing on semiconductor materials for solar energy applications, we highlight a range of electrical and optoelectronic scanning probe microscopy methods that exploit the local dynamics of an atomic force microscope tip to probe key properties of the solar cell material or device structure. We discuss how it is possible to extract relevant device properties using noncontact scanning probe methods as well as how these properties guide materials development. Specifically, we discuss intensity-modulated scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (IM-SKPM), time-resolved electrostatic force microscopy (trEFM), frequency-modulated electrostatic force microscopy (FM-EFM), and cantilever ringdown imaging. We explain these developments in the context of classic atomic force microscopy (AFM) methods that exploit the physics of cantilever motion and photocarrier generation to provide robust, nanoscale measurements of materials physics that are correlated with device operation. We predict that the multidimensional data sets made possible by these types of methods will become increasingly important as advances in data science expand capabilities and opportunities for image correlation and discovery.« less

Functional Scanning Probe Imaging of Nanostructured Solar Energy Materials

DOE PAGES

Giridharagopal, Rajiv; Cox, Phillip A.; Ginger, David S.

2016-08-30

From hybrid perovskites to semiconducting polymer/fullerene blends for organic photovoltaics, many new materials being explored for energy harvesting and storage exhibit performance characteristics that depend sensitively on their nanoscale morphology. At the same time, rapid advances in the capability and accessibility of scanning probe microscopy methods over the past decade have made it possible to study processing/structure/function relationships ranging from photocurrent collection to photocarrier lifetimes with resolutions on the scale of tens of nanometers or better. Importantly, such scanning probe methods offer the potential to combine measurements of local structure with local function, and they can be implemented to studymore » materials in situ or devices in operando to better understand how materials evolve in time in response to an external stimulus or environmental perturbation. This Account highlights recent advances in the development and application of scanning probe microscopy methods that can help address such questions while filling key gaps between the capabilities of conventional electron microscopy and newer super-resolution optical methods. Focusing on semiconductor materials for solar energy applications, we highlight a range of electrical and optoelectronic scanning probe microscopy methods that exploit the local dynamics of an atomic force microscope tip to probe key properties of the solar cell material or device structure. We discuss how it is possible to extract relevant device properties using noncontact scanning probe methods as well as how these properties guide materials development. Specifically, we discuss intensity-modulated scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (IM-SKPM), time-resolved electrostatic force microscopy (trEFM), frequency-modulated electrostatic force microscopy (FM-EFM), and cantilever ringdown imaging. We explain these developments in the context of classic atomic force microscopy (AFM) methods that exploit the physics of cantilever motion and photocarrier generation to provide robust, nanoscale measurements of materials physics that are correlated with device operation. We predict that the multidimensional data sets made possible by these types of methods will become increasingly important as advances in data science expand capabilities and opportunities for image correlation and discovery.« less

Long helical filaments are not seen encircling cells in electron cryotomograms of rod-shaped bacteria

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Swulius, Matthew T.; Chen, Songye; Jane Ding, H.

2011-04-22

Highlights: {yields} No long helical filaments are seen near or along rod-shaped bacterial inner membranes by electron cryo-tomography. {yields} Electron cryo-tomography has the resolution to detect single filaments in vivo. -- Abstract: How rod-shaped bacteria form and maintain their shape is an important question in bacterial cell biology. Results from fluorescent light microscopy have led many to believe that the actin homolog MreB and a number of other proteins form long helical filaments along the inner membrane of the cell. Here we show using electron cryotomography of six different rod-shaped bacterial species, at macromolecular resolution, that no long (>80 nm)more » helical filaments exist near or along either surface of the inner membrane. We also use correlated cryo-fluorescent light microscopy (cryo-fLM) and electron cryo-tomography (ECT) to identify cytoplasmic bundles of MreB, showing that MreB filaments are detectable by ECT. In light of these results, the structure and function of MreB must be reconsidered: instead of acting as a large, rigid scaffold that localizes cell-wall synthetic machinery, moving MreB complexes may apply tension to growing peptidoglycan strands to ensure their orderly, linear insertion.« less

Scanning ultrafast electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Yang, Ding-Shyue; Mohammed, Omar F.; Zewail, Ahmed H.

2010-01-01

Progress has been made in the development of four-dimensional ultrafast electron microscopy, which enables space-time imaging of structural dynamics in the condensed phase. In ultrafast electron microscopy, the electrons are accelerated, typically to 200 keV, and the microscope operates in the transmission mode. Here, we report the development of scanning ultrafast electron microscopy using a field-emission-source configuration. Scanning of pulses is made in the single-electron mode, for which the pulse contains at most one or a few electrons, thus achieving imaging without the space-charge effect between electrons, and still in ten(s) of seconds. For imaging, the secondary electrons from surface structures are detected, as demonstrated here for material surfaces and biological specimens. By recording backscattered electrons, diffraction patterns from single crystals were also obtained. Scanning pulsed-electron microscopy with the acquired spatiotemporal resolutions, and its efficient heat-dissipation feature, is now poised to provide in situ 4D imaging and with environmental capability. PMID:20696933

Diverse Protocols for Correlative Super-Resolution Fluorescence Imaging and Electron Microscopy of Cells and Tissue

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-25

tissue is critical to biology. Many factors determine optimal experimental design, including attainable localization precision, ultrastructural...both imaging modalities. Examples include: weak tissue preservation protocols resulting in poor ultrastructure, e.g. mitochondrial cristae membranes...tension effects during sample drying that may result in artifacts44. Samples dried in the presence of polyvinyl alcohol do not have the haziness

Midbody Accumulation in Breast Cancer Stem Cells

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-01

transit amplifying or differentiating cells. These results suggest that MBds are in almost exclusively in stem cells and putative breast cancer stem...confer tumor-like properties to these cells. We were unable to establish GFP-MKLP1 breast cancer cell lines for this analysis for some reason that we...and nonpolarized cells (Fig. 1c, d). Immuno- electron microscopy confirmed this localization and revealed ultrastructural features characteristic of

Isoelectronic tungsten doping in monolayer MoSe 2 for carrier type modulation

DOE PAGES

Li, Xufan; Lin, Ming -Wei; Basile, Leonardo; ...

2016-07-06

Doping and alloying are effective ways to engineer the band structure and modulate the optoelectronic functionality of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). In this work, we explore the synthesis and electronic properties of monolayer Mo 1-xW xSe 2 (0 < x < 0.18) alloys with almost 100% alloying degree. The isoelectronic substitutional doping of tungsten for molybdenum in the monolayer MoSe 2 is shown to suppress its intrinsically n-type conduction behavior, with p-type conduction gradually emerging to become dominant with increasing W concentration in the alloys. Atomic resolution Z-contrast electron microscopy show that W is shown to substitute directly formore » Mo without the introduction of noticeable vacancy or interstitial defects, however with randomly-distributed W-rich regions ~2 nm in diameter. Scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy measurements reveal that these W-rich regions exhibit a local band structure with the valence band maximum (VBM) closer to the Fermi level as compared with the Mo-rich regions in the monolayer Mo 1-xW xSe 2 crystal. These localized upshifts of the VBM in the local band structure appear responsible for the overall p-type behavior observed for the monolayer Mo 1-xW xSe 2 crystals. Stacked monolayers of n-type MoSe 2 and p-type Mo 1-xW xSe 2 were demonstrated to form atomically thin, vertically stacked p n homojunctions with gate-tunable characteristics, which appear useful for future optoelectronic applications. Lastly, these results indicate that alloying with isoelectronic dopant atoms appears to be an effective and advantageous alternate strategy to doping or alloying with electron donors or acceptors in two-dimensional TMDs.« less

Novel nano-OLED based probes for very high resolution optical microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yiying

Near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) has been applied in the study of nanomaterials, microelectronics, photonics, plasmonics, cells, and molecules. However, conventional NSOM relies on optically pumped probes, suffering low optical transmission, heating of the tip, and poor reproducibility of probe fabrication, increasing the cost, impeding usability, reducing practical imaging resolution, and limiting NSOM's utility. In this thesis, I demonstrate a novel probe based on a nanoscale, electrically pumped organic light-emitting device (OLED) formed on the tip of a low-cost, commercially available atomic force microscopy (AFM) probe. I describe the structure, fabrication, and principles of this novel probe's operation, and discuss its potential to overcome the limitations of conventional NSOM probes. The broader significance of this work in the field of organic optoelectronics is also discussed. Briefly, OLEDs consist of organic thin films sandwiched between two electrodes. Under bias, electrons and holes are injected into the organic layers, leading to radiative recombination. Depositing a small molecular OLED in vacuum onto a pyramid-tipped AFM probe results in a laminar structure that is highly curved at the tip. Simple electrical modeling predicts concentration of electric field and localized electron injection into the organic layers at the tip, improving the local charge balance in an otherwise electron-starved OLED. Utilizing an "inverted" OLED structure (i.e. cathode on the "bottom"), light emission is localized to sub-200 nm sized, green light emitting regions on probe vertices; light output power in the range of 0.1-0.5 nanowatts was observed, comparable to that of typical fiber based NSOM probes but with greater power efficiency. Massive arrays of similar sub-micron OLEDs were also fabricated by depositing onto textured silicon substrates, demonstrating the superior scalability of the probe fabrication process (e.g. relative to pulled glass fibers). The investigation of the effect of non-planar substrate geometry on charge injection, transport and recombination provides broader insights into OLEDs made on rough substrates, general understanding of OLED operation (e.g. filamentary charge conduction) and degradation, and potentially helps to improve technologically important "inverted" OLED structures.

Serial block face scanning electron microscopy--the future of cell ultrastructure imaging.

PubMed

Hughes, Louise; Hawes, Chris; Monteith, Sandy; Vaughan, Sue

2014-03-01

One of the major drawbacks in transmission electron microscopy has been the production of three-dimensional views of cells and tissues. Currently, there is no one suitable 3D microscopy technique that answers all questions and serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SEM) fills the gap between 3D imaging using high-end fluorescence microscopy and the high resolution offered by electron tomography. In this review, we discuss the potential of the serial block face SEM technique for studying the three-dimensional organisation of animal, plant and microbial cells.

Applications of microscopy to genetic therapy of cystic fibrosis and other human diseases.

PubMed

Moninger, Thomas O; Nessler, Randy A; Moore, Kenneth C

2006-01-01

Gene therapy has become an extremely important and active field of biomedical research. Microscopy is an integral component of this effort. This chapter presents an overview of imaging techniques used in our facility in support of cystic fibrosis gene therapy research. Instrumentation used in these studies includes light and confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Techniques outlined include negative staining, cryo-electron microscopy, three-dimentional reconstruction, enzyme cytochemistry, immunocytochemistry, and fluorescence imaging.

Application of environmental scanning electron microscopy to determine biological surface structure.

PubMed

Kirk, S E; Skepper, J N; Donald, A M

2009-02-01

The use of environmental scanning electron microscopy in biology is growing as more becomes understood about the advantages and limitations of the technique. These are discussed and we include new evidence about the effect of environmental scanning electron microscopy imaging on the viability of mammalian cells. We show that although specimen preparation for high-vacuum scanning electron microscopy introduces some artefacts, there are also challenges in the use of environmental scanning electron microscopy, particularly at higher resolutions. This suggests the two technologies are best used in combination. We have used human monocyte-derived macrophages as a test sample, imaging their complicated and delicate membrane ruffles and protrusions. We have also explored the possibility of using environmental scanning electron microscopy for dynamic experiments, finding that mammalian cells cannot be imaged and kept alive in the environmental scanning electron microscopy. The dehydration step in which the cell surface is exposed causes irreversible damage, probably via loss of membrane integrity during liquid removal in the specimen chamber. Therefore, mammalian cells should be imaged after fixation where possible to protect against damage as a result of chamber conditions.

Joint denoising and distortion correction of atomic scale scanning transmission electron microscopy images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berkels, Benjamin; Wirth, Benedikt

2017-09-01

Nowadays, modern electron microscopes deliver images at atomic scale. The precise atomic structure encodes information about material properties. Thus, an important ingredient in the image analysis is to locate the centers of the atoms shown in micrographs as precisely as possible. Here, we consider scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), which acquires data in a rastering pattern, pixel by pixel. Due to this rastering combined with the magnification to atomic scale, movements of the specimen even at the nanometer scale lead to random image distortions that make precise atom localization difficult. Given a series of STEM images, we derive a Bayesian method that jointly estimates the distortion in each image and reconstructs the underlying atomic grid of the material by fitting the atom bumps with suitable bump functions. The resulting highly non-convex minimization problems are solved numerically with a trust region approach. Existence of minimizers and the model behavior for faster and faster rastering are investigated using variational techniques. The performance of the method is finally evaluated on both synthetic and real experimental data.

Electron microscopy of Drosophila garland cell nephrocytes: Optimal preparation, immunostaining and STEM tomography.

PubMed

Hochapfel, Florian; Denk, Lucia; Maaßen, Christine; Zaytseva, Yulia; Rachel, Reinhard; Witzgall, Ralph; Krahn, Michael P

2018-01-29

Due to its structural and molecular similarities to mammalian podocytes, the Drosophila nephrocyte emerged as a model system to study podocyte development and associated diseases. Similar to podocytes, nephrocytes establish a slit diaphragm between foot process-like structures in order to filter the hemolymph. One major obstacle in nephrocyte research is the distinct visualization of this subcellular structure to assess its integrity. Therefore, we developed a specialized dissection and fixation protocol, including high pressure freezing and freeze substitution techniques, to improve the preservation of the intricate ultrastructural details necessary for electron microscopic assessment. By means of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) tomography, a three-dimensional dataset was generated to further understand the complex architecture of the nephrocyte channel system. Moreover, a staining protocol for immunolabeling of ultrathin sections of Epon-embedded nephrocytes is discussed, which allows the reliable detection of GFP-tagged fusion proteins combined with superior sample preservation. Due to the growing number of available GFP-trap fly lines, this approach is widely applicable for high resolution localization studies in wild type and mutant nephrocytes. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Direct atomic-scale imaging of hydrogen and oxygen interstitials in pure niobium using atom-probe tomography and aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Kim, Yoon-Jun; Tao, Runzhe; Klie, Robert F; Seidman, David N

2013-01-22

Imaging the three-dimensional atomic-scale structure of complex interfaces has been the goal of many recent studies, due to its importance to technologically relevant areas. Combining atom-probe tomography and aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), we present an atomic-scale study of ultrathin (~5 nm) native oxide layers on niobium (Nb) and the formation of ordered niobium hydride phases near the oxide/Nb interface. Nb, an elemental type-II superconductor with the highest critical temperature (T(c) = 9.2 K), is the preferred material for superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities in next-generation particle accelerators. Nb exhibits high solubilities for oxygen and hydrogen, especially within the RF-field penetration depth, which is believed to result in SRF quality factor losses. STEM imaging and electron energy-loss spectroscopy followed by ultraviolet laser-assisted local-electrode atom-probe tomography on the same needle-like sample reveals the NbO(2), Nb(2)O(5), NbO, Nb stacking sequence; annular bright-field imaging is used to visualize directly hydrogen atoms in bulk β-NbH.

Microstructural investigation of nickel silicide thin films and the silicide-silicon interface using transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Bhaskaran, M; Sriram, S; Mitchell, D R G; Short, K T; Holland, A S; Mitchell, A

2009-01-01

This article discusses the results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM)-based investigation of nickel silicide (NiSi) thin films grown on silicon. Nickel silicide is currently used as the CMOS technology standard for local interconnects and in electrical contacts. Films were characterized with a range of TEM-based techniques along with glancing angle X-ray diffraction. The nickel silicide thin films were formed by vacuum annealing thin films of nickel (50 nm) deposited on (100) silicon. The cross-sectional samples indicated a final silicide thickness of about 110 nm. This investigation studied and reports on three aspects of the thermally formed thin films: the uniformity in composition of the film using jump ratio maps; the nature of the interface using high resolution imaging; and the crystalline orientation of the thin films using selected-area electron diffraction (SAED). The analysis highlighted uniform composition in the thin films, which was also substantiated by spectroscopy techniques; an interface exhibiting the desired abrupt transition from silicide to silicon; and desired and preferential crystalline orientation corresponding to stoichiometric NiSi, supported by glancing angle X-ray diffraction results.

Nanoscopic analysis of oxygen segregation at tilt boundaries in silicon ingots using atom probe tomography combined with TEM and ab initio calculations.

PubMed

Ohno, Y; Inoue, K; Fujiwara, K; Kutsukake, K; Deura, M; Yonenaga, I; Ebisawa, N; Shimizu, Y; Inoue, K; Nagai, Y; Yoshida, H; Takeda, S; Tanaka, S; Kohyama, M

2017-12-01

We have developed an analytical method to determine the segregation levels on the same tilt boundaries (TBs) at the same nanoscopic location by a joint use of atom probe tomography and scanning transmission electron microscopy, and discussed the mechanism of oxygen segregation at TBs in silicon ingots in terms of bond distortions around the TBs. The three-dimensional distribution of oxygen atoms was determined at the typical small- and large-angle TBs by atom probe tomography with a low impurity detection limit (0.01 at.% on a TB plane) simultaneously with high spatial resolution (about 0.4 nm). The three-dimensional distribution was correlated with the atomic stress around the TBs; the stress at large-angle TBs was estimated by ab initio calculations based on atomic resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy data and that at small-angle TBs were calculated with the elastic theory based on dark-field transmission electron microscopy data. Oxygen atoms would segregate at bond-centred sites under tensile stress above about 2 GPa, so as to attain a more stable bonding network by reducing the local stress. The number of oxygen atoms segregating in a unit TB area N GB (in atoms nm -2 ) was determined to be proportional to both the number of the atomic sites under tensile stress in a unit TB area n bc and the average concentration of oxygen atoms around the TB [O i ] (in at.%) with N GB ∼ 50 n bc [O i ]. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Resistive switching behavior in oxygen ion irradiated TiO2-x films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barman, A.; Saini, C. P.; Sarkar, P. K.; Bhattacharjee, G.; Bhattacharya, G.; Srivastava, S.; Satpati, B.; Kanjilal, D.; Ghosh, S. K.; Dhar, S.; Kanjilal, A.

2018-02-01

The room temperature resistive switching behavior in 50 keV O+-ion irradiated TiO2-x layers at an ion fluence of 5  ×  1016 ions cm-2 is reported. A clear transformation from columnar to layered polycrystalline films is revealed by transmission electron microscopy with increasing ion fluence, while the complementary electron energy loss spectroscopy suggests an evolution of oxygen vacancy (OV) in TiO2-x matrix. This is further verified by determining electron density with the help of x-ray reflectivity. Both local and device current-voltage measurements illustrate that the ion-beam induced OVs play a key role in bistable resistive switching mechanism.

Fully Hydrated Yeast Cells Imaged with Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Peckys, Diana B.; Mazur, Peter; Gould, Kathleen L.; de Jonge, Niels

2011-01-01

We demonstrate electron microscopy of fully hydrated eukaryotic cells with nanometer resolution. Living Schizosaccaromyces pombe cells were loaded in a microfluidic chamber and imaged in liquid with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). The native intracellular (ultra)structures of wild-type cells and three different mutants were studied without prior labeling, fixation, or staining. The STEM images revealed various intracellular components that were identified on the basis of their shape, size, location, and mass density. The maximal achieved spatial resolution in this initial study was 32 ± 8 nm, an order of magnitude better than achievable with light microscopy on pristine cells. Light-microscopy images of the same samples were correlated with the corresponding electron-microscopy images. Achieving synergy between the capabilities of light and electron microscopy, we anticipate that liquid STEM will be broadly applied to explore the ultrastructure of live cells. PMID:21575587

Fully hydrated yeast cells imaged with electron microscopy.

PubMed

Peckys, Diana B; Mazur, Peter; Gould, Kathleen L; de Jonge, Niels

2011-05-18

We demonstrate electron microscopy of fully hydrated eukaryotic cells with nanometer resolution. Living Schizosaccharomyces pombe cells were loaded in a microfluidic chamber and imaged in liquid with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). The native intracellular (ultra)structures of wild-type cells and three different mutants were studied without prior labeling, fixation, or staining. The STEM images revealed various intracellular components that were identified on the basis of their shape, size, location, and mass density. The maximal achieved spatial resolution in this initial study was 32 ± 8 nm, an order of magnitude better than achievable with light microscopy on pristine cells. Light-microscopy images of the same samples were correlated with the corresponding electron-microscopy images. Achieving synergy between the capabilities of light and electron microscopy, we anticipate that liquid STEM will be broadly applied to explore the ultrastructure of live cells. Copyright © 2011 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Low-cost cryo-light microscopy stage fabrication for correlated light/electron microscopy.

PubMed

Carlson, David B; Evans, James E

2011-06-05

The coupling of cryo-light microscopy (cryo-LM) and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) poses a number of advantages for understanding cellular dynamics and ultrastructure. First, cells can be imaged in a near native environment for both techniques. Second, due to the vitrification process, samples are preserved by rapid physical immobilization rather than slow chemical fixation. Third, imaging the same sample with both cryo-LM and cryo-EM provides correlation of data from a single cell, rather than a comparison of "representative samples". While these benefits are well known from prior studies, the widespread use of correlative cryo-LM and cryo-EM remains limited due to the expense and complexity of buying or building a suitable cryogenic light microscopy stage. Here we demonstrate the assembly, and use of an inexpensive cryogenic stage that can be fabricated in any lab for less than $40 with parts found at local hardware and grocery stores. This cryo-LM stage is designed for use with reflected light microscopes that are fitted with long working distance air objectives. For correlative cryo-LM and cryo-EM studies, we adapt the use of carbon coated standard 3-mm cryo-EM grids as specimen supports. After adsorbing the sample to the grid, previously established protocols for vitrifying the sample and transferring/handling the grid are followed to permit multi-technique imaging. As a result, this setup allows any laboratory with a reflected light microscope to have access to direct correlative imaging of frozen hydrated samples.

Design and Optimization of Nanomaterials for Sensing Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanderson, Robert Noboru

Nanomaterials, materials with one or more of their dimensions on the nanoscale, have emerged as an important field in the development of next-generation sensing systems. Their high surface-to-volume ratio makes them useful for sensing, but also makes them sensitive to processing defects and inherent material defects. To develop and optimize these systems, it is thus necessary to characterize these defects to understand their origin and how to work around them. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques like atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) are important characterization methods which can measure nanoscale topography and electronic structure. These methods are appealing in nanomaterial systems because they are non-damaging and provide local, high-resolution data, and so are capable of detecting nanoscale features such as single defect sites. There are difficulties, however, in the interpretation of SPM data. For instance, AFM-based methods are prone to experimental artifacts due to long-range interactions, such as capacitive crosstalk in Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and artifacts due to the finite size of the probe tip, such as incorrect surface tracking at steep topographical features. Mechanical characterization (via force spectroscopy) of nanomaterials with significant nanoscale variations, such as tethered lipid bilayer membranes (tLBMs), is also difficult since variations in the bulk system's mechanical behavior must be distinguished from local fluctuations. Additionally, interpretation of STM data is non-trivial due to local variations in electron density in addition to topographical variations. In this thesis we overcome some limitations of SPM methods by supplementing them with additional surface analytical methods as well as computational methods, and we characterize several nanomaterial systems. Current-carrying vapor-liquid-solid Si nanowires (useful for interdigitated-electrode-based sensors) are characterized using finite-element-method (FEM)-supplemented KPFM to retrieve useful information about processing defects, contact resistance, and the primary charge carriers. Next, a tLBM system's stiffness and the stiffness' dependence on tethering molecule concentration is measured using statistical analysis of thousands of AFM force spectra, demonstrating a biosensor-compatible system with a controllable bulk rigidity. Finally, we utilize surface analytical techniques to inform the development of a novel three-dimensional graphene system for sensing applications.

Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) Bm64 is required for BV production and per os infection.

PubMed

Chen, Lin; Shen, Yunwang; Yang, Rui; Wu, Xiaofeng; Hu, Wenjun; Shen, Guoxin

2015-10-24

Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) orf64 (Bm64, a homologue of ac78) is a core baculovirus gene. Recently, Li et al. reported that Ac78 was not essential for budded viruses (BVs) production and occlusion-derived viruses (ODVs) formation (Virus Res 191:70-82, 2014). Conversely, Tao et al. demonstrated that Ac78 was localized to the BV and ODV envelopes and was required for BV production and ODV formation (J Virol 87:8441-50, 2013). In this study, the function of Bm64 was characterized to determine the role of Bm64 in the BmNPV infection cycle. The temporal expression of Bm64 was examined using total RNA extracted from BmNPV-infected BmN cells at different time points by reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and 5' RACE analysis. To determine the functions of Bm64 in viral replication and the viral phenotype throughout the viral life cycle, a deletion virus (vBm(64KO)) was generated via homologous recombination in Escherichia coli. Viral replication and BV production were determined by real-time PCR. Electron microscopy was used to detect virion morphogenesis. The subcellular localization of Bm64 was determined by microscopy, and per os infectivity was used to determine its role in the baculovirus oral infection cycle. Viral plaque and titer assay results showed that a few infectious BVs were produced by vBm(64KO), suggesting that deletion of Bm64 affected BV production. Viral DNA replication was detected and polyhedra were observed in vBm(64KO)-transfected cells. Microscopy analysis revealed that Bm64 was predominantly localized to the ring zone of the nuclei during the infection cycle. Electron microscopy showed that Bm64 was not essential for the formation of ODVs or the subsequent occlusion of ODV into polyhedra. The per os infectivity results showed that the polyhedra of vBm(64KO) were unable to infect silkworm larvae. In conclusion, our results suggest that Bm64 plays an important role in BV production and per os infection, but is not required for viral DNA replication or ODV maturation.

Electron-beam-induced topographical, chemical, and structural patterning of amorphous titanium oxide films.

PubMed

Kern, P; Müller, Y; Patscheider, J; Michler, J

2006-11-30

Electrolytically deposited amorphous TiO2 films on steel are remarkably sensitive to electron beam (e-beam) irradiation at moderate energies at 20 keV, resulting in controlled local oxide reduction and crystallization, opening the possibility for local topographical, chemical, and structural modifications within a biocompatible, amorphous, and semiconducting matrix. The sensitivity is shown to vary significantly with the annealing temperature of as-deposited films. Well-defined irradiation conditions in terms of probe current IP (5 microA) and beam size were achieved with an electron probe microanalyzer. As shown by atomic force and optical microscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, wavelength-dispersive X-ray (WDX), and Auger analyses, e-beam exposure below 1 Acm-2 immediately leads to electron-stimulated oxygen desorption, resulting in a well-defined volume loss primarily limited to the irradiated zone under the electron probe and in a blue color shift in this zone because of the presence of Ti2O3. Irradiation at 5 Acm(-2) (IP = 5 microA) results in local crystallization into anatase phase within 1 s of exposure and in reduction to TiO after an extended exposure of 60 s. Further reduction to the metallic state could be observed after 60 s of exposure at approximately 160 Acm(-2). The local reduction could be qualitatively sensed with WDX analysis and Auger line scans. An estimation of the film temperature in the beam center indicates that crystallization occurs at less than 150 degrees C, well below the atmospheric crystallization temperature of the present films. The high e-beam sensitivity in combination with the well-defined volume loss from oxygen desorption allows for precise electron lithographic topographical patterning of the present oxides. Irradiation effects leading to the observed reduction and crystallization phenomena under moderate electron energies are discussed.

Laser-Induced, Local Oxidation of Copper Nanoparticle Films During Raman Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hight Walker, Angela R.; Cheng, Guangjun; Calizo, Irene

2011-03-01

The optical properties of gold and silver nanoparticles and their films have been thoroughly investigated as surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates and chemical reaction promoters. Similar to gold and silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles exhibit distinct plasmon absorptions in the visible region. The work on copper nanoparticles and their films is limited due to their oxidization in air. However, their high reactivity actually provides an opportunity to exploit the laser-induced thermal effect and chemical reactions of these nanoparticles. Here, we present our investigation of the local oxidation of a copper nanoparticle film induced by a visible laser source during Raman spectroscopic measurements. The copper nanoparticle film is prepared by drop-casting chemically synthesized copper colloid onto silicon oxide/silicon substrate. The local oxidation induced by visible lasers in Raman spectroscopy is monitored with the distinct scattering peaks for copper oxides. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy have been used to characterize the laser-induced morphological changes in the film. The results of this oxidation process with different excitation wavelengths and different laser powers will be presented.

Mapping Free-Carriers in Multijunction Silicon Nanowires Using Infrared Near-Field Optical Microscopy.

PubMed

Ritchie, Earl T; Hill, David J; Mastin, Tucker M; Deguzman, Panfilo C; Cahoon, James F; Atkin, Joanna M

2017-11-08

We report the use of infrared (IR) scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM) as a nondestructive method to map free-carriers in axially modulation-doped silicon nanowires (SiNWs) with nanoscale spatial resolution. Using this technique, we can detect local changes in the electrically active doping concentration based on the infrared free-carrier response in SiNWs grown using the vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) method. We demonstrate that IR s-SNOM is sensitive to both p-type and n-type free-carriers for carrier densities above ∼1 × 10 19 cm -3 . We also resolve subtle changes in local conductivity properties, which can be correlated with growth conditions and surface effects. The use of s-SNOM is especially valuable in low mobility materials such as boron-doped p-type SiNWs, where optimization of growth has been difficult to achieve due to the lack of information on dopant distribution and junction properties. s-SNOM can be widely employed for the nondestructive characterization of nanostructured material synthesis and local electronic properties without the need for contacts or inert atmosphere.

Localization and mobility of glucose-coated gold nanoparticles within the brain.

PubMed

Gromnicova, Radka; Yilmaz, Canan Ugur; Orhan, Nurcan; Kaya, Mehmet; Davies, Heather; Williams, Phil; Romero, Ignacio A; Sharrack, Basil; Male, David

2016-03-01

To identify the localization of glucose-coated gold nanoparticles within cells of the brain after intravascular infusion which may point to the mechanism by which they cross the blood-brain barrier. Tissue distribution of the nanoparticles was measured by inductively-coupled-mass spectrometry and localization within the brain by histochemistry and electron microscopy. Nanoparticles were identified within neurons and glial cells more than 10 μm from the nearest microvessel within 10 min of intracarotid infusion. Their distribution indicated movement across the endothelial cytosol, and direct transfer between cells of the brain. The rapid movement of this class of nanoparticle (<5 nm) into the brain demonstrates their potential to carry therapeutic biomolecules or imaging reagents.

Understanding local degradation of cycled Ni-rich cathode materials at high operating temperature for Li-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, Sooyeon; Kim, Dong Hyun; Chung, Kyung Yoon; Chang, Wonyoung

2014-09-01

We utilize transmission electron microscopy in conjunction with electron energy loss spectroscopy to investigate local degradation that occurs in LixNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 cathode materials (NCA) after 30 cycles with cutoff voltages of 4.3 V and 4.8 V at 55 °C. NCA has a homogeneous crystallographic structure before electrochemical reactions; however, we observed that 30 cycles of charge/discharge reactions induced inhomogeneity in the crystallographic and electronic structures and also introduced porosity particularly at surface area. These changes were more noticeable in samples cycled with higher cutoff voltage of 4.8 V. Effect of operating temperature was further examined by comparing electronic structures of oxygen of the NCA particles cycled at both room temperature and 55 °C. The working temperature has a greater impact on the NCA cathode materials at a cutoff voltage of 4.3 V that is the practical the upper limit voltage in most applications, while a cutoff voltage of 4.8 V is high enough to cause surface degradation even at room temperature.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Junay, A.; Guézo, S., E-mail: sophie.guezo@univ-rennes1.fr; Turban, P.

We study structural and electronic inhomogeneities in Metal—Organic Molecular monoLayer (OML)—semiconductor interfaces at the sub-nanometer scale by means of in situ Ballistic Electron Emission Microscopy (BEEM). BEEM imaging of Au/1-hexadecanethiols/GaAs(001) heterostructures reveals the evolution of pinholes density as a function of the thickness of the metallic top-contact. Using BEEM in spectroscopic mode in non-short-circuited areas, local electronic fingerprints (barrier height values and corresponding spectral weights) reveal a low-energy tunneling regime through the insulating organic monolayer. At higher energies, BEEM evidences new conduction channels, associated with hot-electron injection in the empty molecular orbitals of the OML. Corresponding band diagrams at buriedmore » interfaces can be thus locally described. The energy position of GaAs conduction band minimum in the heterostructure is observed to evolve as a function of the thickness of the deposited metal, and coherently with size-dependent electrostatic effects under the molecular patches. Such BEEM analysis provides a quantitative diagnosis on metallic top-contact formation on organic molecular monolayer and appears as a relevant characterization for its optimization.« less

Demonstration of transmission high energy electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Merrill, F. E.; Goett, J.; Gibbs, J. W.; ...

2018-04-06

High energy electrons have been used to investigate an extension of transmission electron microscopy. This technique, transmission high energy electron microscopy (THEEM), provides two additional capabilities to electron microscopy. First, high energy electrons are more penetrating than low energy electrons, and thus, they are able to image through thicker samples. Second, the accelerating mode of a radio-frequency linear accelerator provides fast exposures, down to 1 ps, which are ideal for flash radiography, making THEEM well suited to study the evolution of fast material processes under dynamic conditions. Lastly, initial investigations with static objects and during material processing have been performedmore » to investigate the capabilities of this technique.« less

Internalization of Carbon Nano-onions by Hippocampal Cells Preserves Neuronal Circuit Function and Recognition Memory.

PubMed

Trusel, Massimo; Baldrighi, Michele; Marotta, Roberto; Gatto, Francesca; Pesce, Mattia; Frasconi, Marco; Catelani, Tiziano; Papaleo, Francesco; Pompa, Pier Paolo; Tonini, Raffaella; Giordani, Silvia

2018-05-23

One area where nanomedicine may offer superior performances and efficacy compared to current strategies is in the diagnosis and treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the application of nanomaterials in such complex arenas is still in its infancy and an optimal vector for the therapy of CNS diseases has not been identified. Graphitic carbon nano-onions (CNOs) represent a class of carbon nanomaterials that shows promising potential for biomedical purposes. To probe the possible applications of graphitic CNOs as a platform for therapeutic and diagnostic interventions on CNS diseases, fluorescently labeled CNOs were stereotaxically injected in vivo in mice hippocampus. Their diffusion within brain tissues and their cellular localization were analyzed ex vivo by confocal microscopy, electron microscopy, and correlative light-electron microscopy techniques. The subsequent fluorescent staining of hippocampal cells populations indicates they efficiently internalize the nanomaterial. Furthermore, the inflammatory potential of the CNOs injection was found comparable to sterile vehicle infusion, and it did not result in manifest neurophysiological and behavioral alterations of hippocampal-mediated functions. These results clearly demonstrate that CNOs can interface effectively with several cell types, which encourages further their development as possible brain disease-targeted diagnostics or therapeutics nanocarriers.

The effects of alumina nanofillers on mechanical properties of high-performance epoxy resin.

PubMed

Zhang, Hui; Zhang, Hui; Tang, Longcheng; Liu, Gang; Zhang, Daijun; Zhou, Lingyun; Zhang, Zhong

2010-11-01

In the past decade extensive studies have been focused on mechanical properties of inorganic nanofiller/epoxy matrices. In this work we systematically investigated the mechanical properties of nano-alumina-filled E-54/4, 4-diaminodiphenylsulphone (DDS) epoxy resins, which were prepared via combining high-speed mixing with three-roll milling. Homogeneous dispersion of nano-alumina with small agglomerates was obtained in epoxy resin, which was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The static/dynamic modulus, tensile strength and fracture toughness of the nanocomposites were found to be simultaneously enhanced with addition of nano-alumina fillers. About 50% and 80% increases of K(IC) and G(IC) were achieved in nanocomposite filled with 18.4 wt% alumina nanofillers, as compared to that of the unfilled epoxy resin. Furthermore, the corresponding fracture surfaces of tensile and compact tension samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques in order to identify the relevant fracture mechanisms involved. Various fracture features including cavities/debonding of nanofiller, local plastic deformation as well as crack pinning/deflection were found to be operative in the presence of nano-alumina fillers.

Introduction: A Symposium in Honor of Professor Sir John Meurig Thomas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gai, P. L.; Saka, H.; Tomokiyo, Y.; Boyes, E. D.

2002-02-01

This issue is dedicated to Professor Sir John Meurig Thomas for his renowned contributions to electron microscopy in the chemical sciences. It is a collection of peer-reviewed leading articles in electron microscopy, based on the presentations at the Microscopy and Microanalysis (M&M) 2000 symposium, which was held to honor Professor Thomas's exceptional scientific leadership and wide-ranging fundamental contributions in the chemical applications of electron microscopy.The issue contains key papers by leading international researchers on the recent developments and applications of electron microscopy in the solid state and liquid state sciences. They include synthesis and characterization of silicon nitride nanorods, nanostructures of amorphous silica, electron microscopy studies of nanoscale structure and chemistry of Pt-Ru electrocatalysts of interest in direct methanol fuel cells, development of in situ wet-environmental transmission electron microscopy for the first nanoscale studies of dynamic liquid-catalyst reactions, strain analysis of silicon by finite element method and energy filtering convergent beam electron diffraction, applications of chemistry with electron microscopy, bismuth nanowires for applications in nanoelectronics technology, synthesis and characterization of quantum dots for superlattices and in situ electron microscopy at very high temperatures to study the motion of W5Si3 on [alpha][beta]-SiN3 substrates.We thank all the participants, including the invited speakers, contributors, and session chairs, who made the symposium successful. We also thank the authors and reviewers of the papers who worked assiduously towards the publication of this issue.We are very grateful to the Microscopy Society of America (MSA) for providing the opportunity to honor Professor Sir John Meurig Thomas. Organizational support from the MSA is also gratefully acknowledged.We thank Charles E. Lyman, editor in chief of Microscopy and Microanalysis for coordinating the publication of this issue and the entire journal staff for their efforts.

Structural changes in the nano-oxide layer with annealing in specular spin valves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jang, S. H.; Kim, Y. W.; Kang, T.; Kim, H. J.; Kim, K. Y.

2003-05-01

We investigated microstructural changes in a nano-oxide layer (NOL) with annealing in specular spin valves (SVs) by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. In the SV annealed at high temperature of 400 °C, an increase in thickness and a local breakdown of the NOL were observed. This local coarsening of the NOL is closely related to the formation of Mn oxides in the oxide-rich part of the NOL through Mn diffusion. Thus, the chemical structure of the NOL changes to the structure with Mn oxide-rich content after annealing.

Strain localization in <111> single crystals of Hadfield steel under compressive load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Astafurova, E. G.; Zakharova, G. G.; Melnikov, E. V.

2010-07-01

A study of strain localization under compression of <111> Hadfield steel single crystals at room temperature was done by light and transmission electron microscopy. At epsilon<1%, macro shear bands (MSB) form that have non-crystallographic and complex non-linear habit planes and are the results of the interaction of dislocation slip on conjugate slip planes. Mechanical twinning was experimentally found inside the MSB. After the stage of MSBs formation, deformation develops with high strain hardening coefficient and corresponds to interaction of slip and twinning inside as well as outside the MSBs.

Improving Biomaterials Imaging for Nanotechnology: Rapid Methods for Protein Localization at Ultrastructural Level.

PubMed

Cano-Garrido, Olivia; Garcia-Fruitós, Elena; Villaverde, Antonio; Sánchez-Chardi, Alejandro

2018-04-01

The preparation of biological samples for electron microscopy is material- and time-consuming because it is often based on long protocols that also may produce artifacts. Protein labeling for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is such an example, taking several days. However, for protein-based nanotechnology, high resolution imaging techniques are unique and crucial tools for studying the spatial distribution of these molecules, either alone or as components of biomaterials. In this paper, we tested two new short methods of immunolocalization for TEM, and compared them with a standard protocol in qualitative and quantitative approaches by using four protein-based nanoparticles. We reported a significant increase of labeling per area of nanoparticle in both new methodologies (H = 19.811; p < 0.001) with all the model antigens tested: GFP (H = 22.115; p < 0.001), MMP-2 (H = 19.579; p < 0.001), MMP-9 (H = 7.567; p < 0.023), and IFN-γ (H = 62.110; p < 0.001). We also found that the most suitable protocol for labeling depends on the nanoparticle's tendency to aggregate. Moreover, the shorter methods reduce artifacts, time (by 30%), residues, and reagents hindering, losing, or altering antigens, and obtaining a significant increase of protein localization (of about 200%). Overall, this study makes a step forward in the development of optimized protocols for the nanoscale localization of peptides and proteins within new biomaterials. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

CYTOCHEMICAL LOCALIZATION OF TWO GLYCOLYTIC DEHYDROGENASES IN WHITE SKELETAL MUSCLE

PubMed Central

Fahimi, H. Dariush; Karnovsky, Morris J.

1966-01-01

The cytochemical localization, by conventional methods, of lactate and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenases is limited, firstly, by the solubility of these enzymes in aqueous media and, secondly, by the dependence of the final electron flow from reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide (NADH) to the tetrazolium on tissue diaphorase activity: localization is therefore that of the diaphorase, which in rabbit adductor magnus is mitochondrial. NADH has been found to have great affinity to bind in the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and, therefore, if it is generated freely in the incubation media containing 2,2',5,5'-tetra-p-nitrophenyl-3,3'-(3,3'-dimethoxy-4,4'-phenylene)-ditetrazolium chloride (TNBT) and N-methyl phenazonium methyl sulfate (PMS), it can bind there and cause a false staining. Since such a production of NADH can readily occur in the incubation media for glycolytic dehydrogenases due to diffusion of these soluble enzymes from tissue sections, the prevention of enzyme solubilization is extremely important. Fixation in formaldehyde prevented such enzyme diffusion, while at the same time sufficient activity persisted to allow for adequate staining. The incubation media contained PMS, so that the staining system was largely independent of tissue diaphorase activity. Application of these methods to adductor magnus of rabbit revealed by light microscopy, for both enzymes, a fine network which was shown by electron microscopy to represent staining of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Mitochondria also reacted. These findings add further support for the notion that the sarcoplasmic reticulum is probably involved in glycolytic activity. PMID:4288329

In situ, 3D characterization of the deformation mechanics of a superelastic NiTi shape memory alloy single crystal under multiscale constraint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Paranjape, Harshad M.; Paul, Partha P.; Amin-Ahmadi, Behnam

Microstructural elements in NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) – precipitates, phase boundaries, inclusions, grain boundaries – can be viewed as sources of multiscale constraint that influence their deformation response. In this paper, we characterized in situ, and in 3D, the deformation and the evolution of microstructure during a tension test in a superelastic NiTi specimen containing some of these sources of constraint. The method used was far-field high-energy X-ray diffraction microscopy (ff-HEDM), complemented by electron microscopy. We simulated the local stress state in the specimen using a microstructural model informed by the experimental data. Using these combined microstructure, deformation, andmore » stress data, we report three phenomena, and relate them to specific sources of constraint. During initial elastic loading, axial lattice strain in austenite increased monotonically. On partial stress-induced phase transformation to martensite, the stress redistributed to both phases leading to a stress relaxation in austenite. The specimen contained a dense distribution of inclusions, which led to the activation of martensite habit plane variants that produce less than theoretical maximum transformation strain. Large Ni 4Ti 3 precipitates potentially contributed to the poor transformation response. Under load, proportional gradients in local rotation and elastic stretch developed in the martensite phase, because of the constraint at phase interfaces. Finally, this combined ff-HEDM, electron microscopy, microstructural simulation toolbox provides a versatile method to understand the effect of constraint on inelastic deformation in other alloys with hierarchical microstructure.« less

In situ, 3D characterization of the deformation mechanics of a superelastic NiTi shape memory alloy single crystal under multiscale constraint

DOE PAGES

Paranjape, Harshad M.; Paul, Partha P.; Amin-Ahmadi, Behnam; ...

2017-11-20

Microstructural elements in NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) – precipitates, phase boundaries, inclusions, grain boundaries – can be viewed as sources of multiscale constraint that influence their deformation response. In this paper, we characterized in situ, and in 3D, the deformation and the evolution of microstructure during a tension test in a superelastic NiTi specimen containing some of these sources of constraint. The method used was far-field high-energy X-ray diffraction microscopy (ff-HEDM), complemented by electron microscopy. We simulated the local stress state in the specimen using a microstructural model informed by the experimental data. Using these combined microstructure, deformation, andmore » stress data, we report three phenomena, and relate them to specific sources of constraint. During initial elastic loading, axial lattice strain in austenite increased monotonically. On partial stress-induced phase transformation to martensite, the stress redistributed to both phases leading to a stress relaxation in austenite. The specimen contained a dense distribution of inclusions, which led to the activation of martensite habit plane variants that produce less than theoretical maximum transformation strain. Large Ni 4Ti 3 precipitates potentially contributed to the poor transformation response. Under load, proportional gradients in local rotation and elastic stretch developed in the martensite phase, because of the constraint at phase interfaces. Finally, this combined ff-HEDM, electron microscopy, microstructural simulation toolbox provides a versatile method to understand the effect of constraint on inelastic deformation in other alloys with hierarchical microstructure.« less

Atomic Resolution Cryo-EM Structure of β-Galactosidase.

PubMed

Bartesaghi, Alberto; Aguerrebere, Cecilia; Falconieri, Veronica; Banerjee, Soojay; Earl, Lesley A; Zhu, Xing; Grigorieff, Nikolaus; Milne, Jacqueline L S; Sapiro, Guillermo; Wu, Xiongwu; Subramaniam, Sriram

2018-05-10

The advent of direct electron detectors has enabled the routine use of single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (EM) approaches to determine structures of a variety of protein complexes at near-atomic resolution. Here, we report the development of methods to account for local variations in defocus and beam-induced drift, and the implementation of a data-driven dose compensation scheme that significantly improves the extraction of high-resolution information recorded during exposure of the specimen to the electron beam. These advances enable determination of a cryo-EM density map for β-galactosidase bound to the inhibitor phenylethyl β-D-thiogalactopyranoside where the ordered regions are resolved at a level of detail seen in X-ray maps at ∼ 1.5 Å resolution. Using this density map in conjunction with constrained molecular dynamics simulations provides a measure of the local flexibility of the non-covalently bound inhibitor and offers further opportunities for structure-guided inhibitor design. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Ordering and interactions between Cl adatoms on Cu(111) and their influence on the local electronic properties as measured by STM and STS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torsney, Samuel; Naydenov, Borislav; Boland, John J.

2017-12-01

We present a scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy study of compressed Cl adlayers on Cu(111) under ultrahigh-vacuum conditions. We describe a rational scheme to assign Cl adatoms to different surface sites. The dominant electronic state visible in scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) corresponds to an antibonding interaction between the Cl adlayer and the copper surface. This state was observed to be 200 meV higher in energy at hcp sites compared to fcc sites, and it is attributed to the greater charge transfer to Cl adatoms at hcp sites. Although there was no STS signature associated with bridging sites, the presence of bridging Cl adatoms along the periphery of fcc domains caused a shift in the energy of the interface state in the latter. These results shed important light on the ordering and interaction between Cl adatoms on Cu(111) and their influence of the local electronic structure of the surface.

Quantification of Nanoscale Density Fluctuations in Biological Cells/Tissues: Inverse Participation Ratio (IPR) Analysis of Transmission Electron Microscopy Images and Implications for Early-Stage Cancer Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pradhan, Prabhakar; Damania, Dhwanil; Joshi, Hrushikesh; Taflove, Allen; Roy, Hemant; Dravid, Vinayak; Backman, Vadim

2010-03-01

We report a study of the nanoscale mass density fluctuations of biological cells and tissues by quantifying their nanoscale light-localization properties. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of human cells and tissues are used to construct corresponding effective disordered optical lattices. Light-localization properties are studied by statistical analysis of the inverse participation ratio (IPR) of the eigenfunctions of these optical lattices at the nanoscales. Our results indicate elevation of the nanoscale disorder strength (e.g., refractive index fluctuations) in early carcinogenesis. Importantly, our results demonstrate that the increase in the nanoscale disorder represents the earliest structural alteration in cells undergoing carcinogenesis known to-date. Potential applications of the technique for early stage cancer detection will be discussed.

A correlative optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy approach to locating nanoparticles in brain tumors.

PubMed

Kempen, Paul J; Kircher, Moritz F; de la Zerda, Adam; Zavaleta, Cristina L; Jokerst, Jesse V; Mellinghoff, Ingo K; Gambhir, Sanjiv S; Sinclair, Robert

2015-01-01

The growing use of nanoparticles in biomedical applications, including cancer diagnosis and treatment, demands the capability to exactly locate them within complex biological systems. In this work a correlative optical and scanning electron microscopy technique was developed to locate and observe multi-modal gold core nanoparticle accumulation in brain tumor models. Entire brain sections from mice containing orthotopic brain tumors injected intravenously with nanoparticles were imaged using both optical microscopy to identify the brain tumor, and scanning electron microscopy to identify the individual nanoparticles. Gold-based nanoparticles were readily identified in the scanning electron microscope using backscattered electron imaging as bright spots against a darker background. This information was then correlated to determine the exact location of the nanoparticles within the brain tissue. The nanoparticles were located only in areas that contained tumor cells, and not in the surrounding healthy brain tissue. This correlative technique provides a powerful method to relate the macro- and micro-scale features visible in light microscopy with the nanoscale features resolvable in scanning electron microscopy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electron Microscopy to Correlate Cell Structures and Biochemical Activity

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-06-15

1991 A,.G2_ 1 I TYPE OF REPORT: Midterm - PREPARED FOR: U.S. ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COMMAND FORT DETRICK FREDERICK, MARYLAND 21702-5012... biochemistry , WRAIR, we studied intracellular localization ahd fate of liposomes and liposome- encapsulated malarial antigen after phagocytosis by...Parasitology Vol. 29 (ed. J. R. Baker), Academic Press, London p. 151- * 214. 10. Keberle, H. 1964. The biochemistry of desferrioxamine and its relation

Research and Development of Wound Dressing in Maxillofacial Trauma.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-11

microencapsulation of this drug did not appear to be warranted. A higher drug loading might be possible with microcapsules , but the maximum loading of the...powders, and microcapsules , of local anesthetic agents, antiseptics, and antibiotics. These formulations were characterized by scanning electron microscopy...were studied Povidone iodine microcapsules released drug in a sustained manner for at leasd 24 hours either as free microcapsules or imbedded in Tegaderm

Evaluation of local anesthetic effects of Lidocaine-Ibuprofen ionic liquid stabilized silver nanoparticles in Male Swiss mice.

PubMed

Jiang, Qiliang; Yu, Shashuang; Li, Xingwang; Ma, Chuangen; Li, Aixiang

2018-01-01

A simple approach for the synthesis of Lidocaine-Ibuprofen ionic liquid stabilized silver nanoparticles (IL-AgNPs) was reported in this work. The shape, size and surface morphology of the Lidocaine-Ibuprofen ionic liquid stabilized AgNPs were characterized by using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques such as Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Visible), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Selected area electron diffraction (SAED), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM analysis showed the formation of 20-30nm size of IL-AgNPs with very clear lattice fringes. SAED pattern confirmed the highly crystalline nature of fabricated IL stabilized AgNPs. EDS results confirmed the formation of nanosilver. The fabricated IL-AgNPs were studied for their local anesthetic effect in rats. The results of local anesthetic effect showed that the time for onset of action by IL-AgNPs is 10min, which is significantly higher than that for EMLA. Further, tactile test results confirmed the stronger and faster local anesthetic effect of IL-AgNPs when compared to that of EMLA. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Three-dimensional ultrastructural analyses of anterior pituitary gland expose spatial relationships between endocrine cell secretory granule localization and capillary distribution.

PubMed

Yoshitomi, Munetake; Ohta, Keisuke; Kanazawa, Tomonoshin; Togo, Akinobu; Hirashima, Shingo; Uemura, Kei-Ichiro; Okayama, Satoko; Morioka, Motohiro; Nakamura, Kei-Ichiro

2016-10-31

Endocrine and endothelial cells of the anterior pituitary gland frequently make close appositions or contacts, and the secretory granules of each endocrine cell tend to accumulate at the perivascular regions, which is generally considered to facilitate secretory functions of these cells. However, three-dimensional relationships between the localization pattern of secretory granules and blood vessels are not fully understood. To define and characterize these spatial relationships, we used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) three-dimensional reconstruction method based on focused ion-beam slicing and scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM). Full three-dimensional cellular architectures of the anterior pituitary tissue at ultrastructural resolution revealed that about 70% of endocrine cells were in apposition to the endothelial cells, while almost 30% of endocrine cells were entirely isolated from perivascular space in the tissue. Our three-dimensional analyses also visualized the distribution pattern of secretory granules in individual endocrine cells, showing an accumulation of secretory granules in regions in close apposition to the blood vessels in many cases. However, secretory granules in cells isolated from the perivascular region tended to distribute uniformly in the cytoplasm of these cells. These data suggest that the cellular interactions between the endocrine and endothelial cells promote an uneven cytoplasmic distribution of the secretory granules.

Understanding Atom Probe Tomography of Oxide-Supported Metal Nanoparticles by Correlation with Atomic Resolution Electron Microscopy and Field Evaporation Simulation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Devaraj, Arun; Colby, Robert J.; Vurpillot, F.

2014-03-26

Metal-dielectric composite materials, specifically metal nanoparticles supported on or embedded in metal oxides, are widely used in catalysis. The accurate optimization of such nanostructures warrants the need for detailed three-dimensional characterization. Atom probe tomography is uniquely capable of generating sub-nanometer structural and compositional data with part-per-million mass sensitivity, but there are reconstruction artifacts for composites containing materials with strongly differing fields of evaporation, as for oxide-supported metal nanoparticles. By correlating atom probe tomography with scanning transmission electron microscopy for Au nanoparticles embedded in an MgO support, deviations from an ideal topography during evaporation are demonstrated directly, and correlated with compositionalmore » errors in the reconstructed data. Finite element simulations of the field evaporation process confirm that protruding Au nanoparticles will evolve on the tip surface, and that evaporation field variations lead to an inaccurate assessment of the local composition, effectively lowering the spatial resolution of the final reconstructed dataset. Cross-correlating the experimental data with simulations results in a more detailed understanding of local evaporation aberrations during APT analysis of metal-oxide composites, paving the way towards a more accurate three-dimensional characterization of this technologically important class of materials.« less

Site-Specific Preparation of Intact Solid–Liquid Interfaces by Label-Free In Situ Localization and Cryo-Focused Ion Beam Lift-Out

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zachman, Michael J.; Asenath-Smith, Emily; Estroff, Lara A.

Abstract Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) allows atomic scale characterization of solid–solid interfaces, but has seen limited applications to solid–liquid interfaces due to the volatility of liquids in the microscope vacuum. Although cryo-electron microscopy is routinely used to characterize hydrated samples stabilized by rapid freezing, sample thinning is required to access the internal interfaces of thicker specimens. Here, we adapt cryo-focused ion beam (FIB) “lift-out,” a technique recently developed for biological specimens, to prepare intact internal solid–liquid interfaces for high-resolution structural and chemical analysis by cryo-STEM. To guide the milling process we introduce a label-freein situmethod of localizing subsurface structuresmore » in suitable materials by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Monte Carlo simulations are performed to evaluate the depth-probing capability of the technique, and show good qualitative agreement with experiment. We also detail procedures to produce homogeneously thin lamellae, which enable nanoscale structural, elemental, and chemical analysis of intact solid–liquid interfaces by analytical cryo-STEM. This work demonstrates the potential of cryo-FIB lift-out and cryo-STEM for understanding physical and chemical processes at solid–liquid interfaces.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Buck, E.C.; Dietz, N.L.; Bates, J.K.

Uranium contaminated soils from the Fernald Operation Site, Ohio, have been examined by a combination of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with backscattered electron detection (SEM/BSE), and analytical electron microscopy (AEM). A method is described for preparing of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) thin sections by ultramicrotomy. By using these thin sections, SEM and TEM images can be compared directly. Uranium was found in iron oxides, silicates (soddyite), phosphates (autunites), and fluorite. Little uranium was associated with clays. The distribution of uranium phases was found to be inhomogeneous at the microscopic level.

Electron Microscopy of Ebola Virus-Infected Cells.

PubMed

Noda, Takeshi

2017-01-01

Ebola virus (EBOV) replicates in host cells, where both viral and cellular components show morphological changes during the process of viral replication from entry to budding. These steps in the replication cycle can be studied using electron microscopy (EM), including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which is one of the most useful methods for visualizing EBOV particles and EBOV-infected cells at the ultrastructural level. This chapter describes conventional methods for EM sample preparation of cultured cells infected with EBOV.

Low-Energy Electron Potentiometry: Contactless Imaging of Charge Transport on the Nanoscale.

PubMed

Kautz, J; Jobst, J; Sorger, C; Tromp, R M; Weber, H B; van der Molen, S J

2015-09-04

Charge transport measurements form an essential tool in condensed matter physics. The usual approach is to contact a sample by two or four probes, measure the resistance and derive the resistivity, assuming homogeneity within the sample. A more thorough understanding, however, requires knowledge of local resistivity variations. Spatially resolved information is particularly important when studying novel materials like topological insulators, where the current is localized at the edges, or quasi-two-dimensional (2D) systems, where small-scale variations can determine global properties. Here, we demonstrate a new method to determine spatially-resolved voltage maps of current-carrying samples. This technique is based on low-energy electron microscopy (LEEM) and is therefore quick and non-invasive. It makes use of resonance-induced contrast, which strongly depends on the local potential. We demonstrate our method using single to triple layer graphene. However, it is straightforwardly extendable to other quasi-2D systems, most prominently to the upcoming class of layered van der Waals materials.

Foliar manganese accumulation by Maytenus founieri (Celastraceae) in its native New Caledonian habitats: populational variation and localization by X-ray microanalysis.

PubMed

Fernando, D R; Woodrow, I E; Jaffré, T; Dumontet, V; Marshall, A T; Baker, A J M

2008-01-01

Hyperaccumulation by plants is a rare phenomenon that has potential practical benefits. The majority of manganese (Mn) hyperaccumulators discovered to date occur in New Caledonia, and little is known about their ecophysiology. This study reports on natural populations of one such species, the endemic shrub Maytenus founieri. Mean foliar Mn concentrations of two populations growing on ultramafic substrates with varying soil pHs were obtained. Leaf anatomies were examined by light microscopy, while the spatial distributions of foliar Mn in both populations were examined by qualitative scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Plants growing on two different substrates were found to have very different mean dry weight (DW) foliar Mn concentrations. Light microscopy showed that the leaves had very distinct thick dermal structures, consisting of multiple layers of large cells in the hypodermis. In vivo X-ray microprobe analyses revealed that, in both populations, Mn sequestration occurred primarily in these dermal tissues. The finding here that foliar Mn is most highly localized in the nonphotosynthetic tissues of M. founieri contrasts with results from similar studies on other woody species that accumulate high Mn concentrations in their shoots.

Probing the band structure and local electronic properties of low-dimensional semiconductor structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walrath, Jenna Cherie

Low-dimensional semiconductor structures are important for a wide variety of applications, and recent advances in nanoscale fabrication are paving the way for increasingly precise nano-engineering of a wide range of materials. It is therefore essential that the physics of materials at the nanoscale are thoroughly understood to unleash the full potential of nanotechnology, requiring the development of increasingly sophisticated instrumentation and modeling. Of particular interest is the relationship between the local density of states (LDOS) of low-dimensional structures and the band structure and local electronic properties. This dissertation presents the investigation of the band structure, LDOS, and local electronic properties of nanostructures ranging from zero-dimensional (0D) quantum dots (QDs) to two-dimensional (2D) thin films, synthesizing computational and experimental approaches including Poisson-Schrodinger band structure calculations, scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS), and scanning thermoelectric microscopy (SThEM). A method is presented for quantifying the local Seebeck coefficient (S) with SThEM, using a quasi-3D conversion matrix approach to directly convert temperature gradient-induced voltages S. For a GaAs p-n junction, the resulting S-profile is consistent with that computed using the free carrier concentration profile. This combined computational-experimental approach is expected to enable nanoscale measurements of S across a wide variety of heterostructure interfaces. The local carrier concentration, n, is profiled across epitaxial InAs/GaAs QDs, where SThEM is used to profile the temperature gradient-induced voltage, which is converted to a profile of the local S and finally to an n profile. The S profile is converted to a conduction band-edge profile and compared with Poisson-Schrodinger band-edge simulations. The combined computational-experimental approach suggests a reduced n in the QD center in comparison to that of the 2D alloy layer. The surface composition and band structure of ordered horizontal Sb2Te3 nanowires induced by femtosecond laser irradiation of a thin film are investigated, revealing a band gap modulation between buried Sb2Te3 nanowires and the surrounding insulating material. Finally, STM and STS are used to investigate the band structure of BiSbTe alloys at room temperature, revealing both the Fermi level and Dirac point located inside the bulk bandgap, indicating bulk-like insulating behavior with accessible surface states.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ponath, Patrick; O’Hara, Andrew; Cao, Hai-Xia

The growth of Co-substituted BaTiO 3 (BTO) films on Ge(001) substrates by molecular beam epitaxy is demonstrated in this paper. Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy images confirm the uniform Co distribution. However, no evidence of magnetic ordering is observed in samples grown for Co concentrations between 2% and 40%. Piezoresponse force microscopy measurements show that a 5% Co-substituted BTO sample exhibits ferroelectric behavior. First-principles calculations indicate that while Co atoms couple ferromagnetically in the absence of oxygen vacancies, the occurrence of oxygen vacancies leads to locally antiferromagnetically coupled complexes with relatively strong spin coupling. Finally, the presence ofmore » a significant amount of oxygen vacancies is suggested by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements.« less

Manipulating Si(100) at 5 K using qPlus frequency modulated atomic force microscopy: Role of defects and dynamics in the mechanical switching of atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sweetman, A.; Jarvis, S.; Danza, R.; Bamidele, J.; Kantorovich, L.; Moriarty, P.

2011-08-01

We use small-amplitude qPlus frequency modulated atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM), at 5 K, to investigate the atomic-scale mechanical stability of the Si(100) surface. By operating at zero applied bias the effect of tunneling electrons is eliminated, demonstrating that surface manipulation can be performed by solely mechanical means. Striking differences in surface response are observed between different regions of the surface, most likely due to variations in strain associated with the presence of surface defects. We investigate the variation in local energy surface by ab initio simulation, and comment on the dynamics observed during force spectroscopy.

Real-Space Analysis of Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Topography Datasets Using Sparse Modeling Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyama, Masamichi J.; Hukushima, Koji

2018-04-01

A sparse modeling approach is proposed for analyzing scanning tunneling microscopy topography data, which contain numerous peaks originating from the electron density of surface atoms and/or impurities. The method, based on the relevance vector machine with L1 regularization and k-means clustering, enables separation of the peaks and peak center positioning with accuracy beyond the resolution of the measurement grid. The validity and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated using synthetic data in comparison with the conventional least-squares method. An application of the proposed method to experimental data of a metallic oxide thin-film clearly indicates the existence of defects and corresponding local lattice distortions.

Effect of mechanical and electrical stimuli in conductive atomic force microscopy with noble metal-coated tips

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zade, Vishal; Kang, Hung-Sen; Lee, Min Hwan

2018-01-01

Conductive atomic force microscopy has been widely employed to study the localized electrical properties of a wide range of substrates in non-vacuum conditions by the use of noble metal-coated tips. However, quantitative characterization of the electrical properties was often precluded by unpredictable changes in the tip apex morphology, and/or electronic transport characteristics of undesired oxide overcoats on the tip. In this paper, the impact of mechanical and electrical stimuli on the apex geometry of gold coated tips and electrical conduction properties at the tip-substrate contact is discussed by choosing gold and highly ordered pyrolytic graphite as the representative tip and substrate materials, respectively.

In situ growth of Ag nanoparticles on α-Ag2WO4 under electron irradiation: probing the physical principles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

San-Miguel, Miguel A.; da Silva, Edison Z.; Zannetti, Sonia M.; Cilense, Mario; Fabbro, Maria T.; Gracia, Lourdes; Andrés, Juan; Longo, Elson

2016-06-01

Exploiting the plasmonic behavior of Ag nanoparticles grown on α-Ag2WO4 is a widely employed strategy to produce efficient photocatalysts, ozone sensors, and bactericides. However, a description of the atomic and electronic structure of the semiconductor sites irradiated by electrons is still not available. Such a description is of great importance to understand the mechanisms underlying these physical processes and to improve the design of silver nanoparticles to enhance their activities. Motivated by this, we studied the growth of silver nanoparticles to investigate this novel class of phenomena using both transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. A theoretical framework based on density functional theory calculations (DFT), together with experimental analysis and measurements, were developed to examine the changes in the local geometrical and electronic structure of the materials. The physical principles for the formation of Ag nanoparticles on α-Ag2WO4 by electron beam irradiation are described. Quantum mechanical calculations based on DFT show that the (001) of α-Ag2WO4 displays Ag atoms with different coordination numbers. Some of them are able to diffuse out of the surface with a very low energy barrier (less than 0.1 eV), thus, initiating the growth of metallic Ag nanostructures and leaving Ag vacancies in the bulk material. These processes increase the structural disorder of α-Ag2WO4 as well as its electrical resistance as observed in the experimental measurements.

New method for characterizing paper coating structures using argon ion beam milling and field emission scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Dahlström, C; Allem, R; Uesaka, T

2011-02-01

We have developed a new method for characterizing microstructures of paper coating using argon ion beam milling technique and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The combination of these two techniques produces extremely high-quality images with very few artefacts, which are particularly suited for quantitative analyses of coating structures. A new evaluation method has been developed by using marker-controlled watershed segmentation technique of the secondary electron images. The high-quality secondary electron images with well-defined pores makes it possible to use this semi-automatic segmentation method. One advantage of using secondary electron images instead of backscattered electron images is being able to avoid possible overestimation of the porosity because of the signal depth. A comparison was made between the new method and the conventional method using greyscale histogram thresholding of backscattered electron images. The results showed that the conventional method overestimated the pore area by 20% and detected around 5% more pores than the new method. As examples of the application of the new method, we have investigated the distributions of coating binders, and the relationship between local coating porosity and base sheet structures. The technique revealed, for the first time with direct evidence, the long-suspected coating non-uniformity, i.e. binder migration, and the correlation between coating porosity versus base sheet mass density, in a straightforward way. © 2010 The Authors Journal compilation © 2010 The Royal Microscopical Society.

A direct electron detector for time-resolved MeV electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Vecchione, T.; Denes, P.; Jobe, R. K.; ...

2017-03-15

The introduction of direct electron detectors enabled the structural biology revolution of cryogenic electron microscopy. Direct electron detectors are now expected to have a similarly dramatic impact on time-resolved MeV electron microscopy, particularly by enabling both spatial and temporal jitter correction. Here in this paper, we report on the commissioning of a direct electron detector for time-resolved MeV electron microscopy. The direct electron detector demonstrated MeV single electron sensitivity and is capable of recording megapixel images at 180 Hz. The detector has a 15-bit dynamic range, better than 30-μm spatial resolution and less than 20 analogue-to-digital converter count RMS pixelmore » noise. The unique capabilities of the direct electron detector and the data analysis required to take advantage of these capabilities are presented. The technical challenges associated with generating and processing large amounts of data are also discussed.« less

A direct electron detector for time-resolved MeV electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vecchione, T.; Denes, P.; Jobe, R. K.

The introduction of direct electron detectors enabled the structural biology revolution of cryogenic electron microscopy. Direct electron detectors are now expected to have a similarly dramatic impact on time-resolved MeV electron microscopy, particularly by enabling both spatial and temporal jitter correction. Here we report on the commissioning of a direct electron detector for time-resolved MeV electron microscopy. The direct electron detector demonstrated MeV single electron sensitivity and is capable of recording megapixel images at 180 Hz. The detector has a 15-bit dynamic range, better than 30-μmμm spatial resolution and less than 20 analogue-to-digital converter count RMS pixel noise. The uniquemore » capabilities of the direct electron detector and the data analysis required to take advantage of these capabilities are presented. The technical challenges associated with generating and processing large amounts of data are also discussed.« less

A direct electron detector for time-resolved MeV electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vecchione, T.; Denes, P.; Jobe, R. K.

The introduction of direct electron detectors enabled the structural biology revolution of cryogenic electron microscopy. Direct electron detectors are now expected to have a similarly dramatic impact on time-resolved MeV electron microscopy, particularly by enabling both spatial and temporal jitter correction. Here in this paper, we report on the commissioning of a direct electron detector for time-resolved MeV electron microscopy. The direct electron detector demonstrated MeV single electron sensitivity and is capable of recording megapixel images at 180 Hz. The detector has a 15-bit dynamic range, better than 30-μm spatial resolution and less than 20 analogue-to-digital converter count RMS pixelmore » noise. The unique capabilities of the direct electron detector and the data analysis required to take advantage of these capabilities are presented. The technical challenges associated with generating and processing large amounts of data are also discussed.« less

The vaccinia virus E6 protein influences virion protein localization during virus assembly

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Condit, Richard C., E-mail: condit@mgm.ufl.edu; Moussatche, Nissin

2015-08-15

Vaccinia virus mutants in which expression of the virion core protein gene E6R is repressed are defective in virion morphogenesis. E6 deficient infections fail to properly package viroplasm into viral membranes, resulting in an accumulation of empty immature virions and large aggregates of viroplasm. We have used immunogold electron microscopy and immunofluorescence confocal microscopy to assess the intracellular localization of several virion structural proteins and enzymes during E6R mutant infections. We find that during E6R mutant infections virion membrane proteins and virion transcription enzymes maintain a normal localization within viral factories while several major core and lateral body proteins accumulatemore » in aggregated virosomes. The results support a model in which vaccinia virions are assembled from at least three substructures, the membrane, the viroplasm and a “pre-nucleocapsid”, and that the E6 protein is essential for maintaining proper localization of the seven-protein complex and the viroplasm during assembly. - Highlights: • Mutation of E6 disrupts association of viral membranes with viral core proteins • Mutation of E6 does not perturb viral membrane biosynthesis • Mutation of E6 does not perturb localization of viral transcription enzymes • Mutation of E6 causes mis-localization and aggregation of viral core proteins • Vaccinia assembly uses three subassemblies: membranes, viroplasm, prenucleocapsid.« less

Coexistence of two electronic nano-phases on a CH 3NH 3PbI 3–xCl x surface observed in STM measurements

DOE PAGES

Yost, Andrew J.; Pimachev, Artem; Ho, Chun -Chih; ...

2016-10-10

Scanning tunneling microscopy is utilized to investigate the local density of states of a CH 3NH 3PbI 3-xCl x perovskite in cross-sectional geometry. Two electronic phases, 10-20 nm in size, with different electronic properties inside the CH 3NH 3PbI 3-xCl x perovskite layer are observed by the dI/ dV mapping and point spectra. A power law dependence of the dI/dV point spectra is revealed. In addition, the distinct electronic phases are found to have preferential orientations close to the normal direction of the film surface. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the observed electronic phases are associated with local deviationmore » of I/Cl ratio, rather than different orientations of the electric dipole moments in the ferroelectric phases. Furthermore, by comparing the calculated results with experimental data we conclude that phase A (lower contrast in dI/dV mapping at -2.0 V bias) contains a lower I/Cl ratio than that in phase B (higher contrast in dI/dV).« less

Monitoring adsorption of gold nanoparticles on gold nanodisk array using dark-field hyperspectral microscopy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Fusheng; Zenasni, Oussama; Li, Jingting; Shih, Wei-Chuan

2017-02-01

Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) arises from the interaction of light with noble metal nanoparticles, which induces a collective oscillation in the free electrons. The size and shape of the metallic nanostructure significantly impact LSPR frequency and strength. Nanoplasmonic sensor has become a recent research focus due to its significant signal enhancement and robust signal transduction measured by extinction spectroscopy, fluorescence, Raman scattering, and absorption spectroscopy. Dark-field microscopy, in contrast, reports the scattered photons after light-matter interactions. In this case, the nanoparticles can be understood as dipole radiators whose free electrons oscillate in concert. Coupled with spectroscopy, this platform allows the collection of plasmonically scattered spectra from gold nanoparticles. Plasmonic coupling between electron-beam lithography patterned gold nanodisks (AuND) and colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNP) can change the plasmonic resonance of the original entities, and can be effectively studied by dark-field hyperspectral microscopy. Typically, a pronounced redshift can be observed when plasmonic coupling occurs. When these nano-entities are functionalized with interactive surface moieties, biochemistry and molecular processes can be studied. In this paper, we will present the capability of assessing the process of immobilizing streptavidin-functionalized AuNPs on an array of biotin-terminated AuNDs. By monitoring changes in the LSPR band of AuNDs, we are able to evaluate similar processes in other molecular systems. In addition, plasmon coupling induced scattering intensity variations can be measured by an electron-multiplied charge-coupled device camera for rapid in situ monitoring. This method can potentially be useful in studying dynamic biophysical and biochemical processes in situ.

Thermomechanical behavior of tin-rich (lead-free) solders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sidhu, Rajen Singh

In order to adequately characterize the behavior of ball-grid-array (BGA) Pb-free solder spheres in electronic devices, the microstructure and thermomechanical behavior need to be studied. Microstructure characterization of pure Sn, Sn-0.7Cu, Sn-3.5Ag, and Sn-3.9Ag-0.7Cu alloys was conducted using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, image analysis, and a novel serial sectioning 3D reconstruction process. Microstructure-based finite-element method (FEM) modeling of deformation in Sn-3.5Ag alloy was conducted, and it will be shown that this technique is more accurate when compared to traditional unit cell models for simulating and understanding material behavior. The effect of cooling rate on microstructure and creep behavior of bulk Sn-rich solders was studied. The creep behavior was evaluated at 25, 95, and 120°C. Faster cooling rates were found to increase the creep strength of the solders due to refinement of the solder microstructure. The creep behavior of Sn-rich single solder spheres reflowed on Cu substrates was studied at 25, 60, 95, and 130°C. Testing was conducted using a microforce testing system, with lap-shear geometry samples. The solder joints displayed two distinct creep behaviors: (a) precipitation-strengthening (Sn-3.5Ag and Sn-3.9Ag-0.7Cu) and (b) power law creep accommodated by grain boundary sliding (GBS) (Sn and Sn-0.7Cu). The relationship between microstructural features (i.e. intermetallic particle size and spacing), stress exponents, threshold stress, and activation energies are discussed. The relationship between small-length scale creep behavior and bulk behavior is also addressed. To better understand the damage evolution in Sn-rich solder joints during thermal fatigue, the local damage will be correlated to the cyclic hysteresis behavior and crystal orientations present in the Sn phase of solder joints. FEM modeling will also be utilized to better understand the macroscopic and local strain response of the lap shear geometry.

Correlative Stochastic Optical Reconstruction Microscopy and Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Kim, Doory; Deerinck, Thomas J.; Sigal, Yaron M.; Babcock, Hazen P.; Ellisman, Mark H.; Zhuang, Xiaowei

2015-01-01

Correlative fluorescence light microscopy and electron microscopy allows the imaging of spatial distributions of specific biomolecules in the context of cellular ultrastructure. Recent development of super-resolution fluorescence microscopy allows the location of molecules to be determined with nanometer-scale spatial resolution. However, correlative super-resolution fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy (EM) still remains challenging because the optimal specimen preparation and imaging conditions for super-resolution fluorescence microscopy and EM are often not compatible. Here, we have developed several experiment protocols for correlative stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) and EM methods, both for un-embedded samples by applying EM-specific sample preparations after STORM imaging and for embedded and sectioned samples by optimizing the fluorescence under EM fixation, staining and embedding conditions. We demonstrated these methods using a variety of cellular targets. PMID:25874453

Evaluation of preparation methods for suspended nano-objects on substrates for dimensional measurements by atomic force microscopy

PubMed Central

Göhler, Daniel; Wessely, Benno; Stintz, Michael; Lazzerini, Giovanni Mattia; Yacoot, Andrew

2017-01-01

Dimensional measurements on nano-objects by atomic force microscopy (AFM) require samples of safely fixed and well individualized particles with a suitable surface-specific particle number on flat and clean substrates. Several known and proven particle preparation methods, i.e., membrane filtration, drying, rinsing, dip coating as well as electrostatic and thermal precipitation, were performed by means of scanning electron microscopy to examine their suitability for preparing samples for dimensional AFM measurements. Different suspensions of nano-objects (with varying material, size and shape) stabilized in aqueous solutions were prepared therefore on different flat substrates. The drop-drying method was found to be the most suitable one for the analysed suspensions, because it does not require expensive dedicated equipment and led to a uniform local distribution of individualized nano-objects. Traceable AFM measurements based on Si and SiO2 coated substrates confirmed the suitability of this technique. PMID:28904839

Evaluation of preparation methods for suspended nano-objects on substrates for dimensional measurements by atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

Fiala, Petra; Göhler, Daniel; Wessely, Benno; Stintz, Michael; Lazzerini, Giovanni Mattia; Yacoot, Andrew

2017-01-01

Dimensional measurements on nano-objects by atomic force microscopy (AFM) require samples of safely fixed and well individualized particles with a suitable surface-specific particle number on flat and clean substrates. Several known and proven particle preparation methods, i.e., membrane filtration, drying, rinsing, dip coating as well as electrostatic and thermal precipitation, were performed by means of scanning electron microscopy to examine their suitability for preparing samples for dimensional AFM measurements. Different suspensions of nano-objects (with varying material, size and shape) stabilized in aqueous solutions were prepared therefore on different flat substrates. The drop-drying method was found to be the most suitable one for the analysed suspensions, because it does not require expensive dedicated equipment and led to a uniform local distribution of individualized nano-objects. Traceable AFM measurements based on Si and SiO 2 coated substrates confirmed the suitability of this technique.

A unifying model for non-adiabatic coupling at metallic surfaces beyond the local harmonic approximation: From vibrational relaxation to scanning tunneling microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tremblay, Jean Christophe

2013-06-01

A model for treating excitation and relaxation of adsorbates at metallic surfaces induced by non-adiabatic coupling is developed. The derivation is based on the concept of resonant electron transfer, where the adsorbate serves as a molecular bridge for the inelastic transition between an electron source and a sink. In this picture, energy relaxation and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) at metallic surfaces are treated on an equal footing as a quasi-thermal process. The model goes beyond the local harmonic approximation and allows for an unbiased description of floppy systems with multiple potential wells. Further, the limitation of the product ansatz for the vibronic wave function to include the position-dependence of the non-adiabatic couplings is avoided by explicitly enforcing detailed balance. The theory is applied to the excitation of hydrogen on palladium, which has multiple local potential minima connected by low energy barriers. The main aspects investigated are the lifetimes of adsorbate vibrations in different adsorption sites, as well as the dependence of the excitation, response, and transfer rates on an applied potential bias. The excitation and relaxation simulations reveal intricate population dynamics that depart significantly from the simplistic tunneling model in a truncated harmonic potential. In particular, the population decay from an initially occupied local minimum induced by the contact with an STM tip is found to be better described by a double exponential. The two rates are interpreted as a response to the system perturbation and a transfer rate following the perturbation. The transfer rate is found to obey a power law, as was the case in previous experimental and theoretical work.

On the Progress of Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) Imaging in a Scanning Electron Microscope.

PubMed

Sun, Cheng; Müller, Erich; Meffert, Matthias; Gerthsen, Dagmar

2018-04-01

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with low-energy electrons has been recognized as an important addition to the family of electron microscopies as it may avoid knock-on damage and increase the contrast of weakly scattering objects. Scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) are well suited for low-energy electron microscopy with maximum electron energies of 30 keV, but they are mainly used for topography imaging of bulk samples. Implementation of a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) detector and a charge-coupled-device camera for the acquisition of on-axis transmission electron diffraction (TED) patterns, in combination with recent resolution improvements, make SEMs highly interesting for structure analysis of some electron-transparent specimens which are traditionally investigated by TEM. A new aspect is correlative SEM, STEM, and TED imaging from the same specimen region in a SEM which leads to a wealth of information. Simultaneous image acquisition gives information on surface topography, inner structure including crystal defects and qualitative material contrast. Lattice-fringe resolution is obtained in bright-field STEM imaging. The benefits of correlative SEM/STEM/TED imaging in a SEM are exemplified by structure analyses from representative sample classes such as nanoparticulates and bulk materials.

Nanoscale contact resistance of V2O5 xerogel films developed by nanostructured powder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bera, Biswajit; Sekhar Das, Pradip; Bhattacharya, Manjima; Ghosh, Swapankumar; Mukhopadhyay, Anoop Kumar; Dey, Arjun

2016-03-01

Here we report the synthesis of V2O5 nanostructures by a fast, simple, cost-effective, low-temperature chemical process; followed by the deposition of V2O5 xerogel thin films on a glass substrate by a sol-gel route. Phase analysis, phase transition, microstructural and electronic characterization studies are carried out by x-ray diffraction, texture coefficient analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), related selected area electron diffraction pattern (SAED) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques. Confirmatory TEM and SAED data analysis prove further that in this polycrystalline powder there is a unique localized existence of purely single crystalline V2O5 powder with a preferred orientation in the (0 1 0) direction. The most interesting result obtained in the present work is that the xerogel thin films exhibit an inherent capability to enhance the intrinsic resistance against contact induced deformations as more external load is applied during the nanoindentation experiments. In addition, both the nanohardness and Young’s modulus of the films are found to be insensitive to load variations (e.g. 1 to 7 mN). These results are explained in terms of microstructural parameters, e.g. porosity and structural configuration.

Protein-accumulating cells and dilated cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum in three glucosinolate-containing genera: Armoracia, Capparis, Drypetes.

PubMed

Jørgensen, L B; Behnke, H D; Mabry, T J

1977-01-01

Three glucosinolate-containing species, Armoracia rusticana Gaertner, Meyer et Scherbius (Brassicaceae), Capparis cynophallophora L. (Capparaceae) and Drypetes roxburghii (Wall.) Hurusawa (Euphorbiaceae), are shown by both light and electron microscopy to contain protein-accumulating cells (PAC). The PAC of Armoracia and Copparis (former "myrosin cells") occur as idioblasts. The PAC of Drypetes are usual members among axial phloem parenchyma cells rather than idioblasts. In Drypetes the vacuoles of the PAC are shown ultrastructurally to contain finely fibrillar material and to originate from local dilatations of the endoplasmic reticulum. The vacuoles in PAC of Armoracia and Capparis seem to originate in the same way; but ultrastructurally, their content is finely granular. In addition, Armoracia and Capparis are shown by both light and electron microscopy to contain dilated cisternae (DC) of the endoplasmic reticulum in normal parenchyma cells, in accord with previous findings for several species within Brassicaceae. The relationship of PAC and DC to glucosinolates and the enzyme myrosinase is discussed.

Separating strain from composition in unit cell parameter maps obtained from aberration corrected high resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schulz, T.; Remmele, T.; Korytov, M.

2014-01-21

Based on the evaluation of lattice parameter maps in aberration corrected high resolution transmission electron microscopy images, we propose a simple method that allows quantifying the composition and disorder of a semiconductor alloy at the unit cell scale with high accuracy. This is realized by considering, next to the out-of-plane, also the in-plane lattice parameter component allowing to separate the chemical composition from the strain field. Considering only the out-of-plane lattice parameter component not only yields large deviations from the true local alloy content but also carries the risk of identifying false ordering phenomena like formations of chains or platelets.more » Our method is demonstrated on image simulations of relaxed supercells, as well as on experimental images of an In{sub 0.20}Ga{sub 0.80}N quantum well. Principally, our approach is applicable to all epitaxially strained compounds in the form of quantum wells, free standing islands, quantum dots, or wires.« less

Detection of titanium in human tissues after craniofacial surgery.

PubMed

Jorgenson, D S; Mayer, M H; Ellenbogen, R G; Centeno, J A; Johnson, F B; Mullick, F G; Manson, P N

1997-04-01

Generally, titanium fixation plates are not removed after osteosynthesis, because they have high biocompatability and high corrosion resistance characteristics. Experiments with laboratory animals, and limited studies of analyses of human tissues, have reported evidence of titanium release into local and distant tissues. This study summarizes our results of the analysis of soft tissues for titanium in four patients with titanium microfixation plates. Energy dispersive x-ray analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry were used to detect trace amounts of titanium in surrounding soft tissues. A single metal inclusion was detected by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis in one patient, whereas, electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry analyses revealed titanium present in three of four specimens in levels ranging from 7.92 to 31.8 micrograms/gm of dry tissue. Results from this study revealed trace amounts of titanium in tissues surrounding craniofacial plates. At the atomic level, electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry appears to be a sensitive tool to quantitatively detect ultra-trace amounts of metal in human tissue.

Understanding Atom Probe Tomography of Oxide-Supported Metal Nanoparticles by Correlation with Atomic-Resolution Electron Microscopy and Field Evaporation Simulation.

PubMed

Devaraj, Arun; Colby, Robert; Vurpillot, François; Thevuthasan, Suntharampillai

2014-04-17

Oxide-supported metal nanoparticles are widely used in heterogeneous catalysis. The increasingly detailed design of such catalysts necessitates three-dimensional characterization with high spatial resolution and elemental selectivity. Laser-assisted atom probe tomography (APT) is uniquely suited to the task but faces challenges with the evaporation of metal/insulator systems. Correlation of APT with aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), for Au nanoparticles embedded in MgO, reveals preferential evaporation of the MgO and an inaccurate assessment of nanoparticle composition. Finite element field evaporation modeling is used to illustrate the evolution of the evaporation front. Nanoparticle composition is most accurately predicted when the MgO is treated as having a locally variable evaporation field, indicating the importance of considering laser-oxide interactions and the evaporation of various molecular oxide ions. These results demonstrate the viability of APT for analysis of oxide-supported metal nanoparticles, highlighting the need for developing a theoretical framework for the evaporation of heterogeneous materials.

Surface Nanocrystallization and Amorphization of Dual-Phase TC11 Titanium Alloys under Laser Induced Ultrahigh Strain-Rate Plastic Deformation

PubMed Central

Luo, Sihai; Zhou, Liucheng; Wang, Xuede; Cao, Xin; Nie, Xiangfan

2018-01-01

As an innovative surface technology for ultrahigh strain-rate plastic deformation, laser shock peening (LSP) was applied to the dual-phase TC11 titanium alloy to fabricate an amorphous and nanocrystalline surface layer at room temperature. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used to investigate the microstructural evolution, and the deformation mechanism was discussed. The results showed that a surface nanostructured surface layer was synthesized after LSP treatment with adequate laser parameters. Simultaneously, the behavior of dislocations was also studied for different laser parameters. The rapid slipping, accumulation, annihilation, and rearrangement of dislocations under the laser-induced shock waves contributed greatly to the surface nanocrystallization. In addition, a 10 nm-thick amorphous structure layer was found through HRTEM in the top surface and the formation mechanism was attributed to the local temperature rising to the melting point, followed by its subsequent fast cooling. PMID:29642379

Molecular dynamics-based refinement and validation for sub-5 Å cryo-electron microscopy maps.

PubMed

Singharoy, Abhishek; Teo, Ivan; McGreevy, Ryan; Stone, John E; Zhao, Jianhua; Schulten, Klaus

2016-07-07

Two structure determination methods, based on the molecular dynamics flexible fitting (MDFF) paradigm, are presented that resolve sub-5 Å cryo-electron microscopy (EM) maps with either single structures or ensembles of such structures. The methods, denoted cascade MDFF and resolution exchange MDFF, sequentially re-refine a search model against a series of maps of progressively higher resolutions, which ends with the original experimental resolution. Application of sequential re-refinement enables MDFF to achieve a radius of convergence of ~25 Å demonstrated with the accurate modeling of β-galactosidase and TRPV1 proteins at 3.2 Å and 3.4 Å resolution, respectively. The MDFF refinements uniquely offer map-model validation and B-factor determination criteria based on the inherent dynamics of the macromolecules studied, captured by means of local root mean square fluctuations. The MDFF tools described are available to researchers through an easy-to-use and cost-effective cloud computing resource on Amazon Web Services.

Surface Nanocrystallization and Amorphization of Dual-Phase TC11 Titanium Alloys under Laser Induced Ultrahigh Strain-Rate Plastic Deformation.

PubMed

Luo, Sihai; Zhou, Liucheng; Wang, Xuede; Cao, Xin; Nie, Xiangfan; He, Weifeng

2018-04-06

As an innovative surface technology for ultrahigh strain-rate plastic deformation, laser shock peening (LSP) was applied to the dual-phase TC11 titanium alloy to fabricate an amorphous and nanocrystalline surface layer at room temperature. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used to investigate the microstructural evolution, and the deformation mechanism was discussed. The results showed that a surface nanostructured surface layer was synthesized after LSP treatment with adequate laser parameters. Simultaneously, the behavior of dislocations was also studied for different laser parameters. The rapid slipping, accumulation, annihilation, and rearrangement of dislocations under the laser-induced shock waves contributed greatly to the surface nanocrystallization. In addition, a 10 nm-thick amorphous structure layer was found through HRTEM in the top surface and the formation mechanism was attributed to the local temperature rising to the melting point, followed by its subsequent fast cooling.

Ultrafast endocytosis at mouse hippocampal synapses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Shigeki; Rost, Benjamin R.; Camacho-Pérez, Marcial; Davis, M. Wayne; Söhl-Kielczynski, Berit; Rosenmund, Christian; Jorgensen, Erik M.

2013-12-01

To sustain neurotransmission, synaptic vesicles and their associated proteins must be recycled locally at synapses. Synaptic vesicles are thought to be regenerated approximately 20s after fusion by the assembly of clathrin scaffolds or in approximately 1s by the reversal of fusion pores via `kiss-and-run' endocytosis. Here we use optogenetics to stimulate cultured hippocampal neurons with a single stimulus, rapidly freeze them after fixed intervals and examine the ultrastructure using electron microscopy--`flash-and-freeze' electron microscopy. Docked vesicles fuse and collapse into the membrane within 30ms of the stimulus. Compensatory endocytosis occurs within 50 to 100ms at sites flanking the active zone. Invagination is blocked by inhibition of actin polymerization, and scission is blocked by inhibiting dynamin. Because intact synaptic vesicles are not recovered, this form of recycling is not compatible with kiss-and-run endocytosis; moreover, it is 200-fold faster than clathrin-mediated endocytosis. It is likely that `ultrafast endocytosis' is specialized to restore the surface area of the membrane rapidly.

The preparation of a plasmonically resonant VO2 thermochromic pigment.

PubMed

Bai, Huaping; Cortie, Michael B; Maaroof, Abbas I; Dowd, Annette; Kealley, Catherine; Smith, Geoffrey B

2009-02-25

Vanadium dioxide (VO(2)) undergoes a reversible metal-insulator transition, normally at approximately 68 degrees C. While the properties of continuous semi-transparent coatings of VO(2) are well known, there is far less information available concerning the potential use of discrete VO(2) nanoparticles as a thermochromic pigment in opaque coatings. Individual VO(2) nanoparticles undergo a localized plasmon resonance with near-infrared light at about 1100 nm and this resonance can be switched on and off by simply varying the temperature of the system. Therefore, incorporation of VO(2) nanoparticles into a coating system imbues the coating with the ability to self-adaptively modulate its own absorptive efficiency in the near-infrared. Here we examine the magnitude and control of this phenomenon. Prototype coatings are described, made using VO(2) powder produced by an improved process. The materials are characterized using calorimetry, x-ray diffraction, high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and by measurement of optical properties.

Improvement of the cavitation erosion resistance for Cr3Si film on stainless steel by double cathode glow discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Hongqin; Qiu, Yujiang

2017-04-01

In this study, sputter-deposited Cr3Si film was prepared by double cathode glow discharge (DCGD) technique onto 304 stainless steel. The phase constituents, surface microstructure and chemical compositions of the film were examined by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). After the DCGD process, the hardness of Cr3Si film was 26 GPa, about 10 times of the stainless steel, 2.5 GPa. The cavitation erosion resistance of Cr3Si film and stainless steel were investigated by using an ultrasonic vibration cavitation erosion system. After 30 hours of cavitation tests, the cumulative mass loss of Cr3Si film was only 60% of the stainless steel. Compared with the untreated stainless steel, the cavitation erosion resistance of Cr3Si film was improved. The cavitation mechanism of Cr3Si film is due to the delamination and spalling of local surface layer derived from its inherent brittleness.

Chitosan nanocomposite films based on Ag-NP and Au-NP biosynthesis by Bacillus Subtilis as packaging materials.

PubMed

Youssef, Ahmed M; Abdel-Aziz, Mohamed S; El-Sayed, Samah M

2014-08-01

Chitosan-silver (CS-Ag) and Chitosan-gold (CS-Au) nanocomposites films were synthesized by a simple chemical method. A local bacterial isolate identified as Bacillus subtilis ss subtilis was found to be capable to synthesize both silver nanoparticles (Ag-NP) and gold nanoparticles (Au-NP) from silver nitrate (AgNO3) and chloroauric acid (AuCl(4-)) solutions, respectively. The biosynthesis of both Ag-NP and Au-NP characterize using UV/vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and then added to chitosan by different ratios (0.5, 1 and 2%). The prepared chitosan nanocomposites films were characterize using UV, XRD, SEM and TEM. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of the prepared films was evaluated against gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aerugenosa), fungi (Aspergillus niger) and yeast (Candida albicans). Therefore, these materials can be potential used as antimicrobial agents in packaging applications. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of reinforcing particle type on morphology and age-hardening behavior of Al–4.5 wt.% Cu based nanocomposites synthesized through mechanical milling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mostaed, A., E-mail: alimostaed@yahoo.com; Saghafian, H.; Mostaed, E.

2013-02-15

The effects of reinforcing particle type (SiC and TiC) on morphology and precipitation hardening behavior of Al–4.5%Cu based nanocomposites synthesized via mechanical milling were investigated in the current work. In order to study the microstructure and morphology of mechanically milled powder, X-ray diffraction technique, scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy were utilized. Results revealed that at the early stages of mechanical milling, when reinforcing particles are polycrystal, the alloying process is enhanced more in the case of using the TiC particles as reinforcement. But, at the final stages of mechanical milling, when reinforcing particles are single crystal,more » the alloying process is enhanced more in the case of using the SiC ones. Transmission electron microscopy results demonstrated that Al–4.5 wt.%Cu based nanocomposite powders were synthesized and confirmed that the mutual diffusion of aluminum and copper occurs through the interfacial plane of (200). The hardness results showed that not only does introducing 4 vol.% of reinforcing particles (SiC or TiC) considerably decrease the porosity of the bulk composite samples, but also it approximately doubles the hardness of Al–4.5 wt.%Cu alloy (53.4 HB). Finally, apart from TEM and scanning electron microscopy observation which are localized, a decline in hardness in the TiC and SiC contained samples, respectively, after 1.5 and 2 h aging time at 473 K proves the fact that the size of SiC particles is smaller than the size of the TiC ones. - Highlights: ► HRTEM results show mutual diffusion of Al and Cu occurs through the (200) planes. ► TiC particles enhance alloying process more than the SiC ones at the early stages of MM. ► SiC particles enhance alloying process more than the TiC ones at the final stages of MM.« less

Electron transparent graphene windows for environmental scanning electron microscopy in liquids and dense gases.

PubMed

Stoll, Joshua D; Kolmakov, Andrei

2012-12-21

Due to its ultrahigh electron transmissivity in a wide electron energy range, molecular impermeability, high electrical conductivity and excellent mechanical stiffness, suspended graphene membranes appear to be a nearly ideal window material for in situ (in vivo) environmental electron microscopy of nano- and mesoscopic objects (including bio-medical samples) immersed in liquids and/or in dense gaseous media. In this paper, taking advantage of a small modification of the graphene transfer protocol onto metallic and SiN supporting orifices, reusable environmental cells with exchangeable graphene windows have been designed. Using colloidal gold nanoparticles (50 nm) dispersed in water as model objects for scanning electron microscopy in liquids as proof of concept, different conditions for imaging through the graphene membrane were tested. Limiting factors for electron microscopy in liquids, such as electron beam induced water radiolysis and damage of the graphene membrane at high electron doses, are discussed.

Ultrafast Science Opportunities with Electron Microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Durr, Hermann

X-rays and electrons are two of the most fundamental probes of matter. When the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), the world’s first x-ray free electron laser, began operation in 2009, it transformed ultrafast science with the ability to generate laser-like x-ray pulses from the manipulation of relativistic electron beams. This document describes a similar future transformation. In Transmission Electron Microscopy, ultrafast relativistic (MeV energy) electron pulses can achieve unsurpassed spatial and temporal resolution. Ultrafast temporal resolution will be the next frontier in electron microscopy and can ideally complement ultrafast x-ray science done with free electron lasers. This document describes themore » Grand Challenge science opportunities in chemistry, material science, physics and biology that arise from an MeV ultrafast electron diffraction & microscopy facility, especially when coupled with linac-based intense THz and X-ray pump capabilities.« less

Microstructure of milk

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The fat and protein in milk may be examined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and confocal laser scanning microscopy, and any bacteria present may be viewed by light microscopy. The fat exists as globules, the bulk of the protein is in the form of casein micelles, a...

Multifunctional carbon nanoelectrodes fabricated by focused ion beam milling.

PubMed

Thakar, Rahul; Weber, Anna E; Morris, Celeste A; Baker, Lane A

2013-10-21

We report a strategy for fabrication of sub-micron, multifunctional carbon electrodes and application of these electrodes as probes for scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM). The fabrication process utilized chemical vapor deposition of parylene, followed by thermal pyrolysis to form conductive carbon and then further deposition of parylene to form an insulation layer. To achieve well-defined electrode geometries, two methods of electrode exposure were utilized. In the first method, carbon probes were masked in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to obtain a cone-shaped electrode. In the second method, the electrode area was exposed via milling with a focused ion beam (FIB) to reveal a carbon ring electrode, carbon ring/platinum disk electrode, or carbon ring/nanopore electrode. Carbon electrodes were batch fabricated (~35/batch) through the vapor deposition process and were characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy was utilized to examine the effects of Ga(+) ion implantation, a result of FIB milling. Constant-height, feedback mode SECM was performed with conical carbon electrodes and carbon ring electrodes. We demonstrate the utility of carbon ring/nanopore electrodes with SECM-SICM to simultaneously collect topography, ion current and electrochemical current images. In addition, carbon ring/nanopore electrodes were utilized in substrate generation/tip collection (SG/TC) SECM. In SG/TC SECM, localized delivery of redox molecules affords a higher resolution, than when the redox molecules are present in the bath solution. Multifunctional geometries of carbon electrode probes will find utility in electroanalytical applications, in general, and more specifically with electrochemical microscopy as discussed herein.

The ultrastructure of mono- and holocentric plant centromeres: an immunological investigation by structured illumination microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Wanner, Gerhard; Schroeder-Reiter, Elizabeth; Ma, Wei; Houben, Andreas; Schubert, Veit

2015-12-01

The spatial distribution of the three centromere-associated proteins α-tubulin, CENH3, and phosphorylated histone H2A (at threonine 120, H2AThr120ph) was analysed by indirect immunodetection at monocentric cereal chromosomes and at the holocentric chromosomes of Luzula elegans by super-resolution light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Using structured illumination microscopy (SIM) as the super-resolution technique on squashed specimens and SEM on uncoated isolated specimens, the three-dimensional (3D) distribution of the proteins was visualized at the centromeres. Technical aspects of 3D SEM are explained in detail. We show that CENH3 forms curved "pads" mainly around the lateral centromeric region in the primary constriction of metacentric chromosomes. H2AThr120ph is present in both the primary constriction and in the pericentromere. α-tubulin-labeled microtubule bundles attach to CENH3-containing chromatin structures, either in single bundles with a V-shaped attachment to the centromere or in split bundles to bordering pericentromeric flanks. In holocentric L. elegans chromosomes, H2AThr120ph is located predominantly in the centromeric groove of each chromatid as proven by subsequent FIB/FESEM ablation and 3D reconstruction. α-tubulin localizes to the edges of the groove. In both holocentric and monocentric chromosomes, no additional intermediate structures between microtubules and the centromere were observed. We established models of the distribution of CENH3, H2AThr120ph and the attachment sites of microtubules for metacentric and holocentric plant chromosomes.

Morphological and ultrastructural characterization of ionoregulatory cells in the teleost Oreochromis niloticus following salinity challenge combining complementary confocal scanning laser microscopy and transmission electron microscopy using a novel prefixation immunogold labeling technique.

PubMed

Fridman, Sophie; Rana, Krishen J; Bron, James E

2013-10-01

Aspects of ionoregulatory or mitochondria-rich cell (MRC) differentiation and adaptation in Nile tilapia yolk-sac larvae following transfer from freshwater to elevated salinities, that is, 12.5 and 20 ppt are described. Investigations using immunohistochemistry on whole-mount Nile tilapia larvae using anti- Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase as a primary antibody and Fluoronanogold™ (Nanoprobes) as a secondary immunoprobe allowed fluorescent labeling with the high resolution of confocal scanning laser microscopy combined with the detection of immunolabeled target molecules at an ultrastructural level using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It reports, for the first time, various developmental stages of MRCs within the epithelial layer of the tail of yolk-sac larvae, corresponding to immature, developing, and mature MRCs, identifiable by their own characteristic ultrastructure and form. Following transfer to hyperosmotic salinities the density of immunogold particles and well as the intricacy of the tubular system appeared to increase. In addition, complementary confocal scanning laser microscopy allowed identification of immunopositive ramifying extensions that appeared to emanate from the basolateral portion of the cell that appeared to be correlated with the localization of subsurface tubular areas displaying immunogold labeled Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase. This integrated approach describes a reliable and repeatable prefixation immunogold labeling technique allowing precise visualization of NaK within target cells combined with a 3D imaging that offers valuable insights into MRC dynamics at an ultrastructural level. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Imaging quasiperiodic electronic states in a synthetic Penrose tiling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collins, Laura C.; Witte, Thomas G.; Silverman, Rochelle; Green, David B.; Gomes, Kenjiro K.

2017-06-01

Quasicrystals possess long-range order but lack the translational symmetry of crystalline solids. In solid state physics, periodicity is one of the fundamental properties that prescribes the electronic band structure in crystals. In the absence of periodicity and the presence of quasicrystalline order, the ways that electronic states change remain a mystery. Scanning tunnelling microscopy and atomic manipulation can be used to assemble a two-dimensional quasicrystalline structure mapped upon the Penrose tiling. Here, carbon monoxide molecules are arranged on the surface of Cu(111) one at a time to form the potential landscape that mimics the ionic potential of atoms in natural materials by constraining the electrons in the two-dimensional surface state of Cu(111). The real-space images reveal the presence of the quasiperiodic order in the electronic wave functions and the Fourier analysis of our results links the energy of the resonant states to the local vertex structure of the quasicrystal.

Visualizing One-Dimensional Electronic States and their Scattering in Semi-conducting Nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beidenkopf, Haim; Reiner, Jonathan; Norris, Andrew; Nayak, Abhay Kumar; Avraham, Nurit; Shtrikman, Hadas

One-dimensional electronic systems constitute a fascinating playground for the emergence of exotic electronic effects and phases, within and beyond the Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid paradigm. More recently topological superconductivity and Majorana modes were added to that long list of phenomena. We report scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy measurements conducted on pristine, epitaxialy grown InAs nanowires. We resolve the 1D electronic band structure manifested both via Van-Hove singularities in the local density-of-states, as well as by the quasi-particle interference patterns, induced by scattering from surface impurities. By studying the scattering of the one-dimensional electronic states off various scatterers, including crystallographic defects and the nanowire end, we identify new one-dimensional relaxation regimes and yet unexplored effects of interactions. Some of these may bear implications on the topological superconducting state and Majorana modes therein. The authors acknowledge support from the Israeli Science Foundation (ISF).

p-wave triggered superconductivity in single-layer graphene on an electron-doped oxide superconductor.

PubMed

Di Bernardo, A; Millo, O; Barbone, M; Alpern, H; Kalcheim, Y; Sassi, U; Ott, A K; De Fazio, D; Yoon, D; Amado, M; Ferrari, A C; Linder, J; Robinson, J W A

2017-01-19

Electron pairing in the vast majority of superconductors follows the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer theory of superconductivity, which describes the condensation of electrons into pairs with antiparallel spins in a singlet state with an s-wave symmetry. Unconventional superconductivity was predicted in single-layer graphene (SLG), with the electrons pairing with a p-wave or chiral d-wave symmetry, depending on the position of the Fermi energy with respect to the Dirac point. By placing SLG on an electron-doped (non-chiral) d-wave superconductor and performing local scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy, here we show evidence for a p-wave triggered superconducting density of states in SLG. The realization of unconventional superconductivity in SLG offers an exciting new route for the development of p-wave superconductivity using two-dimensional materials with transition temperatures above 4.2 K.

Imaging quasiperiodic electronic states in a synthetic Penrose tiling.

PubMed

Collins, Laura C; Witte, Thomas G; Silverman, Rochelle; Green, David B; Gomes, Kenjiro K

2017-06-22

Quasicrystals possess long-range order but lack the translational symmetry of crystalline solids. In solid state physics, periodicity is one of the fundamental properties that prescribes the electronic band structure in crystals. In the absence of periodicity and the presence of quasicrystalline order, the ways that electronic states change remain a mystery. Scanning tunnelling microscopy and atomic manipulation can be used to assemble a two-dimensional quasicrystalline structure mapped upon the Penrose tiling. Here, carbon monoxide molecules are arranged on the surface of Cu(111) one at a time to form the potential landscape that mimics the ionic potential of atoms in natural materials by constraining the electrons in the two-dimensional surface state of Cu(111). The real-space images reveal the presence of the quasiperiodic order in the electronic wave functions and the Fourier analysis of our results links the energy of the resonant states to the local vertex structure of the quasicrystal.

p-wave triggered superconductivity in single-layer graphene on an electron-doped oxide superconductor

PubMed Central

Di Bernardo, A.; Millo, O.; Barbone, M.; Alpern, H.; Kalcheim, Y.; Sassi, U.; Ott, A. K.; De Fazio, D.; Yoon, D.; Amado, M.; Ferrari, A. C.; Linder, J.; Robinson, J. W. A.

2017-01-01

Electron pairing in the vast majority of superconductors follows the Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer theory of superconductivity, which describes the condensation of electrons into pairs with antiparallel spins in a singlet state with an s-wave symmetry. Unconventional superconductivity was predicted in single-layer graphene (SLG), with the electrons pairing with a p-wave or chiral d-wave symmetry, depending on the position of the Fermi energy with respect to the Dirac point. By placing SLG on an electron-doped (non-chiral) d-wave superconductor and performing local scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy, here we show evidence for a p-wave triggered superconducting density of states in SLG. The realization of unconventional superconductivity in SLG offers an exciting new route for the development of p-wave superconductivity using two-dimensional materials with transition temperatures above 4.2 K. PMID:28102222

Fabrication of [001]-oriented tungsten tips for high resolution scanning tunneling microscopy

PubMed Central

Chaika, A. N.; Orlova, N. N.; Semenov, V. N.; Postnova, E. Yu.; Krasnikov, S. A.; Lazarev, M. G.; Chekmazov, S. V.; Aristov, V. Yu.; Glebovsky, V. G.; Bozhko, S. I.; Shvets, I. V.

2014-01-01

The structure of the [001]-oriented single crystalline tungsten probes sharpened in ultra-high vacuum using electron beam heating and ion sputtering has been studied using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The electron microscopy data prove reproducible fabrication of the single-apex tips with nanoscale pyramids grained by the {011} planes at the apexes. These sharp, [001]-oriented tungsten tips have been successfully utilized in high resolution scanning tunneling microscopy imaging of HOPG(0001), SiC(001) and graphene/SiC(001) surfaces. The electron microscopy characterization performed before and after the high resolution STM experiments provides direct correlation between the tip structure and picoscale spatial resolution achieved in the experiments. PMID:24434734

Towards native-state imaging in biological context in the electron microscope

PubMed Central

Weston, Anne E.; Armer, Hannah E. J.

2009-01-01

Modern cell biology is reliant on light and fluorescence microscopy for analysis of cells, tissues and protein localisation. However, these powerful techniques are ultimately limited in resolution by the wavelength of light. Electron microscopes offer much greater resolution due to the shorter effective wavelength of electrons, allowing direct imaging of sub-cellular architecture. The harsh environment of the electron microscope chamber and the properties of the electron beam have led to complex chemical and mechanical preparation techniques, which distance biological samples from their native state and complicate data interpretation. Here we describe recent advances in sample preparation and instrumentation, which push the boundaries of high-resolution imaging. Cryopreparation, cryoelectron microscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy strive to image samples in near native state. Advances in correlative microscopy and markers enable high-resolution localisation of proteins. Innovation in microscope design has pushed the boundaries of resolution to atomic scale, whilst automatic acquisition of high-resolution electron microscopy data through large volumes is finally able to place ultrastructure in biological context. PMID:19916039

An overview of state-of-the-art image restoration in electron microscopy.

PubMed

Roels, J; Aelterman, J; Luong, H Q; Lippens, S; Pižurica, A; Saeys, Y; Philips, W

2018-06-08

In Life Science research, electron microscopy (EM) is an essential tool for morphological analysis at the subcellular level as it allows for visualization at nanometer resolution. However, electron micrographs contain image degradations such as noise and blur caused by electromagnetic interference, electron counting errors, magnetic lens imperfections, electron diffraction, etc. These imperfections in raw image quality are inevitable and hamper subsequent image analysis and visualization. In an effort to mitigate these artefacts, many electron microscopy image restoration algorithms have been proposed in the last years. Most of these methods rely on generic assumptions on the image or degradations and are therefore outperformed by advanced methods that are based on more accurate models. Ideally, a method will accurately model the specific degradations that fit the physical acquisition settings. In this overview paper, we discuss different electron microscopy image degradation solutions and demonstrate that dedicated artefact regularisation results in higher quality restoration and is applicable through recently developed probabilistic methods. © 2018 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2018 Royal Microscopical Society.

Preparation of Cells for Assessing Ultrastructural Localization of Nanoparticles with Transmission Electron Microscopy

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

scientific disciplines, who are rapidly pursuing a plethora of exciting and new applications. Concurrently, the implications for potential long-term...focus on the NP toxicity-associated bioeffects that produce acute dose-dependent decreases in viability and alterations in cell function (e.g...t h sufficient contrast and that only high atomic number NPs were readily detectable. More recently, de Jonge et al.25 have unveiled a new STEM

Direct determination of the local Hamaker constant of inorganic surfaces based on scanning force microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krajina, Brad A.; Kocherlakota, Lakshmi S.; Overney, René M., E-mail: roverney@u.washington.edu

The energetics involved in the bonding fluctuations between nanometer-sized silicon dioxide (SiO{sub 2}) probes and highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS{sub 2}) could be quantified directly and locally on the submicron scale via a time-temperature superposition analysis of the lateral forces between scanning force microscopy silicon dioxide probes and inorganic sample surfaces. The so-called “intrinsic friction analysis” (IFA) provided direct access to the Hamaker constants for HOPG and MoS{sub 2}, as well as the control sample, calcium fluoride (CaF{sub 2}). The use of scanning probe enables nanoscopic analysis of bonding fluctuations, thereby overcoming challenges associated with largermore » scale inhomogeneity and surface roughness common to conventional techniques used to determine surface free energies and dielectric properties. A complementary numerical analysis based on optical and electron energy loss spectroscopy and the Lifshitz quantum electrodynamic theory of van der Waals interactions is provided and confirms quantitatively the IFA results.« less

Direct determination of the local Hamaker constant of inorganic surfaces based on scanning force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krajina, Brad A.; Kocherlakota, Lakshmi S.; Overney, René M.

2014-10-01

The energetics involved in the bonding fluctuations between nanometer-sized silicon dioxide (SiO2) probes and highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) could be quantified directly and locally on the submicron scale via a time-temperature superposition analysis of the lateral forces between scanning force microscopy silicon dioxide probes and inorganic sample surfaces. The so-called "intrinsic friction analysis" (IFA) provided direct access to the Hamaker constants for HOPG and MoS2, as well as the control sample, calcium fluoride (CaF2). The use of scanning probe enables nanoscopic analysis of bonding fluctuations, thereby overcoming challenges associated with larger scale inhomogeneity and surface roughness common to conventional techniques used to determine surface free energies and dielectric properties. A complementary numerical analysis based on optical and electron energy loss spectroscopy and the Lifshitz quantum electrodynamic theory of van der Waals interactions is provided and confirms quantitatively the IFA results.

Direct determination of the local Hamaker constant of inorganic surfaces based on scanning force microscopy.

PubMed

Krajina, Brad A; Kocherlakota, Lakshmi S; Overney, René M

2014-10-28

The energetics involved in the bonding fluctuations between nanometer-sized silicon dioxide (SiO2) probes and highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) could be quantified directly and locally on the submicron scale via a time-temperature superposition analysis of the lateral forces between scanning force microscopy silicon dioxide probes and inorganic sample surfaces. The so-called "intrinsic friction analysis" (IFA) provided direct access to the Hamaker constants for HOPG and MoS2, as well as the control sample, calcium fluoride (CaF2). The use of scanning probe enables nanoscopic analysis of bonding fluctuations, thereby overcoming challenges associated with larger scale inhomogeneity and surface roughness common to conventional techniques used to determine surface free energies and dielectric properties. A complementary numerical analysis based on optical and electron energy loss spectroscopy and the Lifshitz quantum electrodynamic theory of van der Waals interactions is provided and confirms quantitatively the IFA results.

Rice hypersensitive induced reaction protein 1 (OsHIR1) associates with plasma membrane and triggers hypersensitive cell death.

PubMed

Zhou, Liang; Cheung, Ming-Yan; Li, Man-Wah; Fu, Yaping; Sun, Zongxiu; Sun, Sai-Ming; Lam, Hon-Ming

2010-12-30

In plants, HIR (Hypersensitive Induced Reaction) proteins, members of the PID (Proliferation, Ion and Death) superfamily, have been shown to play a part in the development of spontaneous hypersensitive response lesions in leaves, in reaction to pathogen attacks. The levels of HIR proteins were shown to correlate with localized host cell deaths and defense responses in maize and barley. However, not much was known about the HIR proteins in rice. Since rice is an important cereal crop consumed by more than 50% of the populations in Asia and Africa, it is crucial to understand the mechanisms of disease responses in this plant. We previously identified the rice HIR1 (OsHIR1) as an interacting partner of the OsLRR1 (rice Leucine-Rich Repeat protein 1). Here we show that OsHIR1 triggers hypersensitive cell death and its localization to the plasma membrane is enhanced by OsLRR1. Through electron microscopy studies using wild type rice plants, OsHIR1 was found to mainly localize to the plasma membrane, with a minor portion localized to the tonoplast. Moreover, the plasma membrane localization of OsHIR1 was enhanced in transgenic rice plants overexpressing its interacting protein partner, OsLRR1. Co-localization of OsHIR1 and OsLRR1 to the plasma membrane was confirmed by double-labeling electron microscopy. Pathogen inoculation studies using transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana expressing either OsHIR1 or OsLRR1 showed that both transgenic lines exhibited increased resistance toward the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. However, OsHIR1 transgenic plants produced more extensive spontaneous hypersensitive response lesions and contained lower titers of the invading pathogen, when compared to OsLRR1 transgenic plants. The OsHIR1 protein is mainly localized to the plasma membrane, and its subcellular localization in that compartment is enhanced by OsLRR1. The expression of OsHIR1 may sensitize the plant so that it is more prone to HR and hence can react more promptly to limit the invading pathogens' spread from the infection sites.

Microstructural Characteristics of High Rate Plastic Deformation in Elektron™ WE43 Magnesium Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamilton, Joseph; Brennan, Sarah T.; Sohn, Yongho; Davis, Bruce; DeLorme, Rick; Cho, Kyu

High strain rate deformation of WE43 magnesium alloy was carried out by high velocity impacts, and the characteristics and mechanisms of microstructural damage were examined. Six samples were subjected to a variety of high velocity impact loadings that resulted in both partial and full damage. Optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy analyses were performed in order to identify regions of shear localization. These regions were used to map, both quantitatively and qualitatively, the effects of deformation on the microstructure. Shear localization was observed in every sample, and its depth was measured. Evidence of shear localization was observed to a greater extent in samples with partial damage while fracturing was observed more frequently in samples with full damage.

Multi-modal Registration for Correlative Microscopy using Image Analogies

PubMed Central

Cao, Tian; Zach, Christopher; Modla, Shannon; Powell, Debbie; Czymmek, Kirk; Niethammer, Marc

2014-01-01

Correlative microscopy is a methodology combining the functionality of light microscopy with the high resolution of electron microscopy and other microscopy technologies for the same biological specimen. In this paper, we propose an image registration method for correlative microscopy, which is challenging due to the distinct appearance of biological structures when imaged with different modalities. Our method is based on image analogies and allows to transform images of a given modality into the appearance-space of another modality. Hence, the registration between two different types of microscopy images can be transformed to a mono-modality image registration. We use a sparse representation model to obtain image analogies. The method makes use of corresponding image training patches of two different imaging modalities to learn a dictionary capturing appearance relations. We test our approach on backscattered electron (BSE) scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/confocal and transmission electron microscopy (TEM)/confocal images. We perform rigid, affine, and deformable registration via B-splines and show improvements over direct registration using both mutual information and sum of squared differences similarity measures to account for differences in image appearance. PMID:24387943

Quantum Detection and Invisibility in Coherent Nanostructures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fransson, J.

2010-04-28

We address quantum invisibility in the context of electronics in nanoscale quantum structures. In analogy with metamaterials, we use the freedom of design that quantum corrals provide and show that quantum mechanical objects can be hidden inside the corral, with respect to inelastic electron scattering spectroscopy in combination with scanning tunneling microscopy, and we propose a design strategy. A simple illustration of the invisibility is given in terms of an elliptic quantum corral containing a molecule, with a local vibrational mode, at one of the foci. Our work has implications to quantum information technology and presents new tools for nonlocalmore » quantum detection and distinguishing between different molecules.« less

Structure of Biocompatible Coatings Produced from Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles by Detonation Spraying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nosenko, Valentyna; Strutynska, Nataliia; Vorona, Igor; Zatovsky, Igor; Dzhagan, Volodymyr; Lemishko, Sergiy; Epple, Matthias; Prymak, Oleg; Baran, Nikolai; Ishchenko, Stanislav; Slobodyanik, Nikolai; Prylutskyy, Yuriy; Klyui, Nickolai; Temchenko, Volodymyr

2015-12-01

Detonation-produced hydroxyapatite coatings were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The source material for detonation spraying was a B-type carbonated hydroxyapatite powder. The coatings consisted of tetracalcium phosphate and apatite. The ratio depended slightly on the degree of crystallinity of the initial powder and processing parameters of the coating preparation. The tetracalcium phosphate phase was homogeneous; the apatite phase contained defects localized on the sixfold axis and consisted of hydroxyapatite and oxyapatite. Technological factors contributing to the transformation of hydroxyapatite powder structure during coating formation by detonation spraying are discussed.

Multiple heteroatom substitution to graphene nanoribbon

PubMed Central

Meyer, Ernst

2018-01-01

Substituting heteroatoms into nanostructured graphene elements, such as graphene nanoribbons, offers the possibility for atomic engineering of electronic properties. To characterize these substitutions, functionalized atomic force microscopy (AFM)—a tool to directly resolve chemical structures—is one of the most promising tools, yet the chemical analysis of heteroatoms has been rarely performed. We synthesized multiple heteroatom-substituted graphene nanoribbons and showed that AFM can directly resolve elemental differences and can be correlated to the van der Waals radii, as well as the modulated local electron density caused by the substitution. This elemental-sensitive measurement takes an important step in the analysis of functionalized two-dimensional carbon materials. PMID:29662955

Structure of Biocompatible Coatings Produced from Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles by Detonation Spraying.

PubMed

Nosenko, Valentyna; Strutynska, Nataliia; Vorona, Igor; Zatovsky, Igor; Dzhagan, Volodymyr; Lemishko, Sergiy; Epple, Matthias; Prymak, Oleg; Baran, Nikolai; Ishchenko, Stanislav; Slobodyanik, Nikolai; Prylutskyy, Yuriy; Klyui, Nickolai; Temchenko, Volodymyr

2015-12-01

Detonation-produced hydroxyapatite coatings were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The source material for detonation spraying was a B-type carbonated hydroxyapatite powder. The coatings consisted of tetracalcium phosphate and apatite. The ratio depended slightly on the degree of crystallinity of the initial powder and processing parameters of the coating preparation. The tetracalcium phosphate phase was homogeneous; the apatite phase contained defects localized on the sixfold axis and consisted of hydroxyapatite and oxyapatite. Technological factors contributing to the transformation of hydroxyapatite powder structure during coating formation by detonation spraying are discussed.

Laser-induced phase transitions of Ge2Sb2Te5 thin films used in optical and electronic data storage and in thermal lithography.

PubMed

Chu, Cheng Hung; Shiue, Chiun Da; Cheng, Hsuen Wei; Tseng, Ming Lun; Chiang, Hai-Pang; Mansuripur, Masud; Tsai, Din Ping

2010-08-16

Amorphous thin films of Ge(2)Sb(2)Te(5), sputter-deposited on a ZnS-SiO(2) dielectric layer, are investigated for the purpose of understanding the structural phase-transitions that occur under the influence of tightly-focused laser beams. Selective chemical etching of recorded marks in conjunction with optical, atomic force, and electron microscopy as well as local electron diffraction analysis are used to discern the complex structural features created under a broad range of laser powers and pulse durations. Clarifying the nature of phase transitions associated with laser-recorded marks in chalcogenide Ge(2)Sb(2)Te(5) thin films provides useful information for reversible optical and electronic data storage, as well as for phase-change (thermal) lithography.

Field-induced strain degradation of AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors on a nanometer scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Chung-Han; Doutt, D. R.; Mishra, U. K.; Merz, T. A.; Brillson, L. J.

2010-11-01

Nanoscale Kelvin probe force microscopy and depth-resolved cathodoluminescence spectroscopy reveal an electronic defect evolution inside operating AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors with degradation under electric-field-induced stress. Off-state electrical stress results in micron-scale areas within the extrinsic drain expanding and decreasing in electric potential, midgap defects increasing by orders-of-magnitude at the AlGaN layer, and local Fermi levels lowering as gate-drain voltages increase above a characteristic stress threshold. The pronounced onset of defect formation, Fermi level movement, and transistor degradation at the threshold gate-drain voltage of J. A. del Alamo and J. Joh [Microelectron. Reliab. 49, 1200 (2009)] is consistent with crystal deformation and supports the inverse piezoelectric model of high electron mobility transistor degradation.

Hybrid fluorescence and electron cryo-microscopy for simultaneous electron and photon imaging.

PubMed

Iijima, Hirofumi; Fukuda, Yoshiyuki; Arai, Yoshihiro; Terakawa, Susumu; Yamamoto, Naoki; Nagayama, Kuniaki

2014-01-01

Integration of fluorescence light and transmission electron microscopy into the same device would represent an important advance in correlative microscopy, which traditionally involves two separate microscopes for imaging. To achieve such integration, the primary technical challenge that must be solved regards how to arrange two objective lenses used for light and electron microscopy in such a manner that they can properly focus on a single specimen. To address this issue, both lateral displacement of the specimen between two lenses and specimen rotation have been proposed. Such movement of the specimen allows sequential collection of two kinds of microscopic images of a single target, but prevents simultaneous imaging. This shortcoming has been made up by using a simple optical device, a reflection mirror. Here, we present an approach toward the versatile integration of fluorescence and electron microscopy for simultaneous imaging. The potential of simultaneous hybrid microscopy was demonstrated by fluorescence and electron sequential imaging of a fluorescent protein expressed in cells and cathodoluminescence imaging of fluorescent beads. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In vivo structure of the E. coli FtsZ-ring revealed by photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM).

PubMed

Fu, Guo; Huang, Tao; Buss, Jackson; Coltharp, Carla; Hensel, Zach; Xiao, Jie

2010-09-13

The FtsZ protein, a tubulin-like GTPase, plays a pivotal role in prokaryotic cell division. In vivo it localizes to the midcell and assembles into a ring-like structure-the Z-ring. The Z-ring serves as an essential scaffold to recruit all other division proteins and generates contractile force for cytokinesis, but its supramolecular structure remains unknown. Electron microscopy (EM) has been unsuccessful in detecting the Z-ring due to the dense cytoplasm of bacterial cells, and conventional fluorescence light microscopy (FLM) has only provided images with limited spatial resolution (200-300 nm) due to the diffraction of light. Hence, given the small sizes of bacteria cells, identifying the in vivo structure of the Z-ring presents a substantial challenge. Here, we used photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM), a single molecule-based super-resolution imaging technique, to characterize the in vivo structure of the Z-ring in E. coli. We achieved a spatial resolution of ∼35 nm and discovered that in addition to the expected ring-like conformation, the Z-ring of E. coli adopts a novel compressed helical conformation with variable helical length and pitch. We measured the thickness of the Z-ring to be ∼110 nm and the packing density of FtsZ molecules inside the Z-ring to be greater than what is expected for a single-layered flat ribbon configuration. Our results strongly suggest that the Z-ring is composed of a loose bundle of FtsZ protofilaments that randomly overlap with each other in both longitudinal and radial directions of the cell. Our results provide significant insight into the spatial organization of the Z-ring and open the door for further investigations of structure-function relationships and cell cycle-dependent regulation of the Z-ring.

Cancer nanomedicine: gold nanoparticle mediated combined cancer therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, C.; Bromma, Kyle; Chithrani, B. D.

2018-02-01

Recent developments in nanotechnology has provided new tools for cancer therapy and diagnosis. Among other nanomaterial systems, gold nanoparticles are being used as radiation dose enhancers and anticancer drug carriers in cancer therapy. Fate of gold nanoparticles within biological tissues can be probed using techniques such as TEM (transmission electron microscopy) and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) due to their high electron density. We have shown for the first time that cancer drug loaded gold nanoparticles can reach the nucleus (or the brain) of cancer cells enhancing the therapeutic effect dramatically. Nucleus of the cancer cells are the most desirable target in cancer therapy. In chemotherapy, smart delivery of highly toxic anticancer drugs through packaging using nanoparticles will reduce the side effects and improve the quality and care of cancer patients. In radiation therapy, use of gold nanoparticles as radiation dose enhancer is very promising due to enhanced localized dose within the cancer tissue. Recent advancement in nanomaterial characterization techniques will facilitate mapping of nanomaterial distribution within biological specimens to correlate the radiobiological effects due to treatment. Hence, gold nanoparticle mediated combined chemoradiation would provide promising tools to achieve personalized and tailored cancer treatments in the near future.

Anomalous Growth Rate of Ag Nanocrystals Revealed by in situ STEM

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ge, Mingyuan; Lu, Ming; Chu, Yong

In situ microscopy of colloidal nanocrystal growth offers a unique opportunity to acquire direct and straightforward data for assessing classical growth models. For this study, we observe the growth trajectories of individual Ag nanoparticles in solution using in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy. For the first time, we provide experimental evidence of growth rates of Ag nanoparticles in the presence of Pt in solution that are significantly faster than predicted by Lifshitz-Slyozov-Wagner theory. We attribute these observed anomalous growth rates to the synergistic effects of the catalytic properties of Pt and the electron beam itself. Transiently reduced Pt atoms servemore » as active sites for Ag ions to grow, thereby playing a key role in controlling the growth kinetics. Electron beam illumination greatly increases the local concentration of free radicals, thereby strongly influencing particle growth rate and the resulting particle morphology. Through a systematic investigation, we demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing these synergistic effects for controlling the growth rates and particle morphologies at the nanoscale. Our findings not only expand the current scope of crystal growth theory, but may also lead to a broader scientific application of nanocrystal synthesis.« less

Electrical characterization of HgTe nanowires using conductive atomic force microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gundersen, P.; Department of Physics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim; Kongshaug, K. O.

Self-organized HgTe nanowires grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) have been characterized using conductive atomic force microscopy. As HgTe will degrade or evaporate at normal baking temperatures for electron beam lithography (EBL) resists, an alternative method was developed. Using low temperature optical lithography processes, large Au contacts were deposited on a sample covered with randomly oriented, lateral HgTe nanowires. Nanowires partly covered by the large electrodes were identified with a scanning electron microscope and then localized in the atomic force microscope (AFM). The conductive tip of the AFM was then used as a movable electrode to measure current-voltage curves atmore » several locations on HgTe nanowires. The measurements revealed that polycrystalline nanowires had diffusive electron transport, with resistivities two orders of magnitude larger than that of an MBE-grown HgTe film. The difference can be explained by scattering at the rough surface walls and at the grain boundaries in the wires. The method can be a solution when EBL is not available or requires too high temperature, or when measurements at several positions along a wire are required.« less

Observation of defect-induced Photoresponse and charge carrier transport in single GeSe2 nanobelt devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, Bablu; Tok, Eng Soon; Haur Sow, Chorng

2013-03-01

Single crystal GeSe2 nanobelts were grown using chemical vapor deposition techniques. Morphology of the nanostructures was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Electronic transport properties, impedance spectroscopy, photoconductive characteristics and temperature-dependent electrical resistivity measurements were carried out on individual GeSe2 nanobelt devices. The photosensitivity of single GeSe2 nanobelt (NB) devices was examined with two different excitation wavelengths of laser beams with photon energies above band gap and at sub-band gap of the NB. A maximum photoconductive gain 106 % was achieved at a wavelength of 808 nm. The magnitude of the photocurrent and response time of the individual GeSe2 NB device indicate that the photoresponse could be attributed to the presence of isolated mid band gap defect levels. Temperature dependent photocurrent measurements indicate the rough estimation of the energy levels for the defect states. Localized photostudy shows that the large photoresponse of the device primarily occurs at the metal-NB contact regions. Department of Physics, 2 Science Drive 3, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117542

Anomalous Growth Rate of Ag Nanocrystals Revealed by in situ STEM

DOE PAGES

Ge, Mingyuan; Lu, Ming; Chu, Yong; ...

2017-11-27

In situ microscopy of colloidal nanocrystal growth offers a unique opportunity to acquire direct and straightforward data for assessing classical growth models. For this study, we observe the growth trajectories of individual Ag nanoparticles in solution using in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy. For the first time, we provide experimental evidence of growth rates of Ag nanoparticles in the presence of Pt in solution that are significantly faster than predicted by Lifshitz-Slyozov-Wagner theory. We attribute these observed anomalous growth rates to the synergistic effects of the catalytic properties of Pt and the electron beam itself. Transiently reduced Pt atoms servemore » as active sites for Ag ions to grow, thereby playing a key role in controlling the growth kinetics. Electron beam illumination greatly increases the local concentration of free radicals, thereby strongly influencing particle growth rate and the resulting particle morphology. Through a systematic investigation, we demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing these synergistic effects for controlling the growth rates and particle morphologies at the nanoscale. Our findings not only expand the current scope of crystal growth theory, but may also lead to a broader scientific application of nanocrystal synthesis.« less

Three-dimensional imaging of individual point defects using selective detection angles in annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Johnson, Jared M; Im, Soohyun; Windl, Wolfgang; Hwang, Jinwoo

2017-01-01

We propose a new scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) technique that can realize the three-dimensional (3D) characterization of vacancies, lighter and heavier dopants with high precision. Using multislice STEM imaging and diffraction simulations of β-Ga 2 O 3 and SrTiO 3 , we show that selecting a small range of low scattering angles can make the contrast of the defect-containing atomic columns substantially more depth-dependent. The origin of the depth-dependence is the de-channeling of electrons due to the existence of a point defect in the atomic column, which creates extra "ripples" at low scattering angles. The highest contrast of the point defect can be achieved when the de-channeling signal is captured using the 20-40mrad detection angle range. The effect of sample thickness, crystal orientation, local strain, probe convergence angle, and experimental uncertainty to the depth-dependent contrast of the point defect will also be discussed. The proposed technique therefore opens new possibilities for highly precise 3D structural characterization of individual point defects in functional materials. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Epitaxial growth of pentacene on alkali halide surfaces studied by Kelvin probe force microscopy.

PubMed

Neff, Julia L; Milde, Peter; León, Carmen Pérez; Kundrat, Matthew D; Eng, Lukas M; Jacob, Christoph R; Hoffmann-Vogel, Regina

2014-04-22

In the field of molecular electronics, thin films of molecules adsorbed on insulating surfaces are used as the functional building blocks of electronic devices. Control of the structural and electronic properties of the thin films is required for reliably operating devices. Here, noncontact atomic force and Kelvin probe force microscopies have been used to investigate the growth and electrostatic landscape of pentacene on KBr(001) and KCl(001) surfaces. We have found that, together with molecular islands of upright standing pentacene, a new phase of tilted molecules appears near step edges on KBr. Local contact potential differences (LCPD) have been studied with both Kelvin experiments and density functional theory calculations. Our images reveal that differently oriented molecules display different LCPD and that their value is independent of the number of molecular layers. These results point to the formation of an interface dipole, which may be explained by a partial charge transfer from the pentacene to the surface. Moreover, the monitoring of the evolution of the pentacene islands shows that they are strongly affected by dewetting: Multilayers build up at the expense of monolayers, and in the Kelvin images, previously unknown line defects appear, which reveal the epitaxial growth of pentacene crystals.

Scanning tunneling microscopy image simulation of the rutile (110) TiO2 surface with hybrid functionals and the localized basis set approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Valentin, Cristiana

2007-10-01

In this work we present a simplified procedure to use hybrid functionals and localized atomic basis sets to simulate scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images of stoichiometric, reduced and hydroxylated rutile (110) TiO2 surface. For the two defective systems it is necessary to introduce some exact Hartree-Fock exchange in the exchange functional in order to correctly describe the details of the electronic structure. Results are compared to the standard density functional theory and planewave basis set approach. Both methods have advantages and drawbacks that are analyzed in detail. In particular, for the localized basis set approach, it is necessary to introduce a number of Gaussian function in the vacuum region above the surface in order to correctly describe the exponential decay of the integrated local density of states from the surface. In the planewave periodic approach, a thick vacuum region is required to achieve correct results. Simulated STM images are obtained for both the reduced and hydroxylated surface which nicely compare with experimental findings. A direct comparison of the two defects as displayed in the simulated STM images indicates that the OH groups should appear brighter than oxygen vacancies in perfect agreement with the experimental STM data.

Field enhancement of electronic conductance at ferroelectric domain walls

DOE PAGES

Vasudevan, Rama K.; Cao, Ye; Laanait, Nouamane; ...

2017-11-06

Ferroelectric domain walls have continued to attract widespread attention due to both the novelty of the phenomena observed and the ability to reliably pattern them in nanoscale dimensions. But, the conductivity mechanisms remain in debate, particularly around nominally uncharged walls. Here, we posit a conduction mechanism relying on field-modification effect from polarization re-orientation and the structure of the reverse-domain nucleus. Through conductive atomic force microscopy measurements on an ultra-thin (001) BiFeO 3 thin film, in combination with phase-field simulations, we show that the field-induced twisted domain nucleus formed at domain walls results in local-field enhancement around the region of themore » atomic force microscope tip. In conjunction with slight barrier lowering, these two effects are sufficient to explain the observed emission current distribution. Our results suggest that different electronic properties at domain walls are not necessary to observe localized enhancement in domain wall currents.« less

LT-STM/STS studies of clean armchair edge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ju, Zheng; Zhang, Wenhan; Wu, Weida; Weida Wu Team

It was predicted and observed that the passivated zigzag edges of graphene host highly localized edge state. This edge state is predicted to be spin-polarized, which is appealing for spintronic applications. In contrast, no edge state was expected at passivated armchair graphene edge. Here we report low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) studies of electronic properties of clean monoatomic step edges on cleaved surface of HOPG. Most of step edges are armchair edges, in agreement with previous STM results. We observed only (√{ 3} ×√{ 3}) R30° superstructure near armchair edges, which has been reported in previous STM studies. On the other hand, no honeycomb superstructure was observed in our STM data. In addition, our STM results reveal an intriguing localized electronic state at clean armchair edges. Spectroscopic and spatial evolution of this edge state will be presented. This work is supported by NSF DMR-1506618.

Effect of Homogenization on Microstructure Characteristics, Corrosion and Biocompatibility of Mg-Zn-Mn-xCa Alloys

PubMed Central

Li, Jingyuan; Lai, Huiying; Xu, Yuzhao

2018-01-01

The corrosion behaviors of Mg-2Zn-0.2Mn-xCa (denoted as MZM-xCa alloys) in homogenization state have been investigated by immersion test and electrochemical techniques in a simulated physiological condition. The microstructure features were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and the corrosion mechanism was illustrated using atomic force microscope (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The electrochemical and immersion test verify the MZM-0.38% Ca owns the best corrosion performance with the corrosion rate of 6.27 mm/year. Furthermore, the film layer of MZM-0.38% Ca is more compact and denser than that of others. This improvement could be associated with the combined effects of the suitable content of Zn/Ca dissolving into the α-Mg matrix and the modification of Ca-containing compounds by heat-treatment. However, the morphologies were transformed from uniform corrosion to localized pitting corrosion with Ca further addition. It could be explained that the excessive Ca addition can strengthen the nucleation driving force for the second phase formation, and the large volumes fraction of micro-galvanic present interface sites accelerate the nucleation driving force for corrosion propagation. In addition, in vitro biocompatibility tests also show the MZM-0.38% Ca was safe to bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and was promising to be utilized as implant materials. PMID:29389894

Kinetics of liquid-mediated crystallization of amorphous Ge from multi-frame dynamic transmission electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Santala, M. K.; Raoux, S.; Campbell, G. H.

2015-12-24

The kinetics of laser-induced, liquid-mediated crystallization of amorphous Ge thin films were studied using multi-frame dynamic transmission electron microscopy (DTEM), a nanosecond-scale photo-emission transmission electron microscopy technique. In these experiments, high temperature gradients are established in thin amorphous Ge films with a 12-ns laser pulse with a Gaussian spatial profile. The hottest region at the center of the laser spot crystallizes in ~100 ns and becomes nano-crystalline. Over the next several hundred nanoseconds crystallization continues radially outward from the nano-crystalline region forming elongated grains, some many microns long. The growth rate during the formation of these radial grains is measuredmore » with time-resolved imaging experiments. Crystal growth rates exceed 10 m/s, which are consistent with crystallization mediated by a very thin, undercooled transient liquid layer, rather than a purely solid-state transformation mechanism. The kinetics of this growth mode have been studied in detail under steady-state conditions, but here we provide a detailed study of liquid-mediated growth in high temperature gradients. Unexpectedly, the propagation rate of the crystallization front was observed to remain constant during this growth mode even when passing through large local temperature gradients, in stark contrast to other similar studies that suggested the growth rate changed dramatically. As a result, the high throughput of multi-frame DTEM provides gives a more complete picture of the role of temperature and temperature gradient on laser crystallization than previous DTEM experiments.« less

Kinetics of liquid-mediated crystallization of amorphous Ge from multi-frame dynamic transmission electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Santala, M. K., E-mail: melissa.santala@oregonstate.edu; Campbell, G. H.; Raoux, S.

2015-12-21

The kinetics of laser-induced, liquid-mediated crystallization of amorphous Ge thin films were studied using multi-frame dynamic transmission electron microscopy (DTEM), a nanosecond-scale photo-emission transmission electron microscopy technique. In these experiments, high temperature gradients are established in thin amorphous Ge films with a 12-ns laser pulse with a Gaussian spatial profile. The hottest region at the center of the laser spot crystallizes in ∼100 ns and becomes nano-crystalline. Over the next several hundred nanoseconds crystallization continues radially outward from the nano-crystalline region forming elongated grains, some many microns long. The growth rate during the formation of these radial grains is measured withmore » time-resolved imaging experiments. Crystal growth rates exceed 10 m/s, which are consistent with crystallization mediated by a very thin, undercooled transient liquid layer, rather than a purely solid-state transformation mechanism. The kinetics of this growth mode have been studied in detail under steady-state conditions, but here we provide a detailed study of liquid-mediated growth in high temperature gradients. Unexpectedly, the propagation rate of the crystallization front was observed to remain constant during this growth mode even when passing through large local temperature gradients, in stark contrast to other similar studies that suggested the growth rate changed dramatically. The high throughput of multi-frame DTEM provides gives a more complete picture of the role of temperature and temperature gradient on laser crystallization than previous DTEM experiments.« less

Electron Microscopy Characterizations and Atom Probe Tomography of Intergranular Attack in Alloy 600 Exposed to PWR Primary Water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olszta, Matthew J.; Schreiber, Daniel K.; Thomas, Larry E.; Bruemmer, Stephen M.

Detailed examinations of intergranular attack (IGA) in alloy 600 were performed after exposure to simulated PWR primary water at 325°C for 500 h. High-resolution analyses of IGA characteristics were conducted on specimens with either a 1 µm diamond or 1200-grit SiC surface finish using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography techniques. The diamond-polish finish with very little preexisting subsurface damage revealed attack of high-energy grain boundaries that intersected the exposed surface to depths approaching 2 µm. In all cases, IGA from the surface is localized oxidation consisting of porous, nanocrystalline MO-structure and spinel particles along with regions of faceted wall oxidation. Surprisingly, this continuous IG oxidation transitions to discontinuous, discrete Cr-rich sulfide particles up to 50 nm in diameter. In the vicinity of the sulfides, the grain boundaries were severely Cr depleted (to <1 at%) and enriched in S. The 1200 grit SiC finish surface exhibited a preexisting highly strained recrystallized layer of elongated nanocrystalline matrix grains. Similar IG oxidation and leading sulfide particles were found, but the IGA depth was typically confined to the near-surface ( 400 nm) recrystallized region. Difference in IGA for the two surface finishes indicates that the formation of grain boundary sulfides occurs during the exposure to PWR primary water. The source of S remains unclear, however it is not present as sulfides in the bulk alloy nor is it segregated to bulk grain boundaries.

Local structure distortion induced by Ti dopants boosting the pseudocapacitance of RuO2-based supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, I.-Li; Wei, Yu-Chen; Lu, Kueih-Tzu; Chen, Tsan-Yao; Hu, Chi-Chang; Chen, Jin-Ming

2015-09-01

Binary oxides with atomic ratios of Ru/Ti = 90/10, 70/30, and 50/50 were fabricated using H2O2-oxidative precipitation with the assistance of a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) template, followed by a thermal treatment at 200 °C. The characteristics of electron structure and local structure extracted from X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses indicate that incorporation of Ti into the RuO2 lattice produces not only the local structural distortion of the RuO6 octahedra in (Ru-Ti)O2 with an increase in the central Ru-Ru distance but also a local crystallization of RuO2. Among the three binary oxides studied, (Ru70-Ti30)O2 exhibits a capacitance improvement of about 1.4-fold relative to the CTAB-modified RuO2, mainly due to the enhanced crystallinity of the distorted RuO6 structure rather than the surface area effect. Upon increasing the extent of Ti doping, the deteriorated supercapacitive performance of (Ru50-Ti50)O2 results from the formation of localized nano-clusters of TiO2 crystallites. These results provide insight into the important role of Ti doping in RuO2 that boosts the pseudocapacitive performance for RuO2-based supercapacitors. The present result is crucial for the design of new binary oxides for supercapacitor applications with extraordinary performance.Binary oxides with atomic ratios of Ru/Ti = 90/10, 70/30, and 50/50 were fabricated using H2O2-oxidative precipitation with the assistance of a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) template, followed by a thermal treatment at 200 °C. The characteristics of electron structure and local structure extracted from X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses indicate that incorporation of Ti into the RuO2 lattice produces not only the local structural distortion of the RuO6 octahedra in (Ru-Ti)O2 with an increase in the central Ru-Ru distance but also a local crystallization of RuO2. Among the three binary oxides studied, (Ru70-Ti30)O2 exhibits a capacitance improvement of about 1.4-fold relative to the CTAB-modified RuO2, mainly due to the enhanced crystallinity of the distorted RuO6 structure rather than the surface area effect. Upon increasing the extent of Ti doping, the deteriorated supercapacitive performance of (Ru50-Ti50)O2 results from the formation of localized nano-clusters of TiO2 crystallites. These results provide insight into the important role of Ti doping in RuO2 that boosts the pseudocapacitive performance for RuO2-based supercapacitors. The present result is crucial for the design of new binary oxides for supercapacitor applications with extraordinary performance. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: A series of Ru K-edge EXAFS spectra fitting results for RuO2 together with oxides with different Ru-Ti atomic ratios treated at 200 °C. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr03660g

Chemistry Viewed through the Eyes of High-Resolution Microscopy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beer, Michael; And Others

1981-01-01

This special report, prepared by several chemists working in the field of electron microscopy, provides information regarding the most recent developments in transmission and scanning electron microscopy that have chemical significance. (CS)

Hyaluronan degrading silica nanoparticles for skin cancer therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scodeller, P.; Catalano, P. N.; Salguero, N.; Duran, H.; Wolosiuk, A.; Soler-Illia, G. J. A. A.

2013-09-01

We report the first nanoformulation of Hyaluronidase (Hyal) and its enhanced adjuvant effect over the free enzyme. Hyaluronic acid (HA) degrading enzyme Hyal was immobilized on 250 nm silica nanoparticles (SiNP) maintaining specific activity of the enzyme via the layer-by-layer self-assembly technique. This process was characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, infrared and UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and enzymatic activity measurements. The nanoparticles were tested in vivo as adjuvants of carboplatin (CP), peritumorally injected in A375 human melanoma bearing mice and compared with the non-immobilized enzyme, on the basis of equal enzymatic activity. Alcian Blue staining of A375 tumors indicated large overexpression of hyaluronan. At the end of the experiment, tumor volume reduction with SiNP-immobilized Hyal was significantly enhanced compared to non-immobilized Hyal. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images together with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) spectra confirmed the presence of SiNP on the tumor. We mean a proof of concept: this extracellular matrix (ECM) degrading enzyme, immobilized on SiNP, is a more effective local adjuvant of cancer drugs than the non-immobilized enzyme. This could prove useful in future therapies using other or a combination of ECM degrading enzymes.We report the first nanoformulation of Hyaluronidase (Hyal) and its enhanced adjuvant effect over the free enzyme. Hyaluronic acid (HA) degrading enzyme Hyal was immobilized on 250 nm silica nanoparticles (SiNP) maintaining specific activity of the enzyme via the layer-by-layer self-assembly technique. This process was characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, infrared and UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and enzymatic activity measurements. The nanoparticles were tested in vivo as adjuvants of carboplatin (CP), peritumorally injected in A375 human melanoma bearing mice and compared with the non-immobilized enzyme, on the basis of equal enzymatic activity. Alcian Blue staining of A375 tumors indicated large overexpression of hyaluronan. At the end of the experiment, tumor volume reduction with SiNP-immobilized Hyal was significantly enhanced compared to non-immobilized Hyal. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images together with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) spectra confirmed the presence of SiNP on the tumor. We mean a proof of concept: this extracellular matrix (ECM) degrading enzyme, immobilized on SiNP, is a more effective local adjuvant of cancer drugs than the non-immobilized enzyme. This could prove useful in future therapies using other or a combination of ECM degrading enzymes. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr02787b

Correlative scanning-transmission electron microscopy reveals that a chimeric flavivirus is released as individual particles in secretory vesicles.

PubMed

Burlaud-Gaillard, Julien; Sellin, Caroline; Georgeault, Sonia; Uzbekov, Rustem; Lebos, Claude; Guillaume, Jean-Marc; Roingeard, Philippe

2014-01-01

The intracellular morphogenesis of flaviviruses has been well described, but flavivirus release from the host cell remains poorly documented. We took advantage of the optimized production of an attenuated chimeric yellow fever/dengue virus for vaccine purposes to study this phenomenon by microscopic approaches. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the release of numerous viral particles at the cell surface through a short-lived process. For transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies of the intracellular ultrastructure of the small number of cells releasing viral particles at a given time, we developed a new correlative microscopy method: CSEMTEM (for correlative scanning electron microscopy - transmission electron microscopy). CSEMTEM analysis suggested that chimeric flavivirus particles were released as individual particles, in small exocytosis vesicles, via a regulated secretory pathway. Our morphological findings provide new insight into interactions between flaviviruses and cells and demonstrate that CSEMTEM is a useful new method, complementary to SEM observations of biological events by intracellular TEM investigations.

Correlative Scanning-Transmission Electron Microscopy Reveals that a Chimeric Flavivirus Is Released as Individual Particles in Secretory Vesicles

PubMed Central

Burlaud-Gaillard, Julien; Sellin, Caroline; Georgeault, Sonia; Uzbekov, Rustem; Lebos, Claude; Guillaume, Jean-Marc; Roingeard, Philippe

2014-01-01

The intracellular morphogenesis of flaviviruses has been well described, but flavivirus release from the host cell remains poorly documented. We took advantage of the optimized production of an attenuated chimeric yellow fever/dengue virus for vaccine purposes to study this phenomenon by microscopic approaches. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the release of numerous viral particles at the cell surface through a short-lived process. For transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies of the intracellular ultrastructure of the small number of cells releasing viral particles at a given time, we developed a new correlative microscopy method: CSEMTEM (for correlative scanning electron microscopy - transmission electron microscopy). CSEMTEM analysis suggested that chimeric flavivirus particles were released as individual particles, in small exocytosis vesicles, via a regulated secretory pathway. Our morphological findings provide new insight into interactions between flaviviruses and cells and demonstrate that CSEMTEM is a useful new method, complementary to SEM observations of biological events by intracellular TEM investigations. PMID:24681578

Simultaneous Correlative Scanning Electron and High-NA Fluorescence Microscopy

PubMed Central

Liv, Nalan; Zonnevylle, A. Christiaan; Narvaez, Angela C.; Effting, Andries P. J.; Voorneveld, Philip W.; Lucas, Miriam S.; Hardwick, James C.; Wepf, Roger A.; Kruit, Pieter; Hoogenboom, Jacob P.

2013-01-01

Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) is a unique method for investigating biological structure-function relations. With CLEM protein distributions visualized in fluorescence can be mapped onto the cellular ultrastructure measured with electron microscopy. Widespread application of correlative microscopy is hampered by elaborate experimental procedures related foremost to retrieving regions of interest in both modalities and/or compromises in integrated approaches. We present a novel approach to correlative microscopy, in which a high numerical aperture epi-fluorescence microscope and a scanning electron microscope illuminate the same area of a sample at the same time. This removes the need for retrieval of regions of interest leading to a drastic reduction of inspection times and the possibility for quantitative investigations of large areas and datasets with correlative microscopy. We demonstrate Simultaneous CLEM (SCLEM) analyzing cell-cell connections and membrane protrusions in whole uncoated colon adenocarcinoma cell line cells stained for actin and cortactin with AlexaFluor488. SCLEM imaging of coverglass-mounted tissue sections with both electron-dense and fluorescence staining is also shown. PMID:23409024

Evolution of the Structure of Local Regions of Fused Metal in Explosion-Welded Nickel-Aluminum Composites Under Heat Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shmorgun, V. G.; Bogdanov, A. I.; Gurevich, L. M.

2016-03-01

The methods of electron, optical, and atomic force microscopy are used to study the structure, morphology and phase composition of local regions of fused metal in an explosion-welded nickel-aluminum composite. It is shown that the diffusion zone formed due to the heat treatment repeats the contour of the fuse in the first stage and then "absorbs" it upon duration of the hold thus leveling the phase composition. ANi2Al3 Aluminide layer forms on the side of nickel and a NiAl3 layer forms on the side of aluminum.

Local optical spectroscopy of opaline photonic crystal films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bakhia, T.; Baranchikov, A. E.; Gorelik, V. S.; Klimonsky, S. O.

2017-09-01

The homogeneity of opaline films obtained by vertical deposition of colloidal SiO2 microparticles has been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and local optical spectroscopy. It was found that the particle size distribution is narrowed during the deposition, the microstructure of the films improves, and the reflection peak in the first photonic stop band increases and narrows. These changes may be due to the fact that large microparticles, whose mass significantly exceeds the average mass, leave the solution in the course of time, falling on the bottom of the vessel under gravity. It is established that the microstructure of opaline films is improved with a decrease in thickness.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nippert, Felix, E-mail: felix@physik.tu-berlin.de; Callsen, Gordon; Westerkamp, Steffen

We investigate industrial-grade InGaN/GaN quantum wells (QWs) emitting in the green spectral region under high, resonant pumping conditions. Consequently, an ubiquitous high energy luminescence is observed that we assign to a polarization field Confined Hole Continuum (CHC). Our finding is supported by a unique combination of experimental techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, (time-resolved) photoluminescence under various excitation conditions, and electroluminescence, which confirm an extended out-of-plane localization of the CHC-states. The larger width of this localization volume surpasses the QW thickness, yielding enhanced non-radiative losses due to point defects and interfaces, whereas the energetic proximity to the bulk valence band statesmore » promotes carrier leakage.« less

Writing silica structures in liquid with scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

van de Put, Marcel W P; Carcouët, Camille C M C; Bomans, Paul H H; Friedrich, Heiner; de Jonge, Niels; Sommerdijk, Nico A J M

2015-02-04

Silica nanoparticles are imaged in solution with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) using a liquid cell with silicon nitride (SiN) membrane windows. The STEM images reveal that silica structures are deposited in well-defined patches on the upper SiN membranes upon electron beam irradiation. The thickness of the deposits is linear with the applied electron dose. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) demonstrate that the deposited patches are a result of the merging of the original 20 nm-diameter nanoparticles, and that the related surface roughness depends on the electron dose rate used. Using this approach, sub-micrometer scale structures are written on the SiN in liquid by controlling the electron exposure as function of the lateral position. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Electron transport in single molecules: from benzene to graphene.

PubMed

Chen, F; Tao, N J

2009-03-17

Electron movement within and between molecules--that is, electron transfer--is important in many chemical, electrochemical, and biological processes. Recent advances, particularly in scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), scanning-tunneling microscopy (STM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), permit the study of electron movement within single molecules. In this Account, we describe electron transport at the single-molecule level. We begin by examining the distinction between electron transport (from semiconductor physics) and electron transfer (a more general term referring to electron movement between donor and acceptor). The relation between these phenomena allows us to apply our understanding of single-molecule electron transport between electrodes to a broad range of other electron transfer processes. Electron transport is most efficient when the electron transmission probability via a molecule reaches 100%; the corresponding conductance is then 2e(2)/h (e is the charge of the electron and h is the Planck constant). This ideal conduction has been observed in a single metal atom and a string of metal atoms connected between two electrodes. However, the conductance of a molecule connected to two electrodes is often orders of magnitude less than the ideal and strongly depends on both the intrinsic properties of the molecule and its local environment. Molecular length, means of coupling to the electrodes, the presence of conjugated double bonds, and the inclusion of possible redox centers (for example, ferrocene) within the molecular wire have a pronounced effect on the conductance. This complex behavior is responsible for diverse chemical and biological phenomena and is potentially useful for device applications. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) afford unique insight into electron transport in single molecules. The simplest one, benzene, has a conductance much less than 2e(2)/h due to its large LUMO-HOMO gap. At the other end of the spectrum, graphene sheets and carbon nanotubes--consisting of infinite numbers of aromatic rings--have small or even zero energy gaps between the conduction and valence bands. Between these two limits are intermediate molecules with rich properties, such as perylene derivatives made of seven aromatic rings; the properties of these types of molecules have yet to be fully explored. Studying PAHs is important not only in answering fundamental questions about electron transport but also in the ongoing quest for molecular-scale electronic devices. This line of research also helps bridge the gap between electron transfer phenomena in small redox molecules and electron transport properties in nanostructures.

X-ray microscopy as an approach to increasing accuracy and efficiency of serial block-face imaging for correlated light and electron microscopy of biological specimens.

PubMed

Bushong, Eric A; Johnson, Donald D; Kim, Keun-Young; Terada, Masako; Hatori, Megumi; Peltier, Steven T; Panda, Satchidananda; Merkle, Arno; Ellisman, Mark H

2015-02-01

The recently developed three-dimensional electron microscopic (EM) method of serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBEM) has rapidly established itself as a powerful imaging approach. Volume EM imaging with this scanning electron microscopy (SEM) method requires intense staining of biological specimens with heavy metals to allow sufficient back-scatter electron signal and also to render specimens sufficiently conductive to control charging artifacts. These more extreme heavy metal staining protocols render specimens light opaque and make it much more difficult to track and identify regions of interest (ROIs) for the SBEM imaging process than for a typical thin section transmission electron microscopy correlative light and electron microscopy study. We present a strategy employing X-ray microscopy (XRM) both for tracking ROIs and for increasing the efficiency of the workflow used for typical projects undertaken with SBEM. XRM was found to reveal an impressive level of detail in tissue heavily stained for SBEM imaging, allowing for the identification of tissue landmarks that can be subsequently used to guide data collection in the SEM. Furthermore, specific labeling of individual cells using diaminobenzidine is detectable in XRM volumes. We demonstrate that tungsten carbide particles or upconverting nanophosphor particles can be used as fiducial markers to further increase the precision and efficiency of SBEM imaging.

X-ray Microscopy as an Approach to Increasing Accuracy and Efficiency of Serial Block-face Imaging for Correlated Light and Electron Microscopy of Biological Specimens

PubMed Central

Bushong, Eric A.; Johnson, Donald D.; Kim, Keun-Young; Terada, Masako; Hatori, Megumi; Peltier, Steven T.; Panda, Satchidananda; Merkle, Arno; Ellisman, Mark H.

2015-01-01

The recently developed three-dimensional electron microscopic (EM) method of serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBEM) has rapidly established itself as a powerful imaging approach. Volume EM imaging with this scanning electron microscopy (SEM) method requires intense staining of biological specimens with heavy metals to allow sufficient back-scatter electron signal and also to render specimens sufficiently conductive to control charging artifacts. These more extreme heavy metal staining protocols render specimens light opaque and make it much more difficult to track and identify regions of interest (ROIs) for the SBEM imaging process than for a typical thin section transmission electron microscopy correlative light and electron microscopy study. We present a strategy employing X-ray microscopy (XRM) both for tracking ROIs and for increasing the efficiency of the workflow used for typical projects undertaken with SBEM. XRM was found to reveal an impressive level of detail in tissue heavily stained for SBEM imaging, allowing for the identification of tissue landmarks that can be subsequently used to guide data collection in the SEM. Furthermore, specific labeling of individual cells using diaminobenzidine is detectable in XRM volumes. We demonstrate that tungsten carbide particles or upconverting nanophosphor particles can be used as fiducial markers to further increase the precision and efficiency of SBEM imaging. PMID:25392009

Correlative cryo-fluorescence light microscopy and cryo-electron tomography of Streptomyces.

PubMed

Koning, Roman I; Celler, Katherine; Willemse, Joost; Bos, Erik; van Wezel, Gilles P; Koster, Abraham J

2014-01-01

Light microscopy and electron microscopy are complementary techniques that in a correlative approach enable identification and targeting of fluorescently labeled structures in situ for three-dimensional imaging at nanometer resolution. Correlative imaging allows electron microscopic images to be positioned in a broader temporal and spatial context. We employed cryo-correlative light and electron microscopy (cryo-CLEM), combining cryo-fluorescence light microscopy and cryo-electron tomography, on vitrified Streptomyces bacteria to study cell division. Streptomycetes are mycelial bacteria that grow as long hyphae and reproduce via sporulation. On solid media, Streptomyces subsequently form distinct aerial mycelia where cell division leads to the formation of unigenomic spores which separate and disperse to form new colonies. In liquid media, only vegetative hyphae are present divided by noncell separating crosswalls. Their multicellular life style makes them exciting model systems for the study of bacterial development and cell division. Complex intracellular structures have been visualized with transmission electron microscopy. Here, we describe the methods for cryo-CLEM that we applied for studying Streptomyces. These methods include cell growth, fluorescent labeling, cryo-fixation by vitrification, cryo-light microscopy using a Linkam cryo-stage, image overlay and relocation, cryo-electron tomography using a Titan Krios, and tomographic reconstruction. Additionally, methods for segmentation, volume rendering, and visualization of the correlative data are described. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Subsurface synthesis and characterization of Ag nanoparticles embedded in MgO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vilayurganapathy, S.; Devaraj, A.; Colby, R.; Pandey, A.; Varga, T.; Shutthanandan, V.; Manandhar, S.; El-Khoury, P. Z.; Kayani, Asghar; Hess, W. P.; Thevuthasan, S.

2013-03-01

Metal nanoparticles exhibit a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) which is very sensitive to the size and shape of the nanoparticle and the surrounding dielectric medium. The coupling between the electromagnetic radiation and the localized surface plasmon in metallic nanoparticles results in a sizable enhancement of the incident fields, making them possible candidates for plasmonic applications. In particular, partially exposed metallic nanoparticles distributed in a dielectric matrix can provide prime locations for LSPR spectroscopy and sensing. We report the synthesis and characterization of a plasmonic substrate consisting of Ag nanoparticles partially buried in MgO. Ag nanoparticles of different shapes and size distributions were synthesized below the surface of MgO by implanting 200 keV Ag+ ions followed by annealing at 1000 °C for 10 and 30 h. A detailed optical and structural characterization was carried out to understand the evolution of the Ag nanoparticle and size distribution inside the MgO matrix. Micro x-ray diffraction (Micro-XRD) was employed to investigate the structural properties and estimate the crystallite size. The nanoparticles evolved from a spherical to a faceted morphology with annealing time, assuming an octahedral shape truncated at the (001) planes, as visualized from aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. The nanoparticles embedded in MgO were shown to be pure metallic Ag using atom probe tomography (APT). The nanoparticles were partially exposed to the surface by employing plasma etch techniques to remove the overlaying MgO. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed to study the surface morphology and obtain a height distribution for the partially exposed nanoparticles.

Composition, Architecture, and Functional Implications of the Connective Tissue Network of the Extraocular Muscles

PubMed Central

McLoon, Linda K.; Vicente, André; Fitzpatrick, Krysta R.; Lindström, Mona

2018-01-01

Purpose We examined the pattern and extent of connective tissue distribution in the extraocular muscles (EOMs) and determined the ability of the interconnected connective tissues to disseminate force laterally. Methods Human EOMs were examined for collagens I, III, IV, and VI; fibronectin; laminin; and elastin using immunohistochemistry. Connective tissue distribution was examined with scanning electron microscopy. Rabbit EOMs were examined for levels of force transmission longitudinally and transversely using in vitro force assessment. Results Collagens I, III, and VI localized to the endomysium, perimysium, and epimysium. Collagen IV, fibronectin, and laminin localized to the basal lamina surrounding all myofibers. All collagens localized similarly in the orbital and global layers throughout the muscle length. Elastin had the most irregular pattern and ran longitudinally and circumferentially throughout the length of all EOMs. Scanning electron microscopy showed these elements to be extensively interconnected, from endomysium through the perimysium to the epimysium surrounding the whole muscle. In vitro physiology demonstrated force generation in the lateral dimension, presumably through myofascial transmission, which was always proportional to the force generated in the longitudinally oriented muscles. Conclusions A striking connective tissue matrix interconnects all the myofibers and extends, via perimysial connections, to the epimysium. These interconnections are significant and allow measurable force transmission laterally as well as longitudinally, suggesting that they may contribute to the nonlinear force summation seen in motor unit recording studies. This provides strong evidence that separate compartmental movements are unlikely as no region is independent of the rest of the muscle. PMID:29346490

A Versatile High-Vacuum Cryo-transfer System for Cryo-microscopy and Analytics

PubMed Central

Tacke, Sebastian; Krzyzanek, Vladislav; Nüsse, Harald; Wepf, Roger Albert; Klingauf, Jürgen; Reichelt, Rudolf

2016-01-01

Cryogenic microscopy methods have gained increasing popularity, as they offer an unaltered view on the architecture of biological specimens. As a prerequisite, samples must be handled under cryogenic conditions below their recrystallization temperature, and contamination during sample transfer and handling must be prevented. We present a high-vacuum cryo-transfer system that streamlines the entire handling of frozen-hydrated samples from the vitrification process to low temperature imaging for scanning transmission electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. A template for cryo-electron microscopy and multimodal cryo-imaging approaches with numerous sample transfer steps is presented. PMID:26910419

The New Electron Microscopy: Cells and Molecules in Three Dimensions | Poster

Cancer.gov

NCI recently announced the launch of the new National Cryo-Electron Microscopy Facility (NCEF) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR). The launch comes while cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is enjoying the spotlight as a newly emerging, rapidly evolving technology with the potential to revolutionize the field of structural biology. Read more...

Crystal structure of stacking faults in InGaAs/InAlAs/InAs heterostructures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Trunkin, I. N.; Presniakov, M. Yu.; Vasiliev, A. L., E-mail: a.vasiliev56@gmail.com

Stacking faults and dislocations in InGaAs/InAlAs/InAs heterostructures have been studied by electron microscopy. The use of different techniques of transmission electron microscopy (primarily, highresolution dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy) has made it possible to determine the defect structure at the atomic level.

Correlative 3D superresolution fluorescence and electron microscopy reveal the relationship of mitochondrial nucleoids to membranes

PubMed Central

Kopek, Benjamin G.; Shtengel, Gleb; Xu, C. Shan; Clayton, David A.; Hess, Harald F.

2012-01-01

Microscopic images of specific proteins in their cellular context yield important insights into biological processes and cellular architecture. The advent of superresolution optical microscopy techniques provides the possibility to augment EM with nanometer-resolution fluorescence microscopy to access the precise location of proteins in the context of cellular ultrastructure. Unfortunately, efforts to combine superresolution fluorescence and EM have been stymied by the divergent and incompatible sample preparation protocols of the two methods. Here, we describe a protocol that preserves both the delicate photoactivatable fluorescent protein labels essential for superresolution microscopy and the fine ultrastructural context of EM. This preparation enables direct 3D imaging in 500- to 750-nm sections with interferometric photoactivatable localization microscopy followed by scanning EM images generated by focused ion beam ablation. We use this process to “colorize” detailed EM images of the mitochondrion with the position of labeled proteins. The approach presented here has provided a new level of definition of the in vivo nature of organization of mitochondrial nucleoids, and we expect this straightforward method to be applicable to many other biological questions that can be answered by direct imaging. PMID:22474357

Local electronic and optical behavior of ELO a-plane GaN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baski, A. A.; Moore, J. C.; Ozgur, U.; Kasliwal, V.; Ni, X.; Morkoc, H.

2007-03-01

Conductive atomic force microscopy (CAFM) and near-field optical microscopy (NSOM) were used to study a-plane GaN films grown via epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO). The ELO films were prepared by metal organic chemical vapor deposition on a patterned SiO2 layer with 4-μm wide windows, which was deposited on a GaN template grown on r-plane sapphire. The window regions of the coalesced ELO films appear as depressions with a high density of surface pits. At reverse bias below 12 V, very low uniform conduction (2 pA) is seen in the window regions. Above 20 V, a lower-quality sample shows localized sites inside the window regions with significant leakage, indicating a correlation between the presence of surface pits and leakage sites. Room temperature NSOM studies also suggest a greater density of surface terminated dislocations in the window regions, while wing regions explicitly show enhanced optical quality of the overgrown GaN. The combination of CAFM and NSOM data therefore indicates a correlation between the presence of surface pits, localized reverse-bias current leakage, and low PL intensity in the window regions.

Spatial Distribution of Lead Iodide and Local Passivation on Organo-Lead Halide Perovskite.

PubMed

Chen, Sheng; Wen, Xiaoming; Yun, Jae S; Huang, Shujuan; Green, Martin; Jeon, Nam Joong; Yang, Woon Seok; Noh, Jun Hong; Seo, Jangwon; Seok, Sang Il; Ho-Baillie, Anita

2017-02-22

We identify nanoscale spatial distribution of PbI 2 on the (FAPbI 3 ) 0.85 (MAPbBr 3 ) 0.15 perovskite thin film and investigate the local passivation effect using confocal based optical microscopy of steady state and time-resolved photoluminescence (PL). Different from a typical scanning electron microscope (SEM) morphology study, confocal based PL spectroscopy and microscopy allow researchers to map the morphologies of both perovskite and PbI 2 grains simultaneously, by selectively detecting their characteristic fluorescent bands using band-pass filters. In this work, we compare the perovskite samples without and with excess PbI 2 incorporation and unambiguously reveal PbI 2 distribution for the PbI 2 -rich sample. In addition, using the nanoscale time-resolved PL technique we show that the PbI 2 -rich regions exhibit longer lifetime due to suppressed defect trapping, compared to the PbI 2 -poor regions. The measurement on the PbI 2 -rich sample indicates that the passivation effect of PbI 2 in perovskite film is effective, especially in localized regions. Hence, this finding is important for further improvement of the solar cells by considering the strategy of excess PbI 2 incorporation.

Near-infrared branding efficiently correlates light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Bishop, Derron; Nikić, Ivana; Brinkoetter, Mary; Knecht, Sharmon; Potz, Stephanie; Kerschensteiner, Martin; Misgeld, Thomas

2011-06-05

The correlation of light and electron microscopy of complex tissues remains a major challenge. Here we report near-infrared branding (NIRB), which facilitates such correlation by using a pulsed, near-infrared laser to create defined fiducial marks in three dimensions in fixed tissue. As these marks are fluorescent and can be photo-oxidized to generate electron contrast, they can guide re-identification of previously imaged structures as small as dendritic spines by electron microscopy.

In-situ observation of recrystallization in an AlMgScZr alloy using confocal laser scanning microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taendl, J., E-mail: johannes.taendl@tugraz.atl; Nambu, S.; Orthacker, A.

2015-10-15

In this work we present a novel in-situ approach to study the recrystallization behavior of age hardening alloys. We use confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) at 400 °C to investigate the static recrystallization of an AlMg4Sc0.4Zr0.12 alloy in-situ. The results are combined with electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. It was found that CLSM is a powerful tool to visualize both the local initiation and temporal sequence of recrystallization. After fast nucleation and initial growth, the grain growth rate decreases and the grain boundary migration stops after some minutes due to Zener pinning from Al{sub 3}(Sc,Zr)more » precipitates produced during the heat treatment. EBSD and TEM analyses confirm both the boundary movements and the particle-boundary interactions. - Highlights: • First time that CLSM is used to study recrystallization in-situ. • The start and end of recrystallization can be directly observed. • The procedure is easy to apply and requires only simple data interpretation. • In-situ observations on the surface correlate to modifications inside the bulk. • In-situ observations correlate to EBSD and EFTEM analyses.« less

Atom probe trajectory mapping using experimental tip shape measurements.

PubMed

Haley, D; Petersen, T; Ringer, S P; Smith, G D W

2011-11-01

Atom probe tomography is an accurate analytical and imaging technique which can reconstruct the complex structure and composition of a specimen in three dimensions. Despite providing locally high spatial resolution, atom probe tomography suffers from global distortions due to a complex projection function between the specimen and detector which is different for each experiment and can change during a single run. To aid characterization of this projection function, this work demonstrates a method for the reverse projection of ions from an arbitrary projection surface in 3D space back to an atom probe tomography specimen surface. Experimental data from transmission electron microscopy tilt tomography are combined with point cloud surface reconstruction algorithms and finite element modelling to generate a mapping back to the original tip surface in a physically and experimentally motivated manner. As a case study, aluminium tips are imaged using transmission electron microscopy before and after atom probe tomography, and the specimen profiles used as input in surface reconstruction methods. This reconstruction method is a general procedure that can be used to generate mappings between a selected surface and a known tip shape using numerical solutions to the electrostatic equation, with quantitative solutions to the projection problem readily achievable in tens of minutes on a contemporary workstation. © 2011 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2011 Royal Microscopical Society.

Polarization Control via He-Ion Beam Induced Nanofabrication in Layered Ferroelectric Semiconductors

DOE PAGES

Belianinov, Alex; Iberi, Vighter; Tselev, Alexander; ...

2016-02-23

Rapid advanced in nanoscience rely on continuous improvements of matter manipulation at near atomic scales. Currently, well characterized, robust, resist-based lithography carries the brunt of the nanofabrication process. However, use of local electron, ion and physical probe methods is also expanding, driven largely by their ability to fabricate without the multi-step preparation processes that can result in contamination from resists and solvents. Furthermore, probe based methods extend beyond nanofabrication to nanomanipulation and imaging, vital ingredients to rapid transition to prototyping and testing of layered 2D heterostructured devices. In this work we demonstrate that helium ion interaction, in a Helium Ionmore » Microscope (HIM), with the surface of bulk copper indium thiophosphate CuM IIIP 2X 6 (M = Cr, In; X= S, Se), (CITP) results in the control of ferroelectric domains, and growth of cylindrical nanostructures with enhanced conductivity; with material volumes scaling with the dosage of the beam. The nanostructures are oxygen rich, sulfur poor, and with the copper concentration virtually unchanged as confirmed by Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) imaging contrast as well as Scanning Microwave Microscopy (SMM) measurements suggest enhanced conductivity in the formed particle, whereas Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) measurements indicate that the produced structures have lower dissipation and a lower Young s modulus.« less

Three-dimensional Super Resolution Microscopy of F-actin Filaments by Interferometric PhotoActivated Localization Microscopy (iPALM).

PubMed

Wang, Yilin; Kanchanawong, Pakorn

2016-12-01

Fluorescence microscopy enables direct visualization of specific biomolecules within cells. However, for conventional fluorescence microscopy, the spatial resolution is restricted by diffraction to ~ 200 nm within the image plane and > 500 nm along the optical axis. As a result, fluorescence microscopy has long been severely limited in the observation of ultrastructural features within cells. The recent development of super resolution microscopy methods has overcome this limitation. In particular, the advent of photoswitchable fluorophores enables localization-based super resolution microscopy, which provides resolving power approaching the molecular-length scale. Here, we describe the application of a three-dimensional super resolution microscopy method based on single-molecule localization microscopy and multiphase interferometry, called interferometric PhotoActivated Localization Microscopy (iPALM). This method provides nearly isotropic resolution on the order of 20 nm in all three dimensions. Protocols for visualizing the filamentous actin cytoskeleton, including specimen preparation and operation of the iPALM instrument, are described here. These protocols are also readily adaptable and instructive for the study of other ultrastructural features in cells.

Local induction of calcium phosphate formation on TiO2 coatings on titanium via surface treatment with a CO2 laser.

PubMed

Moritz, N; Jokinen, M; Peltola, T; Areva, S; Yli-Urpo, A

2003-04-01

Sol-gel-derived TiO(2) coatings are known to promote bonelike hydroxyapatite formation on their surfaces in vitro and in vivo. Hydroxyapatite integrates into bone tissue. In some clinical applications, the surface of an implant is simultaneously interfaced with soft and hard tissues, so it should match the properties of both. A new method is introduced for treating the coatings locally in a controlled manner. The local densification of sol-gel-derived titania coatings on titanium substrates with a CO(2) laser was studied in terms of the in vitro calcium phosphate-inducting properties. CO(2)-laser-treated multilayer coatings were compared with furnace-fired coatings prepared with the same recipe and previously shown to be bioactive. Additionally, local areas of furnace-fired multilayer coatings (previously shown to be bioactive in vitro) were further laser-treated to achieve various properties in the same implant. Topological surface properties were examined with atomic force microscopy. The formation of hydroxyapatite was studied with Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. The results show that calcium phosphate formation can be adjusted locally by laser treatment. Calcium phosphate is a bonelike hydroxyapatite. The local treatment of sol-gel-derived coatings with a CO(2) laser is a promising technique for creating implants with various properties to interface different tissues and a possible way of coating implants that do not tolerate furnace firing. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Neuroanatomy from Mesoscopic to Nanoscopic Scales: An Improved Method for the Observation of Semithin Sections by High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Rodríguez, José-Rodrigo; Turégano-López, Marta; DeFelipe, Javier; Merchán-Pérez, Angel

2018-01-01

Semithin sections are commonly used to examine large areas of tissue with an optical microscope, in order to locate and trim the regions that will later be studied with the electron microscope. Ideally, the observation of semithin sections would be from mesoscopic to nanoscopic scales directly, instead of using light microscopy and then electron microscopy (EM). Here we propose a method that makes it possible to obtain high-resolution scanning EM images of large areas of the brain in the millimeter to nanometer range. Since our method is compatible with light microscopy, it is also feasible to generate hybrid light and electron microscopic maps. Additionally, the same tissue blocks that have been used to obtain semithin sections can later be used, if necessary, for transmission EM, or for focused ion beam milling and scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). PMID:29568263

Neuroanatomy from Mesoscopic to Nanoscopic Scales: An Improved Method for the Observation of Semithin Sections by High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Rodríguez, José-Rodrigo; Turégano-López, Marta; DeFelipe, Javier; Merchán-Pérez, Angel

2018-01-01

Semithin sections are commonly used to examine large areas of tissue with an optical microscope, in order to locate and trim the regions that will later be studied with the electron microscope. Ideally, the observation of semithin sections would be from mesoscopic to nanoscopic scales directly, instead of using light microscopy and then electron microscopy (EM). Here we propose a method that makes it possible to obtain high-resolution scanning EM images of large areas of the brain in the millimeter to nanometer range. Since our method is compatible with light microscopy, it is also feasible to generate hybrid light and electron microscopic maps. Additionally, the same tissue blocks that have been used to obtain semithin sections can later be used, if necessary, for transmission EM, or for focused ion beam milling and scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM).

Advantages of indium-tin oxide-coated glass slides in correlative scanning electron microscopy applications of uncoated cultured cells.

PubMed

Pluk, H; Stokes, D J; Lich, B; Wieringa, B; Fransen, J

2009-03-01

A method of direct visualization by correlative scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescence light microscopy of cell structures of tissue cultured cells grown on conductive glass slides is described. We show that by growing cells on indium-tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass slides, secondary electron (SE) and backscatter electron (BSE) images of uncoated cells can be obtained in high-vacuum SEM without charging artefacts. Interestingly, we observed that BSE imaging is influenced by both accelerating voltage and ITO coating thickness. By combining SE and BSE imaging with fluorescence light microscopy imaging, we were able to reveal detailed features of actin cytoskeletal and mitochondrial structures in mouse embryonic fibroblasts. We propose that the application of ITO glass as a substrate for cell culture can easily be extended and offers new opportunities for correlative light and electron microscopy studies of adherently growing cells.

Galectin-3 binding protein links circulating microparticles with electron dense glomerular deposits in lupus nephritis.

PubMed

Nielsen, C T; Østergaard, O; Rekvig, O P; Sturfelt, G; Jacobsen, S; Heegaard, N H H

2015-10-01

A high level of galectin-3-binding protein (G3BP) appears to distinguish circulating cell-derived microparticles in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study is to characterize the population of G3BP-positive microparticles from SLE patients compared to healthy controls, explore putative clinical correlates, and examine if G3BP is present in immune complex deposits in kidney biopsies from patients with lupus nephritis. Numbers of annexin V-binding and G3BP-exposing plasma microparticles from 56 SLE patients and 36 healthy controls were determined by flow cytometry. Quantitation of microparticle-associated G3BP, C1q and immunoglobulins was obtained by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Correlations between microparticle-G3BP data and clinical parameters were analyzed. Co-localization of G3BP with in vivo-bound IgG was examined in kidney biopsies from one non-SLE control and from patients with class IV (n = 2) and class V (n = 1) lupus nephritis using co-localization immune electron microscopy. Microparticle-G3BP, microparticle-C1q and microparticle-immunoglobulins were significantly (P < 0.01) increased in SLE patients by LC-MS/MS. Three G3BP-exposing microparticle populations could be discerned by flow cytometry, including two subpopulations that were significantly increased in SLE samples (P = 0.01 and P = 0.0002, respectively). No associations of G3BP-positive microparticles with clinical manifestations or disease activity were found. Immune electron microscopy showed co-localization of G3BP with in vivo-bound IgG in glomerular electron dense immune complex deposits in all lupus nephritis biopsies. Both circulating microparticle-G3BP numbers as well as G3BP expression are increased in SLE patients corroborating G3BP being a feature of SLE microparticles. By demonstrating G3BP co-localized with deposited immune complexes in lupus nephritis, the study supports cell-derived microparticles as a major autoantigen source and provides a new understanding of the origin of immune complexes occurring in lupus nephritis. © The Author(s) 2015 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Retraction: Using the Medipix3 detector for direct electron imaging in the range 60 keV to 200 keV in electron microscopy Retraction: Using the Medipix3 detector for direct electron imaging in the range 60 keV to 200 keV in electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mir, J. A.; Plackett, R.; Shipsey, I.; dos Santos, J. M. F.

2018-01-01

The paper "Using the Medipix3 detector for direct electron imaging in the range 60keV to 200keV in electron microscopy" by J.A. Mir, R. Plackett, I. Shipsey and J.M.F. dos Santos has been retracted following the authors' request on the basis of the existence of a disagreement about the ownership of the data, to prevent conflict between collaborators.

Spatial Resolution in Scanning Electron Microscopy and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Without a Specimen Vacuum Chamber.

PubMed

Nguyen, Kayla X; Holtz, Megan E; Richmond-Decker, Justin; Muller, David A

2016-08-01

A long-standing goal of electron microscopy has been the high-resolution characterization of specimens in their native environment. However, electron optics require high vacuum to maintain an unscattered and focused probe, a challenge for specimens requiring atmospheric or liquid environments. Here, we use an electron-transparent window at the base of a scanning electron microscope's objective lens to separate column vacuum from the specimen, enabling imaging under ambient conditions, without a specimen vacuum chamber. We demonstrate in-air imaging of specimens at nanoscale resolution using backscattered scanning electron microscopy (airSEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy. We explore resolution and contrast using Monte Carlo simulations and analytical models. We find that nanometer-scale resolution can be obtained at gas path lengths up to 400 μm, although contrast drops with increasing gas path length. As the electron-transparent window scatters considerably more than gas at our operating conditions, we observe that the densities and thicknesses of the electron-transparent window are the dominant limiting factors for image contrast at lower operating voltages. By enabling a variety of detector configurations, the airSEM is applicable to a wide range of environmental experiments including the imaging of hydrated biological specimens and in situ chemical and electrochemical processes.

Spatial Resolution in Scanning Electron Microscopy and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Without a Specimen Vacuum Chamber

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nguyen, Kayla X.; Holtz, Megan E.; Richmond-Decker, Justin

2016-07-25

Abstract A long-standing goal of electron microscopy has been the high-resolution characterization of specimens in their native environment. However, electron optics require high vacuum to maintain an unscattered and focused probe, a challenge for specimens requiring atmospheric or liquid environments. Here, we use an electron-transparent window at the base of a scanning electron microscope’s objective lens to separate column vacuum from the specimen, enabling imaging under ambient conditions, without a specimen vacuum chamber. We demonstrate in-air imaging of specimens at nanoscale resolution using backscattered scanning electron microscopy (airSEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy. We explore resolution and contrast using Montemore » Carlo simulations and analytical models. We find that nanometer-scale resolution can be obtained at gas path lengths up to 400μm, although contrast drops with increasing gas path length. As the electron-transparent window scatters considerably more than gas at our operating conditions, we observe that the densities and thicknesses of the electron-transparent window are the dominant limiting factors for image contrast at lower operating voltages. By enabling a variety of detector configurations, the airSEM is applicable to a wide range of environmental experiments including the imaging of hydrated biological specimens andin situchemical and electrochemical processes.« less

Determination of precursor sites for pitting corrosion of polycrystalline titanium by using different techniques

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Garfias-Mesias, L.F.; Alodan, M.; James, P.I.

1998-06-01

Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) in ferrocyanide and bromide solutions was used to locate active sites (pitting precursors) on polycrystalline Ti where oxidation of Br{sup {minus}} and Fe(CN){sub 6}{sup 4{minus}} was possible. Analysis of the electrochemically active sites was done by using electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and in situ confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). In most cases, the active sites were found to be associated with particles (inclusions) which contained mainly Al and Si; however, some other areas not associated with particles were also found to be active. Although the size of themore » inclusions was normally smaller than 20 {micro}m, as revealed by SEM and AFM imaging, in some cases larger particles were also found. Pitting corrosion tests in bromide solution at potentials above 1.5 V{sub SCE} followed by EDX analysis inside the pits and in situ CLSM observation, confirmed that most of the localized attack started in the areas where particles had been located.« less

Correlated Fluorescence-Atomic Force Microscopy Studies of the Clathrin Mediated Endocytosis in SKMEL Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Steve; Hor, Amy; Luu, Anh; Kang, Lin; Scott, Brandon; Bailey, Elizabeth; Hoppe, Adam

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis is one of the central pathways for cargo transport into cells, and plays a major role in the maintenance of cellular functions, such as intercellular signaling, nutrient intake, and turnover of plasma membrane in cells. The clathrin-mediated endocytosis process involves invagination and formation of clathrin-coated vesicles. However, the biophysical mechanisms of vesicle formation are still debated. We investigate clathrin vesicle formation mechanisms through the utilization of tapping-mode atomic force microscopy for high resolution topographical imaging in neutral buffer solution of unroofed cells exposing the inner membrane, combined with fluorescence imaging to definitively label intracellular constituents with specific fluorescent fusion proteins (actin filaments labeled with green phalloidin-antibody and clathrin coated vesicles with the fusion protein Tq2) in SKMEL (Human Melanoma) cells. Results from our work are compared against dynamical polarized total internal fluorescence (TIRF), super-resolution photo-activated localization microscopy (PALM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to draw conclusions regarding the prominent model of vesicle formation in clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Funding provided by NSF MPS/DMR/BMAT award # 1206908.

Identifying local structural states in atomic imaging by computer vision

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Laanait, Nouamane; Ziatdinov, Maxim; He, Qian

The availability of atomically resolved imaging modalities enables an unprecedented view into the local structural states of materials, which manifest themselves by deviations from the fundamental assumptions of periodicity and symmetry. Consequently, approaches that aim to extract these local structural states from atomic imaging data with minimal assumptions regarding the average crystallographic configuration of a material are indispensable to advances in structural and chemical investigations of materials. Here, we present an approach to identify and classify local structural states that is rooted in computer vision. This approach introduces a definition of a structural state that is composed of both localmore » and non-local information extracted from atomically resolved images, and is wholly untethered from the familiar concepts of symmetry and periodicity. Instead, this approach relies on computer vision techniques such as feature detection, and concepts such as scale-invariance. We present the fundamental aspects of local structural state extraction and classification by application to simulated scanning transmission electron microscopy images, and analyze the robustness of this approach in the presence of common instrumental factors such as noise, limited spatial resolution, and weak contrast. Finally, we apply this computer vision-based approach for the unsupervised detection and classification of local structural states in an experimental electron micrograph of a complex oxides interface, and a scanning tunneling micrograph of a defect engineered multilayer graphene surface.« less

Identifying local structural states in atomic imaging by computer vision

DOE PAGES

Laanait, Nouamane; Ziatdinov, Maxim; He, Qian; ...

2016-11-02

The availability of atomically resolved imaging modalities enables an unprecedented view into the local structural states of materials, which manifest themselves by deviations from the fundamental assumptions of periodicity and symmetry. Consequently, approaches that aim to extract these local structural states from atomic imaging data with minimal assumptions regarding the average crystallographic configuration of a material are indispensable to advances in structural and chemical investigations of materials. Here, we present an approach to identify and classify local structural states that is rooted in computer vision. This approach introduces a definition of a structural state that is composed of both localmore » and non-local information extracted from atomically resolved images, and is wholly untethered from the familiar concepts of symmetry and periodicity. Instead, this approach relies on computer vision techniques such as feature detection, and concepts such as scale-invariance. We present the fundamental aspects of local structural state extraction and classification by application to simulated scanning transmission electron microscopy images, and analyze the robustness of this approach in the presence of common instrumental factors such as noise, limited spatial resolution, and weak contrast. Finally, we apply this computer vision-based approach for the unsupervised detection and classification of local structural states in an experimental electron micrograph of a complex oxides interface, and a scanning tunneling micrograph of a defect engineered multilayer graphene surface.« less

Investigation of features of plastic deformation and fracture of fine-crystalline V-4Ti-4Cr alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Grinyaev, Konstantin V., E-mail: kvgrinyaev@inbox.ru; Tyumentsev, Alexander N., E-mail: tyuments@phys.tsu.ru; Siberian Physical-Technical Institute, Tomsk, 634050

2014-11-14

With the use of transmission electron microscopy the investigation of defect substructure was carried out in the V-4Ti-4Cr-(C, N, O) alloy with disperse strengthening (by nanoparticles of oxy-carbo-nitride phase) after deformation by active tension at temperatures of 20 and 800 °C. It has been shown that an important feature of plastic deformation is deformation localization with crystal lattice reorientation.

Reversible Strain-Induced Electron-Hole Recombination in Silicon Nanowires Observed with Femtosecond Pump-Probe Microscopy

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

devices with indirect-bandgap materials such as silicon . KEYWORDS: Ultrafast imaging , strained nanomaterials, spectroscopy Lattice strain produced by...photogenerated charge cloud as a result of carrier diffusion . Normalized carrier profiles, generated by integrating the images along the direction normal to the...To test this idea, Figure 2. Charge carrier diffusion in a Si NW locally strained by a bending deformation (A) SEM image of a bent Si nanowire ∼100

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of Ni-Al Montmorillonite-Like Phyllosilicates

PubMed Central

Reinholdt, Marc X.; Brendlé, Jocelyne; Tuilier, Marie-Hélène; Kaliaguine, Serge; Ambroise, Emmanuelle

2013-01-01

This work describes the first hydrothermal synthesis in fluoride medium of Ni-Al montmorillonite-like phyllosilicates, in which the only metallic elements in the octahedral sheet are Ni and Al. X-ray diffraction , chemical analysis, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy confirm that the synthesized samples are montmorillonite-like phyllosilicates having the expected chemical composition. The specific surface areas of the samples are relatively large (>100 m2 g−1) compared to naturally occurring montmorillonites. 29Si and 27Al nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) indicate substitutions of Al for Si in the tetrahedral sheet. 19F NMR and Ni K-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) local probes highlight a clustering of the metal elements and of the vacancies in the octahedral sheet of the samples. These Ni-Al phyllosilicates exhibit a higher local order than in previously synthesized Zn-Al phyllosilicates. Unlike natural montmorillonites, where the distribution of transition metal cations ensures a charge equilibrium allowing a stability of the framework, synthetic montmorillonites entail clustering and instability of the lattice when the content of divalent element in the octahedral sheet exceeds ca. 20%. Synthesis of Ni-Al montmorillonite-like phyllosilicates, was successfully achieved for the first time. These new synthetic materials may find potential applications as catalysts or as materials with magnetic, optical or staining properties. PMID:28348321

Synthesis of oxocarbon-encapsulated gold nanoparticles with blue-shifted localized surface plasmon resonance by pulsed laser ablation in water with CO2 absorbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Del Rosso, T.; Rey, N. A.; Rosado, T.; Landi, S.; Larrude, D. G.; Romani, E. C.; Freire Junior, F. L.; Quinteiro, S. M.; Cremona, M.; Aucelio, R. Q.; Margheri, G.; Pandoli, O.

2016-06-01

Colloidal suspensions of oxocarbon-encapsulated gold nanoparticles have been synthesized in a one-step procedure by pulsed-laser ablation (PLA) at 532 nm of a solid gold target placed in aqueous solution containing CO2 absorbers, but without any stabilizing agent. Multi-wavelength surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy allows the identification of adsorbed amorphous carbon and graphite, Au-carbonyl, Au coordinated CO2-derived bicarbonates/carbonates and hydroxyl groups around the AuNPs core. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray analysis and high resolution transmission electron microscopy highlight the organic shell structure around the crystalline metal core. The stability of the colloidal solution of nanocomposites (NCs) seems to be driven by solvation forces and is achieved only in neutral or basic pH using monovalent hydroxide counter-ions (NaOH, KOH). The NCs are characterized by a blue shift of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) band typical of metal-ligand stabilization by terminal π-back bonding, attributed to a core charging effect caused by Au-carbonyls. Total organic carbon measurements detect the final content of organic carbon in the colloidal solution of NCs that is about six times higher than the value of the water solution used to perform PLA. The colloidal dispersions of NCs are stable for months and are applied as analytical probes in amino glycoside antibiotic LSPR based sensing.

Synthesis of oxocarbon-encapsulated gold nanoparticles with blue-shifted localized surface plasmon resonance by pulsed laser ablation in water with CO2 absorbers.

PubMed

Del Rosso, T; Rey, N A; Rosado, T; Landi, S; Larrude, D G; Romani, E C; Junior, F L Freire; Quinteiro, S M; Cremona, M; Aucelio, R Q; Margheri, G; Pandoli, O

2016-06-24

Colloidal suspensions of oxocarbon-encapsulated gold nanoparticles have been synthesized in a one-step procedure by pulsed-laser ablation (PLA) at 532 nm of a solid gold target placed in aqueous solution containing CO2 absorbers, but without any stabilizing agent. Multi-wavelength surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy allows the identification of adsorbed amorphous carbon and graphite, Au-carbonyl, Au coordinated CO2-derived bicarbonates/carbonates and hydroxyl groups around the AuNPs core. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray analysis and high resolution transmission electron microscopy highlight the organic shell structure around the crystalline metal core. The stability of the colloidal solution of nanocomposites (NCs) seems to be driven by solvation forces and is achieved only in neutral or basic pH using monovalent hydroxide counter-ions (NaOH, KOH). The NCs are characterized by a blue shift of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) band typical of metal-ligand stabilization by terminal π-back bonding, attributed to a core charging effect caused by Au-carbonyls. Total organic carbon measurements detect the final content of organic carbon in the colloidal solution of NCs that is about six times higher than the value of the water solution used to perform PLA. The colloidal dispersions of NCs are stable for months and are applied as analytical probes in amino glycoside antibiotic LSPR based sensing.

Accumulation and interparticle connections of triangular Ag-coated Au nanoprisms by oil-coating method for surface-enhanced Raman scattering applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noda, Yuta; Asaka, Toru; Fudouzi, Hiroshi; Hayakawa, Tomokatsu

2018-03-01

To examine the optical responses of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for tuned plasmonic nanoparticles, triangular Ag-coated Au (Au@Ag) nanoprisms with different sizes were separately synthesized, which were well controlled in their size (edge-length) and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) wavelength (69.0 ± 8.4 to 173.8 ± 25.6 nm in size and 662-943 nm in LSPR wavelength). The mechanism of Ag shell formation on the Au nanoprisms was also studied with scanning transmission electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (STEM-EDS). The Au@Ag nanoprisms were immobilized by covering a colloidal solution containing the nanoprisms with silicone oil and evaporating the solvent in the oil (oil-coating method) so as to form a layer of accumulated plasmonic Au@Ag nanoprisms that had LSPR peak wavelengths tuned from 839 to 1182 nm. The accumulation conditions were analyzed by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and a Raman mapping technique. The Au@Ag nanoprisms under excitation at 632.8 nm exhibited higher SERS signals of rhodamine 6G, and SERS-mapped images of the novel immobilized films were obtained at different magnifications. It was concluded that accumulated Au@Ag nanoprisms undergoing tip-planar interconnections could produce enhanced local fields, resulting in higher SERS signals.

Chapter 14: Electron Microscopy on Thin Films for Solar Cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Romero, Manuel; Abou-Ras, Daniel; Nichterwitz, Melanie

2016-07-22

This chapter overviews the various techniques applied in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and highlights their possibilities and also limitations. It gives the various imaging and analysis techniques applied on a scanning electron microscope. The chapter shows that imaging is divided into that making use of secondary electrons (SEs) and of backscattered electrons (BSEs), resulting in different contrasts in the images and thus providing information on compositions, microstructures, and surface potentials. Whenever aiming for imaging and analyses at scales of down to the angstroms range, TEM and its related techniques are appropriate tools. In many cases,more » also SEM techniques provide the access to various material properties of the individual layers, not requiring specimen preparation as time consuming as TEM techniques. Finally, the chapter dedicates to cross-sectional specimen preparation for electron microscopy. The preparation decides indeed on the quality of imaging and analyses.« less

Understanding luminescence properties of grain boundaries in GaN thin films and their atomistic origin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoo, Hyobin; Yoon, Sangmoon; Chung, Kunook; Kang, Seoung-Hun; Kwon, Young-Kyun; Yi, Gyu-Chul; Kim, Miyoung

2018-03-01

We report our findings on the optical properties of grain boundaries in GaN films grown on graphene layers and discuss their atomistic origin. We combine electron backscatter diffraction with cathodoluminescence to directly correlate the structural defects with their optical properties, enabling the high-precision local luminescence measurement of the grain boundaries in GaN films. To further understand the atomistic origin of the luminescence properties, we carefully probed atomic core structures of the grain boundaries by exploiting aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. The atomic core structures of grain boundaries show different ordering behaviors compared with those observed previously in threading dislocations. Energetics of the grain boundary core structures and their correlation with electronic structures were studied by first principles calculation.